Video Components for MBAs (2025)

In the last year, everyone in the MBA Admissions world, including yours truly, is talking about AI. We all know that applicants are increasingly using AI in their application process, whether it's writing entire drafts of the essay or just a polish on the resume. And while most AdComm are "okay" with it, knowing that AI is here to stay, AdComm still hopes to know the applicant in an authentic way. Enter, Video Components.

This year is not the first year we've seen video assessments or essays. Programs like INSEAD, MIT Sloan, Kellogg, and Yale SOM have long had them, but this year, as a way to "combat" AI and truly get a feel of the applicant, more programs are including video components, or considering it. So let's navigate how to tackle these new components, successfully.

Video Assessment vs. Video Essays

Understanding the differences between the two different types of Video components are key. So here's a quick comparison.

Video Assessment

• Asynchronous but simulated and live via recorded response, usually within a few days after application submission

• Applicants are given random questions on the spot, typically from a bank of questions

• Questions can be of a huge range, including behavioral, values-based, motivational, and even "fun" questions

• Typically 1-2 min. is given to brainstorm answer and then 1-2 min. to record response

The main advantage of Video Assessments is that it's structured similar to a regular live interview, which means you can practice both at once

Video Essays

• Asynchronous, usually required at the time of application submission

• Applicants record their response to a question that's provided in the application, beforehand

• Can be submitted as a recorded submission or required to record "live"

• Typically 1-2 min.

The main advantage of Video Essays is that you can "memorize" your response before hand

Most programs have primarily done video assessments, through a bank of questions and platform known as "Kira", but programs are increasingly switching some of their essays into Video Essays instead; most notably Berkeley Haas changed their infamous essay question "What makes you feel alive", into a video essay question instead.

To help you navigate your MBA application process, here's a brief (and growing) list of MBA programs that have some sort of video component

Program	Location	Type of Video Component
MIT Sloan	USA	Video Essay (pre-recorded intro + impromptu)
Northwestern Kellogg	USA	Video Essay (timed prompts)
INSEAD	Europe	Video Assessment (via Kira Talent platform)
Yale School of Management	USA	Video Assessment (part of application)
Toronto Rotman	Canada	Video Essay (pre-recorded)
Georgetown McDonough	USA	Video Essay (via Kira Talent platform)
London Business School	Europe	Video Assessment (via Kira Talent platform)
Berkeley Haas	USA	Video Essay (replaces main essay)
Texas McCombs	USA	Video Assessment (5 prompts, 1–3 minutes each)
Foster School of Business	USA	Video Assessment
IESE Business School	Europe	Video Assessment (2 questions via Kira Talent; 1-minute prep, 1.5-minute response each)

Tips on Completing the Video Components Successfully

I've spoken with many AdComm members about their video components and the answer is clear. For both components they're not looking for perfection: the key here is to be authentic. More times not, there are no "right" answers to the questions rather they're looking to see your thought process and how you can stay composed under pressure.

For Video Essays, the best thing you can do is practice your content. Notice I didn’t say “script,” because often the natural flow is lost when it’s overly structured. Read through the essay prompt and craft a response that answers the question clearly. Creativity is appreciated, but don’t sacrifice authenticity or content. Practice your response, time yourself, record it, and get feedback to ensure it fits within the 1–2 minute limit.

For Video Assessments, prep as you would for a live interview, plus research the program itself. Reflect on your goals, experiences, and motivations. Think through questions like: What brings you to an MBA now? What do you hope to achieve? How do you manage conflict? While some programs may ask a “fun” curveball question, most will focus on seeing how you answer typical questions under pressure. Practice keeping your responses under 1–2 minutes and record yourself to track improvement.

Final "view" on Video Components

Ultimately, applicants tend to overthink the video component when really it comes down to being comfortable with your authentic self. Remember:

• Reflect on your experiences – know your story and key achievements

• Brainstorm and prepare your content – align your responses with what's being asked

• Practice and record yourself – stay within time limits and refine delivery

• Get feedback – from peers, mentors, or coaches

• Be authentic – programs want to know the real you

Video components are not something that should be feared, if anything, take it as your chance to be you and stand out.

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