Why do you want the degree?
Try to finish this sentence in one line: "I want an MBA so that I can..." Good answers name a change: a new industry, a move into management, running a family business, or starting a company. Vague answers such as "to get ahead" are a sign to think further. Admissions essays will ask the same question, so the work you do now pays off twice.
Why now?
Timing matters. Some people apply too early, before they have the work experience that makes class discussions useful to them and to their classmates. Others wait until family or work makes a full-time program hard. Look at the experience each format usually expects in the format comparison, and ask where you sit today.
How much time can you give?
- Full-time: a year or two away from work, often with a move.
- Part-time: several years of evening or weekend classes plus study time.
- Executive: concentrated weekends or residencies, and time off approved by your employer.
- Online: regular weekly study, some live sessions and possibly short trips.
Talk to the people who will feel the change: a partner, your children if they are old enough, and your manager. Agree on how chores, travel and family time will work.
Can you afford it?
Work out the full cost before you apply, including living costs and any income you will give up. The financing guide lists the questions to ask schools and points to the federal student aid site. Think about how monthly loan payments would fit your budget after graduation, and ask a financial aid office to walk you through the numbers.
Are there other ways to reach your goal?
An MBA is one route among several. Depending on your goal, other options might include:
- A specialized master's degree, such as one in finance, accounting or business analytics.
- A graduate certificate or short course in a single subject.
- Professional certifications in your field.
- A new role or project at your current employer, with training on the job.
Talking to people who already do the job you want is often the quickest way to learn whether an MBA is expected, helpful or unnecessary in that field.
A short readiness checklist
| Question | If the answer is no |
|---|---|
| Can I explain my goal in one or two sentences? | Spend more time on your reasons first |
| Do I know which format fits my life? | Read the four format guides |
| Have I talked to students or graduates? | Attend an information session or contact alumni |
| Do I know the full cost and how I would pay? | Read the financing guide and ask an aid office |
| Do I have people ready to write recommendations? | Start building those relationships now |
When the answers feel solid, move on to choosing a program and the parts of an application.
Should I get more work experience before applying?
If your goal is still unclear, or you would struggle to give examples of results at work, more experience usually helps. Each format has different expectations, so compare your experience with what the programs you like describe on their admissions pages.