Five Top Tips for Writing Your EMBA Application Essay

Applying for an Executive MBA is a challenging and rigorous process. Aside from transcripts, tests and letters of recommendation, a key element of the EMBA application process is the essay, which gives you an opportunity to introduce yourself, speak about your accomplishments and explain to recruiters why your skills and experience make you a great candidate for a specific program.

Because EMBA programs are designed for seasoned professionals who want to boost their skills without taking time off work, admissions teams will be looking for top-notch leadership abilities and an eagerness to form a new executive network.

Here are TopMBA’s top five tips on how to write a strong essay and maximize your chances of getting into your preferred EMBA program.

Get straight to the point

When writing an admissions essay, it can be difficult to know exactly what to write and when to write it. However, it’s important to know that recruiters want to understand your determination and dedication for starting executive education – so it’s better to get straight to the point. You can start the essay by explaining why you want to do an EMBA and how this type of program will help you achieve your goals.

Talk about the school

There are many great Executive MBAs out there and it can be difficult to narrow down your search, especially as they all have their own pros and cons. Nevertheless, being able to explain to b-school recruiters why you want to do a specific EMBA is key to making a good impression. Research the different programs thoroughly and acknowledge how the schools’ curricula, cohort profiles and reputation will boost your future executive career. You may also want to mention how you could represent the schools you’re interested in after graduation and why you’re eager to be a part of their alumni network.

Be specific

Another way to stand out to recruiters is by letting your experience speak for itself. Some schools will ask for some examples of managerial conflicts you had to resolve or any accomplishments you’ve achieved throughout your career. The best way to answer these types of questions is by getting specific. What type of conflict or issue did you resolve? How exactly did you go about it, and how was your approach unique? Do your managerial skills reflect your potential to become an executive? Once you’ve gotten these key elements down on paper, your essay will really show your flair for leadership.

Be honest

Honesty is always the best policy. In fact, being honest is just as important as being specific or defined when it comes to an EMBA essay. There are plenty of resources online to help you complete this task to the best of your abilities, but be mindful of external influences that might make you rethink your application. Avoid writing what you think recruiters want to read from you, and instead, focus on the most authentic aspects of your career and personal life that convey why you’re a strong executive candidate. The best admissions essays strike a great balance between honest anecdotes and skill-demonstrating stories from your professional experience.

Check your grammar and style

Grammar, sentence construction and the writing style you use can say a lot about your personality and attention to detail – an essential skill to have in an executive career in business. If writing isn’t your forte, ensure that you leave yourself plenty of time to plan, write, and most importantly, edit the essay. A mistake on such an important part of your application might not sit well with recruiters.

If you’re still undecided…

If you need help choosing an EMBA, take a look at the QS EMBA Rankings 2020, which reveal the top programs around the world and in specific regions.