This blog post is part of our “Application Insider” blog post series that provides insider information, tips, and advice about applying to the UCLA Anderson MBA program.

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APPLICATION INSIDER TOPIC:

CORE QUALITIES WE LOOK FOR IN APPLICANTS

At UCLA Anderson, our students all share the same core qualities as future leaders with the desire to share success, think fearlessly and drive change. We continue to look for students whose values align with the culture of the program and will thrive in our community. This is the “fit” piece that people talk about during the admissions process. Just like how we’re looking to see if you fit in with us, you need to know if UCLA Anderson will be a good fit for you to grow professionally and personally during your two years here.

Showing an admissions committee that you a certain program is the right fit for you may be one of the most challenging parts of the application process. However, it all starts with doing your homework — on yourself and on the school. You must ask yourself three questions: 1) Why an MBA? 2) Why an MBA now? And 3) Why an MBA from Anderson? We understand how plans can change once you get to business school and are exposed to more opportunities, but we have to know that you can focus and build a plan when needed to accomplish your goals, whatever they may become.

As an applicant, you should take a step back and review all aspects of your profile (academics, extra-curriculars, and career) to see if you’re a strong candidate for UCLA Anderson.

• When we are looking at your academics, we’re looking at your test scores (GMAT, GRE, TOEFL, IELTS) and your undergrad history. UCLA Anderson has a rigorous core curriculum and we want to make sure our students will succeed in such an environment. We’ll take into account the school you went to, grades, courses taken, and academic major.
• Sharing success is in the DNA of the Anderson community. We need students who will engage with their peers in a meaningful and impactful way during their time here and after. Our students support one another by creating opportunities and changes that benefit all. This might mean taking on leadership roles in our Anderson Student Association (ASA) and 40+ clubs or leading one of our Anderson Career Teams. We will assess this by looking at your prior involvement and/or leadership on-campus during your undergraduate studies, in the workplace, and/or through your community. All students need to add something special to the class, so we look for those who will bolster the diversity of voices here from different backgrounds, regions, and interest areas.
• Accelerating your career is one of the top reasons to pursue an MBA, so how prepared are you to achieve your goals? How focused and attainable are your goals? Your resume should highlight areas such as career progression (promotions and/or increase in responsibilities), career impact, and transferable skills. We also want to see personal skills such as communication, coachability, interpersonal skills, collaboration, and how you receive feedback. As always, we evaluate progress in the context of the time you had and in terms of a bridge to the future. Your letters of recommendations should also bring to life the story within your resume. Make sure your recommender is an advocate for you and can really highlight your accomplishments and leadership potential.

Through each of these areas, we can compile a complete picture of you and how your core qualities align with our community here at UCLA Anderson in sharing success, thinking fearlessly, and driving change.

Check back for more “Application Insider” blog posts that will cover information and tips on the many aspects of applying to the UCLA Anderson MBA program!

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Questions? Contact us at: mba.admissions@anderson.ucla.edu