ut austin mba essays

UT Austin McCombs MBA Essays Guide: Overview, Tips & Examples

Looking to ace your UT Austin McCombs MBA application? Our comprehensive guide provides an overview, valuable tips, and real examples to help you craft compelling essays that stand out.

Posted March 1, 2024

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The University of Texas at Austin McCombs School of Business offers a highly regarded MBA program that attracts students from all over the world. As part of the application process, prospective students are required to submit essays that provide insights into their background, experiences, goals, and why they believe they are a good fit for the McCombs MBA program.

UT Austin McCombs Application and the Role of Essays

Applying to the UT Austin McCombs MBA program is a multi-step process that starts with completing the online application form. The application form requires you to provide personal information, academic history, professional experience, and contact details. Additionally, you will be required to submit a resume, transcripts, and letters of recommendation.

One crucial component of the application process is the essays. The essays provide an opportunity for applicants to showcase their unique stories and stand out from the competition. The admissions committee uses the essays to gain insights into the applicants' personality, motivations, and potential contributions to the McCombs community.

When it comes to writing the essays, it is important to approach them with careful thought and consideration. The prompts provided by the McCombs MBA program are designed to elicit thoughtful responses that go beyond a simple reiteration of your resume or academic achievements. Instead, they aim to uncover your values, passions, and goals, allowing the admissions committee to understand what drives you and how you align with the program's mission and values.

One of the essay prompts may ask you to describe a challenging situation you have faced and how you overcame it. This is an opportunity for you to demonstrate your problem-solving skills , resilience, and ability to learn from adversity. You can delve into the details of the situation, explaining the obstacles you encountered and the steps you took to overcome them. By sharing your thought process and the lessons you learned, you can provide the admissions committee with a deeper understanding of your ability to handle challenges and grow from them.

Another essay prompt may ask you to discuss your short-term and long-term career goals. This is your chance to articulate your aspirations and demonstrate your understanding of how the McCombs MBA program can help you achieve those goals. You can discuss the specific skills, knowledge, and resources offered by the program that align with your career aspirations. Additionally, you can highlight any relevant experiences or skills you have gained in your professional journey that will contribute to your success in achieving your goals.

Furthermore, the essays provide an opportunity for you to showcase your fit with the McCombs community . You can research the program's values, initiatives, and extracurricular activities to identify aspects that resonate with you. By demonstrating an understanding of the program's culture and how you can contribute to it, you can convey your genuine interest in being a part of the McCombs community.

It is important to approach the essays with authenticity and honesty. The admissions committee is looking for applicants who are genuine and self-aware, as these qualities are essential for success in the MBA program. Take the time to reflect on your experiences, values, and goals, and craft your essays in a way that reflects your true self.

In conclusion, the essays play a vital role in the UT Austin McCombs MBA application process. They provide an opportunity for applicants to showcase their unique stories, demonstrate their fit with the program, and convey their aspirations and motivations. By approaching the essays with thoughtfulness, authenticity, and a deep understanding of the program, applicants can increase their chances of standing out and securing a spot in the prestigious McCombs MBA program.

UT Austin McCombs Essay Prompts (2023-2024)

The UT Austin McCombs MBA program typically releases essay prompts for each application cycle. The essay prompts for the 2023-2024 application cycle are as follows:

Essay Prompt 1: Describe a defining moment in your personal or professional life and explain how it shaped you.

Essay prompt 2: choose a current event or issue that you believe is significant to your future as a business leader. discuss why it is important to you and how you intend to make an impact., essay prompt 3: reflecting on your past experiences, discuss a time when you faced a challenge or setback. what did you learn from the experience, and how did it contribute to your personal growth.

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List of Expert Tips for Each McCombs Essay Prompt

Writing compelling essays that effectively address the prompts is essential to create a strong application. Here are some expert tips for each of the McCombs MBA essay prompts:

- Start with a captivating anecdote that illustrates the defining moment.

- Reflect on the impact of the defining moment on your values, beliefs, and goals.

- Share specific examples of how the defining moment influenced your decision-making or leadership abilities.

- Clearly articulate why this defining moment is relevant to your MBA application.

- Select a current event or issue that aligns with your passions and career goals.

- Demonstrate a deep understanding of the event or issue and its implications for the business world.

- Discuss your personal connection to the event or issue and how it aligns with your values and aspirations.

- Outline specific actions or initiatives you plan to take to make a meaningful impact in this area.

- Choose a significant challenge or setback that allowed you to demonstrate resilience and growth.

- Describe the specific circumstances and obstacles you faced during the experience.

- Reflect on the lessons and insights you gained from overcoming the challenge or setback.

- Explain how this experience has shaped your character, decision-making, or leadership skills.

MBA Essay Tips: How to Write Compelling Essays

Writing compelling MBA essays requires careful planning and thoughtful execution. Here are some tips to help you craft essays that leave a lasting impression:

• Understand the prompts: Take the time to thoroughly understand the essay prompts and what the admissions committee is looking for.
• Reflect on your experiences: Spend time reflecting on your personal and professional experiences to identify compelling stories and examples that align with the essay prompts.
• Focus on authenticity: Be true to yourself and showcase your unique perspective, values, and goals in your essays.
• Structure your essays: Organize your essays in a clear and coherent manner, with a captivating introduction, well-developed body paragraphs, and a strong conclusion.
• Show, don't tell: Use vivid and specific examples to illustrate your points and bring your essays to life.
• Edit and proofread: Take the time to review and edit your essays for clarity, grammar, and spelling errors. Consider seeking feedback from trusted friends or professionals.

UT Austin McCombs Essay Examples From Success Admits — With Analysis

Looking for inspiration? Success Admits is a valuable resource that provides UT Austin McCombs essay examples from successful applicants. These examples, along with expert analysis, can help you understand the elements that make a strong essay and how to effectively structure your own essays.

UT Austin McCombs Essay FAQs

Still have questions about the UT Austin McCombs MBA essays? Here are some frequently asked questions:

• Q: How long should the essays be?
• A: The recommended length for each essay is typically around 500 words. However, it's important to focus on quality over quantity.
• Q: Can I exceed the word limit?
• A: It is generally advisable to adhere to the word limit provided. Admissions committees appreciate concise and well-crafted essays.
• Q: Should I address all the essay prompts?
• A: It is highly recommended to address all the essay prompts to provide a comprehensive view of your experiences and aspirations.

By following these guidelines and investing time in crafting compelling essays, you can increase your chances of securing a spot in the UT Austin McCombs MBA program. Let your unique story shine through and demonstrate why you are a perfect fit for this renowned program.

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2024-2025 University of Texas McCombs MBA Essay Tips

Jun 14, 2024

• Who is McCombs looking for?
• How should I answer the essay questions?
• Make sure you get into McCombs
• UT McCombs Deadlines

Located in one of the United States’ fastest-growing cities, UT Austin’s McCombs School of Business is increasingly a top choice program for savvy MBA applicants. 

However, with a strong focus on entrepreneurship and access to the massive Longhorn network, the competition to join McCombs’ MBA program is increasingly steep. 

That’s why we’ve prepared this guide to help you use your McCombs admissions essays to stand out. We’ve rounded up our best tips to ensure you give your UT McCombs application your best shot. 

1. Who is McCombs looking for?

(Photo courtesy of @ utexasmccombs on Instagram)

“It has been said that McCombs MBAs are relentlessly driven, yet they are the first to jump in and encourage and support each other to excel.” Texas McCombs MBA Insider

This year, McCombs admitted 241 students to its highly-competitive MBA program. With a strong emphasis on diversity, there is no “typical” McCombs student, yet the average student admitted to the Class of 2025 had an average GMAT score of 704 or a GRE of Q161/V160 and 5.9 years of work experience.

In fact, according to Dean Raji Srinivasan, diversity is key to the McCombs experience. In her words, “In a continually complex and changing world, students need global acumen, the skills to operate and collaborate effectively, with a mind-set that transcends geographic and cultural boundaries.

At McCombs, we recognize and value a diverse and inclusive culture by acknowledging the unique and different perspectives of our different community members.

We believe that an inclusive learning environment is key to unlocking students’ potential and prepare them to be strong leaders in transforming business and industry—solving the problems of tomorrow and having a positive impact on society.”

In short, McCombs is looking for candidates who want to make a positive impact on the world through their careers. If this sounds like the community for you, you’ll face the challenging task of convincing the school’s admissions committee that you deserve to be a Longhorn. 

2. How should I answer the essay questions?

2.1. essay 1 tips.

Essay 1: Please write an application cover letter summarizing your aspirations, qualifications, and personal and professional experiences that make you a strong candidate for the Texas Full-Time MBA program. (Limit: 500 words)

Though this prompt initially may look intimidating, it’s essentially just a goals essay ! Often overlooked by applicants, goals essays are incredibly important, as they give the admissions committee your most important argument — why do you need an MBA from their school and what are you going to do with it? 

For all goals essays, you should first begin with context, as goals without context often lack clarity or impact. You may want to include one mini-story or several small anecdotes to provide this context. As the prompt indicates, this should include both personal and professional stories. 

Then, after you set the stage, clearly present your goals to the admissions committee. The section on your goals should include clear short-term and long-term goals, meaning you should list the job title and industry for each. Furthermore, stating the motivation you have for wanting these goals and the impact you envision generating while pursuing them is an excellent way to take your essay from good to great. 

If you’re not sure exactly what your goals are, it’s a good idea to think through your arguments and define your goals before you sit down to write! 

Finally, end with a section on how McCombs’s MBA program can help you continue to grow to reach your goals. You will first need to research the McCombs experience in-depth and share how you plan to take advantage of the school’s curriculum, how you plan to get involved in the community, and what you believe you can contribute to your class. 

Instead, show how you are going to take advantage of McCombs’s offerings to become a more high-potential, driven professional who leaves a meaningful legacy behind. Doing this well means connecting how McCombs can help you grow with specific outcomes tied to your goals.

Need more guidance? 

Our MBA Resource Center has dozens of essays that worked to get our clients admitted to help you plan out a winning UT McCombs essay. 

Our library also includes guides for all top global MBA programs, detailed essay brainstorms, interview tips and mocks, CV templates, and recommendation letter guides. Click to join ! 

2.2. Optional Essay Tips

Optional Statement: Please provide any additional information you believe is important or address any areas of concern that you believe will be beneficial to MBA Admissions in considering your application (e.g., gaps in work experience, choice of recommender, academic performance, or extenuating personal circumstances). (250 words)

This is not a place for you to retell your life story or sum up your interest in McCombs or need for an MBA. It is also not a place to copy and paste a strong essay you wrote for another school. Make sure you focus only on weak spots and also discuss what steps you have taken or took to rectify the weaknesses AND/OR on any other topics that strictly need explanation. McCombs is quite clear when stating what types of explanations they feel are appropriate. 

Of course, there are circumstances that are not covered in the list given, but it does make it very clear that essays on, for example, why you would like to live in Texas or everyone you know at UT will not work well for this prompt. 

Find additional tips and tricks to help you master the optional essay here . 

2.3. Video Essay Requirements

All applicants will be required to complete the Video Assessment shortly after submitting their application and paying the fee. Applicants have 7 days to complete the assessment upon receiving access to the video submission platform. There will be 4 question prompts and applicants will have 90 seconds to answer each prompt.

UT McCombs has retained the requirement that candidates complete a video essay as part of its application process. Though it can seem daunting at first, the video essay is a great way to share more about your interests, motivations, and personality with the admissions committee. 

We recommend checking out our tips on recording an outstanding video essay here and checking out the tips posted by the UT McCombs admissions committee!

TOP TIP : Check out UT’s insider blog to learn more about the video essay component.

3. Make sure you get into McCombs

One of the most common mistakes we see in MBA essays is that candidates fail to tell compelling stories . This is important because if your stories are not compelling, they will not be persuasive. At the same time, they must be backed by strong examples that establish a track record of success and prove to the admissions committees why you belong at their school. 

Striking this balance between content and creativity can be tough, however, as succeeding means not only choosing the right stories but ensuring they are told in an optimal manner. 

This is why our iterative developmental feedback process here at Ellin Lolis Consulting helps you mold your message through the application of our storytelling expertise until it reflects exactly what makes your profile stand out and show fit with your target program. 

Not only can you take advantage of our iterative feedback process through multiple edits – you can also benefit from it after a single review! If your budget is tight, our editors will be happy to help polish your text as much as possible and leave “bonus comments” so you can keep working on it on your own!

No matter how long we work with you, we will always ensure your essays shine . Sign up to work with our team of storytelling experts and get accepted.

4. UT McCombs Deadlines

Here are the deadlines for the 2024-2025 season. You can access the online application here . 

Application Deadline : October 15, 2024

Interview Notification : Ongoing

Decisions Released : December 17, 2024

Application Deadline : January 15, 2025

Decisions Released : March 27, 2025

Application Deadline : April 1, 2025

Decisions Released : April 29, 2025

*Last for international students 

Application Deadline : May 15, 2025

Decisions Released : June 5, 2025

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Essays & Short Answers

Summer/Fall 2025 Essay

Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you’ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

Please keep your essay between 500–650 words (typically two to three paragraphs).

The Common App personal essay will complete the UT Austin essay requirement.

Spring 2025 Essays

All freshman Spring 2025 applicants must submit Topic A in ApplyTexas.

Please keep your essay between 500–700 words (typically two to three paragraphs).

Spring 2025 Essay Topic

Tell us your story. What unique opportunities or challenges have you experienced throughout your high school career that have shaped who you are today?

Submitting Your Essay

You can submit your essays:

• In conjunction with your application.
• Using the Document Upload System in MyStatus.

*Students do not need to submit other Common App essays. We’ll only review what is required.

Short Answers

Submit the required short answers to prompts in your admission application. Answers are limited to no more than 40 lines, or about 250–300 words per prompt, typically the length of one paragraph.

Summer/Fall 2025 Prompts

• Why are you interested in the major you indicated as your first-choice major?
• Think of all the activities — both in and outside of school — that you have been involved with during high school. Which one are you most proud of and why? ( Guidance for student s: This can include an extracurricular activity, a club/organization, volunteer activity, work or a family responsibility.)

Optional Short Answer

Please share background on events or special circumstances that you feel may have impacted your high school academic performance.

Spring 2025 Prompts

• Describe how your experiences, perspectives, talents, and/or your involvement in leadership activities (at your school, job, community or within your family) will help you to make an impact both in and out of the classroom while enrolled at UT.
• The core purpose of The University of Texas at Austin is, “To Transform Lives for the Benefit of Society.” Please share how you believe your experience at UT Austin will prepare you to “Change the World” after you graduate.

Submitting Your Short Answers

You can submit your short answers with either your Common App or Apply Texas application. Short answer responses must be completed in order to submit your application.

Transfer applicants must submit one essay responding to Topic A. Applicants to the School of Architecture are required to upload Topic D in addition to Topic A. 

Essay Topics

Topic a (required).

The statement of purpose will provide an opportunity to explain any extenuating circumstances that you feel could add value to your application. You may also want to explain unique aspects of your academic background or valued experiences you may have had that relate to your academic discipline. The statement of purpose is not meant to be a listing of accomplishments in high school/college or a record of your participation in school-related activities. Rather, this is your opportunity to address the admission committee directly and to let us know more about you as an individual, in a manner that your transcripts and the other application information cannot convey.

Topic D (School of Architecture majors only)

Personal interaction with objects, images and spaces can be so powerful as to change the way one thinks about particular issues or topics. For your intended area of study, describe an experience where instruction in that area or your personal interaction with an object, image or space effected this type of change in your thinking. What did you do to act upon your new thinking and what have you done to prepare yourself for further study in this area?

Submitting Your Essay(s)

Which program are you applying to?

Accepted Admissions Blog

Everything you need to know to get Accepted

July 22, 2024

University of Texas McCombs MBA Essay Tips and Deadlines [2024 – 2025]

Texas McCombs combines rigor with a passionate community, including passion for the MBA program. The school’s essay questions reflect this value; the adcom invites you to demonstrate deep familiarity with the program , connected to your unique vision for the future. It has a practical slant. Convey concrete goals, and make a case for how the McCombs program is ideally suited to prepare you to achieve them. The school has introduced some significant changes to its essays this season, going from one required essay to three required essays, plus a video component.

The adcom states at the beginning of the essay section,

“The essay prompts serve as a powerful storytelling tool, allowing you to share narratives and insights that may not be captured elsewhere in your application. … These are purposefully designed to elicit thoughtful and introspective responses that reveal your motivations, values, and aspirations.”

So, to begin, the purpose of these essays is twofold. First, the adcom wants to see what information you consider most pertinent about yourself and how you present that information, and second, it wants evidence that you have truly researched their program. What you say in these essays can reveal a lot about you and your reasons for wanting to earn an MBA at McCombs, so don’t just copy and paste sentences from your resume or other MBA essays! Keep your answers thoughtful and concise. The adcom wants a story, not just a list of facts.

Ready to get to work on your Texas McCombs application? Read on. 

McCombs application essay tips

Mccombs application deadlines.

• McCombs class profile

For great advice, listen to Get Accepted to UT Austin McCombs , a podcast interview with Rodrigo Malta, managing director of MBA Marketing, Recruiting, and Admissions at Texas McCombs.

McCombs Essay 1

At Texas McCombs, we do things a little differently. We embrace those who take the initiative and forge new paths. What ambitious goal or change do you aim to achieve with an MBA, and why is Texas McCombs your ideal launch pad? (250 words)  

This essay will require you to dig deep and come up with a concrete goal that you plan to achieve with your MBA. Before you start writing, do some brainstorming to think about what you’d really like to achieve in the future. Be realistic but also creative. Then, make a list of a few ideas: creating or marketing a new product, reorganizing a department to recognize employee needs and celebrate employee achievements, creating an innovative real estate development. Think about why you want to work for a certain company – what will you learn there? And finally, explain how the Texas McCombs MBA will prepare you to attain those goals. The adcom doesn’t want generalizations. Make sure you really know the program well; explore the website, connect with students, and above all, attend in-person or virtual admissions events to learn more, and ask questions that you can’t find answers for anywhere else.

​​McCombs Essay 2

Here, you are what’s next. At this pivotal crossroads where you’re deciding your future path, the Texas McCombs MBA experience will equip you with the tools and mindset to make “what’s next” happen in your career. Please share unique qualities you possess that highlight your potential to shake up the status quo in your professional life. (250 words)

What makes you unique? As mentioned earlier, the McCombs adcom wants to know who you are in your professional life and in your personal life, so if you have acquired a unique skill or knowledge, this is the place to share it. How do you see your short-term plan leading to your long-term plan? Be as specific as possible. For example, if you are changing careers, state why you are attracted to a different path, what you know about it, who you know who works in the industry, and most importantly, what skills you already possess that are relevant to this new position. Don’t just say, for example, that you want to be a strategy consultant. Why? Which area of consulting? With what company? And why would a consulting firm want to hire you? What do you know, and what impact have you made in the past? The MBA is not a magic wand – the adcom wants to see that your expectations are realistic and feasible. 

The best way to show what you can do is to give specific examples of what you have already done. Don’t just say, “I’m a good problem solver.” Prove it! And include a few personal experiences to enhance your story. This will give the adcom a good idea of your fit for their program. Texas has a very close-knit and intensely loyal community, so based on your hobbies and interests, what specific clubs or organizations would you be involved with? And what would you share with your classmates that might be special? McCombs wants to be sure you understand what their program offers and why it is the one that will best prepare you for your desired career path. 

McCombs Essay 3

The University of Texas at Austin’s motto, “What starts here changes the world,” embodies a spirit of impact and transformation. What fuels your drive to lead change and make your mark in the world? (250 words)

This essay seeks to elicit specific information about what drives you. Think about a leadership position you held, why you wanted to take on this position, what you accomplished, and how you felt afterward. Or if you have a specific goal in mind, what propels you to want to pursue this goal? What impact will it have if you succeed in your goal and upon whom? Again, this is a very personal essay that will require a lot of reflection and honesty.  

McCombs Optional Statement

Please explain any gaps in work experience, choice of recommender, and/or academic performance issues that may help the admission committee in reviewing your application. (Limit: 250 words)

If you write the optional essay , present information that is essential for the adcom to be able to fully understand your candidacy. If you do not have any concerns to address, you could explore a relevant topic not addressed in your application, but above all, be succinct. If you believe your candidacy is well represented without the optional essay, that is totally fine; don’t write an optional essay just to write one.

Source: Texas McCombs website

***Disclaimer: Information is subject to change. Please check with Texas McCombs directly to verify its essay questions, instructions, and deadlines.***

McCombs Class Profile

Here is a look at the Texas McCombs MBA Class of 2025 (data taken from the McCombs website ):

Class size: 241

Average age: 29

Age range (middle 80%): 25-34

Female students: 35%

International students: 26%

U.S. minority students: 35%

Underrepresented minority students: 18%

Consortium members: 37

Forté MBA fellows: 61

Dual degree students (MD, JD, Master of Public Affairs): 15

Average years of work experience: 5.9

Range of years of work experience (middle 80%): 3-10

U.S. military service: 14%

Average undergrad GPA: 3.46

Undergrad institutions: 152

First-generation college: 20%

Advanced degree holders: 17%

Undergraduate majors:

• Business/Economics: 35%
• Humanities: 13%

Average GMAT score: 704

Range of GMAT scores (middle 80%): 670-740

Average GRE Verbal score: 160

Range of GRE Verbal scores (middle 80%): 156-165

Average GRE Quant score: 161

Range of GRE Quant scores (middle 80%): 154-169 

Dr. Christie St-John has more than 25 years of higher ed and admissions experience, including ten years in admissions at Dartmouth Tuck. She was formerly the director of MBA recruiting and admissions, director of international relations, and an adjunct faculty member at Vanderbilt University. Having also served on the board of directors of the MBA Career Services & Employer Alliance and the Consortium for Graduate Studies in Management, Christie has a deep knowledge of MBA and other graduate admissions. Want Christie to help you get Accepted? Click here to get in touch!

Related Resources:

• The Winning Ingredients of a Dynamic MBA Goals Essay , a free guide
• Get Accepted to UT Austin McCombs , podcast Episode 452
• Business School Selectivity Index , a free tool

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Advice, tips and insights from the admissions dream team., table of contents, texas mccombs mba essays: tips & strategy.

• By Scott Brownlee

In a new essay prompt introduced in its 2024-25 application, the University of Texas McCombs School of Business declares that it “does things a little differently.” Indeed, McCombs has shifted its application format in recent years, first introducing videos, and then replacing its required essay with a cover letter. This year, the essays are back. 

We expect this is partly due to increased application interest McCombs saw in R2 and R3 in 2024, receiving more interest for their 260-seat class than in previous years due to the pull of Austin and economic trends that are sending more professionals to business school than ever before.

Through the three McCombs essays with brief 250-word limits, the school seeks to learn about your ambitions and goals, why McCombs should be your launch pad, qualities you possess that will help you shake up the status quo, and your motivation to drive change. 

If you’re sensing a theme of bold transformation matched with strong interpersonal skills in these McCombs essay examples, you’re on the money. The school’s motto is “make it together with others here ,” and they are looking for students who have the vision and drive to lead change, individually and collectively. As a former MBA career coach at UT-Austin who reviewed applicants with the Admissions Committee,  I have insights on how to master the McCombs MBA essays and showcase  your fit.

Showcasing Your ‘Fit’

McCombs considers itself a place where “ heart and hard work meet .” It prides itself on placing “perseverance, drive, and a welcoming sense of encouragement at the center of everything” happening at Rowling Hall, its new cutting-edge building. Standing on the corner of Guadalupe and MLK Street, it feels like its own “business acre” within UT’s larger 40 acres. 

With fewer than 260 students, its full-time class is one of the smaller top 20 MBA programs, so a fit with its unique culture is critical. Thus, it’s essential to use the limited space of the three essays to showcase yourself as a hard-working, self-starting world-changer who can clearly articulate why an MBA, why McCombs, and why Austin?  

McCombs is sincere when it says it’s looking to get to know who you are in the application process. After submitting the application, you’ll be required to respond to four video questions that let the admissions committee get to see, hear, and know you more directly, and we have advice on what to expect and how to prepare for that here . 

As a Fortuna Admissions coach who is experienced in helping candidates position a successful application to McCombs, I have summed up my insights on how to respond to the McCombs MBA essays here.

Tips for the McCombs Essays

At Texas McCombs, we do things a little differently. We embrace those who take the initiative and forge new paths. What ambitious goal or change do you aim to achieve with an MBA, and why is Texas McCombs your ideal launch pad?   ( 250 words)

This is McCombs’ version of the classic question about your career goals and why you want to attend this school. Start by stating your career goals in a straightforward way in 100 words or less, dedicating more of your allowed word count to the “why McCombs” portion. 

Like several other schools this year (Kellogg, Ross, Anderson), McCombs has introduced this “why this school” element to be able to better triage between speculative and ill-informed applicants and those who have truly done their research and are genuinely motivated to join the school. So you need to show them some burnt-orange love. If you weren’t already aware, Longhorns are keen to don their school colors on and off campus, even if a football game isn’t happening on Saturday.

In your research, don’t just skim through the website and then point to a few obvious facts about the program in your response to this essay. Rather, seek to engage with the community; reach out to students (they are friendly and usually say “yes” to info chats), alumni, and staff, attend online or in person events, and watch student videos, etc. This engagement will enable you to share some genuine insights about your fit with the program that go beyond platitudes.  McCombs is very intentional about providing multiple touchpoints throughout the year when you can visit Rowling Hall in person and interact with students, staff, and faculty. You’ll want to prioritize an in-person visit if possible during one of their Explore McCombs one-day and two-day experiences prior to submitting your application. If you’re a veteran or part of another underrepresented group, the program often hosts events specifically for you, so keep an eye on their event calendar.

At this pivotal crossroads where you’re deciding your future path, the Texas McCombs MBA experience will equip you with the tools and mindset to make “what’s next” happen in your career. Please share unique qualities you possess that highlight your potential to shake up the status quo in your professional life. (250 words)

Describe your strengths that position you well to achieve your career goals. Avoid abstraction; back up claims with evidence. Cite specific examples where you have demonstrated those strengths — the more memorable, the better. Notice the wording around “making what’s next happen” and “shake up the status quo.” McCombs is looking for change-makers. Drawing on an experience where you have succeeded in driving change or doing something in an innovative fashion is ideal. 

In all of these essays, McCombs is focused on the future; indeed, one of the guiding  principles of the school is to be “future-focused,” as well as  “human-centered.” Be sure to tie past evidence of your change-making qualities to “what’s next” — in your career, your industry and the roles or issues you plan to take on.

The University of Texas at Austin’s motto, “What starts here changes the world,” embodies a spirit of impact and transformation. What fuels your drive to lead change and make your mark in the world? (250 words)

What are your passions and your values? What makes you tick? What desire is at the root of your career aspirations? Again, notice the language around change, impact and transformation. This essay should link to and amplify essays 1 and 2, by explaining the motives underlying your career ambitions and the values that underpin your strengths. 

Here, don’t be afraid to get personal and share a story of an experience that motivated you to push for and implement real change. You face an interesting decision of whether to then explain in detail a change you made as a result of that transformative experience, but the prompt is not necessarily expecting you to talk about concrete actions. Instead, the McCombs admissions team is focused on understanding your motivation and influences. It is therefore fine to share a time or times in your past that pushed you toward being a change-maker in your community, at work or in your personal life. McCombs will value dimensionality here, so you are welcome to talk about non-work contexts if you’d like — especially if experiences outside work have inspired you more than life at the office.

Optional Statement

Please explain any gaps in work experience, choice of recommender, and/or academic performance issues that may help the admission committee in reviewing your application. (Limit: 250 words)

You should definitely use this opportunity if you need to address any pieces in your application that need further explanation, such as the suggested areas. What’s most important in providing an optional statement is demonstrating sound judgment and an ability to succeed in b-school. For example, if you wish to address a lower GPA while in university due to holding down a part-time job, or being overly-involved in student life, you need to show how you are now better at managing your time and priorities. Perhaps you completed a virtual MBA math course while working full-time to demonstrate your new ability to balance competing priorities successfully, or took on an additional project at work, going “above and beyond” executionally.

Optional Peer Interview

The video assessment component introduced in 2022-23 takes the place of a traditional in-person or virtual interview in the McCombs application process. However, McCombs invites all MBA applicants to complete their application process in a human-centered way with a short, optional peer interview with a current  second-year MBA student.

We encourage you to sign up for this interview. It is brief — usually 30 minutes or less — with the interviewer asking just two or three questions. This touchpoint also provides an important opportunity to ask questions from the real experts: the students going through the MBA experience. These interviews let you connect with potential classmates, and add another positive, personal impression of the “real you” that can cap off a winning application.

Also, McCombs tracks which candidates take advantage of this opportunity as a sign of demonstrated interest, so it’s another opportunity to impress the admissions team with your commitment. 

Want More Advice? 

For a deeper dive into all things McCombs and how to shine in your MBA video assessment, here are some useful resources: 

• Texas McCombs New Video Assessment: What to expect & how to prepare
• MBA Video essay tip s from  Fortuna Director and Cofounder Caroline Diarte Edwards.
• 7-minute video on  strategy for video essays  from Melissa Jones
• B-School Profile for Texas McCombs

Let’s Get You In.

Fortuna Admissions is a dream team of former MBA admissions directors and officers from top business schools, including Texas McCombs . With our unparalleled collective expertise, we can coach you to develop a clear vision of your goals for business school and beyond. We work closely with you throughout the application process and provide expert guidance at every stage to maximize your chances of admission to a top school.

Our free consultations are consistently rated as the best in the industry. For a candid assessment of your chances of admission success at top MBA programs, sign up for your free consultation session now.

• Posted on July 12, 2024

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Texas McCombs New Video Assessment: Tips & Strategy

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The Rowling Hall Entrance of Texas McCombs School of Business.

Texas McCombs has made several notable and candidate-friendly changes to its MBA application. Key changes to the McCombs MBA application include:

• Singular essay question 
• New video assessment
• Standardized test waiver (GMAT, GRE, or EA)
• McCombs Admission Connection – optional but highly encouraged

Among the most notable is the debut of a video assessment, which McCombs lauds as a way for candidates “to share their story in their own voice” while simultaneously reducing bias in the application process through a more “structured and consistent assessment experience.” In a recent info session, McCombs admissions reps offered some notable insights (what they’re seeking) as well as omissions (no sample questions just yet). As a Fortuna Admissions coach who is experienced in helping candidates position a successful application to McCombs, I’m offering my insights on how to prepare for this new application component.   

First, a little context: Considered a “public Ivy,” Texas McCombs is a world-class public university with a 431-acre campus nestled in Austin, the 11th largest city in the United States. By contrast, its full-time MBA class is made up of less than 250 students, making it one of the smaller top-20 MBA programs. Its unique culture – both diverse and welcoming – is central to its identity, and the Princeton review and lauded it as the #1 MBA campus environment for three consecutive years (2019-2021). You’ll do well to keep this in mind in preparing your application. 

McCombs is sincere when it says it’s looking to get to know who you are; more than once during a recent virtual admissions event did a McCombs rep say that the video assessment is where you can add “color and depth to your application.” As such, consider the new video assessment an opportunity to showcase your personality and character, in addition to your verbal and presentation skills. As Fortuna Director Caroline Diarte Edwards says in her related article on how to prepare for the MBA video essays , “The MBA admissions committee wants a peek into who you are in an unscripted way – your motivations, your personality, your communication style. They want to know how you think on your feet (a vital skill in the MBA classroom).” While a video component may feel like a formidable challenge (especially at seven questions), it is a great evolution for candidates. There’s an energy you can transmit in a video that a two-dimensional medium won’t have. Done well, you stand to express yourself with a depth of sincerity and authenticity that is sometimes difficult to capture in written word. 

Check out this 7-minute strategy session on MBA video questions with Fortuna’s Melissa Jones, former INSEAD Assistant Director, and Poets&Quants Editor-in-Chief John A. Byrne.

ABOUT THE NEW MCCOMBS VIDEO ASSESSMENT

Here’s what we know so far about the new McCombs video assessment: All candidates will respond to a total of seven questions – five randomly generated and two that will be the same for all applicants. While the two standard questions haven’t been released, a safe bet is that they will include some version of ‘why MBA’ and ‘why McCombs.’ It’s also valuable to know that in distilling its written essay to a single question, McCombs has done away with its ‘introduce yourself’ question, which was previously an optional written essay or 60-second video essay. (View my related blog on how to tackle the McCombs MBA Essay .)

Like the video platforms for other MBA programs like Yale or Kellogg, the video assessment will be available to candidates who have submitted an application (and fee) for seven days from receiving the invitation. You can practice as many times as they wish before completing the final video assessment. You’ll have up to 30 seconds to think, then up to three minutes to respond to each question.

Be prepared to answer behavioral-based questions steeped in competencies that McCombs views as central to success in business school and beyond. These eight competencies include:

• Adaptability/Resilience
• Empathy/Inclusivity
• Collaboration
• Career Goals
• Verbal Communications
• Self-Awareness

With behavioral style questions, you can expect prompts on very specific examples of what you did – along with why, what was going through your mind at the time, the impact on others, and the outcome. With only three minutes to respond, it’s essential to make your answers clear and concise. An example behavioral question is: “Tell me about a time you faced a challenge at work and how you influenced the outcome.” While it doesn’t offer example questions, the McCombs blog says that more tips will be provided in the coming weeks. The full application will be open in August. 

Beyond these stated competencies, do your research to understand the school’s values and what McCombs cares about. Some possible questions that might map to the McCombs stated values include: 

• Human-Centered: Tell us about a time when you helped to promote diversity and inclusion? 
• Future Focused: Tell us about a time you’ve used technology to be more effective? 
• Innovator Connected: Tell us about a time you gained buy-in from others on a new idea? 
• Collaboratively Minded: Tell us about a time when you dealt with someone who was difficult. How did you handle that situation?

Finally, as you prepare, imagine how to convey what’s not obvious in your resume, credentials, or LinkedIn profile. What will help make your application sticky and memorable, adding to your overall narrative? Reflect on the stories you want to tell and offer dimensions that might be missing from elsewhere in your application. 

For a deeper dive on how to shine in your MBA video assessment, including tips for preparing and sample questions, view MBA Video Essay Tips , by Fortuna’s Caroline Diarte Edwards.

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2 Awesome UT Austin Essay Examples

The University of Texas at Austin is one of the hardest colleges to get into in Texas . With a competitive acceptance rate, the school is moderately selective. Writing strong essays, however, will certainly boost your chances. 

UT Austin requires one long essay and three short answers, with an additional optional short answer question. There are also a handful of program-specific prompts. 

In this post, we’ll analyze sample essays written by a real applicants, sharing what they did well and what could be improved.

Please note: Looking at examples of real essays students have submitted to colleges can be very beneficial to get inspiration for your essays. You should never copy or plagiarize from these examples when writing your own essays. Colleges can tell when an essay isn’t genuine and will not view students favorably if they plagiarized. 

Read our UT Austin essay breakdown to get a comprehensive overview of this year’s supplemental prompts. 

Essay Example #1

Prompt: Using a favorite quotation from an essay or book you have read in the last three years as a starting point, tell us about an event or experience that helped you define one of your values or changed how you approach the world. Please write the quotation, title and author at the beginning of your essay (prompt from the 2020-2021 cycle). 

“Fortunately, among these people a man was judged according to his worth and not according to the worth of his father.”

– Chinua Achebe, Things Fall Apart 

Like most children, I aspired to my father. 

I saw my dad as an image of whom I wanted to be. Charismatic, genuine, respected among his peers – he embodied the qualities I saw essential to being a successful person. 

The most appealing to me, however, was my father’s medical background. As the first person to attend university in our extended family, he had always been revered for his accomplishment of becoming a doctor. 

As a direct consequence, biology was a keen passion during my childhood. I remember how each evening, as I was being tucked into bed, I would unload an avalanche of questions on my dad, many of them amusingly simple such as: If my body is 70% water, why don’t I have water spilling out of my finger every time I get a papercut? In school, I’d stay after class to probe my teachers about the topics I had read of but did not yet comprehend. And anytime I was asked what I wanted to be when I grew up, I, without a whiff of doubt, bolted out I was going to be a doctor. 

However, as I got older, I developed new interests – in particular, social science and leadership – which did not always align with my childhood goals of medicine and biology. 

With this dichotomy in my mind, I decided to spend my sophomore summer volunteering at a hospital. 

Once there, it suddenly dawned on me that, for my entire life, I had viewed being a doctor through rose-tinted glasses since the reality of being a medical professional differed wildly from my perceptions. The dozens of biology textbooks I had read had not prepared me for a single drop of blood, as seeing just one could send me into an exhausting realm of dizziness. With every additional day of volunteering, it became painfully clear – I could not follow in my father’s footsteps. 

Disappointed, I began contemplating what made my experience in the hospital so bad and if anything could be done to improve people’s – whether patients’, doctors’, or volunteers’ like myself – experience. Then, a light-bulb switched on: what if I could improve the look of the hospital? As it stood, the hospital was incredibly run-down and inspired depression rather than hope. 

With a goal to improve the hospital’s appearance and thus create a friendlier environment for the people inside, I started the Better Setting – Better Getting project, which was going to decorate the hospital with photographs of nature. Having done so, there was a question of financing ー with the hospital administration over-budget, I had to source the funding entirely from the private sector. It was challenging but, a few dozen cold-calls and a handful of live-pitches later, I found a corporate partner that recognised my vision. Finally, I was ready to make my goal a reality. Legal roadblocks and printing nuances still stood in the way, but, with the enthusiastic support of the hospital community, I was able to navigate my way through. Today, dozens of wall-sized nature photos emit joy and hope into the halls of the hospital. 

My hospital volunteering, which had begun with heartbreak and disillusion, turned out to be a defining experience of self-discovery. It helped me close my chapter on medicine, a chapter I had so often doubted, and helped me validate my passion for leadership; it allowed me to operate free of doubt, knowing that I don’t have to follow my father’s footsteps. Above all, it made me realise that, although I would never be a doctor, I could nonetheless have a positive impact on society in my very own way.

What the Essay Did Well

The author begins with a quote from a historical fiction novel that the author has read. Although their essay topic doesn’t tie directly in with the novel’s plot, the quote they chose is profound and serves as a hook that piques the reader’s interest about the essay subject. 

The author starts the essay by mentioning their father. Their use of first person and writing style makes their first lines seem like the narration at the beginning of a film. This introduction draws the reader in as it seems like the author is building up to something. Similarly, your introduction should start as if you are telling a story to provide the most engaging experience for the reader. 

The author then delves more into their father’s background and describes his medical prowess by showing, rather than telling, readers about it. Instead of saying that his father is exceptional, the author presents a specific detail about how he was the first in his family to attend university. Phrasing your writing like this allows the reader to infer through descriptive detail rather than simply absorbing your words at face value. Ensuring that you create this immersive writing style might take more time, but it is worth it as it will make your essay more memorable to admissions officers.

Eventually, the third-to-last paragraph is the climactic point the reader has been waiting for. It is the most important part of the essay ー it’s time for the author to describe how they grew from the incident. During this portion of your essay, you should take readers through your thought process as you begin to formulate a solution for your conflict. It is not enough to say that you learned something new or to merely state that you felt like a changed person. You must provide concrete examples of how you reached a solution and what that solution entailed. Here, the author mentions their distaste for the hospital, specifically, its aesthetic. This sets readers up to hear their solution. 

In the next paragraph, the author describes how they resolved part of their issues with the hospital and were able to grow into their new career path. When detailing your solution, make sure you are centering yourself as the agent of change and give specific details as to your specific impact in your environment. In this essay, the author doesn’t just say “I learned that I had a passion for business.” Rather, they show readers how their skills developed and mention specific steps they took, like live pitching and navigating legal roadblocks. 

The author concludes this essay by summarizing their journey and bringing their essay back to their chosen quote. By wrapping up their essay in this manner, they underscore their growth in a way that flows well and is easy to read. Furthermore, their open-ended, future-facing final thoughts demonstrate that they intend to continue growing. This inclusion is a key part of any good essay; ending your essay on a strong, future-facing note evokes confidence and illustrates a readiness for the challenges that come with college and beyond.

What Could Be Improved

One area of improvement for this essay is that the section on their transformation is relatively brief. The author spends multiple paragraphs giving context but only dedicates one to the actions behind their growth. The author might want to trim other areas of the essay in order to fully develop this paragraph. They could describe what they did more thoroughly, and really delve into the steps they took to carry out the mentioned processes like so:

Essay Example #2

Prompt: Why are you interested in the major you indicated as your first-choice major?

I woke up. The curtains filtered the sun rays, hitting my face directly. I got up, looked from the bathroom to the kitchen, but my dad wasn’t there. I plopped on the couch, then the door opened. My dad walked in, clutching a brown paper bag with ninety-nine cent breakfast tacos. After eating, we drove to a customer’s house. He sat me in a chair, lifted the floorboard, and crawled under the house to fix the pipes. As he emerged, he talked, but my mind drifted to the weight of the eleven-millimeter hex wrench in my hand. My interest in mechanical engineering originates from my dad, who was a plumber. When I was fifteen, my dad passed away from cancer that constricted his throat. Holding his calloused hand on his deathbed, I wanted to prevent the suffering of others from cancer. Two years later, when I was given a topic of choice for my chemistry research paper, I stumbled upon an article about gold nanoparticles used for HIV treatment. I decided to steer the topic of gold nanoparticles used for cancer treatment instead, entering the field of nanotechnology. After reading numerous articles and watching college lectures on YouTube, I was utterly captivated by topics like using miniscule devices to induce hyperthermia as a safe method of cancer treatment. Nanotechnology is multi-disciplinary, reinforcing my interest in pursuing mechanical engineering as a gateway to participate in nanoscience and nanotechnology research at the University of Texas at Austin. I have learned that nanotechnology is not limited to stories like mine, but to other issues such as sustainable energy and water development that I hope to work towards. It is important for me to continue helping others without forfeiting my interest in nanotechnology, working in collaboration with both engineering and the medical field.

The introduction of this essay stands out for its narrative style. The first sentences only give hints of the story to come, which builds intrigue and keeps the reader engaged. The introduction transitions seamlessly into a vivid, personal story that shows where the author’s academic interests come from. Using a short anecdote like the one in this essay is the most effective way to explain your major choice.

The author then guides readers through their intellectual journey of discovering their academic passions. They demonstrate their passion by discussing specific details about cancer treatments and nanotechnology. Indeed, “nerding out” over your intellectual interests is an excellent way to prove that you are highly motivated to learn about them in college.

Lastly, the end of the essay looks forward to the future. We learn that the author’s dream is to cure cancer, and they want to do it by gaining multidisciplinary knowledge about engineering and medicine. We learn too that UT Austin is a part of the author’s vision. They show their interest in the school by discussing more than the major they want to pursue at UT Austin, highlighting research and the opportunity to explore new applications of nanotechnology.

The main area for improvement in this essay is its formatting. While formatting is far less important than the content of an essay, it can do much more than you would think to make your essay more impactful. This essay only needs one formatting change — paragraph spacing. Here is an example of the improvements:

I woke up. 

The curtains filtered the sun rays, hitting my face directly. I got up, looked from the bathroom to the kitchen, but my dad wasn’t there. I plopped on the couch, then the door opened. My dad walked in, clutching a brown paper bag with ninety-nine cent breakfast tacos. 

After eating, we drove to a customer’s house. He sat me in a chair, lifted the floorboard, and crawled under the house to fix the pipes. As he emerged, he talked, but my mind drifted to the weight of the eleven-millimeter hex wrench in my hand. 

My interest in mechanical engineering originates from my dad, who was a plumber. When I was fifteen, my dad passed away from cancer that constricted his throat. Holding his calloused hand on his deathbed, I wanted to prevent the suffering of others from cancer. 

Two years later, when I was given a topic of choice for my chemistry research paper, I stumbled upon an article about gold nanoparticles used for HIV treatment. I decided to steer the topic of gold nanoparticles used for cancer treatment instead, entering the field of nanotechnology. After reading numerous articles and watching college lectures on YouTube, I was utterly captivated by topics like using miniscule devices to induce hyperthermia as a safe method of cancer treatment. 

Nanotechnology is multi-disciplinary, reinforcing my interest in pursuing mechanical engineering as a gateway to participate in nanoscience and nanotechnology research at the University of Texas at Austin. I have learned that nanotechnology is not limited to stories like mine, but to other issues such as sustainable energy and water development that I hope to work towards. 

It is important for me to continue helping others without forfeiting my interest in nanotechnology, working in collaboration with both engineering and the medical field.

This new paragraph spacing makes the essay much easier to read. Separating certain parts into paragraphs puts powerful emphasis on the ideas that need them; for example, turning the sentence “I woke up” into its own paragraph creates a captivating hook that intrigues readers into finding out what happens next.

With the new format, it is also easier to see that the fourth paragraph would benefit from a few transitional phrases. To connect the author’s interests in mechanical engineering and cancer solutions, the paragraph could be reworded like so: 

My interest in mechanical engineering originates from my dad, who was a plumber. My interest in finding solutions to cancer — and how mechanical engineering could create them — comes from my dad too. When I was fifteen, he passed away from cancer that constricted his throat. Holding his calloused hand on his deathbed, I wanted to prevent the suffering of others from cancer. 

Where to Get Your UT Austin Essays Edited

Do you want feedback on your UT Austin essays? After rereading your essays countless times, it can be difficult to evaluate your writing objectively. That’s why we created our free Peer Essay Review tool , where you can get a free review of your essay from another student. You can also improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays.

If you want a college admissions expert to review your essay, advisors on CollegeVine have helped students refine their writing and submit successful applications to top schools. In fact,  Alexander Oddo , an essay expert on CollegeVine, provided commentary on the essays in this post. Find the right advisor for you to improve your chances of getting into your dream school!

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Full-Time MBA Application Changes: Increasing Accessibility and Minimizing Bias 

Each cycle, the Texas McCombs Full-Time MBA Admissions Team reviews MBA application requirements to ensure our admissions process is as equitable and fair as possible. This upcoming cycle, we are excited to announce some changes to our application components that help reduce bias and ensure our application process continues to be accessible and inclusive.    

Being human centered and future focused is at the core of what we do at Texas McCombs, and the updates to our application components were informed by the evaluation processes our MBA students experience in their job search, while also increasing the opportunities for applicants to showcase who they are as an individual. Stay tuned for our blog series on key application components over the summer and mark your calendar for our Full-Time MBA Class of 2025 application opening in August 2022.  

APPLICATION COMPONENTS FOR THE 2022-2023 ADMISSIONS CYCLE  

Our admissions committee dedicates itself to a meticulous, holistic review of each application. Our objective is to determine if you are a good fit for Texas McCombs and to be sure that we are the right school for you and your goals. There are no fixed criteria or weighted portions of the application. The following application components will be required this cycle:  

• Standardized Test (GMAT, GRE, Executive Assessment) or merit-based test waiver  
• English Proficiency Test (TOEFL, IELTS) or waiver (international students only)  
• Undergraduate transcripts and graduate transcripts (if applicable)  
• One Professional Letter of Recommendation  
• One Written Essay  
• Video Assessment    
• Optional: Texas McCombs Admissions Connection  

APPLICATION DEADLINES  

Applications for the Full-Time MBA program are accepted in three rounds, and the program enrolls annually every August. Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM Central Time on the deadline date for each round.  

• Round 1: October 11, 2022  
• Round 2: January 5, 2023  
• Round 3: March 28, 2023  

 CHANGES TO TESTING REQUIREMENTS  

To provide MBA candidates with more flexibility, we are excited to share that applicants have more options than ever before when considering how to complete the standardized test requirement in their application. All applicants are required to submit a GMAT, GRE, or Executive Assessment (EA) score. We will waive the testing requirement if:  

• Expired (taken 5+ years ago) GMAT, GRE, or EA score is submitted or
• General Test Waiver (merit-based) is approved  

Standardized exams like the GRE, GMAT, and EA help us to evaluate a candidate’s academic preparedness for the rigor of business school and is also one metric used to compare candidates within a large pool of applicants. However, there are some scenarios where a candidate’s application might shine without the standardized test.

Learn more  about the criteria required to apply for a general test waiver.  

Note that the majority of applicants applying to the Full-Time MBA program take either the GMAT or the GRE due to the competitiveness of the pool. In many cases, having a strong GMAT or GRE score will make you more competitive for both admission and scholarship opportunitie s. Learn more about the different test options. 

CHANGES TO ESSAY REQUIREMENTS  

The written essay is a critical means of assessing an applicant’s background and goals, communication and writing skills, and motivation for attending Texas McCombs. In order to streamline the application process,  the Full-Time MBA Admissions Team has reduced the number of required essays from two to one.

The essay prompt for the 2022-2023 admissions cycle is as follows:

Picture yourself at graduation. Describe how you spent your time as a Texas McCombs MBA to achieve your personal and professional goals. (500 words)  

Additionally, and if applicable, applicants can provide an optional statement in the essay section of the application. Applicants should only provide an optional statement if there is something they wish to explain about their candidacy that is not addressed elsewhere.  

VIDEO ASSESSMENT  

Texas McCombs is excited to introduce the video assessment as a new application component for the 2022-23 Full-Time MBA admissions cycle. All applicants will complete the video assessment, which will give MBA candidates increased accessibility to the application process and the opportunity to share their story with us in their own voice.  Through the video assessment, the Admissions Committee will have a chance to experience the “real” you, beyond a resume, test scores, and transcripts. Lastly, the video assessment will enable Texas McCombs to reduce bias in the admissions process by providing all applicants with a structured and consistent assessment experience.  

MBA candidates with a submitted application, whose application fee has been paid or waived will be invited to take part in our Texas McCombs Video Assessment. The video assessment is virtual and on-demand, so applicants can complete it from anywhere in the world at a time in the day convenient to them. The video assessment will help the Admissions Committee evaluate the following competencies that are crucial for the fit and success of our students within the program and their future careers:  

  Applicants will be asked to use the video assessment tool to record responses to seven questions, with each response lasting no more than three minutes each. Detailed instructions will be provided with the video assessment invitation so you know what to expect, and applicants will have the opportunity to practice as many times as they wish before completing the final video assessment.  Applicants will have seven days from the invitation to complete the final video assessment. 

This is your time to show us your personality and enthusiasm! We recommend that you prepare for the video assessment similarly to how you might prepare for an interview.  Think reflectively about your work experience, strengths, weaknesses, and practice your delivery. More tips will be provided in the coming weeks .  

TEXAS McCOMBS ADMISSIONS CONNECTION  

One of the most vital parts of the MBA application process at Texas McCombs is the human component. We pride ourselves on getting to know you at a personal level during the admissions process and will continue to provide hundreds of virtual and in-person ways for you to meet our students, alumni, faculty, and Admissions Team.

We invite all MBA applicants to close out their application process by signing up for a “Texas McCombs Admissions Connection” after completing all other MBA application requirements.     These live, virtual get-to-know-you sessions are an opportunity for our applicants to engage directly with a Full-Time MBA student. While not required, registering for and attending an Admissions Connection session is highly encouraged .  

These sessions are NOT your traditional admissions interview.  MBA applicants will have 15 minutes with a member of the McCombs Ambassador Committee (MAC) to ask questions about the program/student experience, discuss information about their candidacy that is not addressed elsewhere, and align on the next steps in the application process. You will be able to choose your host whenever you register for a slot. There is no evaluative component to this session, although your student host will be able to pass along any information you share to the admissions committee.    

Because the session will last approximately 15 minutes, we recommend applicants to come prepared with 3–5 questions about the MBA program and/or next steps in the application process  

Admissions Connection FAQs

Texas McCombs is committed to reducing bias while ensuring our application process continues to be accessible and inclusive. By expanding our testing options and inviting all applicants to participate in our new Admissions Connection and Video Assessment components, we are delivering on this commitment in a more equitable way.  

  The Full-Time MBA 2022-2023 Application will open in August. Stay tuned for our blog series on key application components over the summer. Please sign up for MBA news and follow us on Instagram at @UTexasMBA to stay updated.

Join us at an upcoming event to connect and learn more about Texas McCombs.

Hook ’em! 

Application Tips , Full-Time MBA , Full-Time MBA Application Tips , News

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