Harvard, Stanford, Wharton - MBA Application Tips

MBA application processes at the top business school, such as Harvard Business School, Stanford Graduate School of Business and Wharton Business School are hard to navigate. I hope this video and my application tips help you to apply to the business school you really want to go to. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions on the admissions process.
00:00 Introduction
01:42 GPA / GMAT
04:34 TOEFL / IELTS
05:44 GMAT Why & How to prepare
09:16 CV
11:45 Letters of Recommendation
16:07 Essays
20:01 Application Forms
23:45 Interview
30:42 Thank you
GPA/GMAT:
Magoosh GMAT: gmat.magoosh.com/invite/486EGA
Magoos TOEFL: toefl.magoosh.com/invite/486EGA
Official Prep: gmatofficialprep.mba.com/Sara...
TOEFL Speaking (free): www.toeflresources.com/speaki...
TOEFL Writing (free): www.toeflresources.com/writin...
TOEFL Speaking (free): www.prepscholar.com/toefl/blo...
GMAT Forum (free): gmatclub.com/
For Military, under represented minorities & women: www.admitmeaccess.com/ (reduced price for applicant lab & free magoosh)
CV:
Dartmouth Tips: mba.tuck.dartmouth.edu/cdo-new...
Harvard Tips: www.cnbc.com/2019/07/10/an-ex...
General CV Tips: careerprotocol.com/format-mba...
MIT CV Tips: cdn.cdo.mit.edu/wp-content/up...
Letter of Recommendation:
Stanford Tips on Letters: www.gsb.stanford.edu/programs...
Kirsten Moss (Stanford GSB): • Tips on Letters of Ref...
Tips for Letters: careerprotocol.com/awesome-re...
Essays:
applicantlab.refr.cc/lukashaffer1
Book Tip on Application: tianheedu.com/upfile/download/...
HBS essay collection: harbus.org/product/harbus-mba...
HBS essays 1 (free): poetsandquants.com/2017/08/30...
Essay Examples: poetsandquants.com/2017/10/12...
HBS essays 2 (free): blog.accepted.com/sample-essa...
Application Forms:
applicantlab.refr.cc/lukashaffer1
Interview:
applicantlab.refr.cc/lukashaffer1
Hard Questions: www.clearadmit.com/mba-admiss...
Common questions: www.accepted.com/mba/questions
Tough Questions: poetsandquants.com/2020/10/09...
Virtual setup: techcrunch.com/2020/05/13/how...
poetsandquants.com/tag/friday...
• Fridays With Sandy: MB...
SUMMARY: GPA & GMAT
- Don't cry over a low GPA
- Focus on the GMAT, to reach the score you want / need
- Use an online tool (such as magoosh) to study efficiently
SUMMARY: CV
- Leverage templates to make your CV comparable (see MIT, HBS, …)
- Use simple language to explain what you did, why it was a problem & whythe results were so impressive.
- Context helps the adcom understand your impact in your organization
SUMMARY: LETTERS
- Choose people who like you and can tell great stories about you (titles matter less)
- Ask them in person & explain why the letter matters (it takes time!)
- Send them briefing material (notes, Kirsten's video & links to example)
SUMMARY: ESSAYS
- Create a clear, distinct brand that an adcom member can pitch you as
- Use the essay to fill that brand with life (e.g., backstory or specific future vision)
- Get inspired by other essays (found online or in the Harbus essay guide)
SUMMARY: APP FORMS
- Every business school is different, but your brand stays the same.
- Highlight school specifics e.g., classes or strengths (also important for essays!)
- Tell the truth - always!
SUMMARY: INTERVIEWS
- Congratulations: your chances are 40-60% to get into b-school at this point
- Preparation is key - take a list of possible questions and note down bullet points, then do mock interviews with friends
- Be yourself: take the interview as a cool conversation - just don't brag
#mba #harvard #stanford #wharton #mbaapplication #applicationprocess #howigotintoharvard #howigotintostanford #howigotintowharton #applicationtips #whartonbusinessschool #harvardbusinessschool #hbs #stanfordgraduateschoolofbusiness #stanfordgsb

[@sixuangong5275]

Just looked at your LinkedIn profile, gosh your resume is intimidating (in a good way).

[@LukasHaffer]

Thanks for the compliment :)

[@SohailKhan-pv6fp]

Thanks a lot for explaining all the MBA application nuances in a simple way.

[@baibhavpathy3017]

One of the best video explaining the process till now ... Super crystal clear ... Never got so point to point answers. ... Thanks man ...

[@Likush100]

Thank you for great resource recommendations!

[@pragathees1]

Excellent. Sincere and meticulous ❤

[@zarafsari]

I've watched bunch of videos on this topic and this video was in another league. Thank you so so so much🥺 Helped a lot.

[@LukasHaffer]

Happy to hear that zahraa! Good luck on your further journey. KR Lukas

[@ivandobrev122]

You are awesome! Keep going, man!

[@LukasHaffer]

Thanks for the nice words Dimitar! KR Lukas

[@rishulbangar1884]

Really helpful video Lukas, thank you so much!

[@LukasHaffer]

Happy you liked it! KR Lukas

[@3ashooorable]

Congratulations for your acceptance !You deserve a million like button on this great helpful video!!

[@LukasHaffer]

Thank you soo much for your encouragement!! I really appreciate it ☺️ and I’m happy that you liked the video

[@patbro5881]

Extremely informative and helpful!

[@LukasHaffer]

Thanks, I am happy you liked the video and got something out of it 😃

[@zurachkheidze2158]

THank you and wish you luck in your personal and professional life! Very useful and interesting information! Thank you

[@LukasHaffer]

My pleasure, Zura. KR Lukas

[@vansh2956]

grateful that i have the access to this video thankyou so much for this video man! hope u luck and i have subscribed to you :)

[@LukasHaffer]

Hey VANSH, thanks for the positive Feedback 😃 happy that you liked it 😊

[@thestrategyguy2662]

Wow most informative MBA admissions video I have seen!! Thank you so much :)

[@LukasHaffer]

Thanks, Enrique! Glad to hear you found it informative!

[@TheCinzenetty]

Great video. Thanks for sharing your valuable advice

[@LukasHaffer]

I am happy you liked it 👍

[@ronma8647]

Hi Lukas, thanks for the video, very insightful.

[@ihaziqhabib]

Great video! Would love to see those detailed videos for all the schools you got in and your GPA, GMAT scores as well. Looking forward to it :)

[@LukasHaffer]

Hey Haziq, thanks for the great feedback! I will upload a video sharing the essay that got me into Stanford incl. a few tips of how to craft your own story. Feel free to subscribe if you want to get notified of that. KR Lukas

[@ihaziqhabib]

@@LukasHaffer Already subscribed! 😃

[@LukasHaffer]

@@ihaziqhabib awesome!

[@anonymoususer3720]

Such a concisely put video. Very informative, loved the quick summary points in the end. Thank you very much for explaining everything so patiently and coherently. Not many Ivy school admission process with quality content are available on KZbin. Congratulations on getting accepted and wish you a very successful future ahead.

[@LukasHaffer]

Thanks anonymous user for the positive feedback! I'm always happy when my video helps people with the application process! KR Lukas

[@nikolaosbizogias3597]

Great and detailed explanations! Very helpful - not only for MBA applications! Thanks for the inspiration bro! ;) Have fun in Stanford!

[@LukasHaffer]

Thanks ☺️

[@wojtek2798]

Great video! Very helpful. Fun idea with the Philips Hue Iris, looks great. One idea for more traction on KZbin: There are lots of similar videos, so adding a "in 2021" might boost your video even more!

[@LukasHaffer]

Haha, thanks for the cool tip, Wojtek 😃

[@locust25VI]

Congratulations, you should be super proud of yourself

[@TheHaSaMiC]

Thanks for sharing such useful information with everyone!

[@LukasHaffer]

Glad it was helpful! KR Lukas

[@poojyathavenkatesh2980]

Thank you so much for these great tips!

[@LukasHaffer]

You are welcome, Poojyatha! KR Lukas

[@ShubhamYadav-rh2kz]

Thanx Lukas! It was a very informative video.

[@olarewajutunmisejoseph2286]

Thank you, Luka❤️

[@LukasHaffer]

Happy you found the video helpful - KR Lukas

[@rajdsingh135]

Thank you so much for the amazingly informative video. It encapsulated almost all the aspects of the MBA application journey very succinctly. I have completed my first part of the journey ( GMAT) and am currently researching schools. Your tips are indeed very useful. Thanks again and best wishes for an enriching and enlightening stint @ Stanford

[@LukasHaffer]

Thank you, Raj, for the great feedback! Good luck with the rest of your application! KR Lukas

[@jamiecapri3465]

How do you take the gmat test?where do you go to take it?

[@LukasHaffer]

@@jamiecapri3465 Hi Jamie, the GMAT can be taken in-person in testing centers (in almost all big cities globally) or online (at least during the pandemic). You can check mba.com for more details. KR Lukas

[@iotoro6148]

@@LukasHaffer what platform did you use? Magoosh? How long have you studied and what is your score?

[@CareersWithMaud]

Quite detailed. was waiting for this. thnk you

[@LukasHaffer]

I am happy you liked it. I hope some of the tips helped you - good luck finalizing your applications 💪

[@nancyboison8918]

Thanks very much Lucas. Your video has been very helpful. I had fears earlier in attempting to apply for MBA in Stanford Business School. The reason is I don’t have any mind blowing working experience or achievement. After watching the video, I have gained some motivation to give my best in applying for the school with the little things I have contributed to. I can imagine how my entire life will change for the better if I should qualify and gain admission. I hope to share my success story one day .

[@LukasHaffer]

Thanks for the positive feedback! I am happy the tips are helpful. Good luck on your applications 👍 (btw something I didn’t say in the video: I recommend applying to a few schools to maximize your chances. Don’t get too stuck on one specific one, just make sure you have enough specific arguments for the schools in each application)

[@carolinadama]

Great video! Thank you!

[@fuyingshih]

Helpful and informative!

[@LukasHaffer]

Thanks, fuyinh! Happy that you liked it 😊

[@kaustubhchavan3606]

Those who have heard every single word this person's suggestion must not have any doubt that why he was able to crack multiple top b-schools in the world where many of us fail to get even one of them. Thanks a lot Lukas every piece of advice was gold in this video. Heartiest congratulations Lukas for this great achievement. God bless Cheers...!✌🏼

[@Rkarne]

Bro your great and great information thank you so much 😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊

[@Marusya.Ryabchik]

Lucas, thank you for the useful video!!!🙏🏻 Good luck to you!!!!!💫✨🌟 From Russia with love!💖

[@ambecksfulful]

Thanks for sharing bro, really hepfull…!!

[@LukasHaffer]

You are welcome :)

[@PrisonACE1]

Nicely done!

[@LukasHaffer]

Thank you 😊

[@rodolfosierracarrillo8524]

Thank you for the video, is the most informative MBA admission video that I have seen. HBS and stanford business are my dream schools. I hope you continue telling your journey in Stanford Graduate school.

[@LukasHaffer]

Thanks, Rodolfo. I am happy you found the video informative 😊 anything in particular that you would be interested in?

[@rodolfosierracarrillo8524]

@@LukasHaffer Yes, I think that the essay is the most important part of the whole process, can you give me some feedback in the future about my essay?

[@rodolfosierracarrillo8524]

and what made you decide that stanford was a better fit for your as a future MBA

[@LukasHaffer]

@@rodolfosierracarrillo8524 Stanford stood out to me mainly because of the entrepreneurial ecosystem. It is truly unmatched. The proximity to silicon valley, the professors who often founded or led unicorns themselves, the classmates who are working on one or two ideas on the side,... all of this felt uniquely alive to me. I did not want to go to business school to become a manager made to work in a large corporation. I wanted to embrace my entrepreneurial spirit and Stanford is the place to do so. It also helped that Stanford has significantly better stats than all other schools (i.e., selectivity e.g., avg. GMAT is 10 points higher, avg. GPA is 3.8 vs. 3.6 at HBS, .... and outcomes avg. salary is highest by far, number of unicorn founders per 1000 students is highest with 3). Overall my analysis just led me to conclude that this is the best business school in the world, which also fits my entrepreneurial nature.

[@LukasHaffer]

@@rodolfosierracarrillo8524 I can't promise that I will have a lot of time, but you can find me on LinkedIn and send me your draft, when you are ready. If I find the time to do it justice, I'll send you my thoughts. Generally I would recommend you find one or two friends who know you really well and understand the application process to give you feedback. That will help you much more than a random dude on the internet 😉

[@DarkChoc0]

Hi Lukas, Really appreciate your efforts on “paying it forward” by sharing with us these invaluable tips. Can I ask which round did you apply to for your MBA (and does the round make a difference)? In retrospect, do you have any guesses on why you and Sloan/Booth were not “fated” for each other? :D Thanks so much!

[@muscleinvesting]

Great video. Very informative.

[@LukasHaffer]

Thanks for the praise! Appreciate it!

[@jieun3514]

So incredibly helpful. Please continue posting if it would not be inconvenient for you -- what made you choose Stanford over the other schools, day in the life of an MBA student, for instance. Please, please, please! :)

[@LukasHaffer]

Wow, Ji Eun! Means a lot to me that you found my videos so helpful. Ok, I'll do a video about what Stanford GSB is like. Maybe I'll do a little bit of Q&A as well. KR Lukas

[@shrey5239]

Amazing video, thank you

[@LukasHaffer]

Happy you liked it, Shrey! KR Lukas

[@luisdiaz1997]

Really great tips. Hopefully I get to meet you, I'm starting my PhD at Stanford this year too.

[@LukasHaffer]

Hey Luis, glad to hear. I look forward to meeting you on campus. Feel free to reach out via slack/linkedin 😌

[@b521837]

Thank you soo much for sharing such an amazing vid and an informative one I have to say ❤️❤️❤️ I want to apply for a PhD program for Stanford as well and I need some tips on how to approach this I would love to connect with both of you on linked in or somthing if that's possible?

[@julia63491]

thank you for sharing this! About interviews, I thought that I really need to say what I accomplished and How my leadership shone at that time, which I didn't(couldn't) at my recent interview. (I just told them more like facts.. what I do..) I want to know more about your writing essay part ! :)

[@LukasHaffer]

You're welcome. It's good to share such leadership stories in the interview. It just shouldn't lead to an endless monologue of you showing off. If you want to hear more about my essay, feel free to check out the video I just uploaded, reading my Stanford essay and explaining my best tips. KR Lukas P.S.: If there's other content on the MBA that you are interested in/have questions about... feel free to ask in the comments. E.g.,: Is there a type of video that you wish I'd make?

[@julia63491]

@@LukasHaffer Yes, thank you for your comments! I'd love to hear about life at GSB so far and also the essay writing & interview process you went through with other schools as well. (esp. HBS, cause HBS essay is as difficult as Stanford's) Also, I've just got admission to one of the top schools! So HAPPY :) but also will challenge other schools in 2nd round. your video is really informative!

[@LukasHaffer]

@@julia63491 Congratulations to that offer! Which business schools are you still targeting?

[@julia63491]

@@LukasHaffer Yes! I'm targeting H/S/W and Stanford is my first choice in terms of every aspects. but those three schools are long shots for everyone. :) you got admitted from all of those schools - so amazing.

[@renatoaedo7020]

really good content, thanks

[@LukasHaffer]

Thanks Renato! KR Lukas

[@geebo8502]

Really great video thank you so much for your help, also you kind of remind me of the American Dad Fish

[@LukasHaffer]

Hahahahah, that‘s because of the German accent 😂

[@geebo8502]

@@LukasHaffer 🤣🤣

[@wassupr.7930]

Congrats on your big journey :D // I am frustrated with GMAT verbal especially "CR" part. I feel like I cannot unlock my understandings because I still did it wrong. I have been doing 4 mock tests and the results were still the same (under 600). Do you think should I take a little break from GMAT and go for IELTS this time instead so I won't waste the time? Thank you. I will keep pushing and chinning myself up. Have been failed for many times lol

[@LukasHaffer]

Hey, thanks! I can understand your frustration. The GMAT is indeed a test in patience and grit! What I can recommend to you, as it has truly helped me out in the verbal section is "The Tested Tutor" here on youtube. He has great explanation videos, that get you to operate the way he approached the verbal section: Very calmly, slowly and precisely. Have a look and try it out. Also what are you using so far as a tool to study?

[@ankitasaxena5891]

@@LukasHaffer thank you ❤️

[@user-od3nb2ce8g]

Super helpful content Lukas! What are your thoughts on hiring MBA consultants? I understand they are pricey but seems like everyone is getting one, one way or another. If you think they're essential, would you have any recommendations? Separetely, if you have your GMAT score ready, how much time do you think I need to prepare all application materials if I'm applying to 5 schools in total? (all M7) Thanks!

[@estellexu1958]

Hi Lukas, I just saw you in the video "Meet the MBA Class of 2023" on the Stanford Graduate School of Business Channel. What a surprise! And hope you've enjoyed your time at Stanford.

[@LukasHaffer]

Hi Estelle, thanks for the nice wishes! I'm really enjoying my time here - almost done with year 1 out of 2 :)

[@johnninan758]

Please make a video about how did you prepare for GMAT?

[@siddharththakkar5902]

Would love to know more about why you picked Stanford specifically and about application details such as essays and more tips. Thanks!

[@LukasHaffer]

Thanks Siddharth, for the positive Feedback! I may post a video about my Stanford Essay soon. Would that be interesting to you?

[@siddharththakkar5902]

@@LukasHaffer most definitely, already reached out to you on LinkedIn if you could spare some extra time. Cheers!

[@moniquenaeini2652]

Thank you for this video! It was very informative. HBS is my dream school and I was wondering if you could expand further on how you got in :)

[@LukasHaffer]

Hi Monique, I am happy you liked it. HBS is a dream for many and it was for me, too. Would you want me to dive deeper into the way I approached the HBS essay specifically or go through my whole HBS application package (with stats etc.)?

[@moniquenaeini2652]

@@LukasHaffer It would be great if you could go through the whole application. Thanks in advance!!

[@LukasHaffer]

@@moniquenaeini2652 ok, will put it onto my to do list - although I can’t promise to get it done quickly as school is about to start 😃

[@moniquenaeini2652]

@@LukasHaffer Sure no worries. Have fun at Stanford!!!!

[@g.lingeshwaran4868]

@@LukasHaffer brother please upload your HBS essay

[@ashmitsaha2507]

Sir could you please make a video reading your college essays P.s.- loved this one keep doing this type of videos. They really help!!!

[@LukasHaffer]

Hi Ashmit, thanks for the enthusiastic comment. I am happy you liked the video. Will think about posting sth about my essays 😃

[@neha.sahani]

Very informative video - appreciate your tips around essays and recommendations. I find that my recommenders have asked me to “draft” the recommendations. How would you respond to this?

[@USABESTMBA-COM]

Nice info video 📹

[@pratikdesai6943]

Hallo Lukas. Guten Tag. Grüße aus Deutschland. Thanks for a wonderful informative video. Just a question, How to convince my German employer in Germany to give or fill up a Letter of Recommendation for the MBA admissions. As you had mentioned on your video that your previous boss were not so used to writing the LOR. Any particular tips if you could share that you used, to explain your purpose of obtaining an MBA and getting LOR is of utmost importance to your employer in Germany?

[@nelwiagustin6987]

Congratulation for your MBA degree. So lovely.

[@LukasHaffer]

Thank you for the nice words ... I still have to study for 1 more year to actually get the degree :D

[@jdwilliams4821]

I know it's hard to quantify, but I had about a 3.6 gpa at Cornell university. I have 3 years of experience in an HR development/rotation program. Do you think 700 gmat would suffice, or should I aim for 730+? Great video!

[@guillofanto8332]

Hello Lukas, thanks a lot for the video, it was very insightful! I wanted to ask you a couple of questions, if you have the time. What are your thoughts on (i) attending the events that the schools set up, and (ii) reaching out current students or alumni? Do these two things help? - Events > Can't see how. If they do, could you explain how? - Reaching out alumni and students > Where within the process? I can only see that name-dropping in the interview could be beneficial maybe?

[@LukasHaffer]

Hi Guillofanto, thanks for your feedback. I think the events give a first impression of what the school is like - friendly, helpful staff and a culture of "change lives, change organizations, change the world". Reaching out to current students to learn about the MBA program is definitely useful. You will get different perspectives on how to utilize the MBA to reach your personal growth goals. Alumni and current students can also give you a feeling for what kinds of people you would meet at Stanford (smart, driven/ambitious but kind and authentic). Saying that you spoke with students and alumni might help show that you did your research and are really applying to the school that is the right fit (culture, atmosphere, course offering, ...) for your goals! KR Lukas

[@TheMscandy123]

Hi! Im currently an undergrad student. Would it be okay if you can make a video on your stats and things you did in your undergrad (eg. Research, president of club, ect)? And maybe what to strive in ones career to have a better chance into getting into these MBA programmes? Thanks!

[@LukasHaffer]

Hey Adani, thanks for the question. I am happy to talk a bit more about that. I'll put that on my todo list. A little info up front: I led a social entrepreneurial student organization in college: Roughly 75 people, working on a lot of cool ideas to create social startups. Some of them worked out, some of them didn't. I talked a little about that in some of my essays and I think it highlights a part of my personality that fits well into MBA programs (i.e., responsible leadership). I am also thinking about doing a short series of videos on early career advice. Maybe I'll interview some of my Stanford classmates about how they made their mark in their fields (e.g., consulting, private equity, startups, ...). What do you think about that?

[@keshavkumar4509]

@@LukasHaffer The interview of your classmates will be very helpful.

[@drakejosh808]

Hi, thank you for the video! Would you happen to know if an MiM from ESSEC Business School, France (ranked #3 globally for the program) is somewhat equivalent to doing an MBA from one of the Tier-1 (not Ivy League) Schools in terms of job prospects and salary? Thank you!

[@LukasHaffer]

Hi Drake, in order to answer that question I would look at the profile of the incoming classes in each of these schools and the outcomes in the career reports. That will give you an idea. Geography is also a major factor (i.e., do you want to work in France, Germany, Britain, the US, Asia, ...?). KR Lukas

[@user-ls9hj4wm3i]

Hey Lukas, thank you for sharing such a valuable information, could you tell me pls: Is it ok to take GRE instead of GMAT for MBA?

[@JackSparrow-nq6ww]

Hi Lukas! Could you please clarify the part about GPA and grades? I did not understand if you meant “grades” as they part of the final GPA or if they matter on their own. Do Business Schools look at your final GPA or the grades of every single course you have taken?

[@arulvizhis1200]

Magoosh - for preparing gmat Hbs,MIT- CV

[@nandinijain4959]

How do I professionally say, "I already have an admit, but I'll choose you if you give me a scholarship"?

[@5.5mviewchij61]

Which skill your in unique you go to in Stanford and you unique person but which skill in your best not only mark GMAT your best skill like in Stanford 😊😊

[@samanthawho9591]

Hi Lukas, could you maybe talk about the finances and how you went about it, did you get a scholarship, did your current company pay for some of it? I'm planning to apply next year.

[@LukasHaffer]

Hi Samantha, the Stanford GSB provides very generous financial aid. I receive roughly $50k per year, which covers 2/3 of the tuition. For the rest I use my personal savings from before the MBA and a private loan. See my video on the Stanford MBA for more details ;) KR Lukas

[@suzanerose9622]

Do you think I can get into Wharton and Stanford having a 6month internship that you did in undergrad school having everything else perfect? Ps. How many years would you recommend working for to get into Harvard Stanford Yale Princeton and Wharton?

[@user-px9dy6qp7j]

Thank you for the video! How much notice would you recommend giving to the people you are requesting your letters of recommendation from?

[@LukasHaffer]

Thanks for the comment! At least 4 weeks. Depends on how much you time you think they need to write a great(!) recommendation! KR Lukas

[@abibraga123]

Amazing video. Loved every bit of it. Summary was the best part. Playback 1.25 times is recommended By the way which college are you gonna join?

[@LukasHaffer]

Hi Bragadeesh, thanks for the feedback! I started at Stanford in September 😉

[@arunghanghas5309]

Thanks for the video..! Does our bachelors university( reputation) matter in getting admission even after getting high bachelor's GPA and high GMAT score like 725+ ?

[@heetoh21]

Hey Lukas. Thanks for all the tips. Curious... did you happen to take help from admissions consultants? If so was was it helpful?

[@LukasHaffer]

Hello heetoh21, I did not use any admissions consulting. I used ApplicantLab and loved it: applicantlab.refr.cc/lukashaffer1. I really like all the super structured explanatory videos and reflection exercises that helped me craft my essay. KR Lukas

[@arshalam6254]

Thank you, this video was very informative. For your application to be competitive, is it required that you engage in extra curricular activities to the same level of what is looked for in undergraduate applicants at US universities? For example, being regional champion in a particular sport or skill.

[@LukasHaffer]

Hi Arsh, it certainly helps if you can show some track record of leadership and that may come from either extracurricular or professional experiences. KR Lukas

[@rushipatel8908]

@@LukasHaffer i wanted to get into hbs ms/mba from india,im not from the prestigious university from india ,known as IIT,can i get into harvard,wharton,stanford

[@ms.chapionghanhcungchame1144]

Thank you for your sharing! I have a question: if my work experience is banking 6 years ago, corporate 5 years ago and self employed for the last 4 years. Who do you recommend me to get letter of recommendation from? Thank you very much!

[@mong1818]

Congrats and thank you! It would be great if you could do a step by step video on filling out the online app. I sent my questions to HBS adcom in June but still no response 😕. My questions were: 1. How can I confirm if HBS rec'd my GMAT and TOEFL scores? Or it's not necessary to confirm. 2. The 3 awards and extra.activities boxes in the application should be different than what's listed on the resume or ? 3. In the employer section there are boxes for role and responsibilities. If I held 3 different positions with a same employer, can I include all responsibilities or only from my latest position? Thanks much!

[@LukasHaffer]

Ok, so first of all: I am not the admissions committee, so take my answers with a grain of salt (no guarantees 😉). 1. For me they reached out after not receiving confirmation on the GMAT and I had a few days to send it again. Normally the initial selection of schools you chose to send your GMAT to, will receive it without issues. 2. I would try not to provide redundant information (=do not just say the same thing again), but shedding more light on something by providing more details about the selectivity (e.g., 3 out of 3,000 applicants) or reasoning (e.g., describe your extraordinary performance that led to the award) is a great chance. 3. Yes, I would highlight the most important responsibilities out of all the positions one has held. In your CV it sometimes makes sense to break out the different positions, as it shows your progress in your young career. I hope these answered helped you a little. You can btw also call the b-schools to ask for some information.

[@mong1818]

@@LukasHaffer awesome thank you! It does help! adcoms usually don’t give this detailed answer. They tend to give generic answers lol.

[@jainamoswal3017]

Hey Lukas, Is it compulsory to have work experience for applying for MBA ? I'm currently an undergrad student . Can I just directly apply for MBA after my undergrad ?

[@Bat_6363]

Do they give a slight corner for Chartered Accountants for admission?

[@chibuzochilaka3119]

Thank you for sharing your experience with us. I don't have time for GMAT, do you think PhD and publications can help?

[@LukasHaffer]

Hi Chibuzo, while there are some schools that have lifted the GMAT requirement, the top schools still require either the GMAT or GRE. KR Lukas

[@SGS477]

Is it possible to be Accepted as an under graduate with no previous work experience?

[@user-pt7ss6cj2c]

for me people never because myself I feel change

[@sameerkumble2755]

Can you please make videos on Early access / 2+2 programs across different MBA unis in the US? No one talks about them

[@LukasHaffer]

Thanks for the question - I’m not sure I am the right person to talk about that, but I’ll give it a thought. KR Lukas

[@knoedeleintopf]

BIG GUY!

[@StanleyCage]

Thanks for the great video, it really helpful!! Do you think submitting GRE scores instead of GMAT lessens the strength of the application for an MBA hopeful ?

[@LukasHaffer]

Thanks for the feedback. Appreciate it. GRE scores are fine. Top business schools accept both GRE and GMAT scores and regard them as equally valid. KR Lukas

[@280akashyadav3]

Thank you for this video lukas. Im a 20 year old medical dropout because i was always interested in business. I dont have any degree but i run 2 companies ( consists heavy machinery and a team of 30 workers) . It is my dream to do my mba from stanford so will this count as my workex or my workex has to be in the field of my graduation ( im currently pursuing bachelor's in tourism and services because it requires less attention and easy to score😅). Plss help!

[@LukasHaffer]

Congratulations on your businesses! Happy things are working well. Why do you need an MBA? Your background is uncommon and if you really wanted to apply for an MBA your application would have to be very unique as well! So, I'm curious: What do you want to do with your life and how would an MBA help you? KR Lukas

[@280akashyadav3]

@@LukasHaffer the thing is im a really ambitious person and i have some huge plans for my future. In order to achieve my dreams i have to become a better leader. I need an mba to improve my management skills and from stanford because they are the best in the field. The key advantage of going to such prestigious schools is their Networking and their teaching style. I have risked my whole life to achieve my goals and im not stopping now.

[@user-pt7ss6cj2c]

for me finish the school now but people never

[@yay._.yumnay]

Great video. Could you please tell How I get the application form of Early Action? I can't find any on google.

[@LukasHaffer]

Hi Yumnay, I’m not sure it’s available online, but you could check out the schools application portal. Alternatively, I can recommend using applicantlab, which provides good guidance on the whole application form! I used it myself and found it super helpful: applicantlab.refr.cc/lukashaffer1 KR Lukas

[@Spectraevil]

The biggest issue I found when applying was that my company didn’t wanna get me leave :S It got weird when I had to ask them for recommendation letter

[@LukasHaffer]

I understand. I was in a similar situation, but chose to have an open conversation with the CEO of my firm about how I was thinking about the future. He gave me great advice and we identified the MBA as the right next step for my development - so he ended up supporting me with his strong recommendation. Maybe this perspective might be valuable for you, too. KR Lukas

[@gajananrahane1316]

Thanks brother for your experience but i have one question, Do we need any work experience for admission in Wharton?? Please reply 🙏🙏

[@yinghaosong4582]

Hi Lucas,you so much for your video! what made you make the final decision to Stanfords afterward?

[@LukasHaffer]

Hey Austin, I am happy you liked the video. The decision between the top schools wasn't easy. What made Stanford stand out was the entrepreneurial culture and the extraordinarily warm, authentic people. I had a few really deep, meaningful conversations with future Stanford classmates even before I got to school. That gave me a glimpse at the deeply personal, vulnerable and empowering experience of the GSB. Now, two months after I moved to Stanford, I am sooo happy about this decision! Entrepreneurship is top of mind for a lot of people and I have already made some amazing friends

[@anushka8183]

Thanks a lot for sharing the video. I, personally wanted to ask a question. I gave my GMAT back in 2021 and am currently working with the Big 3 consulting firms. I want to pursue an MBA afterwards. When do you think I should start applying in the business schools provided the fact that I have just 6 months of work experience as of now. It'd really mean the world to me if you could reply to this. Thanks Lukas!

[@LukasHaffer]

Hi Anushka, thanks for your comment and your great question. Congratulations on doing the GMAT already. Regarding work experience: most MBA students have 3-5 years of work experience at the time of application. The reason for this is, that the MBA classroom experience relies heavily on everyone bringing in former work experience. This has two sides: A) you get more out of your classes if you can relate them to challenges that you faced in your prior work. B) you classmates learn from you sharing best practices or interesting facts from your prior work experience. Overall, this means that however long you work before you apply to business school, you should bring some significant experience and the MBA should be the right next step to prepare you for your mid-term goals. My recommendation for now: Go out into the world and make an impact. Work for 1-2 years and really apply yourself. Take responsibility for improving things around you. When the time comes and you think an MBA would be the right next step, you will have accumulated an extraordinary track record of impactful work. Applying to business school will be the easy part then ;) KR Lukas

[@fahimsattar4762]

Hello, Fantastic video definitely going to subscribe! Do you know which age is the best to apply for a mba? And also does age matter, like 32 or above for the application proces? Thanks in advance!

[@LukasHaffer]

Hi Fahim, thanks for the great feedback. The average age of an MBA student is ca 29, with people mostly ranging from 26-33 - there are however exceptions with some students coming in as old as 40. The more important question is: Is the MBA the right next step in your career? Does it enable you to do what you want to do afterwards? If so, apply! KR Lukas

[@siddharthjoshi8]

How does your current boss react when you ask for letter of recommendation? Doesn’t it tell that you are thinking about leaving? Might cause problems

[@JamesCPark-qf5xd]

Do Stanford MBA look at highschool SAT/GPA?

[@user-pt7ss6cj2c]

for me 10 years never study Question why...

[@anonymouscoder3293]

Thanks for the insightful video ! What should a first year CS (Minor Data Science ) student of 1 year do to see himself/herself in any of top 4&5 MBA/Masters program in next 5-6 years? And what GPA he/she is required to maintain (India) sad lyf 🥺

[@LukasHaffer]

Hi, thanks for the positive feedback. My two biggest tips are: 1) Take responsibility and 2) prioritize steep learning curves. Firstly, wherever you are, whatever you are doing - taking responsibility to improve the world around you will inevitably lead to strong character development and produce the kind of achievements that top MBA adcoms are looking for. I didn't think about an MBA when choosing jobs or projects and I'd suggest it to be an afterthought for you as well. Focus on the now. Take responsibility to do your best today and you will be ready to apply when the time comes. Secondly, prioritizing steeper learning curves will lead you outside of your comfort zone and push you to realize your full potential. When I joined consulting, I chose a technology focused firm over a business oriented one, which meant I had to learn a lot of new things about computer science. This wasn't easy. But it is what enabled me later to be a competent Chief of Staff to a financial technology firm so early in my career. Concerning GPA (with focus on India): I know the competition of Indian engineers is strong. Do your best in your studies today and a top GMAT score will later enable you to provide a strong, competitive application. KR Lukas

[@anonymouscoder3293]

@@LukasHaffer thanks a lot for your words 🔥❤️❤️ It really means a lot ❤️❤️❤️

[@LukasHaffer]

@@anonymouscoder3293 you're welcome!

[@g.rajesh6251]

Sir can 3 years degree are accepted what are the process can porr afford it

[@frhnreads]

Hi Lukas. Congratulations for your MBA admission! I hope you have a great time! Was just curious, what makes you decide to choose Stanford over Harvard for your MBA program? really appreciate your feedback!

[@LukasHaffer]

Hi Farhan, that's a great question: the short answer is entrepreneurship! Stanford has an incredibly strong offering for rising entrepreneurs to meet their co-founders, incubate their ideas, get funding, scale up and incorporate. I also love that I can customize my curriculum from day 1 to take lots of coding classes as well as classes on developing economies, HR tech and marketplaces. KR Lukas

[@frhnreads]

@@LukasHaffer I see. Thats really a good insight. Im interested to further my MBA at one of the B-schools in the US as well. Your tips are really helpful for me to prepare! Hope I can make it like you too one day! All the best for you! Hope our paths cross in the future. Best, Farhan

[@loveus2508]

Hi! Thank you so much for your video! Btw I have only one year work experience. Is that enough to apply?

[@LukasHaffer]

Hi, Love US, I am happy you found the video engaging. Concerning your question: there is not one perfect amount of work experience, but the average is ca. 4-5 years and even 2-3 years are judged to be on the lower end. Do you think you will have strong personal growth working another year? If so, go work another year. Your profile tends to get stronger with more experience up until ca. 5 years. Also, have a look at what the classes at your target schools look like. There are some differences and your classmates will appreciate you coming in with a similar amount of experience. Because all the classes thrive on you contributing based on situations within your pre-mba career.

[@loveus2508]

@@LukasHaffer Thank you so much! I love to do MBA at Stanford. I also had one year internship work experience and after that I got the job. Ok I’ll get more work experience.

[@LukasHaffer]

Cool, I hope you learn a lot and get a chance to make an impact in the way you want 💪

[@JamesWindsor-xy3gx]

Hi Lukas, thanks for such an informative clip and congratulations on getting accepted to HSW! GSB is indeed my dream school and I wish you all the best. As I also begin preparing for HSW, I was wondering if I need to take GMAT over GRE. I understand all the aforementioned schools state they have no preference over one another but just wondering how you would approach this. Thanks!

[@LukasHaffer]

HI James, thanks for the positive feedback. I'd just tryout preparing for the GMAT. The GRE is fine as well and some people seem to prefer its structure - I liked the GMAT. KR Lukas

[@scholarlyanalyst7700]

@@LukasHaffer What sounds harder to your "ears"? 1. Masters Degree in Mathematics or 2. Masters Degree in Statistics?

[@_SaikatBanerjee_]

what is 2+2 program of Harvard for mba as i am a fresher i want to get into top B schools

[@towfiqurrahmandigonto8045]

beside all these, does one need to have job experience as well?

[@rishisawargaonkar3379]

I am BDS graduate(dentist) which is similar to DDS in USA. Now I'm doing my internship after which I'll get my graduation done. Can you tell me do I need work experience in hospital before applying for Standard MBA program? P.S. This video is very good for students like us, thanks for the video.

[@LukasHaffer]

Hi Rishi, happy you liked the video! The average work experience before the MBA is 4 years. You need very strong arguments to enroll beforehand (e.g., strong leadership experience, top gmat and top grades). KR Lukas

[@prasannareddy095]

is it mandatory to have a working experience, plz let me know