babson mba essay examples

Babson College 2024-25 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

Early Action/Decision: Nov 1

Regular Decision Deadline: Jan 2

Babson College 2024-25 Application Essay Question Explanations 

The Requirements:  One essay of 500 words; one essay of 250 words (or a video submission instead)

Supplemental Essay Type(s): Why , Community

The Babson education prepares students for all types of careers across business, entrepreneurship, social innovation, and more. Tell us about your interest in this area of study and in Babson specifically. (500 words maximum)

There’s only one trick to generating a straightforward explanation of your academic interests: be honest. Don’t waste time trying to think of what admissions “wants” you to say! Try to tell a story about your choices and intended area of study. How can you use your life experiences to reveal something about what you value and what excites you intellectually? The essays that stick with us are the ones that jump off the page with concrete descriptions from real life. What interests you and why? Connect your intended major to some prior experience and/or passion; how have you gone about learning more about your subject of interest? Finally, connect your interest to Babson, specifically. Spend about a half hour doing some research on the school’s website to identify courses, clubs, or other aspects of the campus and city that will enrich your education and experience there as a student. 

We invite you to submit your answer in either essay OR video format. If you choose to submit a video, please limit your response to a 1-minute video, which can be submitted via a shared link to YouTube or another video hosting website. Please ensure your video is set to public and is accessible to the Admission Committee.

A defining element of the babson experience is learning and thriving in an equitable and inclusive community with a wide range of perspectives and interests. please share something about your background, lived experiences, or viewpoint(s) that speaks to how you will contribute to and learn from babson’s collaborative community. (250 words maximum).

Odds are that this isn’t the first Diversity Essay prompt you’ve come across this year—even if the prompt doesn’t explicitly use the word. If it is, however, please read on. Babson wants to accept students from a range of backgrounds who will contribute to a collaborative university community, so tell admissions about what makes you you and how you will engage with others on campus. Think about times when people have been intrigued by or curious about your identity, skillset, or background. Maybe your mom was the first female VP at the brokerage she works for, and you want to follow in her footsteps, breaking ground for women in the finance industry. Perhaps you lived abroad for a few years, which imbued you with a uniquely international perspective on the American economy, and you hope to explore that topic with your roommates. What do you hope to share with others about your lived experience? How will you incorporate this element of your identity into your college years? Show admissions that you’re eager to contribute to their inclusive campus community. Bonus points if you can reference a specific component of the Babson experience (think clubs, classes, volunteer opportunities, etc.) to show you’ve done your due diligence.

If you decide to record a video instead of writing an essay, make sure you write an outline so you don’t waste 15 seconds with “ums” and “uhs”! Everyone is different; maybe a list of bullets is enough for you or maybe you want to write an entire script and have your sibling hold it up for you like a cue card. You can record in either landscape or portrait mode, just make sure your entire face is visible in the frame and that you look tidy, but no need to go full glam or to do a full-body shot. Just be your natural self! 

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The Babson MBA Interview – What to Expect + Sample Questions

Oct 28, 2023

How the Babson Interview works 

Who is babson looking for, how can you prepare for your interview, what to do if you get a question you haven’t prepared an answer for, secure your spot at babson.

UPDATE: This article was originally published on February 7, 2020. It has been updated with 2023/24 information and tips. 

For an increasing number of students worldwide, Babson is at the top of their business school target list.

However, with an impressive entrepreneurship track record and both 1 and 2-year programs, the competition to join Babson’s elite MBA is more difficult than ever.  

That’s why we’ve prepared this guide to help you use your Babson admissions interview to stand out. We’ve rounded up not only our best tips but have also included sample interview questions to ensure you give your Babson interview your best shot. 

Making sure you shine during your Babson interview is no easy task. 

Babson interviews, since they are conducted by the admissions committee, tend to be highly personalized and based on your whole application . During the interview, the interviewer is also trying to gauge how solid your motivations for wanting to pursue an MBA are and how interested you seem in the Babson program.

Interviewers often ask many standard MBA interview questions, as well as questions designed to test just how collaborative and entrepreneurially-minded you really are. You can also expect numerous follow-up questions. 

Our clients who have interviewed with Babson in the past say that the interviewer was very friendly and demonstrated a genuine interest in their answers . Though questions do tend to focus on standard MBA interview questions, be ready for anything. 

Who will interview you?

You will interview with a member of Babson’s admissions committee.

Will the interviewer have read my application?

Yes. The interviewer will have read your entire application. 

Past reports indicate that interviewers develop specific questions based on your application , so make sure to take the time to review what you presented. 

How long will the Babson interview last?

Interviews usually last 30 minutes. 

(Photo courtesy of Babson)

“At Babson, we believe that entrepreneurship can be a powerful force within organizations of all types and sizes, in established businesses as well as new ventures. In any industry, in any position, it takes Entrepreneurial Thought & Action® to solve problems and make an impact.” Babson Admissions

Every year, Babson searches for outstanding, entrepreneurially-minded professionals to join its annual two-year, full-time MBA class. With a strong emphasis on diversity, there is no “typical” Babson student, yet the average admitted student does tend to have a 640 average GMAT score – though the GMAT/GRE requirement has been waived for the time being.

Though no interview is 100% predictable, Babson interviews do tend to center around a fairly standard list of MBA interview questions. As such, we have prepared some model questions below that previous candidates have received in their past Babson interviews. 

SAMPLE BABSON INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

The questions below are drawn from our clients’ interview reports, as well as from sites like clearadmit.com . Though these are not all the potential questions you could possibly receive during your Babson interview, preparing for these (and any follow-up questions you think you might be asked) should give you a very solid foundation for your interview. 

STARTING UP QUESTIONS

• Tell me about yourself. (Expect follow-up questions)
• What do you do in your current job?
• Why did you choose your university?
• What was your undergraduate experience like?
• What are your short-term and long-term career goals?
• What is your plan B in case you are unable to reach these goals?
• Name three firms you would like to work at after your MBA.
• Why did you quit your previous job?
• Why do you want an MBA?
• Why Babson?
• What will you bring to Babson?
• Why did you choose the 1-year/2-year program? 
• What other schools have you applied to? If you get into all of them, how will you choose where to go?

LEADERSHIP & TEAMWORK

• Tell me about a time when you didn’t get along with your team. What did you do?
• How do you handle conflict?
• What is your leadership style?

MISCELLANEOUS BEHAVIORAL

• Tell me an example of when things didn’t work out as you planned. 
• Tell me about a time when you were pushed to your limits at work.
• Tell me about a time you took a risk. 
• Tell me about a time you thought outside the box. 
• How would your friends describe you?
• What are your strengths and weaknesses?
• Tell me about a time you faced an ethical dilemma.
• What makes you unique?
• Is there anything else you would like us to know about you?
• Is there anything you wished I had asked you?
• Questions for me?

We have found that answering real interview questions on the spot is a much better means of preparation than reading lists of interview questions for most candidates.

We highly suggest you take a look at mock interview questions and sample interview responses before your interview . 

Our MBA Resource Center has dozens of real interview mocks from Babson, as well as detailed guides to help you prepare for questions ranging from “Why our MBA program?” to “Tell us about a time you failed.”

The Ellin Lolis Consulting MBA Resource Center is your one-stop shop for interview success. Click to join!

If you’re still not quite confident with your interview skills, our interview experts can help you craft your answers or prepare you for the Babson interview through mock interviews tailored to your profile. 

Despite your most diligent preparation, you will almost always receive a question you had not prepared. 

First, stay calm and take a deep breath . You have already made it this far in the process, and one question will not trip you up!

Second, make sure you directly answer the question the interviewer asked you. For example, if the interviewer asks you about a time you had to deal with a difficult manager, make sure to tell a story about a difficult manager and how you handled the situation. 

If you’re having trouble thinking of an answer or an example to support your answer , however, take a drink of water to give yourself a few more minutes to think. If you really can’t think of an example from your personal or professional experience, you can use a hypothetical answer about how you would act in a certain situation. 

Finally, assume that the interviewer is testing how you think on your feet and respond to questions you didn’t prepare in advance. Though your answer might not be as polished as if you’d had weeks to rehearse it, smile and confidently respond to show you can handle any question they throw at you. 

MBA interviews eliminate up to 50% of candidates , so preparing adequately is a vitally important aspect of a successful MBA application process.

Preparing to excel in your interviews without the objective feedback and professional guidance of an MBA expert, however, isn’t easy or effective. This is why our team of MBA experts offers personalized interview preparation and personal branding help, ensuring you’re on-brand and on-message while remaining authentic to your values and who you are.

Interested in learning more about MBA interview preparation and practice or any other aspects of the MBA application process? 

Get in touch and discover how our personalized, 1:1 interview preparation can help you turn an interview into an admission. 

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50 MBA Essays That Got Applicants Admitted To Harvard & Stanford

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What Matters? and What More? is a collection of 50 application essays written by successful MBA candidates to Harvard Business School and Stanford Graduate School of Business

I sat alone one Saturday night in a boardroom in Eastern Oregon, miles from home, my laptop lighting the room. I was painstakingly reviewing a complex spreadsheet of household energy consumption data, cell by cell. ‘Why am I doing this to myself? For remote transmission lines?’…I felt dejected. I’d felt that way before, during my summer at JP Morgan, standing alone in the printing room at 3 a.m., binding decks for a paper mill merger that wouldn’t affect my life in the least.

That’s how an analyst at an MBB firm started his MBA application essay to Stanford Graduate School of Business. His point: In a well-crafted essay, he confronts the challenge of finding meaning in his work and a place where he can make a meaningful difference. That is what really matters most to him, and his answer to Stanford’s iconic MBA application essay helped get him defy the formidable odds of acceptance and gain an admit to the school.

Getting into the prestigious MBA programs at either Stanford Graduate School of Business or Harvard Business School are among the most difficult journeys any young professional can make.

NEARLY 17,000 CANDIDATES APPLIED TO HARVARD & STANFORD LAST YEAR. 1,500 GOT IN

This collection of 50 successful HBS and GSB essays, with smart commentary, can be downloaded for $60

They are two of the most selective schools, routinely rejecting nine or more out of every ten applicants. Last year alone, 16,628 candidates applied to both schools; just 1,520 gained an acceptance, a mere 9.1% admit rate.

Business school admissions are holistic, meaning that while standardized test scores and undergraduate transcripts are a critical part of the admissions process, they aren’t the whole story. In fact, the stories that applicants tell the schools in the form of essays can be a critical component of a successful application.

So what kinds of stories are successful applicants to Harvard and Stanford telling their admission officers? For the first time ever, a newly published collection of 50 of these essays from current MBA students at these two schools has been published. In ten cases, applicants share the essays they wrote in applying to both schools so you can see whether they merely did a cut-and-paste job or approached the task anew. The 188-page book, What Matters? and What More?, gains its title from the two iconic essay prompts at Harvard and Stanford.

THOUGHTFUL CRITIQUES OF THE ESSAYS

Stanford can easily boast having the most difficult question posed to MBA applicants in any given year: In 650 words or less, candidates must tell the school what matters most to them and why. Harvard gives applicants ample room to hang themselves, providing no word limit at all, “What more would you like us to know as we consider your candidacy?”

One makes this unusual collection of essays powerful are the thoughtful critiques by the founders of two MBA admissions consulting firms, Jeremy Shinewald of mbaMission and Liza Weale of Gatehouse Admissions. They write overviews of each essay in the book and then tear apart portions by paragraphs to either underline a point or address a weakness. The book became available to download for $60 a pop.

As I note in a foreword to the collection, published in partnership with Poets&Quants, the essay portion of an application is where a person can give voice to who they are, what they have achieved so far, and what they imagine their future to be. Yet crafting a powerful and introspective essay can be incredibly daunting as you stare at a blank computer screen.

APPLICANTS OPEN UP WITH INTIMATE STORIES THAT SHOW VULNERABILITY

One successful applicant to Harvard Business School begins his essay by conveying a deeply personal story: The time his father was told that he had three months to live, with his only hope being a double lung transplant. had to undergo a lung transplant. His opening line: “Despite all we had been through in recent years, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect when I asked my mother one summer evening in Singapore, ‘What role did I play during those tough times?’”

For this candidate to Stanford Graduate School of Business, the essay provided a chance to creatively engage admission readers about what matters most to him–equality-by cleverly using zip codes as a hook.

60605, 60606, 60607.

These zip codes are just one digit apart, but the difference that digit makes in someone’s life is unfathomable. I realized this on my first day as a high school senior. Leafing through my out-of- date, stained, calculus textbook, I kept picturing the new books that my friend from a neighboring (more affluent) district had. As college acceptances came in, I saw educational inequality’s more lasting effects—my friends from affluent districts that better funded education were headed to prestigious universities, while most of my classmates were only accepted by the local junior college. I was unsettled that this divergence wasn’t the students’ doing, but rather institutionalized by the state’s education system. Since this experience, I realized that the fight for education equality will be won through equal opportunity. Overcoming inequality, to ensure that everyone has a fair shake at success, is what matters most to me.

HOW AN APPLICANT TO BOTH SCHOOLS ALTERED HIS ESSAYS

Yet another candidate, who applied to both Harvard and Stanford, writes about being at but not fully present at his friend’s wedding.

The morning after serving as my friend’s best man, I was waiting for my Uber to the airport and—as usual—scrolling through my phone,” he wrote. “I had taken seemingly hundreds of photos of the event, posting in real time to social media, but had not really looked through them. With growing unease, I noticed people and things that had not registered with me the night before and realized I had been so preoccupied with capturing the occasion on my phone that I had essentially missed the whole thing. I never learned the name of the woman beside me at the reception. I could not recall the wedding cake flavor. I never introduced myself to my friend’s grandfather from Edmonton. I was so mortified that before checking into my flight, I turned my phone off and stuffed it into my carry-on.

The Stanford version of his essay is more compact. In truth, it’s more succinctly written and more satisfying because it is to the point. By stripping away all but the most critical pieces of his narrative, the candidate focuses his essay entirely on his central point: the battle of man versus technology.

Even if you’re not applying to business school, the essays are entertaining and fun to read. Sure, precious few are New Yorker worthy. In fact, many are fairly straightforward tales, simply told. What the successful essays clearly show is that there is no cookie-cutter formula or paint-by-the-numbers approach. Some start bluntly and straightforwardly, without a compelling or even interesting opening. Some meander through different themes. Some betray real personality and passion. Others are frankly boring. If a pattern of any kind could be discerned, it is how genuine the essays read.

The greatest benefit of reading them? For obsessive applicants to two of the very best business schools, they’ll take a lot of pressure off of you because they are quite imperfect.

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Babson Supplemental Essay 2023-24

Babson college supplemental essays 2023-24.

Do you have your heart set on attending Babson College ? Well then, your Babson supplemental essay will be a critical part of your application. In this article, we will provide a breakdown of the Babson College essay prompts. We will also provide tips for how to write your Babson College supplemental essays so that they stand out from the thousands of applications Babson receives each year.

But what draws so many applicants to this school? Babson College, located just outside of Boston, is known for raising the next generation of entrepreneurs. Therefore, this private undergraduate institution mainly attracts students interested in business. An emphasis on career development and networking allows Babson graduates to have above-average earning potential and impactful careers. However, getting into Babson is not easy.

Indeed, Babson College admissions are competitive. This is. in part, due to the Babson College ranking. According to several sources, including Forbes and U.S. News, Babson College provides one of the best liberal arts educations in the country. Indeed, there are 24 Babson college majors. So while all students come to Babson with some interest in business, these concentrations give space for students to explore the intersection of business with other fields, such as environmental sustainability or visual arts. 

As you can see, a Babson education offers its students great opportunities. So, if you’re more in love with Babson than ever, your essays are crucial to gaining admission. But, before we get into how to write the Babson essays, let’s check out some “at a glance” facts about this unique college. 

Babson College Admissions: Quick Facts

Babson college quick facts.

Babson College Acceptance Rate:  22%– According to U.S. News , Babson College ranks #1 in Entrepreneurship, and its acceptance rate places it among the most selective colleges in the nation.  

Babson College Essay Requirements:

• 1 (~500 word) Why Major/Why Babson essay OR a 1-minute video on the same topic
• 1 (~250 word) diversity essay

Babson College Application:  Students must submit their Babson College application through the  Common Application . Make sure to have all of your Babson College supplemental essays and other  required application materials  ready when applying. 

Babson College Application Deadlines:

• Early Decision I/ Early Action: November 15 
• Early Decision II: January 2 
• Regular Decision: January 2

Babson Supplemental Essay Tip:  Start early! There are multiple Babson supplemental essays, so having time to brainstorm, draft, and edit them well is critical in order to impress admissions at this competitive college.

Does Babson College have supplemental essays?

Yes — there are two Babson College supplemental essays. In general, supplemental essays are additional essays that colleges ask for to provide more details about your unique interest in the school.  Each school has different supplemental essay requirements . However, there are a few common supplemental essay topics that you’ll likely see in various college applications. The most common are the  “Why School” and “Why Major” essays.

For the first of your two required Babson College supplemental essays, you will need to combine a Why Babson essay and Why Major essay into one 500-word response. You also have the option to submit a one-minute video that answers the prompt, in lieu of an essay. 

The second of the Babson College supplemental essays asks applicants to share more of their identity and background. Essentially, this is a diversity essay. In this essay, Admissions wants to learn more about what has shaped you–and, most importantly, how you will bring your unique experiences to campus.

In the next section, we will break down all the Babson essay requirements in greater detail, including these Babson College essay prompts. 

Babson College Essay Requirements

In total, you must submit three Babson College essays. The first of these essays is the personal statement. Your personal statement is an essay that introduces critical aspect(s) of yourself to the admissions committee. You can submit the same personal statement to all of the colleges you apply to via the Common App . Applicants may choose one of the seven Babson College essay prompts for the personal statement. Check them out here . 

In addition to the Common App personal statement, you must submit two Babson College supplemental essays. 

Babson College Supplemental Essay #1: Why Babson Essay/Why Major Essay

Here is the first of the two Babson College supplemental essay prompts:

Babson College Supplemental Essay Prompt #1

The babson education prepares students for all types of careers across business, entrepreneurship, social innovation, and more. tell us about your interest in this area of study and in babson specifically. (500 words maximum) we invite you to submit your answer in either essay or video format. if you choose to submit a video, please limit your response to a 1-minute video, which can be submitted via a shared link to youtube or another video hosting website. please ensure your video is set to public and is accessible to the admission committee..

Let’s discuss what this Babson essay is looking for. As we shared above, schools often want to know why you wish to attend their institution as well as why you want to study your intended major. In this 500-word essay, Babson College wants you to do both. 

Specifically, this Why Major essay asks applicants to shed light on their interest in entrepreneurship and business since that is Babson’s special focus.Additionally, as a Why Babson essay, admissions asks why you hope to study at the school. Responses to this prompt need to be specific. Now is the time to research programs, internships, professors, or any other opportunities only found at Babson. Be sure to mention what most interests you about studying at Babson.

This Babson College essay prompt is unique in that you can respond in written or video format. The video option offers the advantage of allowing those who express themselves verbally to shine. Regardless of the format you choose (whether the written or video option), you must answer the prompt fully.

Babson College Supplemental Essay #2: Diversity Essay

Now, let’s look at the second of the Babson College supplemental essay prompts:

Babson College Supplemental Essay Prompt #2

A defining element of the babson experience is learning and thriving in an equitable and inclusive community with a wide range of perspectives and interests. please share something about your background, lived experiences, or viewpoint(s) that speaks to how you will contribute to and learn from babson’s collaborative community. (250 words maximum).

This Babson supplemental essay is a version of the diversity essay, another common topic for college essays. Keep in mind that diversity is a broad term. Beyond referring to race, religion, ethnicity, sexuality, gender, and other common dimensions of diversity, the term can also refer to any lived experience. For example, maybe you were the only female in a house full of men, or perhaps you lived in 13 countries as a child. In this sense, every person has many dimensions of diversity in their lived experience.

At Babson, diversity and inclusion are valued. As such, this Babson supplemental essay seeks to gather more information not only about your ability to be self-reflective of your experiences but also about how you will use those experiences to contribute to Babson’s inclusive, collaborative spirit.

Next, we will dive further into tips for writing your Babson supplemental essays. 

How to write the Babson supplemental essays

Now that we have broken down the Babson College essay prompts, let’s take a closer look at how to write the Babson supplemental essays. Here are some tips for writing successful Babson essays:

Four Tips for Writing Babson College Essays

1. start early.

As we stated, there are three Babson essays you will need to complete – your personal statement and two Babson supplemental essays. Starting early is critical. Normally, essay prompts are released by August 1. However, you can begin brainstorming even before the prompts are released. Think about life experiences and personality traits that are central to who you are. In August, begin to work on your essay drafts. You will likely need several drafts of each essay and time in between writing them to give yourself breaks. These pauses within the drafting process can often provide greater clarity for final edits. 

2. Choose a written or video format

For one of your Babson supplemental essays, you have the option to submit a 1-minute video that encapsulates your response to the prompt. If you choose the video option, be sure to spend time drafting a script and planning out how and where you will film your video. Though the video may seem like the easier option, it presents different challenges such as ensuring you come across as positive and professional in your speech. Be sure to provide specific examples and details in your response to the question, just as you would in your essay.

3. Answer the whole prompt

The Babson College essay prompts are unique in that they ask multiple questions in one prompt. As we mentioned, the first of your Babson supplemental essays is a Why Major essay and a Why Babson essay. Be sure you answer both of the prompt’s questions clearly in your response. Look for specific details you can highlight in your Why Babson essay. Perhaps you want to highlight which of the 24 Babson college majors, also known as concentrations, interest you.  

In the second of your Babson supplemental essays, you must discuss an aspect of your identity that is important to you along with how it will inform your engagement with Babson’s campus culture. Reflect deeply on your life experiences before responding to your Babson College essay prompts.

4. Highlight Babson values

One of the unstated but underlying goals of the Babson supplemental essay prompts is to see how aligned you are with Babson’s values . To be successful in demonstrating that you understand them, familiarize yourself with the school’s standards. What does Babson mean when they say they value integrity, collaboration, diversity, innovation, and excellence? How do you align with these values? When choosing topics for your Babson supplemental essays, consider which of your experiences can most strongly demonstrate these principles.

If you follow these tips for writing your Babson supplemental essays, you will be off to a strong start in overcoming the low Babson College acceptance rate.

Are the Babson essays optional?

No, none of the Babson essays are optional. You must submit your personal statement and your two Babson College supplemental essays to have a complete application.

While none of the essays are optional, you do have the choice to submit a video instead of the first Babson supplemental essay. If you choose to do so, make sure your video responds fully to the prompt and provides details and examples to flesh out your arguments. Prepare well for filming your video– make sure it is easy to see and hear you throughout.

You also have the option of applying to Babson early or regular decision. Within the early options, you may apply Early Decision I or Early Action by November 15. Keep in mind that Early Decision is a binding agreement, meaning that you are committing to attending Babson if they admit you. If you decide you need more time to work on your essays, consider applying Early Decision II or Regular Decision by January 2. This will allow you more time to develop a strong application. To learn more about application deadlines, including the benefits or disadvantages of each type, check out this article .

So, we’ve established that the Babson supplemental essays are not optional and have reviewed the deadlines for submission. But, just how big of a role do these essays play in admissions decisions? Let’s check out their importance when it comes to gaining acceptance to Babson. 

Does Babson College care about essays?

Yes! Babson cares deeply about essays for many reasons. Each year Babson receives thousands of applications but only admits 20% of applicants. As such, the Babson College acceptance rate is quite competitive. To distinguish between candidates who have similar academic records, Babson admissions officers use the essays and other factors to determine a candidate’s fit. This is part of Babson’s holistic approach to admissions, which takes many factors into account when evaluating a candidate. Through the Why Babson essay, admissions officers can tell how interested you are in Babson specifically. 

Additionally, Babson is first and foremost a liberal arts college. As such, Babson very much values the way that students think and express themselves, as this is a key part of a liberal arts education. In turn, the Babson essays are important in showing Babson admissions officers your critical thinking and writing capabilities. 

Lastly, Babson values diversity, equity, and inclusion. Through the final Babson essay, you have the opportunity to express a part of your identity that may not be evident elsewhere on your application. By taking the time to write a reflective essay, you will convey how much you value this central part of Babson’s culture.

For these reasons and more, Babson College cares deeply about your essays. Take the time to make the most of each of your Babson essays. For some extra guidance, here are some writing tips that Babson provides.

How can I make my Babson College essays stand out?

Now that you know how important your Babson supplemental essays are, you might be wondering how you can make them stand out. In this section, we will provide specific tips for how to respond to the Babson College essay prompts:

Three Tips for Making Your Essay Stand Out

1. write a hook.

Since Babson College admissions officers must read thousands of essays, one way to make sure your essay stands out is to start off with a hook. A hook is a literary term for an opening that captures the reader’s attention. Hooks can take many forms. Perhaps you start with a bit of dialogue, a vivid description of a scene, a thought-provoking question, or an unexpected idea. If you aren’t sure whether your hook is captivating, ask friends to read it and tell you if the opening makes them want to keep reading your essay.

2. Edit well

Speaking of support from others, make sure you get guidance throughout the editing process. Some writers say that editing is the heart of writing since it is through editing that you refine your voice and message. When you edit, consider the four Cs: 

• Is it clear? Do my ideas flow and make logical sense? Are any details missing that would help make my story clearer? 
• Is it grammatically correct? A grammatically correct essay demonstrates your writing abilities as well as the care you took to write a strong Babson supplemental essay.
• Is it concise? Being concise is critical for a few reasons. First, you have limited space in each of your Babson supplemental essays. By removing nonessential words or phrases, you make more space for important ideas. Secondly, a concise essay is easier to follow. When sentences are too wordy, they can easily lose the reader’s attention. Read your writing out loud to see if each sentence can be read in a single breath. If you have to pause to take a breath while reading, your sentence is probably too long. 
• Is it compelling? To answer this question with a confident “yes,” you will need to get a second or third opinion. Ask your reader to be honest about whether the essay topic and style make it interesting to read. If not, maybe you need to play with the essay format, sentence structures, or hook.

3. Be authentic

When answering the Babson college essay prompts, you should think about what topics are most important and relevant to you. Do not worry about what admissions officers want to hear, or what you think sounds impressive. Babson admissions officers admit that some of their favorite essays are the simplest ones that express a seemingly mundane activity or interest with great detail. By being yourself, you have a greater chance of telling an interesting story.

When writing your Babson supplemental essays, the best approach to take is one that allows you to be yourself. After all, these essays are an opportunity to share more about your unique skills, experiences, and values. By showcasing your personality, your essay is bound to stand out.

Babson College Supplemental Essays – 5 Takeaways

Getting into Babson College is not an easy feat. However, with effort and support, you can write Babson supplemental essays that propel your application to the top of the pile. By now, we have covered many aspects of writing good Babson supplemental essays. 

Here are 5 key takeaways you should keep in mind:

Babson College Essays Takeaways

1. the babson supplemental essays are a very important part of your application.

Since the Babson College ranking makes it a very competitive school, your essays are the place to set yourself apart from other candidates.

2. There are two Babson supplemental essays you must write, in addition to your personal statement

Make sure you read the Babson College essay prompts carefully and answer every part of the prompt. Keep in mind that the Why Babson essay is also a Why Major essay – so make a case for which of the Babson College majors really draws you to the school.

3. You can submit a video for one of your Babson supplemental essays

Instead of writing a 500-word response, you can submit a video for your first Babson supplemental essay. Ensure that your 1-minute video is concise, compelling, and showcases your personality.

4. Take time to edit your Babson supplemental essays well

A well-edited essay that is clear, grammatically correct, concise, and compelling will be easier and more interesting to read. Make sure that you submit error-free essays.

5. Be yourself

Your Babson supplemental essays are the space to showcase who you are. While you want to highlight aspects of Babson that made you want to apply, you should also make sure you are writing about experiences that matter to you. And most definitely write in your own voice. 

Use these 5 takeaways to write Babson supplemental essays that stand out from the rest. Remember that writing essays is best done with support. Always seek help from a trusted individual, like a teacher, friend, or CollegeAdvisor admissions specialist. These individuals can help make sure you are answering the prompt fully and in a compelling manner.

Take the time to write Babson supplemental essays that showcase your voice and unique lived experiences. In time, you’ll reap the benefits of your honest hard work, whether you end up at Babson or another fantastic university. Good luck!

This essay guide was written by senior advisor, Courtney Ng . Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.

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Full Time MBA Program

Whether you want to start a new venture, switch careers, or advance in your current organization, Babson’s one- or two-year MBA program will help you get there. Both options feature MBA classes that will arm you with the #1 ranked MBA for entrepreneurship and the entrepreneurial leadership skills needed to make an impact in business, in your community, and around the world.

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“Business as Usual” Has No Business Here

At many top institutions, lectures don’t move past the lectern. But, at Babson, the leading entrepreneurship college , our professors are practitioners. Each year, more than 80 partner organizations bring their real-world challenges to class, providing you with a wide range of consulting opportunities. You’ll meet with established business leaders locally and abroad, all while workshoping your startups in the classroom.  

When you graduate, you not only have an expanded network of high-performing peers from around the world, but you also have tangible examples of problems you’ve solved for real organizations thanks to our MBA classes and Babson’s top-ranked entrepreneurial curriculum . Whether you want to launch a startup, take a family business into the next generation, or innovate within the world’s largest companies, you can apply your entrepreneurial mindset to manage risk, navigate uncertainty, and explore ambiguity.  

No GMAT/GRE? No problem. There is no GMAT/GRE requirement for 2025 entry.

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Earn a STEM-Designated MBA

Two STEM-designated concentrations allow international students to apply for 36 months of OPT vs. 12 months of OPT for students in non-STEM programs.

Babson MBA Curriculum

The Babson MBA is 45 credits whether you opt to complete it in one or two years. All full time MBA students earn their first 15 credits via the nine core courses, including real-world learning. One-year MBA students complete the program in 12 months, while two-year MBA students earn their MBA in 21 months.

The rest of your full time Boston MBA program consists of electives. Choose the MBA classes that appeal to you, or select your MBA classes from seven concentrations and intensity tracks, with additional experiential learning opportunities, all to enable you to focus on areas of interest. Our small size means that students, faculty, and career advisors co-create a tailored experience that helps each student achieve their professional goals.  

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Experiential learning  is part of Babson’s DNA: More than 80 partner organizations bring their real-world challenges to class. Students consult with client companies, meet with business leaders locally and abroad, and workshop their startups in the classroom. Here are some of the signature experiences you can look forward to during the Babson MBA:

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Combine learning inside and outside the classroom. Intensity tracks, typically a series of courses, provide additional opportunities for experiential learning.

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One Year MBA vs. Two Year MBA

With Babson’s Full-Time MBA , you have the flexibility to pick and choose from more than just electives, concentrations, and intensity tracks. You’re also able to select the pacing that works best for you and your schedule. Discover the main differences between Babson’s one and two year MBA programs :

Save on Full Time MBA Tuition

There are many ways to fund your MBA. With Babson’s Full Time Merit awards, you’ll automatically be considered for a partial or full scholarship that recognizes leadership, diversity, exemplary candidates, and beyond. Plus, you can save 20% on tuition if you’re a Babson alumni.

Babson’s MBA program provided me with new lenses, frameworks, and practical applications to look at problems from a variety of perspectives and a constant reminder that solutions are forever evolving.

Four Learning Goals

Babson’s Entrepreneurial Thought & Action ® methodology prepares you to become an entrepreneurial leader so you can address the greatest challenges of business and society, including innovation, growth, integrated sustainability, and globalization. Whether you’re making an impact within an established organization or starting your own venture, your increased self-awareness, expanded mindset, and refined skill set will allow you to create both economic and social value.

This experience is guided by four learning goals.

Collaboration

Collaborate with and learn from others to accomplish a common goal or create an original work.

Lead people to work toward shared goals with consideration of the ethical implications of their actions.

Communication

Develop and express ideas strategically, through written, oral, and visual formats, to a specific audience for a desired purpose.

Problem solving

Analyze and assess ideas and data to make decisions and recommendations appropriate to situations and stakeholders.

Hands-on Courses Taught by Innovative Faculty

Find your mentors among faculty who are industry leaders, business owners, and accomplished researchers. Their specialities include sales and business development, new venture creation, healthcare entrepreneurship, management consulting, sustainable innovation, and more. As a full time MBA student, you gain the support of professors who will work with you to help you accomplish your unique goals.

Varied Perspectives Drive Your Success

Diverse backgrounds and experiences make our environment richer and help us acquire new ways of working. Learning alongside students from all over the world, you’ll gain exposure to unique perspectives that strengthen your own. And, because you take your core courses with your cohort, you and your classmates form strong, lifelong connections.  

After Babson, the global network of 44,000+ alumni across 128 countries will have your back throughout your career.

One Year MBA 

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Two Year MBA 

Full time mba career outcomes.

Whether it's launching a venture, changing industries, or accelerating your career, a Babson degree will help you move from where you are to where you want to be.   

Full Time MBA alumni are making an impact across organizations and industries, earning an average of $147,595 three years after graduation. Employers hiring full time MBA program graduates include Accenture, Boston Children’s Hospital, CVS Health, Deloitte, Examity, Huntington National Bank, Ocean Spray, Partners Healthcare Innovation, PwC, Sensata Technologies, Staples, Vertex Pharmaceuticals , and more.  

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Babson College Admission Essays

The entrepreneurial mindset: a catalyst for my babson journey.

As I reflect on my academic journey thus far, I stand at a crossroads between my passion for entrepreneurship and my desire for a top-notch business education. Babson College, renowned for its unparalleled commitment to fostering entrepreneurial thinking, serves as the perfect destination to cultivate…

Navigating the Business World

Choosing the right college is one of the most important decisions one can make in their life. It is an opportunity to pursue your passion, acquire knowledge, and develop your skills. When it comes to choosing a college, I knew I wanted to attend Babson…

Summer Business: College Admission Essay Sample

I stepped out of the train. People pushing and shoving, back and forth, loud noises echoing down the narrow walls into the abyss. Searching for a way to the street, I too pushed my way through the barrage of people searching for the streets above:…

Roommate Letter: College Admission Essay Sample

Andrew, I look forward to meeting you and starting our experience together at Babson. Since I am fairly certain you know nothing about me here is a little background. I grew up in the suburbs of Chicago. From a young age I have had an…

My Unconventional Path from China to Babson: College Admission Essay Sample

Raised in China, I did not follow the mold of a “traditional” Chinese girl. I never liked to sit down and practice calligraphy or stand still to play the flute, or be told that I should not major in anything related to business and politics,…

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Entrepreneurial Mindset

As a student with an entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for business, Babson College immediately caught my attention. With its reputation for fostering innovative thinkers and providing hands-on experience in the business world, I am confident that Babson College is the perfect place for me…

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MBA Resources

HEC MBA Application Tips: Your Essential Guide

MBA & Beyond Team

29/10/2024 |

The HEC Paris MBA program is a top choice for students worldwide aiming for a transformative business education. Renowned for its challenging academics, expansive alumni network, and prime location near global business hubs, HEC Paris provides an unmatched blend of resources and opportunities. With a curriculum that emphasizes global exposure and practical leadership skills, HEC attracts a highly competitive applicant pool each year. This guide on HEC MBA application tips covers the essential strategies and insights you’ll need to stand out in your application and secure a place in this prestigious program.

However, navigating the application process can be daunting, especially when aiming to stand out in such a talented crowd. This guide provides essential HEC MBA application tips to help you craft a competitive application, increase your chances of acceptance, and take a confident step toward your career goals at HEC.

Here is the Snapshot of the article:

Understanding the HEC Paris MBA Program

Before diving into the application, it’s crucial to understand what makes the HEC MBA program unique. Known for its focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership, HEC Paris combines theory and practical learning in an international setting. The program is structured to equip students with the knowledge and skills to thrive in a rapidly evolving business world. Here are a few program highlights that define the HEC MBA experience:

• Strong Entrepreneurial Focus : HEC Paris is known for fostering an entrepreneurial mindset among its students. With the HEC Incubator and various start-up competitions, students have ample opportunities to explore new ventures and develop business ideas alongside experienced mentors.
• Global Perspective : Located in France, the program attracts a highly diverse student body. With participants representing over 50 nationalities, the HEC MBA offers an invaluable opportunity for cross-cultural learning, a critical skill in today’s interconnected world.
• Career and Alumni Network : HEC’s career services and alumni network provide unparalleled support. With connections to over 60,000 alumni across the globe, students benefit from mentorship, networking, and job placement opportunities.

In understanding these aspects of the program, applicants can better tailor their HEC MBA application tips to resonate with the school’s values, aligning their achievements and career goals with HEC’s core offerings.

Application Timeline and Requirements

The HEC Paris MBA has two intakes each year—in January and September—giving applicants flexibility to join the program at a time that best suits their career plans. The program itself is structured as a 16-month journey that blends core business courses with customized specializations in areas like Data & AI for Business Transformation, Sustainable Innovation, and Strategic Marketing. Applicants to the HEC MBA program need to complete an online application that includes a variety of components designed to reflect their leadership potential, international mindset, and career objectives.

Key Requirements:

• Educational Background : Applicants should hold at least a bachelor’s degree.
• Work Experience : Most HEC students bring around 6 years of professional experience, with the program preferring candidates who have a well-rounded background in leadership and global exposure.
• GMAT/GRE Scores : Competitive scores are essential, as the class profile typically includes GMAT scores around 690-700. However, strong career achievements can sometimes compensate for lower scores.
• Essays : These personal statements are a chance to showcase individuality and professional aspirations, aligning them with HEC Paris’s focus areas, such as entrepreneurship and sustainable leadership.
• Recommendations : At least two letters are required, ideally from supervisors or colleagues who can speak to the candidate’s management and interpersonal skills.
• Interview : Once shortlisted, candidates undergo an in-depth interview process, often including questions around leadership scenarios and career motivations.

The admissions process is rigorous and is best approached several months in advance to ensure time for GMAT/GRE preparation and thoughtful essays.

Crafting a Standout Application Essay

HEC’s application essays are particularly significant, allowing applicants to showcase their unique professional journey and ambitions. HEC values diverse and globally minded candidates, so essays should emphasize leadership, adaptability, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. Additionally, HEC looks for evidence of an innovative mindset, as seen in their commitment to sectors like technology and entrepreneurship.

Effective HEC MBA application Essay Tips:

• Showcase Clear Career Goals : Be specific about post-MBA plans. HEC prefers candidates who have well-defined goals and can link their future objectives to the skills and experiences offered in the HEC MBA.
• Demonstrate a Global Mindset : With 95% of students in the program being international and representing over 67 nationalities, HEC places a premium on applicants with cross-cultural experience or international aspirations.
• Highlight Leadership and Problem-Solving : The school seeks applicants who thrive in challenging environments, aligning with HEC’s outdoor leadership seminars and real-world case studies in the curriculum.
• Avoid Clichés : Focus on authentic stories of personal growth or unique challenges rather than common MBA tropes.

These essay responses are a strategic place to showcase your alignment with HEC’s culture and to emphasize how you’d thrive in and contribute to the diverse, forward-thinking environment that HEC promotes.

Example Essays

ESSAY 1: Why are you applying to the HEC MBA Program now? What is the professional objective that will guide your career choice after your MBA, and how will the HEC MBA contribute to the achievement of this objective? (500 max)

The one traditional question that you may get in most of the applications and so, let’s stick to the tried and tested theory of ‘connecting the experiential dots’. First and foremost, you need to answer all three parts of this question. The first “why now” is generally overlooked by applicants. Answer it by considering how this is the most right time for you (how you can gain maximum at this point by an MBA) to pursue an MBA, financially and professionally. The “professional objective” is your long term goal which you may tell by building a mini-story around your motivation to pursue it (do not overwrite, stick to the point). Then connect the narrative of this to your short-term goals and to HEC’s vision. For the latter part, you should do extensive research of the school and pick out some of its values to align them with yours, like, HEC Paris has a high number of CEOs in its alumni community and there is an entrepreneurial environment in the school. So, if you, too, are thinking of becoming an entrepreneur or achieving a C-suite position, you may align it with HEC. For your short term goals, try to be concrete, like the industry you want to pursue, and the roles you want to undertake, but throughout the essay, be coherent and connect dots step-by-step.

You can get a better understanding of framing this essay question here.

ESSAY 2: What do you consider your most significant life achievement? (250 max)

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I may sum up my advice for this question in a sentence, CUT THE CRAP AND COME TO THE POINT. First, this is a short essay, so use direct sentences. Now, the most significant life achievement can be a very modest one, but the greater point is to understand your thought process and your values through this essay. Ponder on these questions: What is one experience that you can call ‘significant life achievement’? Why do you think this is significant? How has this impacted your life? Remember, it can be professional or personal, but it definitely would say a lot about you. Like, if you say, you have clocked xxx revenue as your life achievement, it tells what things you value the most in your life, maybe money or maybe you need to get a life! But I am in no way saying you can not write it. You definitely can, but it should say something greater about you, like, how after this achievement you realized the importance of hard work and you imparted this learning in your life personally and professionally. Now, this says something valuable about you. So, significant life achievement should literally be significant.

ESSAY 3: Leadership and ethics are inevitably intertwined in the business world. Describe a situation in which you have dealt with these issues and how they have influenced you. (250 max)

This is a very direct and specific question. You need to address two issues: Leadership and Ethics. So, most probably, this would be a situation when you were at a leadership position and faced some moral dilemma. You may need to dig a lot deeper to find an answer for this but once you do, it’s easy to craft it. Describe the situation, how you felt, what you did, and what you think should have been done, and finally the outcome of your action and your learnings out of it. Even if you have not done the ideal thing to do, it’s okay but your learnings should be valuable and you need to show evidence of how you imparted this learning in your later actions. But keep it short and up to the point.

Building a Competitive GMAT/GRE Score

A competitive GMAT or GRE score is an important element of the HEC Paris MBA application. The average GMAT score for the most recent class stands at approximately 690, making it essential for applicants to aim for scores in this range or higher to remain competitive. HEC Paris does not have a strict minimum score requirement but emphasizes balanced scoring in the quantitative and verbal sections, ideally over the 60th percentile in both areas. Applicants with a strong academic and professional background may have some flexibility with scores below the average but should demonstrate their readiness for rigorous MBA coursework in other ways.

For effective GMAT/GRE preparation, consider a consistent study schedule and practice with real exam questions to build stamina and improve time management. Additionally, prospective students may find it helpful to take a preparatory course or use self-guided study materials focusing on the quantitative and verbal skills HEC values. Retaking the test is also an option if initial scores are below the program’s average range.

Selecting Strong Recommendation Letters

HEC Paris values well-rounded applicants who have demonstrated leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills in their professional careers. A critical part of the application, recommendation letters should ideally come from supervisors or mentors who know you well and can provide specific examples of your professional achievements and impact. The admissions committee looks for evidence of the following qualities:

• Leadership Potential : Recommenders should emphasize any instances where you’ve led teams, projects, or initiatives.
• Teamwork and Collaboration : HEC Paris values a collaborative spirit, so it’s helpful if your recommenders can highlight your ability to work effectively within teams.
• International Perspective : Given HEC’s diverse cohort, applicants with cross-cultural experiences stand out, and recommenders should mention relevant international interactions if possible.

Encourage your recommenders to provide concrete examples rather than general praise. A well-rounded recommendation letter that addresses specific skills and achievements can greatly enhance your application.

Preparing for the HEC Interview

HEC Paris uses a unique interview process for MBA applicants, which includes two separate interviews with alumni. Each interview is around 45–60 minutes long and includes a 10-minute presentation prepared by the applicant on a topic of their choice. This format allows HEC to assess not only your communication skills but also your creativity, depth of thinking, and cultural adaptability. Post-presentation, the discussion typically revolves around your professional experience, leadership potential, and reasons for choosing HEC Paris.

To excel in the interview, select a presentation topic that showcases your expertise or passion and aligns with your career goals. Practicing your presentation beforehand is essential, focusing on clear structure and delivery to engage your audience effectively. During the interview, be ready to discuss past leadership experiences, international work, and how your background fits with HEC’s values of resilience, ethical leadership, and adaptability in global settings​.

Financial Preparation and Scholarships

The cost of the HEC Paris MBA program is approximately €78,000, covering tuition over the 16-month duration. Living expenses in Paris are estimated to add around €20,000 to the overall cost. However, HEC provides substantial financial support options, with scholarships available for merit, diversity, and financial need. The school allocates over €1 million in scholarships each year, and nearly 60% of MBA students receive some form of financial aid. Key scholarships include the “Excellence Scholarship,” which can cover up to 50% of tuition fees, and full-tuition scholarships supported by the HEC Foundation and external partners.​

To manage finances effectively, applicants should explore all scholarship options, budget carefully, and consider the overall return on investment (ROI), which is highly favorable due to the high post-graduation placement rates and competitive salaries reported by HEC graduates.

Final Checklist for Your Application

Before submitting your HEC MBA application, make sure to review the following checklist:

• Essays : Double-check that your essays reflect a clear career trajectory, showcase leadership, and emphasize your alignment with HEC’s values.
• Recommendations : Ensure recommenders understand HEC’s emphasis on global-mindedness and teamwork.
• GMAT/GRE Score : Aim to meet or exceed the class average of 690 for GMAT (or an equivalent GRE score).
• Resume : Highlight international exposure, leadership roles, and measurable achievements.
• Interview Preparation : Practice your presentation and rehearse responses to behavioral and career-oriented questions.
• Financial Aid Applications : Apply for relevant scholarships and finalize a budgeting plan to cover living expenses.

This final review will help you present a polished, competitive application that reflects your fit for HEC’s international, entrepreneurial, and leadership-focused environment.​

Applying to the HEC Paris MBA program is a rigorous but rewarding journey. By focusing on the HEC MBA application tips outlined here, you can build a compelling application that highlights your unique strengths and global mindset. With a well-prepared application, strategic interview preparation, and thorough financial planning, you’re positioning yourself to join one of Europe’s most prestigious MBA programs and embark on a transformative career journey.

If you need  more in-depth information  about any particular aspect of the HEC MBA application tips, process, interviews, and course structure, feel free to hop on a  1:1 call with our team of experts . 

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