cornell johnson mba essays

Cornell Johnson Graduate School of Management Essay and Examples

July 4, 2023

Jeremy Shinewald

With its straightforward goals statement and single required essay, the Johnson Graduate School of Management at Cornell University seems interested in getting right to the heart of the issues it considers most valuable in evaluating its applicants. The admissions committee wants to first know your professional aspirations and motivations for pursuing an MBA degree and then how you see yourself being a contributing member of the Johnson community. An optional essay is available, if needed, to address the usual topics of problematic candidacy issues or any outstanding qualifications that are not represented elsewhere in one’s application. Read on for our full analysis of Cornell Johnson’s application essay questions for 2023–2024. 

Cornell Johnson 2023–2024 Essay Tips

Goals statement: a statement of your goals will begin a conversation that will last throughout the admissions process and guide your steps during the mba program and experience. to the best of your understanding today, please share your short and long term goals by completing the following sentences and answering the enclosed short answer question (350 words maximum):, immediately post-mba, my goal is to work as a(n) [role] at [company] within [industry]., targeted job role:, target job company:, in 5–10 years post-mba, my goal is to work as a(n) [role] at [company] within [industry]., how has your experience prepared and encouraged you to pursue these goals.

With this incredibly direct approach to gathering information about candidates’ professional goals, Cornell Johnson is clearly conveying a desire for information only. The school states in the preamble to this prompt, “If you’re invited to interview, you will have the opportunity to elaborate further,” signaling to us that the admissions committee really wants just the facts here. So, respect both the format and the school and be as direct and clear as possible, saving any embellishment or additional explanation for another time. 

That said, the inclusion of the mini essay prompt indicates that the admissions committee wants to have some context for your stated aspirations, so do your best within the 350-word allowance to be thorough and clearly connect the dots between where you have been and where you are striving to go. An effective response will provide evidence that you (1) have done your research as to what is required to attain your goals, (2) recognize where you are on that trajectory (what skills and experience you already possess that are key to success in your desired roles and field), and, to some degree, (3) understand why/how attaining an MBA from Cornell Johnson will move you further in the right direction. 

Although this prompt is not a request for a full-length personal essay, we offer a number of tips and examples in our free mbaMission Personal Statement Guide that could be helpful in crafting your responses. We encourage you to download your complimentary copy today.

Essay 1 – Impact Essay: This essay is designed to explore the intersection of engagement and community culture. Our students and alumni share a desire to positively impact the organizations and communities they serve. To help you explore your potential for impact, we encourage you to engage with our students , alumni, faculty, and professional staff before submitting your application. You may choose to connect with them via email or phone or in person during one of our on-campus or off-campus events. As you seek their input and insight, please be respectful of their time and prepare a few discussion points or questions in advance.

At cornell, our students and alumni share a desire to positively impact the organizations and communities they serve. taking into consideration your background, how do you intend to make a meaningful impact on an elite mba community (350 words maximum) .

Note that with this essay prompt, the school is not asking you to discuss a time in the past when you have made an impact but rather about your expected impact going forward , and specifically as part of the Cornell Johnson community. We always encourage candidates to connect with students, alumni, and others in an MBA program’s greater community when preparing their application, but in this case, Cornell is essentially demanding that you do so with its rather forthright “encouragement” and direct link to the resources it offers to facilitate such connections. If you have not already been making these kinds of connections, now (immediately) is the time to get busy. The admissions committee undoubtedly expects your efforts to yield useful insights, so saying that you have merely contacted a few people will not suffice. You need to show that the insider information you subsequently received has further solidified your choice to pursue an MBA at Cornell Johnson by discussing the ways and areas in which you now feel you can contribute to it. 

The school’s specification that you reflect on your past as you determine your best way of adding to the Johnson community means that you need to provide some context for your proposed idea(s) that proves that you are equipped to follow through on your plans. If nothing in the rest of your application indicates that you have experience doing what you say you will do at Johnson, or that you possess the necessary capabilities or qualities, the admissions committee will have difficulty believing that you are being authentic—and might even suspect that you are offering a response you think “sounds good” rather than one rooted in reality and actual possibility. So, we recommend first familiarizing yourself with the Johnson MBA experience well beyond what the school offers in its promotional materials (e.g., read press releases, news stories, and student blogs; check out the Cornell Johnson YouTube channel) and identify elements that resonate with you. Then use that information and inspiration to prepare for thoughtful, productive conversations with multiple members of the Johnson community. And finally, use this essay to reveal what you have learned, the ideas you have developed as a result, and the reasons and ways you are prepared to put those ideas into action at Johnson. 

Optional Essay (required for reapplicants): You may use this essay to call attention to items needing clarification and to add additional details to any aspects of your application that do not accurately reflect your potential for success at Johnson (350 words maximum). 

If you are reapplying for admission, please use this essay to indicate how you have strengthened your application since the last time you applied for admission. please also review our application guide for additional information about reapplying. (350 words maximum).

If you are a Cornell Johnson reapplicant, this essay should be pretty straightforward. Whether you have improved your academic record, received a promotion, begun a new and exciting project, increased your community involvement, or taken on some sort of personal challenge, the key to success with this essay is conveying a very deliberate path of achievement. The school wants to know that you have been actively striving to improve yourself and your profile, and that you have seized opportunities during the previous year to do so, because a Cornell Johnson MBA is vital to you. The responses to this essay question will vary greatly from one candidate to the next, because each person’s needs and experiences differ. We are more than happy to provide one-on-one assistance with this highly personal essay to ensure that your efforts over the past year are presented in the best light possible.

If you are not a reapplicant, Johnson’s optional essay prompt gives you the typical opportunity— if needed —to address any lingering questions that an admissions officer might have about your candidacy, such as a poor grade or overall GPA, a low GMAT or GRE score, or a gap in your work experience. Yet it is sufficiently broad to also allow you to emphasize or explain something that if omitted would render your application incomplete. We caution you against simply trying to fill this space because you fear that not doing so would somehow count against you. And of course, however tempted you might be, this is not the place to reuse a strong essay you wrote for another school or to offer a few anecdotes you were unable to include elsewhere in your application. Keep in mind that by submitting an optional essay, you are requiring the already overtaxed admissions readers to do additional work, so avoid being overly verbose or sharing more information than is truly necessary. You must ensure that the admissions committee’s extra time and effort are truly warranted, so write just a very brief piece to explain your troublesome issue or offer the essential (and otherwise uncommunicated) aspect of your profile. If you feel you might have a reason to submit this additional essay, we encourage you to download our free mbaMission Optional Essays Guide , in which we offer detailed advice on when and how to take advantage of the optional essay, along with multiple illustrative examples.

Park Leadership Fellows Program Essay Prompt: Describe a past formal or informal leadership experience and how it informs your goals for growth as a leader.  How would the Park Leadership Fellowship assist with these goals? (500-word limit)

This is a fairly straightforward essay prompt, and we recommend responding in an equally straightforward manner. Launch directly into the story of your leadership experience, and detail the specific actions you took in directing others in pursuit of a desired result. We recommend using a narrative approach to present your story, but be sure to also share the thought process and motivation(s) behind your actions. This way, the admissions committee will take away a clearer picture of the aspects of your character that inspired you and guided your actions and decisions. Note that Johnson recognizes that the leadership experience you share could have been a less formal one. Leadership does not need to have an official title attached to it, and it can be expressed in a community service or even family life setting just as much as in a workplace, so explore all the different areas of your life for possible stories. 

A particularly important element of this essay is showing that you recognize where your leadership skills can improve and why doing so is important for your long-term success. Although you are expected to discuss areas for development, take care not to deride your strengths. Rather than solely discussing the ways in which you are lacking as a leader, focus on the ways you could become a more complete and capable one. Equally important is tying your educational and experiential needs to the Park Leadership Fellows Program specifically, so of course, your first step (if you have not already done so) is to familiarize yourself thoroughly with what this program entails and provides. Then, in your response, you will need to draw clear connections between the areas you hope to strengthen and the offerings in this program that will enable you to do so. 

For a thorough exploration of Johnson’s academic offerings, defining characteristics, crucial statistics, social life, community/environment, and other key facets of the program, please download your free copy of the  mbaMission Insider’s Guide to Samuel Curtis Johnson School of Management .

The Next Step: Mastering Your Cornell Johnson Interview

Many MBA candidates find admissions interviews stressful and intimidating, but mastering this important element of the application process is definitely possible—the key is informed preparation. We therefore offer our free Interview Guides to spur you along! Download your  free  copy of the  Cornell Johnson Graduate School of Management Interview Guide  today.

To learn more about the essays for other top business schools, visit our  MBA Essay Tips and Examples Resources Page .

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Cornell MBA Essays: Tips for 2023-2024

If you are looking for guidance on how to write successful MBA essays for Cornell Johnson, you are in the right place. The Johnson MBA application can be difficult and time-consuming, but with these tips and tricks, you can be more confident about one of the biggest parts of your application: the MBA essays. This article will cover how to compose Cornell MBA essays that will fit the criteria for admissions and hopefully earn you a place in Cornell University’s graduating class of 2025. 

Cornell University Johnson School of Business is a prestigious MBA program with renowned faculty and a focus on academic success. Cornell wants to admit students who are intelligent, determined, and prepared to undertake a rigorous curriculum. In addition, Cornell prioritizes community and teamwork. Applicants should pay attention to the specific requirements and expectations set out by Cornell’s admissions committee when writing Cornell MBA essays. Through these Cornell Johnson MBA essays, applicants have a chance to demonstrate their skills, accomplishments, and personal interests.

At Menlo Coaching, we noticed that most MBA essays will fall into one of a number of categories: personal essays, career goals essays, behavioral essays, etc.. Read ahead for our expert guide on approaching these essays for Cornell University’s Johnson College of Business.

Career Goals Essay

• A statement of your goals will begin a conversation that will last throughout the admissions process and guide your steps during the MBA program and experience.

To the best of your understanding today, please share your short and long term goals and complete the following sentences and answering the short answer question below.

• In 5 years I want to work as a(n) [Role] at [Company] in the [Industry].
• In 5-10 years post-MBA my goal is to work as a(n) [Role] at [Company] in the [Industry].
• How has your experience prepared and encouraged you to pursue these goals?

Behavioral Essay

• At Cornell, our students and alumni share a desire to positively impact the organizations and communities they serve. Taking into consideration your background, how do you intend to make a meaningful impact on an elite MBA community? (text box, 350 words maximum)

Optional Essay

• If you are applying for the first time and wish to submit an optional essay, please enter it here. You may use the optional essay to explain gaps in your resume, call attention to items needing clarification, or provide additional details about any aspects of your application that do not accurately reflect your potential for success at Johnson. (text box, 350 words maximum)

Park Fellowship Essay

• Park Fellowship Leadership Essay (500-word limit). Describe a past formal or informal leadership experience and how it informs your goals for growth as a leader. How would the Park Leadership Fellowship assist with these goals? Please note that consideration for the Roy H. Park Leadership Fellowship is by invitation only. Upon completion of the admissions interview, those selected for further consideration will be required to submit a response to the Park Leadership Fellows Program essay in addition to participating in one of our Leadership Exploration and Assessment Day (L.E.A.D.) events.

Reapplicant Essay

• If you are reapplying for admission, please use this essay to indicate how you have strengthened your application. (text box, 350 words)

Johnson’s Career Goals Essay 

The Cornell career goals essay provides applicants with a place to let the Cornell admissions committee know how the MBA program you want to attend will help you achieve your professional goals. This Cornell MBA essay is a great place to explain why Cornell is truly the best fit for you. 

It is vital for Cornell applicants to have a solid plan for their post-MBA career aspirations. First and foremost, this is because Cornell wants its graduates to succeed. However, there are a few selfish motivations for the career goals essay, including the fact that Cornell wants to have an impressive employment report and produce graduates who will become donors someday. Further, the Cornell admissions committee wants to ensure that applicants have a career plan that plays on their past experiences and thus ensures success. They also want applicants with the foresight to develop an alternate career plan in case their first choice does not work out. 

Other things to keep in mind for this essay is the necessity to have a career goal that is both ambitious and practical. Applicants should have meaningful goals that fit with what is offered at Cornell’s MBA program. Along this vein, networking is extremely important when preparing to write your career goals essay. The more you know about the program and how it can help you achieve your personal goals, the better.

Johnson’s Behavioral Essay

Behavioral essays involve demonstrating how you have used your leadership skills in real-life situations. The Behavioral Cornell MBA essay gives you a space to identify your morality as a leader and how you might benefit from Cornell’s leadership development programs. Cornell’s MBA admissions committee wants assurance that you are self-reflective and able to identify a moment in which you have been a leader. 

In the Cornell behavioral essay, it is important to be truthful and sincere and to tell your personal story in a compelling manner. You should include as much detail as possible for this type of Cornell MBA essay, discussing your role in a situation that required a strong leader. You should reflect on what this situation taught you and how your leadership style might have changed after this experience. Cornell is looking for MBA candidates who can contemplate how they used leadership skills to solve a problem. 

In this Cornell MBA essay, you might want to reflect on your role on teams in your previous work experience. Further, rather than solely focusing on your leadership successes, it would also be beneficial to identify some failures and explain how you have learned from these less positive experiences. 

Johnson also offers each applicant the opportunity to apply for the Park Fellowship. You can read more about this program here .

Once you’ve completed your application, the optional Ross essay gives you an additional opportunity to provide the AdCom with any additional information or clarity that you feel would enhance your application.

One trap that MBA applicants fall into is using the additional space provided by this essay to write on a whole new topic. However, this is not always the best idea.

You should only make use of this essay if you what you write will provide context to an element of your application to improve your candidacy—you don’t want to jeopardize your chances by adding unnecessary noise to your application.

For reapplicants, Cornell Johnson requires a specific essay in which you can address how your application has improved since your last application.

In this essay, you can address any improvements to your test scores, promotions at work, additional volunteer or community work, or any significant professional development that you have undertaken since you last applied to the program.

Timing is key for reapplicants, and when you’re applying for an MBA program a second time around, you want to be sure that you are a more qualified and desirable client than you were a year ago—even if your application was stellar the first time.

Applicants to Cornell should pay close attention to the specific expectations for each type of Cornell MBA essay. Although it may be tempting to look up sample essays and draw from these formats, it is most important to let your personal background guide the construction of your Cornell Johnson MBA essays.

Menlo Coaching can help you throughout your Cornell MBA essay writing process, offering one-on-one coaching and exclusive preparation materials. 

Related Articles

• Cornell Johnson MBA Program Overview
• MBA Essay Tips From 3 Top Admissions Consultants
• How to Get Into MBA Programs at Top Business Schools

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Tuesday Tips: Cornell MBA Application Tips for 2023-2024

Are you targeting Cornell University’s Johnson Graduate School of Management ? The Cornell MBA application is now live, so it’s time to tackle those MBA essays. Cornell Johnson is a flexible MBA program within an Ivy League campus. The school offers multiple full-time options, including a one-year MBA, specialized executive programs, and the Cornell Tech MBA in Ithaca and NYC.

Whatever your goals and background, Cornell has a program that can help you achieve them. Johnson also works to integrate the MBA experience into the larger Cornell community and leverage coursework at the other top-ranked graduate programs to provide more opportunities to Johnson students.

When approaching the Cornell MBA application essay and goal statement, set your strategy before you start working. Then, identify the program at Cornell in which you are most interested. Do some comprehensive school research. That means researching the faculty, coursework, and career opportunities. Also, examine your background and goals to see what is most important to explain as part of your story.

Make sure to inject a layer of personal background and experiences—what makes you truly unique. Finally, make sure you have solid academics, work experience, and extracurriculars.

These can be covered in your Cornell MBA essays, resume, or recommendations. If you identify any holes in your profile or story, take the time to fill them before starting your application. You can explain anything necessary in the optional essay.

Curious about your chances of getting into a top B-school?  Contact us  to talk strategy with a free 15-minute advising session with an SBC Principal Consultant. 

Cornell MBA Application Essays and Tips

Goals statement.

Immediately post-MBA, my goal is to work as a(n) ____[Role]____ at ___[Company]___within___[Industry]___. Targeted Job Role: Target Job Company: Industry: In 5 – 10 years post-MBA, my goal is to work as a(n) ____[Role]____ at ___[Company]___within___[Industry]___. Targeted Job Role: Target Job Company: Industry: How has your experience prepared and encouraged you to pursue these goals?

This short answer question is a quick way to cover the relevant career goals questions for your Cornell MBA application. Make sure that your answers are clear and are consistent with your recommenders.

Once you have identified your industry, company, and role in both the short- and long-term, you can briefly answer how your past experiences have led you to your goals. Then, think about the pivotal moments in your career and how they have prepared you for the next step or have helped you to realize your passions.

Finally, pick a very brief example to cover here. In addition, you can use your resume and recommendations to showcase any other skills you need to accomplish your goals. You can explain more about your accomplishments and leadership in the Impact Essay.

Impact Essay

At cornell, our students and alumni share a desire to positively impact the organizations and communities they serve. taking into consideration your background, how do you intend to make a meaningful impact on an elite mba community (350 words maximum).

As the Cornell Johnson admissions committee says, “This essay is designed to explore the intersection of engagement and community culture. Whether during the program or following graduation, our students and alumni share a desire to positively impact the organizations and communities they serve.” When you consider your MBA experience, how do you plan to be an active part of the community?

The first step to answering this question is, once again, to do your research. The admissions team at Johnson suggests connecting with current students using the community search tool . Another way to find a personal connection is to reach out to friends, family, and work colleagues to see if anyone knows a current or future member of the Johnson community.

As you prepare for conversations to learn more about Cornell Johnson, think about programs, extracurricular activities, and the informal ways students might interact. Johnson offers groups for interests ranging from cooking to ice hockey and has professional clubs for every possible career path.

Those formal groups, or connecting in a classroom or party, might be ways you make connections at Johnson. Showing that you know the school well is essential for a successful Cornell MBA application. Once you have identified opportunities to contribute to campus life at Johnson, you should support your story with evidence from your past experiences.

For example, maybe you want to bring new speakers to the Johnson Marketing Association because you have contributed to your young professionals group at work. Explain that you have successfully organized events featuring prominent speakers for a large group of people and can bring that skill to impact your peers at Johnson.

Optional Essay (Required for Reapplicants)

You may use this essay to call attention to items needing clarification and to add additional details to any aspects of your application that do not accurately reflect your potential for success at johnson (350 words maximum)., if you are reapplying for admission, please use this essay to indicate how you have strengthened your application and candidacy since the last time you applied for admission. please also review our admissions policy for additional information about re-applying (350 words maximum)..

This essay allows for either an explanation of any weaknesses in your application or additional information. Your issue could be a poor GPA or GMAT. Or you might have concerns with your undergraduate record. Possibly you were unable to provide a recommendation from a current supervisor. If any of those issues exist, this is the place to give the background.

Briefly describe the situation and what may have contributed to the issue (illness, family difficulties, etc.). Make sure you don’t editorialize—facts only. Focus the balance of your essay on looking forward. What have you done in the recent past to demonstrate your skills and intelligence?

For re-applicants, this is the place to explain what you have done since your last application. Make sure to strengthen your case for admission. If you have a new GMAT score or took classes in calculus or statistics, you have a solid case for improved academics. A promotion could signal career development and leadership.

Even if you don’t have a clear-cut update to describe, you can use this space to explain how you have improved your career goals or fit with Cornell.

To talk to Stacy Blackman Consulting about your Cornell MBA essays, don’t hesitate to contact us!   We offer multiple services to meet your MBA application needs, from our All-In Partnership  to hourly help reviewing your MBA resume.   Contact SBC today for a free 15-minute advising session  to talk strategy with a Principal SBC consultant. Meanwhile, here’s a snapshot of the caliber of expertise on  our SBC team . 

If you have an interview coming up, you will want to review SBC’s interview prep services . The key to interview success is practice and we provide you with all the tools you need to do just that.

• Leverage our video platform to practice, view yourself and improve
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Columbia mba essays for 2024-2025.

The Columbia MBA essays and deadlines for the 2024-2025 admissions season are now available. This year’s applicants to Columbia Business School must complete two short answer questions and three essays. Short Answer Question What ... →

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

• By Silpa Sarma

Cornell’s Johnson school is known for its tight-knit community and culture of collaboration.

Learning to harness the power of a team to drive impact is a key component of the MBA experience at Johnson, and diversity among backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences is greatly valued.

To that end, Cornell’s essay prompts aim to uncover applicants who demonstrate EQ, self-awareness, a collaborative mindset, and a track record of impact across the spaces they inhabit. For the 2022-2023 cycle, Cornell asks that you respond to a Goals Statement and one required essay (a second essay is optional).

As a Fortuna Admissions coach, Cornell Johnson alum, and former Stanford GSB Admissions Reader, I’m seasoned in helping candidates position their candidacy to the MBA admissions committee. Your essays are an opportunity to connect the dots for Cornell between who you are, where you’re going, and what you hope to bring to the community.

The following are some tips to keep in mind as you approach each essay:

Goals Statement: How has your experience prepared and encouraged you to pursue these goals? (approx. 350 words)

Cornell prefaces this essay question with a fill-in-the-blank goals statement that brings laser focus to both your short-term (immediately post-MBA) and long-term goal (five to ten years post-MBA). They ask for some specificity (role, company, industry). While there’s no word count given, in the past there was a hard cutoff of 350 words, which is a useful benchmark.

To make an impression, share the inspiration behind your goals by providing the context of how your passions, academic background, and professional experiences have solidified your desire to achieve these goals. Think about what you’ve learned throughout your career and how each role inspired you and prepared you to take the next step. This will help convey your motivation to make an impact and effect change. To demonstrate that your career vision is ambitious but still realistic, select two or three past experiences that highlight your existing skills and/or expertise that you will leverage, and then articulate how the offerings at the school will take you the rest of the way toward achieving your goals.

While the essay prompt focuses on your experience as it pertains to your goals, you can include a quick sentence or two about how Cornell’s Johnson School will bridge the gap to your short-term goals, and ultimately, your long-term goals.

(View this insightful article by Fortuna’s Heidi Hillis for more advice on how to create your short- and long-term MBA goals .)

Impact Essay: At Cornell, our students and alumni share a desire to positively impact the organizations and communities they serve. Taking into consideration your background, how do you intend to make a meaningful impact on an elite MBA community? (350 words, hard cut-ff)

This question requires applicants to do their research. While reviewing the school’s website, student blogs, and YouTube videos might be good initial steps, it would be helpful to connect with current students, alumni, and other members of the Cornell Johnson community to gain a more in-depth understanding of the experience. Once you have a better idea of the Johnson ecosystem and offerings, think about how you’d like to leverage your unique background, skill sets, strengths, and interests to contribute to the community and consequently, enhance the experience of your classmates. Consider how you might share your sector expertise or industry connections with your peers, be it in a class discussion, during the recruiting cycle, or through a guest speaker series at Johnson. Find ways to continue your favorite extracurricular or community pursuits on campus, and if the avenue doesn’t exist, consider how you might create the opportunity and generate interest and engagement among your fellow students.

Through specific examples, demonstrate an understanding of the close-knit community feel and spirit of collaboration at Johnson and convey how much you’d like to contribute to it if given the opportunity. It’s also an invitation to get personal and speak to how you see yourself fitting into the culture at Cornell. As my Fortuna colleague Randall Sawyer, former Assistant Dean of Admissions at Cornell Johnson, says: “The challenge – and opportunity – is to unveil what you’re truly passionate about, something interesting about you and/or what you’re interested in. Get introspective about who you are as a person.”

Optional Essay (required for reapplicants): You may use the optional essay to explain gaps in your resume, call attention to items needing clarification, or provide additional details about any aspects of your application that do not accurately reflect your potential for success at Johnson.  (350 words max)

For first-time applicants, this is a good place to cover any contextual information that’s relevant for the Admissions team to know. This might include reasons for a gap in your employment history, issues that impacted academic performance, or a career trajectory that isn’t quite intuitive or linear. Try to be as concise as possible in discussing this information, and if applicable, articulate how you resolved the issue and suggest a more appropriate indicator of your potential for success at Johnson. For example, if your undergraduate grades were somewhat weak, you could explain the context behind your performance and inspire increased confidence in your abilities with a strong GMAT/GRE score or a commendable performance in MBA math courses or other graduate studies.

For reapplicants, this space is intended for covering what’s changed since you last applied.  Discuss the most significant ways in which you’ve strengthened your candidacy. This might include earning a promotion, a more competitive GMAT/GRE score, a higher-profile position at work, or increased community engagement. This would also be the space to mention any clarity you may have gained regarding your MBA career vision , including how the Johnson School fits into achieving your goals. Whichever aspects of your candidacy you’re covering, make it quite clear that you’ve elevated your profile and you’re well-prepared to join the Johnson community and thrive within it.

Want More Advice?

View related articles and video strategy sessions on Cornell Johnson from our Fortuna Admissions expert coaches.

• B-school Profile for Cornell Johnson
• Request a copy of our team’s  Insider Tips Report for Applying to  Cornell Johnson
• View our video strategy session:  Behind the MBA Admissions Curtain with The Committee from HBS, Cornell & LBS .   

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Updated October 2022

Fortuna Admissions Expert Coach Silpa Sarma is a Cornell Johnson MBA alum and former Stanford GSB Admissions reader. For a candid assessment of your chances of admission success at a top MBA program, essay   tips, and more,   sign up for a   free consultation .

• Posted on November 14, 2022

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2023-2024 Cornell Johnson MBA Essay Analysis and Tips

Admit expert.

• July 13, 2023

An international orientation and an emphasis on teamwork are hallmarks of Cornell Johnson’s small, amicable community and amiable culture. The business school seeks students who will have a lasting impact on the program both during their time in school and after they have graduated. The admissions committee is looking for leadership, collaborative skills, the capacity to evaluate challenges, and excellent interpersonal skills.

If this sounds like the kind of environment in which you would feel completely at home, the first thing you’ll need to do is demonstrate that you have what it takes by effectively answering the essay questions that Cornell asks for admission.

In this article, we’ll look at the Cornell Johnson essay prompts for the 2023 intake and present their analysis to help you write essays that impress the Berkeley Haas MBA admissions committee.

Short essay tips

Impact essay, optional essay (required for reapplicants), reapplicant essay, let us help you get into cornell johnson, cornell mba essay for 2023 intake.

Goals Statement:

Use this short-answer section to succinctly share your short- and long-term goals. If you’re invited to interview, you will have the opportunity to elaborate on your statement further, and you should be prepared to connect your prior experience with your future aspirations.

A statement of your goals will begin a conversation that will last throughout the admissions process and guide your steps during the MBA program and experience. To the best of your understanding today, please share your short and long term goals by completing the following sentences and answering the enclosed short answer question (350 words maximum):

Immediately post-MBA, my goal is to work as a(n) [Role] at [Company] within [Industry].

Targeted Job Role:

Target Job Company:

In 5–10 years post-MBA, my goal is to work as a(n) [Role] at [Company] within [Industry].

The first part of this question can be answered without any difficulty. The admissions committee wants to know both the short-term and long-term goals you have for yourself, as well as whether or not you are able to outline a specific plan. Be specific. Your comments should be succinct and clear at all times.

For the text boxes, be concise and to the point. Inform them precisely of your intentions.

You have slightly more space for the larger essay, but not much!

Therefore, we recommend that you do not recapitulate your goals in this essay, unless you need them to transition between the two parts I believe this essay should have: your previous experience and what motivates you to pursue the goals you’ve stated (to answer the question, you must demonstrate how you have prepared and what has encouraged you to pursue your goals).

First, let’s discuss your preparation. Remember that objectives without context frequently lack clarity and impact. You may wish to include one or more brief stories or anecdotes to provide context.

Don’t list everything you’ve ever done (we already have your resume!) However, carefully create a summary of your career path that demonstrates you have acquired appropriate skills and expertise.

Second, explain why you are so enthusiastic about your personal ambitions. Though you may be seeking an MBA to earn more money or add a touch of prominence to your résumé, the admissions committee does not find these objectives fascinating. Rather, discuss your passions.

Provide examples of two or three formative events (professional and maybe personal) and elaborate on how these experiences have influenced your career choices. This is a retrospective essay that requires you to explain prior events; hence, you should not discuss how Johnson will prepare you for your future career.

You may opt to conclude with a single statement describing how your ambitions connect with Cornell Johnson’s mission, but avoid turning this into a “Why Cornell” essay.

Do you want to impress the Cornell Johnson Adcom?

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This essay is designed to explore the intersection of engagement and community culture. Our students and alumni share a desire to positively impact the organizations and communities they serve. To help you explore your potential for impact, we encourage you to engage with our students , alumni, faculty, and professional staff before submitting your application. You may choose to connect with them via email or phone or in person during one of our on-campus or off-campus events. As you seek their input and insight, please be respectful of their time and prepare a few discussion points or questions in advance.

At Cornell, our students and alumni share a desire to positively impact the organizations and communities they serve. Taking into consideration your background, how do you intend to make a meaningful impact on an elite MBA community? (350 words maximum)

This question is about the future, which is different from the short-answer question. Cornell Johnson is looking for people who can start right away and make the most of their time on campus. 

Even though the prompt asks how you will interact with and change the community, you can connect your goals to the things you plan to do on campus if you choose your examples carefully. 

This essay is your chance to show that you’ve learned as much as you can about the program. The school wants you to reach out to people in the community, and when you do, don’t just give a long list of the students and alumni you talked to. 

If you mention a student or alum in your essay, be sure to explain how they influenced your decision to apply to Johnson and/or what you learned about the program from them. Look for information that isn’t on the school’s website or in blogs. 

Think about how you will interact with your classmates in and out of class, both as a student and after you graduate.

Give a very brief summary of how you have helped an organization in the past, whether it was a professional group or a group of people in your neighborhood. 

Even though this is an essay about the future, you should talk about your past experiences to show how you plan to make a bigger difference at Cornell Johnson.

In other words, the best answers to this essay question don’t just talk about the change you want to make at Cornell Johnson and beyond. Instead, they talk about how your background and past changes have prepared you to make this change in the future.

To show that you will be an active member of the Ithaca community and your future career, you will need to show how you have been an active member of other communities in the past. Use this essay to show how much you know about Cornell and how you plan to become a part of it.

You may use this essay to call attention to items needing clarification and to add additional details to any aspects of your application that do not accurately reflect your potential for success at Johnson (350 words maximum). 

If you are not a repeat applicant, Johnson’s optional essay prompt gives you the chance to answer any questions an admissions officer might still have about your application, such as a low grade or GPA, a low GMAT or GRE score, or a gap in your work experience. 

Still, it is broad enough to let you highlight or explain something that, if left out, would make your application less than perfect. 

We don’t want you to just fill this space because you’re afraid that not doing so will hurt you in some way. 

Even if you’re tempted, this is not the place to use a good essay you wrote for another school or tell a few stories you couldn’t include anywhere else in your application. 

Keep in mind that if you send in an optional essay, you’re giving the people in charge of admissions more work to do, so don’t be too wordy or give more information than is really needed. 

You need to make sure that the admissions committee’s extra time and effort are really worth it, so write a very short piece to explain your troublesome issue or the most important thing about your profile that you haven’t mentioned anywhere else.

If you are reapplying for admission, please use this essay to indicate how you have strengthened your application since the last time you applied for admission. Please also review our Application Guide for additional information about reapplying. (350 words maximum)

If you have already applied to Cornell Johnson before, this essay should be pretty easy for you. Whether you have improved your grades, gotten a promotion, started a new and exciting project, gotten more involved in your community, or taken on a personal challenge, the key to success with this essay is showing a clear path to success. 

The school wants to know that you have been working hard to improve yourself and your profile and that you have taken advantage of opportunities to do so in the past year because you need a Cornell Johnson MBA. 

Each candidate’s answer to this essay question will be very different because each person has different needs and life experiences. We are more than happy to help you with this very personal essay one-on-one to make sure that your hard work over the past year is shown in the best possible light.

We will help you write essays that portray your unique strengths and experiences in the most favorable light so that your application shines above the rest. We have helped hundreds of students get into top US business schools. Let us help you too.

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Cornell Johnson College of Business MBA Essay Tips and Deadlines [2022 – 2023]

If you are looking for a small MBA class in an idyllic location with warm and genuine classmates, then  Cornell Johnson  may be your program. While Johnson places the largest portion of its class in the financial industry after graduation (36% of the  class of 2021 ), 27% entered the consulting industry, 17% joined the technology industry, and 6% went into consumer products, which is a diversity of industries that reflects the strong quant, analytical, and marketing curricula of the school. 

Cornell’s class of approximately 300 students is known to be close knit and collaborative. Most first-year students choose to spend their second semester in an Immersion Experience, a unique combination of course and field work that positions them to thrive in their summer internships.

Below are Johnson’s essay questions and the admissions office’s guidance, followed by my tips.

Cornell Johnson MBA goals statement

Use this short-answer section to succinctly share your short- and long-term goals. If you’re invited to interview, you will have the opportunity to elaborate on your statement further, and you should be prepared to connect your prior experience with your future aspirations. Goals Statement Prompt: A statement of your goals will begin a conversation that will last throughout the admissions process and guide your steps during the MBA program and experience. To the best of your understanding today, please share your short and long term goals by completing the following sentences and answering the enclosed short answer question  (350 words maximum) : Immediately post-MBA, my goal is to work as a(n)  [Role]  at  [Company]  within  [Industry] . Targeted Job Role: Target Job Company: Industry: In 5–10 years post-MBA, my goal is to work as a(n)  [Role]  at  [Company]  within  [Industry] . Targeted Job Role: Target Job Company: Industry: How has your experience prepared and encouraged you to pursue these goals?

If  your goal  immediately after graduating from Johnson is not deemed possible by the Admissions office, then you might as well not bother finishing the application. No applicant will be accepted if their short-term goal is unachievable. Admitting a student with unrealistic, if not unachievable, goals at the very least will ruin Johnson’s placement rating, but at worst it could potentially leave a graduate in a great deal of debt and little or no means to repay it.

Speak to current students and recent graduates to hear about the recruiting process, positions available, and the qualifications, if any, that students must have to enter your field of interest, Then, use this essay space to share one or two examples from your prior experience that demonstrate that you have those skills. Discuss how these skills and experiences will help you perform particularly well in your desired future role.

Cornell Johnson impact essay

This essay is designed to explore the intersection of engagement and community culture. Our students and alumni share a desire to positively impact the organizations and communities they serve. To help you explore your potential for impact, we encourage you to  engage with our students , alumni, faculty, and professional staff before submitting your application. You may choose to connect with them via email or phone or in person during one of our on-campus or off-campus events. As you seek their input and insight, please be respectful of their time and prepare a few discussion points or questions in advance. Impact Essay Prompt: At Cornell, our students and alumni share a desire to positively impact the organizations and communities they serve. Taking into consideration your background, how do you intend to make a meaningful impact on an elite MBA community? (350 words maximum)

The best answers to this essay question don’t solely focus on the impact you hope to make at Cornell Johnson and beyond but rather share how your background and previous impacts have prepared you to  make this future impact . To prove you will be an engaged community member in Ithaca and your future career, you will need to show in what other environments you have been such a member in the past. Use this essay to demonstrate your knowledge of the Cornell community and how you plan to immerse in it.

Cornell Johnson MBA optional essay (required for reapplicants)

You may use this essay to call attention to items needing clarification and to add additional details to any aspects of your application that do not accurately reflect your potential for success at Johnson  (350 words maximum) . If you are reapplying for admission, please use this essay to indicate how you have strengthened your application and candidacy since the last time you applied for admission. Please also review our Application Guide for additional information about reapplying  (350 words maximum) .

If you are a reapplicant, use this space to demonstrate that you have made considerable efforts to improve your candidacy: you have improved your GMAT score, taken on more  leadership roles , reached out to more Cornell staff and students to understand the program and how you will fit into it, and/or researched your career goals in greater depth.

If you are a first-time applicant, then you should use this space to address any issue that you feel the application left unaddressed. For example, if you feel your grades require some explanation, if you have an employment gap, or if you have chosen a non-traditional recommender for any reason, this is the space to explain.

Park Leadership Fellows Program Essay (optional, Two-Year MBA only)

The Roy H. Park Leadership Fellows Program is a two-year, full-tuition fellowship award for Two-Year MBA candidates in Ithaca who have demonstrated outstanding leadership potential and who are committed to making an impact within their communities. Each year, fellowships are awarded to up to 25 incoming students with the expectation that they will participate in additional leadership and personal development activities outside of our regular curriculum, serve in leadership roles within the school, and complete a public service project by the time they graduate. The Park Fellowship is only available to U.S. citizens applying for the Two-Year MBA program.

The Park Leadership Fellowship aims to bring a strong contingent of socially responsible leaders to Johnson. With up to 25 Park Fellowships to provide each year, that means that nearly 9% of the class will earn this award (and since 65% of the class are U.S. citizens, that means that up to approximately one-fourth of them may earn this full sponsorship of their two-year MBA!). 

The best essays will not only share  a story of leadership  but one in which gaining that leadership role was somewhat difficult, for example leading volunteers or people outside of your organization. Of course, your story also needs to demonstrate a clear impact on your community as well, ideally a lasting one.

Johnson at Cornell at a glance

Cornell MBA average GMAT score: 704

Cornell MBA average GPA: 3.34

Cornell MBA acceptance rate: 29.5%

U.S. News  ranked Cornell Johnson #15 in the 2023 rankings.

Check out the Business School Selectivity Index for more stats.

You’ve worked so hard to get to where you are in life. Now that you’re ready for your next achievement, make sure you know how to present yourself to maximum advantage in your Cornell Johnson application. In a hotly competitive season, you’ll want a member of Team Accepted in your corner, guiding you with expertise tailored specifically for you.  Check out our flexible consulting packages today!

Johnson at Cornell MBA application deadlines 2022-2023

One-Year MBA:

Two-Year MBA:

Source:  Cornell Johnson website

Stay on top of MBA deadlines with the  MBA Admissions Calendar !

[ Click here  to add the calendar to your Google calendar; or  here  to add the calendar to another app.]

***Disclaimer: Information is subject to change. Please check with individual programs to verify the essay questions, instructions and deadlines.***

By Jennifer Bloom, admissions consultant at Accepted for 20 years and Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW). She is an expert at guiding you to produce application materials that truly differentiate you from the rest of the driven applicant pool. If you would like help with your application, Jennifer can suggest a number of options that work with any budget.  Want Jennifer to help you get accepted? Click here to get in touch!

Related Resources:

• Why MBA? , a guide to writing about your MBA goals
• Top MBA Programs Get STEM-Certified to Attract Int’l Students
• 4 Ways to Show How You’ll Contribute in the Future

This article originally appeared on blog.accepted.com

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Cornell MBA Essay Examples

Featured Expert: Aali Malik, MBA

Cornell MBA essay examples can help you apply to any of the four distinct MBA programs offered at the Cornell SC Johnson College of Business. Cornell University is one of the eight Ivy League colleges in the US and also home to Cornell Law School and the Cornell Medical School, but MBA rankings put Cornell SC Johnson near the top of best MBA programs in the world . The MBA program has other various admissions requirements, but all applicants to any of the MBA programs must write at least a career goals statement and a personal essay. This article will provide expert-approved writing samples and give you other tips to write your MBA personal statement . 

>> Want us to help you get accepted? Schedule a free strategy call here . <<

Article Contents 5 min read

Cornell mba essay example for the two-year mba program.

Essay Prompt: At Cornell, our students and alumni share a desire to positively impact the organizations and communities they serve. Taking into consideration your background, how do you intend to make a meaningful impact on an elite MBA community? (350 words maximum)

My father’s long, thin arms became muscly only a few months after we arrived from Chennai. My siblings and I would hang from them like they were bars of a jungle gym, especially when it was too cold for us play outside in the Hoboken winter. We (my parents, older brother, younger sister and I) came to the US only a few years after 9/11 and my father went to work at a FedEx sorting plant lifting heavy boxes every day. 

Seeing him go into those frigid winters, and then come back bigger and stronger than before cemented the transformative power of the United States in my mind. The United States was a place where anyone, including a wiry accounting student from India as my father was, could become a giant with huge arms. The pride I felt for my father then became what fueled my desire to succeed in academia and business.

I went into the Business Administration program at Rutgers with a focus on marketing and market research but, I have also gained a solid foundation in other key business disciplines, such as accounting, and human resources. However, I aspire to further develop my leadership skills, strategic thinking, and industry knowledge with an MBA. But the program’s commitment to corporate and social responsibility also resonates with me.

As an undergrad, I volunteered my marketing knowledge to the Environmental Working Group, where I worked on a campaign targeting new donors and fundraisers. I aim to leverage this passion for social responsibility at Cornell Johnson, by actively engaging in initiatives such as the Sustainable Global Enterprise Club, where I can contribute to addressing real-world challenges through sustainable business practices.

Essay Prompt #1: You may use this essay to call attention to items needing clarification and to add additional details to any aspects of your application that do not accurately reflect your potential for success at Johnson (350 words maximum).

Essay Prompt #2: If you are reapplying for admission, please use this essay to indicate how you have strengthened your application and candidacy since the last time you applied for admission. Please also review our Application Guide for additional information about reapplying (350 words maximum).

I was discouraged at my initial rejection, but, in hindsight, it was the final motivating step that I needed to develop the discipline and growth-mindset I have now. I am confident that these experiences and improvements make me a well-rounded candidate ready to make a significant contribution to the Cornell Johnson community. ","label":"Cornell MBA Essay Example for Prompt #1","title":"Cornell MBA Essay Example for Prompt #1"}]" code="tab1" template="BlogArticle">

Are you also applying to the Harvard Business School?

Essay Prompt: Describe a past formal or informal leadership experience and how it informs your goals for growth as a leader. How would the Park Leadership Fellowship assist with these goals? (500-words)

My dear friend, Sarah Williams, lost her younger sister to cancer, and I had the privilege of leading a team of dedicated volunteers in organizing a fundraising event for the Golisano Children’s Hospital in Rochester to benefit pediatric cancer research.

We named the event "Hope in Motion," and decided to give it an old-fashioned, county fair theme, but added other events such as a silent auction and games and entertainment. We spent the first months identifying sponsors and forming partnerships with local businesses, which was the most daunting and difficult part. But it was a learning opportunity as well.

Having to network and communicate between different businesses made me grow a new skill-set, and I came to realize how much I enjoyed fundraising. It also helped me hone my skills of persuasion, and I was able to secure the participation of several high-profile sponsors, even those who initially rejected participating. With our financial backing secured, we embarked on organizing the event logistics, such as securing a venue, coordinating with vendors, and managing volunteer shifts.

On the day of the event, Hope in Motion transformed a local park into a vibrant community gathering with all the games and attractions of a county fair. We had rides and a small petting zoo, but also cooking demonstrations and mocktails for parents. We also had a silent auction where we auctioned off season tickets to Rochester Americans games. I am happy to say that we surpassed our fundraising goal, raising over $50,000 for the children's hospital.

But in my public life, I have to say my most important leadership role was as the president of an organization called Global Impact, which I joined as an undergraduate at the University of Rochester. One of our flagship initiatives was a partnership with the non-profit organization Education First (EF), which is focused on providing education opportunities to underserved communities in developing countries.

Global Impact, through my organizing efforts, arranged a two-week service trip to a rural village in Ghana, which was quite different from organizing a fundraiser, but I welcomed the challenge. I sought out and established a relationship with a local stakeholder, Mr. Kwame Ansah, the headmaster of a local school. Together we developed a comprehensive plan to renovate and expand educational facilities, provide teaching resources, and conduct workshops for teachers.

Spending time in Ghana had the added benefit of giving me the opportunity to immerse myself in a new culture and community. I socialized with the students, teachers, and village elders regularly, as that was the only authentic way to truly understand and know the place. During our work hours, I collaborated with local teachers by creating workshops on modern teaching methodologies and student-centered learning practices. Witnessing the transformation in the enthusiasm and engagement of both students and teachers was immensely gratifying.

Preparing for your interview?

Essay Prompts (500-700 words maximum)

• Why are you applying to the Johnson Cornell Tech MBA?
• Why are you interested in a one-year, tech-focused MBA (as opposed to a traditional two-year MBA program that would offer a summer internship opportunity)?
• What personal attributes or skills do you think make you ideally suited to be a Cornell Tech MBA student?
• Demonstrate the relationship between your current professional experience and academic background to your short- (0-5 years after graduating) and long-term (6-15 years after graduating) career goals for this program.
• Describe a situation in your personal or professional life when you were faced with a difficult decision or dilemma and how you resolved it (focusing on your process, not just the resolution itself).
• At Cornell Tech, we aim to educate leaders for the digital age. What, in your opinion is the single most important characteristic that such leaders must possess? Why?
• What else would you like the admissions committee to know about you?

I communicated the rationale behind our choice to the entire team, ensuring transparency and understanding. I wanted them to be all on board so I emphasized the long-term benefits of prioritizing quality, customer satisfaction, and maintaining a competitive edge in the market. Throughout the resolution process, I remained open to feedback and constantly re-evaluated our decision, considering any new information or insights that emerged. ","label":"Cornell MBA Essay Sample for Prompt #5","title":"Cornell MBA Essay Sample for Prompt #5"}]" code="tab2" template="BlogArticle">

Cornell MBA essay samples can help you get into one of the best MBA programs in the US. The MBA requirements for Cornell include submitting a MBA resume , GMT or GRE scores, MBA motivation letter , and an MBA letter of intent, but the various other programs such as the one-year and MBA for Executives program have different requirements. The prompts cover a wide range of areas and you can choose from any to convey your training, expertise, knowledge and overall suitability to the MBA program. 

Despite being an Ivy League school, Cornell has a much higher MBA acceptance rate than other programs such as the Stanford Graduate School of Business or Harvard Business School . Cornell’s acceptance rate is around 40%, which means it is one of the easiest MBA programs to get into . 

The MBA essays are very important to the application process at Cornell. Applicants to the different MBA programs offered at Cornell Johnson must complete a different series of essays, but they are essential application requirements. 

The mission and values of the Cornell Business School are to increase its class diversity, as it continually increases its acceptance rate by allowing for more international students and students from other backgrounds. 

Your response to any of the Cornell MBA essay prompts should hew as close as possible to the prompt and not go off-topic or unnecessary detail. The essay prompts are designed to elicit any number of responses, so you should be as specific and detailed as possible when writing and include actions that you have taken to fulfill your goals. 

You can make your essay stand out by presenting an authentic side of yourself that details your experiences and achievements. Write honestly about your goals, about your MBA extracurriculars , your professional background and how you see the program helping you attain those same goals. 

The word counts for the various prompts and programs differ, but the minimum word count for the majority of the MBA essay topics is 350 words and the maximum word count is 500 words. 

The number of required essays depends on the MBA program you choose. The regular, two-year MBA requires a Goals Statement, similar to an MBA statement of purpose , and an Impact essay where you are asked to define your future impact on society. The one-year program only requires a single personal statement. 

The Cornell MBA personal statement requirement is based on a series of prompts, which makes it easier for you to craft your answer. Whatever the prompt, you stay on topic and be careful not to write over the word count. 

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Application Requirements and Deadlines

Please direct any questions to [email protected] . Interested in learning more about what makes a competitive applicant? Check out this webinar and learn the tips and tricks for applying. 

APPLICATIONS FOR THE SUMMER 2024 SEMESTER HAVE NOW CLOSED.  APPLICATIONS FOR THE NEXT CYCLE WILL RE-OPEN IN LATE AUGUST. 

Required Materials

• Online Application:  You must submit a completed Johnson Cornell Tech MBA online application. Please note that this is a separate application from other Johnson MBA programs, and our applications are not transferable across programs.
• Academic Records or Transcripts: Please provide copies of your academic records or transcripts from each previously attended university and proof of graduation from a Bachelor’s program (if this is not indicated on the transcript). While we do not require official transcripts at the time of application, you may send any official transcripts to Cornell Tech admissions electronically to  [email protected] or via post to Cornell Tech Admissions, Cornell Tech, 2 W Loop Rd, New York, NY 10044 USA. To be considered official, transcripts must be sent directly from the academic institution.  IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS: Cornell Tech requires that transcripts from colleges and universities outside the U.S. and Canada undergo a course-by-course analysis by an expert academic credential evaluator in the United States. Students are responsible for paying all fees for such evaluations and making arrangements with the credential evaluation company to send and receive their documents. Cornell Tech will accept evaluations from Scholaro, World Education Services (WES) , Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) , SpanTran , or any NACES organization member .  If you are using the service of a credential evaluator that has the capability to send the credentials evaluation electronically, please instruct them to send it to [email protected] . Note: The admissions committee requires this evaluation prior to reviewing your application for an admissions decision.
• TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo Score Report (international applicants only): If your first language is not English, you must submit a valid TOEFL ( minimum 100 ) or IELTS ( minimum 7.0 overall band ) score. To see if you qualify for an English language proficiency test waiver, please read Johnson’s English Language Proficiency Policy under  MBA Application Requirements .  If you have any questions about the English language waiver or would like to confirm whether or not you qualify, please contact Cornell Tech Admissions at  [email protected] . While we do not require official score reports at the time of application, you may report your official TOEFL through testing code 2098 or official IELTS through the e-download account Cornell University Cornell Tech. For Duolingo, you can send the test scores to Cornell Tech – Graduate Admissions.  Cornell Tech does not accept MyBestScore. 
• GMAT or GRE Score Report:  Cornell Johnson is offering candidates of the Full-Time MBA the ability to request a GMAT/GRE test waiver, without negative bias, through the online application.  In the test section of the application, candidates should indicate their request for a waiver and upload a short statement explaining why you will flourish in our rigorous academic environment (100 words). The admissions committee will review and email you to indicate if a test waiver has been approved. If your test waiver is not approved, your application will remain incomplete until a test score is submitted. If you plan to submit GMAT or GRE scores, your highest score will be considered. Please see our Class Profile below for our current GMAT and GRE averages. While we do not require official score reports at the time of application, you may report your official GMAT through testing code 5JW-BM-64 or your official GRE through testing code 8296.
• Resume:  Your resume must list your professional history (with dates of employment), academic background (with dates of attendance and graduation), and any skills or activities that are relevant to your admission into this program. The Tech MBA program seeks candidates with a minimum of 2-3 years of digital-based experience and/or knowledge of the tech industry. Candidates with 8+ years should apply for the Cornell Executive MBA program. Please limit your resume to 2 pages in length
• Why are you applying to the Johnson Cornell Tech MBA?
• Why are you interested in a one-year, tech-focused MBA (as opposed to a traditional two-year MBA program that would offer a summer internship opportunity)?
• What personal attributes or skills do you think make you ideally suited to be a Cornell Tech MBA student?
• Demonstrate the relationship between your current professional experience and academic background to your short- (0-5 years after graduating) and long-term (6-15 years after graduating) career goals for this program.
• Describe a situation in your personal or professional life when you were faced with a difficult decision or dilemma and how you resolved it (focusing on your process, not just the resolution itself).
• At Cornell Tech, we aim to educate leaders for the digital age. What, in your opinion is the single most important characteristic that such leaders must possess? Why?
• What else would you like the admissions committee to know about you?
• Letter of Recommendation:  In a letter of no more than 700 words, your recommender should speak to your academic and interpersonal abilities, technical aptitude and/or professional experiences in tech, your experience working on teams, and any areas of improvement. Your letter of recommendation should come from a current or former direct manager or supervisor. We advise that you do not choose clients, co-founders, or colleagues to write your recommendation unless you are a full-time entrepreneur and have been self-employed for the past three years or more. Only one letter is required, but you may submit an additional letter if relevant to your candidacy for the program.
• Application Fee:  A nonrefundable $200 application fee is required in order to submit your application.

If you have any questions about the application or application process, please e-mail  [email protected] .

Please note:

• Applicants who wish to be fully considered for merit scholarships should apply by the priority deadline date.
• Applications must be complete – including letter(s) of recommendation – and submitted prior to a round deadline in order to be considered for that round.
• Applications received after the round deadline will be moved to the following round.
• Applications received after the Round 2 deadline will be considered on a rolling basis until  Wednesday, March 6, 2024  at 11:59pm EST.
• Applicants who have submitted a completed application prior to a round deadline will receive an update regarding their application status 5-7 weeks  following the round deadline.

All finalists will be invited for a 30-minute video interview with a member of the Admissions Committee. Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate in-person interviews.

There is no specific preparation required for the admissions interview.  Our committee is interested in assessing your problem solving skills and understanding how your prior work experience will allow you to make the most of the Johnson Cornell Tech MBA.

All interviewed candidates will receive an admission decision within 2-3 weeks of their interview.

Class of 2023 Profile

Please refer to our Class Profile below for our most up-to-date averages and other general statistics.

Total enrolled:  89

Average age:  28

% Female students:  44%

% Underrepresented minorities:  22% (Black/African American, Native American, and Hispanic American)

% U.S. minorities:  46% (Asian American, Black/African American, Native American, and Hispanic American)

Countries represented:  22

% International students:  58%

Average GMAT:  700 GMAT range (middle 80%): 680-720

Average GRE:  157 (Verbal), 163 (Quantitative) GRE-Q range (middle 80%): 154-161 GRE-V range (middle 80%): 160-168

Average undergraduate GPA:  3.4/4.0 Undergraduate GPA (middle 80%): 3.2-3.7

Average years of work experience:  5 years Years of work experience (middle 80%): 3-7years

Undergraduate majors Computer engineering and/or computer science: 12% Business/Economics: 18% Finance/Accounting: 16% Engineering/Information Technology: 25% Other: 28%

Prior industries Business Technology: 30% Consultant/Analyst: 16% Finance/FinTech: 12% Software Engineering and Research: 11% Healthcare: 7% Government: 4% E-commers: 9% Other: 10%

Scholarships

Cornell Tech offers scholarship aid to a limited number of master’s degree students each year.  Merit-based aid is determined by a holistic review of all the applicants’ credentials at the time of their admission. All admitted students who are not fully sponsored are considered – no additional application is needed.

While it is not possible for Cornell Tech to offer full-tuition funding for master’s students, merit scholarships may cover a significant portion of tuition costs. Please note that scholarships cannot be applied to housing or costs other than tuition.

Need-based financial aid is not available from Cornell Tech, but students who are qualified for federal loans may refer to  Johnson’s Financial Aid FAQs  for more information about financing their degree.

For more information about the cost of attendance, please refer to our Tuition & Fees .

Pathway Program Participation

Cornell Tech is pleased to offer application fee waivers to qualified participants of programs designed to provide educational and/or career support to students from historically underrepresented identities.

If you are an administrator or a participant of a program not listed below, you may request that we consider adding the program to our list of programs eligible for an application fee waiver for its participants by writing to [email protected] , provided the program’s mission explicitly aligns with Cornell Tech’s intentionally inclusive diversity mission and demonstrates a clear intent for students to enter a professional or research-based master’s program.

Fee waivers are available to participants of the following programs:

African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS)

Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minority Students (ABRCMS)

Annual Ivy Plus University of Puerto Rico Event

American Economic Association Committee on the Status of Minorities in the Economics Profession Mentoring Program (CSMGEP: Mentoring Program)

American Economic Association Summer Training Program (AEASP)

American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES)

Association Computing Machinery Women Council (ACM-W)

Atlanta University Center Consortium (AUCC)

Big 10 Grad Expo at Purdue University

Black in AI

Black Doctoral Network (BDN)

Building Infrastructure Leading to Diversity (BUILD)

Cal-Bridge Program

California Forum for Diversity in Graduate Education

Carleton College Summer Mathematics Program for Women Undergraduates

Cientifico Latino Graduate School Mentorship Program

Center for Bright Beams Summer Program (CBB)

CCMR NSF PREM

CCMR Summer REU Program at Cornell

CLASSE Summer REU Program at Cornell

CLASSE Summer Research for Community College Students (SRCCS)

CNF/ NNIN REU Program at Cornell

Columbia University Bridge to the PhD Program

Cornell Diversity Preview Weekend (DPW)

Cornell, Maryland, Max Planck Pre-doctoral Research School

Cornell Summer Math Institute (CSMI)

Cornell Summer School on Designing Technology for Social Impact

Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program (CSTEP)

CU Integrated Graduate Education, Research and Training (IGERT) Visitation

The CUNY Pipeline Program

EDGE Program: Enhancing Diversity in Graduate Education

ENGINE (engineering name exchange)

Fisk-Vanderbilt Bridge Program

FLIP (Diversifying Future Leadership in the Professoriate) Alliance

Florida A&M Graduate Feeder Conference

Forte Fellows

Gates Millennium Scholars

National Consortium for Graduate Degrees for Minorities in Engineering and Science (GEM)

Grace Hopper Celebration

HSI Pathways to the Professoriate: Cal State- Northridge, FIU, UTexas- El Paso, NYU, UC-Berkeley, UPenn, Northwestern, UC-Davis

Dr. John H. Hopps Jr. Defense Research Scholars Program

Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers

The Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences (INFORMS Annual Conference)

Laureates & Leaders Program at MIT

Learn IT, Girl Fellowship

LXAI (Latinx in AI members only)

The Leadership Alliance

Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation Summer Undergraduates (LSAMP)

Mathematical and Theoretical Biology Institute (MTBI)

Mathematics Summer REU Program at Cornell

McNair Scholars

Mentoring, Educating, Networking, and Thematic Opportunities for Research in Engineering & Sciences (MENTORES)

Minority Access to Research Careers (MARC)

MIT Summer Research Program (MSRP)

National Name Exchange

National Organization of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers (NOBCCHE)

National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE)

National Society of Black Physicists (NSBP)

National Society fo Hispanic Physicists (NSHP)

Ohio State University- Research Internship for Young Academics Program (OSU-RIYA)

Out in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (oSTEM)

Out for Undergrad (O4U)

Peace Corps

Philosophy in an Inclusive Key Summer Institute (PIKSI)

Philosophy of Law Undergraduate Summer School (PLUSS)

Project 1000

Rutgers Summer Institute for Diversity in Philosophy

Society for Advancement of Chicanos and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS)

Society of Women Engineers (SWE)

Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE)

SoNIC Summer Workshop

Summer Immersion Program in Philosophy (SIPP)

Summer Mathematics Institute at Cornell

Summer Program for Women in Mathematics (SPWM)

Summer Program for Women in Philosophy (SPWP)

Summer Undergraduate Research in Science and Engineering (SUnRiSE)

Tapia Conference

Team for Research in Ubiquitous Secure Technology (TRUST)

The Sadie Collective

Univ. of Arizona Summer Undergraduate Program for Engaging w/ Research (SUPER)

University of Michigan Building Bridges to the Doctorate Program

West Virginia University Summer Law Institute

Williams Math Summer Research Program

Women and Mathematics Program (WAM)

Women in Data Science (WiDS)

How to Nail Your Cornell Johnson MBA Interview: Overview, Questions, & Tips

Learn how to ace your Cornell Johnson MBA interview with this comprehensive guide.

Posted March 1, 2024

Featuring Melanie E.

Crafting Engaging & Unique MBA Resumes

Starting thursday, june 13.

11:00 PM UTC · 60 minutes

Table of Contents

As you prepare for your Cornell Johnson MBA interview , it's important to familiarize yourself with the process and equip yourself with the right strategies and tips to make a lasting impression. In this article, we will provide an overview of the interview experience, share a comprehensive list of common interview questions , offer expert tips, and provide general MBA interview advice to help you stand out and succeed. Let's dive in!

Cornell Johnson MBA Application and the Role of Interview

Before we delve into the interview itself, let's briefly discuss the Cornell Johnson MBA application process and how the interview fits into the overall evaluation of candidates.

As part of your application, the interview serves as an opportunity for the admissions committee to gain deeper insights into your personality, motivations, and fit with Cornell Johnson. It is a chance for you to showcase your unique qualities that may not be fully captured in your application essays or resume.

50 Cornell Johnson Common Interview Questions

Prepare yourself by familiarizing yourself with these 50 common interview questions specifically tailored to Cornell Johnson MBA candidates:

• Why do you want to pursue an MBA at Cornell Johnson?
• What makes you a great fit for our program?
• Tell us about a time when you demonstrated leadership skills.
• How do you handle working in a team with diverse personalities?
• Describe a challenging situation you faced and how you overcame it.
• What role do you see yourself playing at Cornell Johnson and in your future career?
• How do you stay current with industry trends?
• What are your short-term and long-term goals?
• How would your friends describe you?
• Discuss a recent project you worked on and the results achieved.
• What is your plan B if you don't get into Cornell Johnson?
• How do you handle failure or setbacks?
• Describe a time when you had to resolve a conflict with a team member.
• What leadership style do you resonate with the most?
• Tell us about a time when you influenced others to adopt your ideas.
• How do you plan to contribute to the Cornell Johnson community?
• Discuss a difficult decision you had to make and the thought process behind it.
• What are your key strengths and weaknesses?
• How do you deal with stress?
• Describe a time when you had to make a quick decision with limited information.
• What excites you about the opportunity to study at Cornell Johnson?
• Tell us about a time when you had to manage conflicting priorities.
• How do you approach networking and building relationships?
• Describe a time when you had to innovate or think outside the box.
• What kind of impact do you hope to have on your industry?
• Discuss a failure or mistake you made and what you learned from it.
• How do you ensure you stay motivated and driven?
• What is your preferred learning style?
• Tell us about a time when you faced a setback and how you handled it.
• Describe a time when you had to persuade someone to change their opinion.
• How do you approach time management?
• What steps would you take to foster diversity and inclusion at Cornell Johnson?
• Tell us about a situation when you had to adapt to a rapidly changing environment.
• How do you balance personal and professional commitments?
• Describe a time when you had to overcome a particularly difficult challenge.
• What is one thing you would like us to know about you that is not mentioned in your application?
• How do you handle feedback and criticism?
• Tell us about a time when you had to manage a difficult team member.
• Discuss a time when you had to motivate others to achieve a common goal.
• What do you consider your greatest achievement so far?
• How do you approach risk-taking?
• Describe a time when you had to work with limited resources.
• What is your strategy for resolving conflicts within a team?
• How do you deal with ambiguity?
• Tell us about a time when you had to lead a team through a challenging project.
• Discuss a time when you had to handle a difficult client or customer.
• What role does ethics play in your decision-making process?
• Describe a time when you had to work with someone with a different cultural background.
• How do you stay motivated during long-term projects?
• What is your definition of success?
• Tell us about a time when you had to negotiate a difficult situation.
• Discuss a time when you had to take charge in a leadership role.

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List of Expert Tips for the Cornell Johnson Interview

Take note of these expert tips to help you excel during your Cornell Johnson MBA interview:

• Research the program thoroughly: Familiarize yourself with the curriculum, faculty, resources, and any recent developments at Cornell Johnson. This demonstrates your genuine interest and commitment to the program.
• Practice, practice, practice: Prepare responses to common interview questions and conduct mock interviews to refine your answers and gain confidence.
• Show your fit with the program: Highlight specific aspects of Cornell Johnson that align with your goals, values, and interests. Emphasize how you will contribute to the community.
• Be authentic: Be true to yourself and let your genuine personality shine through. Admissions committees value authenticity and transparency.
• Connect your experiences to your goals: Clearly articulate how your past experiences have shaped your aspirations and why an MBA from Cornell Johnson is crucial in achieving them.
• Demonstrate your interpersonal skills: Showcase your ability to work effectively in teams, communicate persuasively, and influence others. Provide specific examples that highlight these competencies.
• Ask thoughtful questions: Prepare a few insightful questions to ask the interviewer, showcasing your genuine interest in the program and your preparedness.
• Follow up with a thank-you note: After the interview, send a personalized thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity and reiterating your interest in the program.

General MBA Interview Tips: How to Stand Out

While the Cornell Johnson interview is unique to the program, there are some general MBA interview tips that can help you stand out in any business school interview:

• Conduct thorough research on the school: Understand the values, culture, and strengths of the MBA program you are applying to. This will enable you to speak confidently about why you are a good fit.
• Highlight your achievements: Use specific examples from your professional, academic, and personal experiences to demonstrate your skills and accomplishments.
• Showcase your leadership potential: Clearly articulate your leadership style, provide examples of times when you led effectively, and highlight your ability to motivate and inspire others.
• Demonstrate your passion: Share why you are genuinely passionate about pursuing an MBA and how it aligns with your long-term goals. Admissions committees look for candidates who are truly enthusiastic about the program.
• Be prepared for behavioral questions: Expect questions that require you to share concrete examples of your past behavior to predict your future actions. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
• Practice active listening: Show engagement and attentiveness during the interview by actively listening to the interviewer, clarifying questions if needed, and providing thoughtful responses.
• Be confident but humble: Strike a balance between showcasing your achievements and being humble. Display confidence in your abilities without coming across as arrogant.
• Maintain a professional demeanor: Dress appropriately, maintain good posture, make eye contact, and exhibit professionalism throughout the interview.
• Be authentic and genuine: Be yourself and let your true personality shine through. Avoid trying to give the "perfect" answers and instead focus on showcasing your unique traits and experiences.

Cornell Johnson MBA Interview FAQs

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the Cornell Johnson MBA interview:

• How long does the interview typically last? The Cornell Johnson MBA interview usually lasts around 30 to 45 minutes.
• Who conducts the interview? The interview is typically conducted by a member of the admissions committee or an alumnus/alumna of the program.
• Is the interview virtual or in-person? The format of the interview may vary, but it is increasingly common for interviews to be conducted virtually, especially in light of the current global situation.
• What should I wear to the interview? Dress professionally for the interview, whether it is in-person or virtual. This means wearing business attire and presenting yourself in a polished manner.
• What if I don't know the answer to a question? If you encounter a question that stumps you, it's okay to ask for clarification or take a moment to gather your thoughts. It's better to provide a well-thought-out response than to rush with a half-baked answer.
• When will I receive the interview invitation? The timing of interview invitations varies, but typically candidates are invited for interviews after their application has been reviewed.
• What is the purpose of the interview? The purpose of the interview is to assess your fit with the Cornell Johnson MBA program, learn more about your experiences, goals, and motivations, and evaluate your communication skills.
• How should I prepare for the interview? Research the school thoroughly, practice answering common interview questions, conduct mock interviews, and review your application materials to refresh your memory on your experiences and goals.

Armed with these insights, tips, and a comprehensive list of common interview questions, you are now equipped to nail your Cornell Johnson MBA interview. Remember to stay authentic, be prepared, and showcase your unique qualities that make you an ideal candidate for the program. Best of luck!

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Frenk Nebiu

Frenk is a former Associate Director of Admissions at Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management, where he evaluated and interviewed Full Time MBA applicants globally from 2018 until late 2021.

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Erin graduated Summa Cum Laude and Phi Beta Kappa from Colby College. She currently lives outside of Boston with her husband and two children and enjoys spending her weekends both coaching and cheering on her kids on the soccer field.

Nicole Shay

Nicole is a former Associate Director of Admissions at Columbia Business School, where she evaluated and interviewed MBA applicants globally from 2015 until early 2021. She also served as the admissions liaison to the Healthcare and Pharmaceutical Management Program and oversaw admissions for the JD/MBA dual degree program with Columbia Law School. Additionally, Nicole managed recruiting for Columbia Business School’s Executive MBA Program. Nicole has travelled to Africa, Asia, Europe, and North and South America to recruit MBA talent, deliver presentations to applicants and leading global companies and host events for alumni and prospective students to connect. She frequently participated in panels for the Forté Foundation and the MBA Tour, and has been interviewed for multiple MBA admissions publications.

Nicole earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Neuroscience from the University of Pittsburgh and her Master of Science degree in Human Capital Management from Columbia University in the City of New York. In her free time, Nicole enjoys traveling by plane to reach new places and by bike to explore them.

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96% of clients are successful. We work with applicants applying to full-time MBA programs as well as Executive and part-time MBA programs. Want help getting into HBS, Wharton and other top global programs? Submit an inquiry for a consultation.

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20 Must-Read MBA Essay Tips

Business school admissions committees care about more than (just) your  GMAT scores and GPA —they want to know who you are and why you belong in their program . Your MBA essays are your best chance to sell the person behind the résumé. They should tie all the pieces of your business school application together and create a comprehensive picture of who you are, what you've done, and what you bring to the table.  Here's a roundup of our best MBA essay tips to keep in mind as you begin to write.

How to Write an Unforgettable B-School Essay

1. communicate that you are a proactive, can-do sort of person..

Business schools want leaders, not applicants content with following the herd.

2. Put yourself on ego-alert.

Stress what makes you unique, not what makes you number one.

3. Communicate specific reasons why you're great fit for each school.

Simply stating "I am the ideal candidate for your program" won't convince the admission committee to push you into the admit pile.

Read More: Find Your Business School

4. Bring passion to your writing.

Admissions officers want to know what excites you. And if you'll bring a similar enthusiasm to the classroom.

5. Break the mold.

Challenge perceptions with unexpected essays that say, "There's more to me than you think."

6. If you've taken an unorthodox path to business school, play it up.

Admissions officers appreciate risk-takers.

7. Talk about your gender, ethnicity, minority status or foreign background....

But only if it has affected your outlook or experiences.

8. Fill your essays with plenty of real-life examples.

Specific anecdotes and vivid details make a much greater impact than general claims and broad summaries.

9. Demonstrate a sense of humor or vulnerability.

You're a real person, and it's okay to show it!

BONUS: Don't Make These MBA Essay Mistakes

1. write about your high school glory days. .

Admissions committees don't care if you were editor of the yearbook or captain of the varsity team. They expect their candidates to have moved onto more current, professional achievements.

2. Submit essays that don't answer the questions.

An off-topic essay, or one that merely restates your résumé, will frustrate and bore the admissions committee. More importantly, it won't lead to any new insight about you.

Attend UNC's top-ranked online MBA program without putting your career on hold. See how.

3. Fill essays with industry jargon.

Construct your essays with only enough detail about your job to frame your story and make your point.

4. Reveal half-baked reasons for wanting the MBA.

Admissions officers favor applicants who have well-defined goals. However unsure you are about your future, it's critical that you demonstrate that you have a plan.

5. Exceed the recommended word limits.

This suggests you don't know how to follow directions, operate within constraints or organize your thoughts.

6. Submit an application full of typos and grammatical errors.

A sloppy application suggests a sloppy attitude.

7. Send one school an essay intended for another—or forget to change the school name when using the same essay for several applications.

Admissions committees are (understandably) insulted when they see another school's name or forms.

8. Make excuses.

If your undergraduate experience was one long party, be honest. Discuss how you've matured, both personally and professionally.

9. Be impersonal in the personal statement.

Many applicants avoid the personal like the plague. Instead of talking about how putting themselves through school lowered their GPA, they talk about the rising cost of tuition in America. Admissions officers want to know about YOU.

Read More: How to Ace Your MBA Interview

10. Make too many generalizations.

An essay full of generalizations is a giveaway that you don't have anything to say.

11. Write in a vacuum.

Make sure that each of your essays reinforce and build on the others to present a consistent and compelling representation of who you are, what you've done, and what you bring to the table.

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MBA Essays: Everything You Need to Know

Scott Edinburgh - Personal MBA Coach

Scott Edinburgh is an mba.com Featured Contributor and the founder of Personal MBA Coach , a boutique MBA admissions consulting and tutoring firm.

Nearly all MBA hopefuls are familiar with the term “MBA essay”, but what exactly does this mean and why is the MBA essay so important? To help guide MBA hopefuls, Personal MBA Coach would like to answer some common questions about the MBA essays and share details on the most common MBA essay types.

Why do I need an MBA essay?

Beyond the obvious answer that nearly all schools require you to write one in order to be admitted, the MBA essay is your chance to show MBA admissions committee members who you are BEYOND the facts and figures. These essays are your opportunities to show what makes you unique, share your goals and discuss how you will add to the dynamic community at your target business school. 

Do I need different MBA essays for each program I apply to?

Unfortunately, YES! While there are some overlapping themes across the most common MBA essay types (more on this below), each business school has its own unique essays. Unless you are applying through an organization such as The Consortium (which has some specific requirements), you must complete a separate application for each MBA program and answer each school’s specific essay questions.

To make this daunting task more manageable, Personal MBA Coach helps clients identify common elements across essay types. Ultimately, however, you should develop a separate essay for each school you are applying to.

What should I write about in my MBA essay?

First and foremost, you should answer the question. It is surprising how often candidates write beautiful essays that do not actually answer the question. Instead of writing what you think admissions committee members want to hear, answer the question.

What are the most common MBA essay questions?

While there are countless different essay questions across MBA programs, the three most common types of essays questions are Goals Essays, Why an MBA? Essays, and Personal Story Essays. (Often one essay question will ask clients to discuss both their goals and why they want an MBA.)

Below, Personal MBA Coach shares our tips for answering each of these key essay types:

Goals Essay

When answering a question about your MBA goals , it is crucial that you are decisive . While no one will hold you to what you write in your MBA applications, you should have a specific post-MBA plan. For most schools, you will want a short-term and a long-term career goal. This goal should be logical for you. This means it should flow naturally from your passions and experience. If it doesn’t, it is crucial that you explain why this goal makes sense for you.

Finally, this goal should be attainable. You are not going to be the CFO of Pepsi two years after graduating from business school (sorry!). Do your research in terms of what position might be reasonable in your target industry.

Why an MBA? Essay

To answer a question about why you want an MBA or why you want to study at X school, you want to show that you have carefully thought through how an MBA (at your target program) will prepare you to achieve your career goals. To do so, Personal MBA Coach suggests being very specific in detailing the opportunities you plan to take advantage of on campus.

Discuss classes you are particularly interested in or perhaps professors you are looking to study with, etc. Do not include a laundry list. Instead, carefully think through how each offering will allow you to fill in your skill and/or experience gaps. Be sure to show an understanding of your target school’s culture and avoid writing vague statements and copying content from other MBA application essays.

Personal Story Essay

With a personal story essay, your objective is to show the reader how your story is unique and how you will add value and diversity to classroom discussions and on campus activities. This can be one of the hardest essays to write. To get started, Personal MBA Coach advises that you make a list of everything you have done in your life and take the time to write it all down. Then, think carefully about the decisions you have made, activities you enjoy and, most importantly, why you made those choices. Finally, look for a theme! What single idea connects these items? This is the hard part, so give it time.

How do you conclude an MBA essay?

Do not overthink the conclusion. In fact, with short word limits, Personal MBA Coach often advises clients to write just one concluding sentence or remove the conclusion altogether. Conclusions can be fluffy, generic or repetitive. You do not need (or want) to waste words here. If you have told your story well and you have addressed the question clearly and concisely, do not worry about the conclusion!

How far in advance should I start my MBA essays?

As soon as possible! It is never too early to start thinking about your MBA essays. In fact, Personal MBA Coach works with many clients 6 month – 3 years in advance through our Early Planning package, helping future applicants make the appropriate career and extracurricular decisions to ensure they have enough experience to write strong MBA essays.

That said, with diligence, some Personal MBA Coach clients are able to develop a compelling MBA essay within a month. (Keep in mind, this is a very compressed timeline and takes dedication to achieve!). Plus, you always want to leave time for proofreading and should avoid submitting your essays at the last minute. 

Founded by a Wharton MBA and MIT Sloan graduate who sits on the Association of International Graduate Admissions Consultants Board of Directors, Personal MBA Coach has been guiding clients for 14 years and is consistently ranked #1 or #2, currently holding the #1 ranking in the US on Poets&Quants.

We help clients with all aspects of the MBA application process including early planning, GMAT/GRE/EA tutoring, application strategy, school selection, essay editing and mock interviews. Our team includes a former M7 admissions director and former M7 admissions interviewers.

Last year, our clients earned more than $6M in scholarships!

Two-Year MBA Program

Two-year mba program: immersive. innovative. intentional..

There’s no other full-time MBA program quite like the Johnson School’s. Led by a world-class faculty, supported by industry-leading practitioners, and packed with immersion opportunities, our one-of-a-kind approach to graduate business education will empower you to make an impact.

Turn Ambition into Impact at Johnson

Whether you’re looking to enhance your existing career or switch to a new one, the Johnson School’s STEM-designated residential MBA program will prepare you for what’s next.

Innovative Academics

The Johnson School’s two-year MBA curriculum provides a comprehensive foundation in key business fundamentals while offering the flexibility to customize your studies. You’ll get to choose electives, minors, immersion areas, and other learning experiences that align with your career goals.

Immersive Experiences

Opportunities to put business concepts into practice abound at the Johnson School, whether collaborating with classmates on a consulting project, trekking the globe on a faculty-led study trip, or embarking on a summer internship with a dream organization.

Inviting Community

A residential MBA program is more than academics. Johnson School students love being part of the greater Cornell community—so much so that the Samuel Curtis Johnson Graduate School of Management was rated No. 1 for Best Campus Environment in The Princeton Review’s 2023 B-School rankings.

Our STEM Designation: The Intersection of Business and Tech

Technology touches nearly every business role and function today, and top full-time MBA programs are already built with that reality in mind.

An official STEM designation recognizes the real-world relevance of our MBA’s management science path: Its curriculum emphasizes data analytics, technology, and other subjects integral to contemporary business leadership.

Benefits of STEM Designation for International Students

For international students considering two-year MBA programs in the United States, it might be helpful to know that the Johnson School’s STEM designation has benefits beyond high-quality, career-focused academics.

Students with the F-1 visa who are enrolled in a STEM-designated program become eligible for a STEM OPT (optional practical training) extension, allowing them to work in the US in an approved STEM field for up to 36 months. This two-year extension:

• Increases hireability
• Extends professional training opportunities
• Provides work authorization for summer internships
• Offers additional chances in the annual lottery for limited US H-1B skilled work visas

At-a-Glance: Our Full-Time Residential MBA

With a one-of-a-kind curriculum, immersive learning opportunities, and a supportive campus community, the Johnson School’s residential MBA prepares you to hit the ground running and stand out among your colleagues—first during your internship and again as you begin your new career.

Degree Awarded MBA from Cornell University

Program Location Ithaca, NY (with course options available in New York City)

Program Format Full-time residential

Program Length

You’re in Good Company: Why the Johnson School for Your Two-Year MBA?

At the Johnson School, you’ll be in good company. Our students are bright, ambitious, and serious about their future. They arrive on campus with a hardworking ethos that only gets stronger as they grow academically, personally, and professionally.

As a student in our two-year MBA program, you’ll benefit from a robust business curriculum and practical learning experiences that will prepare you to succeed in today’s interconnected marketplace. More than 96 percent of the class of 2022 received and accepted job offers within three months of earning their MBA—and many of these offers arrived well before graduation.

You’ll also learn from a world-class faculty that ranked No. 3 for Best Professors in The Princeton Review’s 2023 B-School rankings and receive personalized career advising from a caring team of experts.

Peer to Peer: Connect with an MBA Student Ambassador

One of the most effective ways to help determine the best full-time MBA program for you is to speak with current students about their experiences.

We’d love to link you up with a current Johnson School MBA student—perhaps someone with similar career interests or from your home state or country—so that you can chat about academics, extracurriculars, life in Ithaca , and other relevant topics.

CONNECT WITH AN AMBASSADOR

Innovative Academics: A Look at Our Two-Year MBA Curriculum

Our core curriculum, designed with input from alumni and industry partners, provides a comprehensive foundation in key business fundamentals. Covering topics such as strategy, leadership, marketing management, financial accounting, and data analytics, the Johnson School’s core sets you up for success for your immersive courses, internship, and, ultimately, your career.

VIEW CORE CURRICULUM

Future-Focused: Immersive Learning Experiences

Combining cutting-edge coursework with real-world business conditions, immersions are career pathways of sorts—and a hallmark of the Johnson School’s two-year MBA program.

Led by outstanding faculty and supported by leading industry practitioners, this hands-on program will deepen your knowledge, expand your skills, and build your confidence in a specific area, such as:

Corporate Finance

Digital Technology

Investment Research & Asset Management

Management Consulting

Strategic Operations

Strategic Product & Marketing

Sustainable Global Enterprise

Customized Immersion

DISCOVER OUR IMMERSIONS

Elevate Your Experience: Professional MBA Internships

Summer internships are a signature experience of the Johnson School’s two-year MBA program. Our Career Management Center provides personalized coaching to help you develop into a strong candidate for internship placement and employment.

During your internship, you’ll gain valuable on-the-job experience in your desired field and make professional connections that will last long after your placement ends. Johnson School students intern with organizations such as Amazon, EY, Microsoft, pwc, J.P. Morgan, and Johnson & Johnson.

Recruiters for top companies and organizations repeatedly say how our rich, immersive learning experiences, including these coveted internships, set Johnson School MBAs apart from other applicants.

EXPLORE Career Management

Flexible & Focused: Electives, Cocurriculars, and NYC Weekends

In addition to your MBA core and professional internship experience in your internship, you’ll round out your Johnson School experience with electives, cocurriculars, and even weekend-long intensive classes at Cornell Tech in New York City .

College-Wide & Cornell Electives

Within the college of business, you’ll find more than 100 electives to choose from. You’ll also have access to courses across Cornell University, where you can learn from world-renowned educators in other disciplines.

Co-curricular Activities & Organizations

Gain leadership and cross-cultural experience through global treks , leadership expeditions , and other professional development programs. Plus, many campus clubs and organizations offer ways to gain skills and experience—and make lasting friendships.

Weekend Intensive Courses

As a student in the Johnson School’s two-year full-time MBA program, you’ll have the option to enroll in weekend-long courses at Cornell Tech in New York City. Offerings will vary by semester but often include classes where business and technology intersect.

Industry Intensives: Gain Specialized Skills in a High-Demand Field

Intensives allow you to gain even more specialized skills and knowledge—and gain an edge in today’s competitive marketplace. Typically completed during your final year at the Johnson School, this innovative program combines coursework, collaborative learning, and co-curricular experiences.

Based on emerging and high-demand business specialties, intensives may vary from year to year. Here’s a look at current options:

Financial Technology (Fintech)

Explore the large-scale technical advances in the financial services industry.

Culture & Media Technology

Learn about audience engagement and customer retention in the digital world.

LEARN MORE ABOUT INTENSIVES

Welcome to Johnson: Camaraderie. Community. Cornell.

The Johnson School’s two-year MBA has a long history of collaboration and support—and that shines through in how our students engage with classmates and faculty on a day-to-day basis. In this student-led video, a group of Johnson School MBAs share what they love most about the program and the greater Cornell community—including transformative internships, personalized advising, and how they unwind outside of class.

Small Cohort. Big Impact.

Johnson School MBA students are smart, savvy, and highly motivated. And when they come together as a close-knit cohort, their individual ambition drives their collective success after graduation.

Our size contributes directly to a thriving, supportive learning environment:

• Strong relationships with classmates
• Broad opportunities to engage with faculty and their research
• Access to support and resources
• Deep connections with our highly engaged alumni network

Two-Year MBA News and Updates

We love sharing the accomplishments of our students, faculty, staff, and alumni. BusinessFeed offers stories, industry insights, news items, and more.

Elena Veale, MBA ’24, Learned the Value of Ethical Leadership at Cornell

Elena Veale, MBA ’24 Major/Program: 2-year MBA Doing the greatest good is a big part of being a Cornellian. How will you carry this into your career and life after […]

The Financial Times Ranks Cornell University’s Johnson School Among World’s Top 10 MBA Programs

The Financial Times MBA Rankings 2024 are based on data provided by participating schools and alumni.

Park Fellows alumni spotlight: Heather Henyon MBA ’03

Heather Henyon, MBA ’03, reflects on her career path into angel investing, and how her Park Fellowship experience shaped her journey along the way.

Two-Year MBA Program Admissions

Before you apply, we encourage you to explore our admissions and degree requirements to ensure Johnson School’s two-year residential MBA is the right fit for you. Our website is full of information, and you may also take a campus tour, attend an information session, or connect with a student ambassador.

Attend Admissions Events

From class visits to campus socials, there are many ways to find out if the Johnson School is the best two-year MBA program for you. We hope you’ll join us for one of our many virtual or in-person admissions events. Explore Events

Connect with Students 

Our ambassadors—current Johnson School MBA students—are excited to answer your questions and tell you more about their academic and overall campus experience.

Connect with a Johnson Student Ambassador

Take a Virtual Tour

There’s so much to see at the Johnson School! Explore Sage Hall, where most of your learning will happen, and take a peek at the rest of our beautiful Ithaca-based campus.

Explore Our Campus

MBA Tuition and Expenses 

Learn more about the estimated cost of attendance, including tuition, books, and living expenses. Plus, find details about payment and financial aid options.

More About MBA Costs

VISIT ADMISSIONS WEBSITE

Important Admissions Dates to Remember

Take note of these key dates, including application deadlines and decision announcements:

• September 20, 2023 Round 1
• Oct 15, 2023 & Jan 5, 2024 CGSM Early Application & Traditional Application
• January 10, 2024 Round 2
• April 10, 2024 Round 3 (final deadline)*

*Applications are reviewed on a rolling, space-available basis. Stay up to date with application deadlines for the Johnson School’s MBA programs to make sure you are on track.

Two-Year MBA FAQs

In the process of selecting the best MBA program, some questions may arise, and you may not be the only one who has them. Read through our frequently asked questions (FAQ) below to learn more about the Johnson School’s two-year MBA program.

How do Johnson School MBAs fare in the job market?

Johnson School MBA graduates are highly coveted in the job market. Recruiters seek Johnson School MBAs because they find them exceptionally well-prepared and strong team players who begin making meaningful contributions to employers on day one. See our most recent employment data for more information.

Why do you offer immersions in the first year instead of the second?

Our immersions are a combination of specialized coursework and performance learning activities aimed at providing you with exceptional preparation for your summer internship. Building on the general management foundation of functional skills you gain through your core courses, these immersions give you specialized knowledge in a particular field. Companies consistently tell us that our interns are better able to make an immediate contribution than students from peer institutions.

Can I start my MBA in the spring semester?

No. Our program is structured to deliver content and hone skills in a sequence. Students get most of their functional knowledge foundation and participate in an integrative case competition in the first fall semester then take an immersion in the spring that provides exceptional preparation for the summer internship .

Will you help me find an internship?

Yes. Our Career Management Center is regarded as one of the best in the world. They maintain and continue to grow the list of companies that recruit at the Johnson School. Our goal is not only to help you get an internship and then a job, but to ensure that you leave with the skills to successfully search for positions throughout your career. At the Johnson School, you’ll frequently find students critiquing each other’s resumes, putting each other through mock interviews, and offering encouragement and support. Our alumni are also involved in helping students prepare for interviews.

What are my chances of gaining admission into the Johnson School two-year MBA program?

The short answer is: We don’t know and won’t until you apply. If you look at the profile of our admitted students, read our student blogs, and see yourself at the Johnson School, then please apply!

Our goal is to select individuals who will not only succeed in our MBA program, but make a real and lasting impact on their organizations and the world around them. Our goal is to select individuals who will succeed in our MBA program and make a real and lasting difference in their organizations and the world around them. We recruit students with a broad range of backgrounds and experiences such that everyone contributes to and benefits from a culture in which learning is an intensely shared process. So while a strong undergraduate record, high scores on the GMAT, and success in jobs are all important considerations, we also look for demonstrations of leadership, the ability to work with others, and other traits and experiences that contribute to individual success and collaborative learning and work.

I don’t have any full-time work experience. Can I still apply?

Each year, the Johnson School MBA program admits a small number of individuals who come straight out of an undergraduate program. Since we want all of our students to succeed in their MBA program and beyond, we try to identify those individuals who will hold their own in an environment where most of their peers have some professional experience.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

You’ve read about our innovative curriculum, immersive learning experiences, and tight-knit community. If the two-year Johnson School MBA program sounds like the right fit, we can’t wait to learn more about you!