I recently asked a group of recent MBA graduates: What advice would you give to future applicants? Here’s what they had to say…

1. Be clear on your motivation

This was by far the most common piece of advice. Take the time to really understand why you want to pursue an MBA and what you hope to gain from the experience. Whether it’s a career pivot, leadership development, or building a global network, knowing your “why” will guide your decisions and keep you focused throughout the journey.

2. Start early

This came up time and again. The MBA application process is demanding – between researching programmes, preparing for standardised tests, writing essays, and securing recommendations, there’s a lot to juggle. Starting early gives you the breathing room to do it all well, and with less stress.

3. Do your research

This is essential to finding the right fit. Go beyond rankings – talk to the admissions team, current students, and alumni. If possible, visit campuses and attend events. Several graduates also emphasised how important location was in shaping their overall experience – professionally, culturally, and personally.

No two MBA journeys are the same, but the insights from those who’ve recently walked the path can be invaluable. Take the time to reflect, plan ahead, and immerse yourself in the process. The more intentional you are from the start, the more rewarding your MBA experience is likely to be.