In recent years, MBA video essays have become a popular tool for business schools to evaluate candidates beyond their written applications. While traditional written essays and standardized test scores remain significant factors in the application, many top-tier business schools have started asking applicants to submit video essays.
Video essays allow candidates to showcase their personality, communication skills, and suitability for the MBA program.
In this article weâll explore everything you need to know about MBA video essays – what it is, why business schools use them, what qualities admissions committees look for, and proven strategies to deliver strong responses.
We’ve also compiled the list of video essay questions for B-schools that include this component in their application process: Northwestern Kellogg, INSEAD, Rotman, Yale SOM, MIT Sloan, Oxford SaĂŻd, IESE, IE, LBS, Emory Goizueta, CMU tepper and Vanderbilt Owen.
What Is an MBA Video Essay?
MBA video essays require candidates to respond to to prompts from the admissions committee through self-recorded videos instead of relying on written responses.
This component has been introduced as an additional element in the application process for select business schools, without replacing traditional written MBA admission essays or the final admission interview.
It’s worth highlighting that due to the relatively recent incorporation of this concept into the MBA application process, different business schools may use varying terminology.
For instance, Kellogg Business School may label it as a video essay, while INSEAD may term it a Video Interview, and MIT may refer to it as a Video Statement. Despite the nomenclature differences, they all essentially entail the same process, with the only potential variation being the video essay’s format.
Types of MBA video essays
There are generally two types of video essays asked in MBA admissions: Live/Impromptu and Pre-recorded. Each type serves a unique purpose and presents its own set of challenges and advantages.
Live/Impromptu Video Essays:
- Live or impromptu video essays require MBA applicants to respond to questions or prompts in real time.
- Candidates are typically given a limited amount of time to prepare their thoughts, often ranging from 30 seconds to a few minutes. Once the preparation time is up, they must begin recording their response immediately. This format aims to assess an applicant’s ability to think on their feet, communicate clearly, and maintain composure under pressure. Admissions committees use live video essays to gauge an individual’s spontaneity, poise, and how effectively they can address unexpected topics or situations.
Pre-recorded Video Essays:
- Pre-recorded video essays, on the other hand, allow MBA applicants more control over the timing of their responses.
- In this format, candidates receive a set of questions or prompts in advance and are allotted a specific amount of time to record their answers. This time frame typically ranges from a few hours to several days, depending on the business school’s requirements. Pre-recorded video essays allow applicants to carefully craft and rehearse their responses, emphasizing their communication skills, creativity, and thoughtfulness in addressing the given prompts. This format allows for a more polished presentation but still evaluates an applicant’s ability to convey their ideas effectively through video.
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Why Business Schools Ask for a Video Essay?
Business schools request video essays as part of the MBA admissions process for various reasons. These video essays offer a unique opportunity to assess applicants beyond traditional written materials.
Here’s a list of 10 key qualities that business schools are looking for in applicants and how different aspects of the video essay can help assess these qualities:
| Quality | What It Demonstrates | Video Essay Component |
|---|---|---|
| Communication Skills | Clarity of Expression | Ability to articulate thoughts coherently and persuasively. |
| Authenticity | Genuine Self-Presentation | Revealed through unscripted, spontaneous responses that show the real personality. |
| Confidence and Poise | Ability to Handle Pressure | Maintaining confidence and composure when answering unexpected questions. |
| Engagement | Ability to Capture Attention | Using storytelling techniques and compelling anecdotes to keep the viewer engaged. |
| Cultural Fit | Alignment with School Values | Expressing genuine enthusiasm for the school and its culture. |
| Problem-Solving Skills | Analytical Thinking | Responding effectively to complex or challenging questions. |
| Leadership Potential | Presence and Influence | Portraying yourself as a confident, impactful leader who inspires and motivates others. |
| Teamwork and Collaboration | Ability to Work Well with Others | Sharing experiences that highlight cooperation and collaboration. |
| Adaptability | Flexibility and Resilience | Thinking on your feet and adapting to unexpected prompts. |
| Passion and Drive | Enthusiasm and Commitment | Conveying genuine passion for your goals and drive to make a meaningful impact. |
These qualities are essential for success in an MBA program and in the business world. The MBA video essays serves as a valuable tool for admissions committees to assess these qualities in applicants, allowing them to make more informed decisions about who would thrive in their academic environment and contribute positively to their MBA community.
As an applicant, you should use the video essay as an opportunity to showcase your unique strengths and qualities that set you apart from the competition.
Which business schools ask to submit a video essay?
In the sections below, weâll walk you through the key video essay questions from top business schools, along with expert tips on how to approach them. For each school, weâve also provided the complete list of latest video essay questions to help you prepare thoroughly.
1) Northwestern Kellogg
Applicants are required to complete three video essay questions as part of their application. These questions provide a valuable opportunity for candidates to showcase their personality, communication skills, and alignment with Kellogg’s values. The video essays are due 96 hours after the application deadline, so plan your application timeline accordingly.
Remember that you have a 20-second preparation period and up to one minute to respond. Use the prep time wisely to outline your answer mentally, and then deliver a clear and concise response within the allotted minute.
Letâs delve into each of the three video essay questions:
Question 1: Please introduce yourself to the admissions committee.
Tip:
- The introduction sets the tone for your application.
- Be concise, authentic, and memorable. Start with a brief overview of your background, highlighting key experiences that have shaped your journey.
- Mention your name, current profession, and what drives your passion for pursuing an MBA at Kellogg. Use this opportunity to provide a glimpse of your unique personality and values.
Question 2: What path are you interested in pursuing, how will you get there, and why is this program right for you?
Tip:
- This question demands a strategic approach.
- Clearly articulate your career goals, emphasizing both short-term and long-term objectives.
- Explain why Kellogg is your ideal platform for achieving these goals. Mention specific resources, courses, or aspects of the Kellogg program that align with your aspirations.
- Your response should reflect a deep understanding of Kellogg’s offerings and a strong connection between your goals and the school’s unique advantages.
Question 3: This question will be based on a challenge you’ve faced and what you’ve learned from it.
Tip:
- Use this question to highlight your resilience and growth. Choose a challenge, either personal or professional, that showcases your ability to overcome adversity and learn from the experience.
- Describe the challenge briefly, focusing more on the lessons learned and how it has influenced your character and decision-making.
- Conclude by explaining how these lessons will contribute to your success as an MBA candidate at Kellogg.
Compilation of Kellogg Video Essay questions (2024)
- Tell us something about you that is not on your resume. (all applicants will receive this question)
- Tâ ell us about a time when you were mindful or supportive of a diverse group of people/opinions. What did you do?
- Talk about a time when you create an inclusive environment for someone.
- Talk about an environment you created where diversity is valued.
- Tell me about a time when a colleague or a corporate contact helped you?
- Introduce yourself outside of your CV.
- Tell us something about yourself that we wonât know from your resume
- There are many MBA schools. Whatâs so unique about Kellogg?
- How long have you been considering an MBA and what have you learned about your goals in this time?
- Whose leadership style do you admire the most and you wish to adopt?
- Tell us about a time you were uncomfortable. How did you feel?
- What is one misconception coworkers have about you and how do you plan to change that?
- Tell us about the best piece of advice you have received, how you utilized it and how it impacted you?
- Tell us about a time you received harsh feedback. What was your reaction and how did you proceed to act on it?
- Tell us about one time when you received feedback that changed your perspective about something
- Tell us about time you received feedback that you didnât agree with
- Tell us about a time when you helped improved a process in your company, organization or community
- When and how did you resolve a conflict?
- Tell us about a time when you faced unforeseen or unexpected challenges
- Tell us about a time you failed and used an unconventional approach the next time. What happened?
- Tell us about a time when a conflict affected the productivity of the team? How did you handle it? What did you learn from it?
- Tell us about a time where an unexpected situation arose? Why did it arise? What did you do to pivot and why?
- Tell us about a time where you used a unique or creative way to solve a problem. What did you do and what was the outcome?
- What is one value or quality that you bring to the Kellogg community and how will it help others?
- Tell us about an experience outside school and outside office that motivated you to pursue a postgraduate education?
- Tell us about a time you leveraged a professional relationship to achieve your goals
- Tell us how you created an environment where differences and diverse ideas are respected. What was the outcome?
- Tell us about a time you added value in a professional capacity
- Tell us about a time when you had to ask for help. What did you learn?
Note: Please consider this list indicative and not exhaustive
2) INSEAD
After you’ve successfully submitted your INSEAD MBA online application, an email notification from Kira Talent will swiftly arrive in your inbox, containing a unique link for you to embark on four video interviews.
These interviews entail answering four distinct questions, and it’s essential to note that the questions presented to you may differ from those posed to other applicants. You’ll have a brief 45 seconds to prepare for each question and a minute to articulate your response.
These video interviews present a distinct opportunity for you to unveil your passions, motivations, and your true essence. The MBA Admissions Committee seeks an authentic portrayal of you as an individual, eager to witness your ability to think on your feet and effectively communicate your thoughts.
It’s important to emphasize that these video interviews do not replace face-to-face/online interviews with Alumni, which will still be a part of the assessment process. The video essay has to be submitted within 48 hours after the deadline of the Round in which you apply to INSEAD.
Tips for INSEAD Video Essay
- To ensure a seamless experience, INSEAD recommends using either Microsoft Edge or Chrome for recording your Kira videos. Preparing extensively by practicing is encouraged, as it allows you to convey authentic and genuine responses, even though the practice questions and your responses won’t be disclosed to the Admissions Committee.
- Before you begin recording, conduct a brief technology check by testing your camera and microphone. Once satisfied with the technical aspects, shift your focus to the camera, envisioning that you are addressing the Admissions Committee directly.
- Wear Business or Business Casual Attire.
- Lastly, consider keeping a notebook handy during the interviews to jot down key ideas. Remember, you’ll have just 45 seconds to prepare for each answer, followed by 60 seconds to deliver your response to the Admissions Committee.
Compilation of INSEAD MBA Video Essay questions (2024)
- In the event of team underperformance, how do you plan to address the situation?
- Is there a particular manager you admire? If so, what qualities inspire your admiration?
- Could you recount a scenario where you effectively collaborated with someone holding contrasting views?
- Describe a recent instance where a clash of cultural norms resulted in conflict.
- From your perspective, what defines success in a professional career?
- Can you share your understanding of the Insead MBA program?
- How do you approach providing constructive criticism to a coworker?
- What strategies do you employ to earn respect as a manager?
- What goals do you aspire to achieve during your time at Insead?
- In your opinion, what constitutes unethical leadership behavior?
- What keeps you engaged and motivated at work?
- How will INSEAD help you achieve your professional objectives?
- Describe a time when you saw someone else doing something differently. How did you react?
- Describe a time when you received negative feedback. How did you feel?
- Do you consider yourself to be creative?
- What do you think is the biggest challenge in leading a global team?
- If you look back 10 years into your life, what would success mean to you?
- Who or what inspires you the most?
- What is the leadership quality you admire? Why?
- How do you handle frustration at work and give constructive criticism?
- How can INSEAD help you to contribute to the community?
- What skills do you think you are missing that you want to work on while at INSEAD?
- Tell us about something that your family or company borrowed from someone else, its advantages and its disadvantages
- Why should we select you?
- Tell us about the most pressing climate concern today and how you will tackle it?
- How do you handle frustration at work? How do you openly communicate to resolve the frustration?
- Are you aware of your biases? How does that affect your thoughts?
- If you were given unlimited resources, which product or services would you offer to community and why?
- What are your guiding principles or involvement in Coporate and Social Responsibility
- How is diversity handled at your organization?
- Tell us about a new app that was released in the past 3 and has resonated with you.
- What do you think are the qualities of a good friend.
- How do you generate ideas
- What would you do if a new boss was acting in a surprising or offensive way to the local culture
- A teammate of yours is shy of speaking out. How would you help them?
- Most challenging decision you have taken?
- Has your family or company adopted anything from other culture? What impact (positive or negative) it has had on you?
- If you won 10 billion dollars, what would you do?
- What is the most difficult aspect of working with you?
- What do you think people often misunderstand about you?
- What are the key elements of starting and running a successful business?
Video Essay:
- What is something you are deeply passionate about but others might find surprising? What is the fulfilling part of it?
- What are three things that motivated you to apply to INSEAD?
- If you were to explain about your country to someone who is meeting someone from your country for the first time – how would you do it?
- What is the most challenging part of pursuing an MBA at INSEAD?
Note: Please consider this list indicative and not exhaustive
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3) Rotman School of Management
Once you’ve submitted your application, expect an email from Kira Talent, a designated service provider. Within this email, you will discover a link granting access to the video essay platform, a crucial component of Rotman’s application process, which comprises two video questions.
Upon accessing the platform and initiating the session, you will be presented with a total of two spoken questions, delivered sequentially, one after the other.
Once you receive the question, you will be granted a 30-second window for contemplation, followed by a 90-second timeframe for your response. It’s essential to note that there are no opportunities for revisiting or reattempting the question; you have just one opportunity to express your thoughts and provide your answer.
Regardless of when you initially submit your application, remember that the clock starts ticking once you access the video essay platform. You must submit your video essay response within two weeks of submitting your application to complete this vital step in the Rotman admissions process.
4) Yale SOM
Once you’ve successfully submitted your application, expect an email notification from Kira Talent, the designated company for Yale’s video essay component. Inside this email, you’ll find a link that grants access to the video essay platform.
Upon logging in and commencing the session, you’ll encounter a total of three Yale video essay questions, presented one at a time. These questions are randomly generated but fall into distinct categories, each with its own focus.
The Yale video essay questions are thoughtfully categorized into three groups:
- MBA Motivations (Group 1): The initial question in the Yale SOM video essay will center on your motivations, specifically regarding your interest in Yale or the rationale behind pursuing an MBA.
- Behavioral Questions (Group 2): Yale values individuals who embody purpose-driven adaptability, teamwork, and strong communication skills. Therefore, they often pose questions aimed at assessing your ability to collaborate effectively and your potential to contribute positively to the Yale community.
- The Thinking Question (Group 3): In addition to traditional interview queries, you will be tasked with responding to a “thinking question,” akin to a case study, during the Yale video essay. This question serves to evaluate your ability to think on your feet, a crucial aspect tested in Yale’s raw case method.
As you approach these questions, keep in mind that for the first and third, you’ll have 20 seconds to prepare and 60 seconds to provide your response. However, for the second question, you’ll be granted 30 seconds of preparation time and 90 seconds to articulate your answer.
Regardless of when you submit your initial application, remember that it’s imperative to complete and submit your responses to the Yale video essay questions within a maximum of 48 hours following the round’s application deadline. This ensures your application remains complete and on schedule.
Compilation of Yale SOM Video Essay questions (2024)
- Whatâs a difficulty you/your team faced and how did you overcome it?
- Do you agree or disagree with the following statement: Globalization makes it necessary to understand business competitors.
- Do you think that the non-business factors such as social, legal and political factors are given enough consideration by corporations in todayâs world?
- Is operational excellence the most important part for any organization?
- Why have you decided to pursue an MBA now?
- Talk about a time when you and your team faced a major obstacle. How did you overcome it?
- Some people say that investors have a big say in defining the company strategy and can often shadow the opinion of internal stakeholders.” What are your views on this?
- Whatâs a difficulty you/your team faced, and how did you overcome it?
- Do you agree or disagree with the following statement: Globalization makes it necessary to understand business competitors.
- Talk about a time when you and your team faced a major obstacle. How did you overcome it?
- Some people say that investors have a big say in defining the company strategy and can often shadow the opinion of internal stakeholders.” What are your views on this?
- Yale has many traditions. What is one of your favourite traditions?
- Why are you doing an MBA now?
- What motivates you to get an MBA at this point?
- Tell us about a time when a team member was not doing his share of work and how you handled it
- Tell us about a time you or your team fixed a critical problem at work
- Tell us about a problem that you solved by breaking down into its pieces
- Tell us about a time when there was a potential problem at work and how did you prevent it?
- Mention a vague problem that was given to you and how did you solve it?
- Tell us about a teacher who has impacted you in life?
- Yale School of Drama has produced many world renowned artists (e.g. Meryl Streep). Which artist do you admire most and why?
- Which type of art holds significance to you among the various arts across Yale Center for European arts, Yale Center for Natural arts and Yale Center for British arts?
- New Haven has great architectural significance (something along these lines). What piece of architecture has the greatest significance to you in your hometown or region? Why?
- What is a tradition you hold dear to yourself?
- What piece of advice were you given about pursuing an MBA which you value the most
Note: Please consider this list indicative and not exhaustive.
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5) MIT Sloan
MIT Sloan takes a unique approach to video essays, referring to this component as a âvideo statement.â Unlike traditional written essays, the Sloan video statement allows applicants to introduce themselves directly to the admissions committee in a more personal, authentic manner. Candidates are typically asked to record a one-minute video response, offering insights into their personality, values, and motivation for pursuing the Sloan MBA. This helps the committee assess communication style, presence, and cultural fit beyond the written application.
Here are some key tips to help you answer the MIT Sloan video statement effectively.
Question: âPlease take a minute to introduce yourself to your future classmates.â
This is your opportunity to introduce yourself and make a personal connection. Unveil your true self, let your personality sparkle, and have a genuine conversation â this is your moment to shine.
- Keep the following criteria in mind when creating your videos for MIT:
- Avoid adding background music or subtitles to your video.
- Keep it under 60 seconds, no more!
- Record it all in a single take, no editing allowed.
- Speak directly into the camera.
Compilation of MIT Sloan Video Essay questions (2024)
- Discuss a time you got yourself out of an awkward situation.
- Whatâs your biggest accomplishment/What achievement are you most proud of and why?
- How would you go about learning a skill?
- Talk about a challenging decision you made at work
- What was the biggest challenge you faced this week?
- Tell us about a time a classmate or colleague wasnât contributing to a group project. What did you do?
Note : Please consider this list indicative and not exhaustive
6) Oxford SaĂŻd
In order to learn more about applicants and assess their ability to think quickly, Oxford SaĂŻdâs MBA application process includes an online assessment.
Once the MBA application is submitted, you will find a link in the application status portal. This link allows you to register with Kira Talent, the online assessment platform, and complete the assessment. The assessment can be done anytime before the application deadline for the desired stage, for instance, Round 1 applicants must complete the assessment by the Round 1 deadline.
The online assessment consists of:
- Three competency-based questions, chosen randomly from a pool of available questions. This question allows you to demonstrate skills and qualities such as decision-making, problem-solving, leadership, teamwork, influencing, change management, and communication.
Example: âCould you share an experience where you successfully handled a challenging situation, either in your professional or personal life? How did you approach resolving it?â
For each question, you will have 20 seconds of preparation time, followed by 90 seconds for your response. You will have unlimited practice time. Itâs important to note that there are no opportunities to redo the questions, and you have only one chance to respond and share your answers during the assessment.
The entire online assessment should take about 30 minutes to complete, so plan accordingly. 60 seconds to prepare and 90 seconds to respond. For each competency-based question, there is 45 seconds of preparation time followed by 60 seconds to provide an answer.
Compilation of Oxford SaĂŻd MBA Video Essay questions (2024)
- Since how long have you wanted to do your MBA? Why now is the right time and what skills do you hope to gain?
- Students apply to many programmes and B schools. According to you, what makes Oxford unique?
- Tell us about a time you were overloaded with work, how did you handle it?
- Tell us about a time you asked for help and how did it go?
- Tell us about a time you led a diverse team, what specific skill did you use and why?
- Tell us a time when you had an idea and had to convince your project team.
- What is the most significant personal weakness that you have identified, what did you do about it and what was the result?
- Imagine you are proposing a business innovation idea for a class project and the audience is not interested. What would you do?
- How would you convince a team about your idea if you were sure of its positive outcome?
- â â Tell us about a time 2 members in your team/ group were not working well together. What did you do about it?
- Tell us about a time you had to make a decision under pressure. How did you go about it?
Note: Please consider this list indicative and not exhaustive
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7) IESE Business School
IESE Business School has introduced Video Essays as part of the application process this year, replacing the previous personal essay requirement.
The purpose of this change is to gain a deeper and more authentic understanding of applicants. It allows the Admissions Committee to get insights into the thought process and communication style of each candidate.
After submitting the written application and paying the required fees, you will receive a Kira Video Essay link within 24 hours, to be completed by the Application Round Deadline. This link will expire 48 hours after receipt. You will receive detailed instructions along with the link. Upon clicking the link, you can create a Kira account and practice before recording your video essay.
Each applicant will need to respond to two video essay questions. For each question, there will be a preparation time before recording the response.
Applicants are encouraged to be concise, as they have a limited time of 1.5 minutes to provide each answer. The Admissions Committee values authenticity and is interested in getting to know the real applicant, rather than hearing what they think the committee wants to hear.
It’s important to note that the application will be considered complete and ready for review only after all components, including the video essays, have been submitted.
Compilation of IESE MBA Video Essay questions (2024)
- How do we pronounce your name?
- Tell us something about you not in your resume.
- Tell us something thatâs unique about you – traits and attributes uniquely you.
- What is the one feedback you received that you didn’t agree with? How did you react and what was the outcome?
- Every team has a certain archetype: architect, analyst etc. Which archetype are you when you play in a team? And why?
- Tell us one thing you like and one thing you don’t like about your current job.
- Give a background of yourself and what abilities you can bring to the IESE MBA.
- When was the last time you were creative.
- Tell us how to pronounce your name
- Give us a brief background about yourself and your capabilities
- If you were the CEO of your company, what would you do differently?
- Tell us about a time when you had to make a decision without having the necessary information
- An ethical dilemma that you faced.
- What is the core value of your employer and how does it come across in your day to day operation
- How does your typical work day look like?
- â One thing you like about your work and one thing you do not like
Note: Please consider this list indicative and not exhaustive
8) IE Business School
This year, IE Business School has introduced a video essay to get to know you better. The online assessment is quick and won’t take more than 30 minutes.
IE Business School has added this to its admissions process because they believe in innovation. This part of the process helps them understand your personality and how you respond in real time.
You’ll need a computer with an internet connection, a microphone, and a webcam. You’ll answer three live questions â two in video format and one in writing. You can practice several times, but remember, once you officially start the assessment, you only have one chance to respond. You have one week from when you submitted your online admissions application to complete this online assessment.
9) London business School (LBS)
Upon your shortlist notification from LBS, you will receive an email with a link to complete your video essays. The link redirects you to the KIRA platform, where you will first be asked to register, verify your email address and set up your microphone and camera.
Once you have completed the set up, you can practice some video essays on the platform. While the practice questions are taken from a question bank and are likely different from the ones youâll actually see, it is mandatory to practice at least once.
Itâs now time to sign in and start your ârealâ session. You will get two questions in total. The first question is random, and the second is fixed i.e. the same for all applicants. For each question, you will have 40 seconds to prepare and subsequently 90 seconds to answer.
Each question will appear as a video on the screen, with someone from the LBS Admissions Committee reading out the question and text appearing under the video. Your image will then be visible on the screen, at which point, your 40 seconds to prepare will automatically appear. After your preparation time runs out, the clock timer (1.5 minutes i.e. 90 seconds) will start, and you will need to provide your answer within this duration.
Remember, you cannot redo either of the questions, meaning you only get one shot at them. You will also not be allowed to exceed the time limit i.e. the timer ends after 90 seconds, and the screen automatically presents you the next question, or ends the session after the second question.
Video Essays â Question Types & Sample Questions
The first question is random and typically falls within the following categories:
- Self Introspective: Here, you may be asked to reflect on your strengths and weaknesses, successes and failures etc. providing insights into your self-awareness. This question type aims to gauge your ability to assess personal and professional attributes, recognize improvement areas and effectively leverage your strengths.
- Leadership: This question type involves sharing specific instances of leadership experiences, highlighting your approach, decision-making, and impact. The idea here is to evaluate your leadership and negotiation style, ability to inspire others, and how you navigate challenges within a leadership role.
- Behavioral: These are the âTell Me About a Time (TMAT)â questions which delve into past experiences to predict future behavior. You might be asked to narrate a challenging situation you faced, the actions you took, and the outcomes. These questions assess problem-solving skills, resilience, and the capacity to learn and adapt from previous experiences.
- Motivational: These questions aim to uncover the driving forces behind your pursuit of an MBA or specific career path post-MBA. You may be asked to articulate your goals and the alignment between your personal and professional objectives. The aim is to assess the clarity and sincerity of your motivations.
- Curveballs: Curveball questions are unexpected and designed to test your ability to think on your feet. These might include hypothetical scenarios, unconventional problem-solving tasks, or creative challenges. The purpose is to evaluate adaptability, creativity, and how you handle unexpected situations, without losing your calm.
The second question is fixed: âWhat will you gain from the LBS MBA that you wonât gain from another MBA program?â
Compilation of LBS MBA Video Essay questions (2024)
- What will you gain from the London Business School MBA Program that you wonât gain from another MBA program?
- Tell us about a time you worked in a dysfunctional team. What did you do to improve it?
- Tell us about a time you received feedback. How are you implementing it now?
- If you could change one thing about your professional experience, what would it be?
- Tell us about a time when you faced conflict at work.
- Tell us about a time when you were exposed to a different culture. Where did you find the most value in this experience?
- Tell us about a time you solved a problem creatively
- Since how long have you wanted to do your MBA? Why now is the right time, and what skills do you hope to gain?
- What will you gain from an LBS MBA that you wonât gain from another MBA?
- Tell us about a time you asked for help and how did it go?
- Tell us about a time you were overloaded with work, how did you handle it?
- Tell us a time when you had an idea and had to convince your project team.
- Do you prefer cats or dogs and explain why?
- What specific skills are you looking to gain at LBS?
- What is the most significant personal weakness that you have identified, what did you do about it and what was the result?
- Imagine you are proposing a business innovation idea for a class project and the audience is not interested. What would you do?
- Tell us about a time you led a diverse team, what specific skill did you use and why?
- Youâre giving a pitch and the audience is not active, how do you recognise this and how do you engage them?
- How do you describe the color red to someone who can only see in black and white?
- Tell us something about you not in your resume.
- What is the one feedback you received that you didnât agree with? How did you react and what was the outcome?
- Tell us one thing you like and one thing you donât like about your current job.
- What keeps you engaged and motivated at work?
- Do you consider yourself to be creative?
- What do you think is the biggest challenge in leading a global team
- If you look back 10 years into your life, what would success mean to you?
- Who or what inspires you the most?
- What is the leadership quality you admire? Why?
- Tell us about the most pressing climate concern today and how you will tackle it?
- How do you handle frustration at work? How do you openly communicate to resolve the frustration?
- Are you aware of your biases? How does that affect your thoughts?
- If you were given unlimited resources, which product or services would you offer to the community and why?
Note: Please consider this list indicative and not exhaustive
10) Emory Goizueta
Emory values the stories you share in your written essays, and the video essay gives you a chance to speak directly to the Admissions Committee so they can learn more about you through your responses to a set of randomized questions. Youâll record a short video essay as part of your application. First, test your camera and microphone using the âStart Testâ button. Once you confirm everything works, the system will show you a question. Youâll get 30 seconds to prepare and up to 60 seconds to answer.
You can stop early if you finish before time runs out. After recording, you can review your video and choose to submit or try again. You have up to 3 attempts, but each attempt may present a new question. After 3 attempts, your final recording will be submitted automatically.
Compilation of EMORY GOIZUETA MBA Video Essay questions (2024)
- Of Goizueta Business Schoolâs Core Values (Courage, Integrity, Accountability, Rigor, Diversity, Team, Community), which one resonates the most with you and why?
- What is the best advice you have received and how have you used it in your life or career?
- Outside of family and work, what is something that you are passionate about and why?
- what would you do with an extra hour a day?
- What characteristics do you want to introduce to your future Emory classmates?
- What book do you like and why?
- What is your favorite song and why?
- If you had to live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
- Why did you choose your undergrad major?
- Tell us a time you were challenged by a co-worker. How did you handle the situation?
- What is the best gift you have ever received?
- Do you have a mentor? Describe the importance of that relationship.
Note: Please consider this list indicative and not exhaustive
11) Vanderbilt Owen
The video response is a mandatory part of the application. Its purpose is to give the Admissions Committee an authentic sense of your personality, presence, and communication style. The questions are simple âsmall talkâ prompts – just relax and be yourself.
How it works:
- Start by testing your camera and microphone using the âStart Testâ button.
- Once confirmed, youâll be shown a question. Youâll have 15 seconds to prepare.
- Youâll then have up to 90 seconds to record your response (you can stop earlier if finished).
- After recording, you can review and decide whether to submit or try again.
- You may record up to 3 times, but each attempt will have a different question. After 3 tries, your final response is submitted automatically.
- A confirmation message will appear once your video has been received.
Compilation of Vanderbilt Owen MBA Video Essay questions (2024)
- If you could change anything about the past 2 years of your life, what would it be and why?
- What is the most useful invention in your lifetime and why?
- Tell us about one of your favorite TV shows. Why should we watch it?
- When you need to ârefill your emotional battery,â what do you do?
- Tell us about someone in your life who has influenced you and why.
- what will you do if you are given an extra hour in a day
- What is a warm childhood memory?
- What is your biggest fear
- Tell me about your hometown.
- Explain to an old person what does a hobby mean
- Tell me a time when you believe you have to do the right thing. Even though it is a challenging decision to make
- Describe a time you failed.
- What is your proudest accomplishment?
- TMAT people were treated unfairly, what did you do?
- TMAT you were judged unfairly / received unfair feedback
- Who was your favourite teacher, and why did you like them so much?
- Tell me about a time when you faced an ethical dilemma.
- How did you resolve a conflict between the team?
- Tell us about a time when you had to deal with an unethical situation at work and what did you learn from it
- TMAT you were asked to change something last minute.
- What traits or characteristics make you an excellent candidate for our program?
- How well do you work under pressure? What is your strategy for working under pressure?
- Do you go the extra mile while working on a project? Why?
- Could you explain your short and long-term goals after the MBA?
- If admitted, how do you contribute to the academic community at our school?
- Why do you think you are a good fit for our university?
- Can you explain an experience where you faced discrimination and how you overcame it?
- When looking back at your life, do you have any regrets? What would you have changed if given a chance?
- Talk about a tough decision you had to take. Why was it difficult? How did you manage it?
- Can you talk about an instance where you had to do something morally questionable? How did you go about it?
- Explain an assignment that you have done under a tight deadline. How did you do it, and what sacrifices did you make to deliver?
12) CMU Tepper
Prompt: Please describe your post-MBA career goals.
Time Limit: Up to 2 minutes
How to Structure Your Response
Keep your answer natural, clear, and well-organized. Prepare key talking points, not a memorized script.
- Brief Background
- Share 1â2 lines on your current/previous sector, role, and key takeaways.
- Highlight transferable skills or insights gained.
- Immediate Post-MBA Goal
- State your target sector, function, and geography.
- Explain why you are drawn to this path (interests, strengths, market trends).
- Mention a Plan B if relevant.
- Long-Term Goal
- Share your directional vision (e.g., leadership in a certain industry, entrepreneurship, impact-driven work).
- Explain personal motivations behind it.
- Show how your short-term role is a stepping stone to this long-term plan.
- Why Tepper
- End with one line on how Tepperâs curriculum, community, or resources will help you make this transition.
Tips:
- Be specific but flexible – itâs okay if you havenât narrowed down to one company.
- Show genuine excitement and clarity of thought.
- Practice timing to keep within 2 minutes.
- Smile and maintain good energy – authenticity matters.
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Creating MBA Video/ Kira Essays : Tips for Pre-Recorded and Impromptu Versions
Video essays have become a vital component of the MBA admissions process, offering applicants a unique platform to showcase their personality and communication skills. Whether it’s a pre-recorded or impromptu video essay, here are ten tips to help you excel in this aspect of your application:
Understand the Purpose
- Pre-Recorded: Pre-recorded video essays often have prompts that allow for structured responses. Understand the specific question and ensure your video essay directly addresses it.
- Impromptu: In impromptu video essays, you may not know the questions in advance. Focus on providing insightful, concise answers to the given prompts.
Be Concise
- Pre-Recorded: Use your allotted time efficiently. Be concise in your response while ensuring you provide a complete and well-structured answer.
- Impromptu: Stay on point and avoid rambling. Use the given preparation time to outline your response and make your points concisely during the recording.
Prepare Thoroughly
- Pre-Recorded: Take time to brainstorm ideas, outline your response, and rehearse multiple times. Ensure your message is clear and compelling.
- Impromptu: Since you may have limited time to prepare, practice answering diverse types of questions to build your ability to think on your feet. Doing Mock Interviews can particularly help.
Showcase Your Personality
- Pre-Recorded: Your video should provide a glimpse of your character and values. Let your authenticity shine through by being yourself.
- Impromptu: Be genuine in your responses. Authenticity is highly valued in impromptu video essays.
Maintain Eye Contact
- Pre-Recorded: Look directly into the camera to establish a connection with the viewer. This creates a sense of engagement and sincerity.
- Impromptu: Even when you don’t know the questions in advance, maintain eye contact with the camera during your responses to appear confident and composed.
Have a Strong Opening and Closing
- Pre-Recorded: Begin with a compelling introduction and end with a memorable conclusion that reinforces your main points.
- Impromptu: Use the initial seconds to frame your response and conclude succinctly by summarizing your key message.
Eliminate Distractions
- Pre-Recorded: Choose a quiet, well-lit location with minimal distractions for your recording. Ensure your background is professional.
- Impromptu: Find a quiet spot where you can focus solely on your response without interruptions.
Manage your Time Well
- Pre-Recorded: Allocate sufficient time for recording, reviewing, and editing if necessary. Avoid rushing the process.
- Impromptu: Manage your time wisely during preparation and response. Stick to the given time limits.
Rehearse Video Recording Technology
- Pre-Recorded: Familiarize yourself with the recording equipment and software. Ensure your audio and video quality are top-notch.
- Impromptu: Check your internet connection, camera, and microphone in advance to avoid technical glitches.
Seek Feedback
- Pre-Recorded: Share your video with mentors, advisors or trusted friends to gather constructive feedback and make improvements.
- Impromptu: After practicing impromptu responses, seek feedback on your communication skills and clarity.
Tip: In both pre-recorded and impromptu MBA video essays, the key is effectively communicating your message while showcasing your suitability for the MBA program. With preparation, practice, and attention to these tips, you can create impressive video essays that enhance your MBA application.
Final Thoughts
In an increasingly competitive MBA admissions landscape, video essays offer you a chance to stand out and convey your unique value to the business school of your choice.
Use this opportunity to not only address the questions asked but also to paint a vivid picture of your aspirations, experiences, and character. It’s a tool that, when used effectively, can elevate your application and set you on the path to success in your MBA journey. So, embrace the challenge, be yourself, and make your video essay a compelling testament to your candidacy.
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FAQs – MBA Video Essays
What is an MBA video essay?
An MBA video essay is a recorded response to prompts given by business schools as part of the application process. Unlike written essays, it allows admissions committees to evaluate your communication skills, personality, confidence, and cultural fit. Schools like Kellogg, INSEAD, Yale SOM, and MIT Sloan use video essays or KIRA assessments.
Why do business schools ask for MBA video essays?
Business schools use MBA video essays to assess qualities not visible in written applications- such as clarity of expression, authenticity, leadership presence, and adaptability. They help schools see how applicants think on their feet, communicate under pressure, and align with the programâs values.
Which business schools require MBA video essays?
Top schools such as Northwestern Kellogg, Yale SOM, MIT Sloan, INSEAD, Oxford SaĂŻd, Rotman, IESE, and IE Business School include video essays or KIRA interviews in their MBA application process. Each schoolâs format and question style vary, so reviewing past questions and practicing is crucial.
How can I prepare for MBA video essay questions?
Start by practicing common MBA video essay questions on career goals, leadership challenges, and teamwork. Record yourself to evaluate clarity, tone, and body language. Use the 20â30 seconds prep time wisely to outline answers. Stay authentic, concise, and confident-avoiding memorized scripts.
What are common MBA video essay questions?
Examples include:
> Introduce yourself to the admissions committee.
> Why do you want to pursue an MBA at our school?
> Describe a challenge you faced and how you handled it.
> How will you contribute to the MBA community?
> Schools like Kellogg, INSEAD, and Rotman also provide behavioral and situational prompts.
How important are MBA video essays in the admission process?
While written essays and interviews carry significant weight, MBA video essays are increasingly important. They allow schools to validate your written application, test communication under pressure, and gauge personality fit. Strong video responses can set you apart from equally qualified applicants.
What are some tips to ace MBA video essays?
> Practice with mock questions under timed conditions.
> Speak clearly and maintain eye contact with the camera.
> Show authenticity- donât over-script responses.
> Highlight career goals, leadership potential, and cultural fit.
> Use specific examples to back your answers.
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