Ask an MBA Admissions Consultant

In this article we will review the Wharton MBA essay questions for the 2020-2021 admissions cycle. We will share the most common pitfalls you should avoid and a few tips to craft a solid essay that truly highlights your strengths and uniqueness. Make sure you review essay analysis for other top programs on the blog!

When answering Wharton essay questions, it is essential to focus on showcasing the right blend of characteristics sought by the institution. To effectively address these prompts, one should aim to provide insights into both their professional and personal qualities. Wharton encourages applicants to be reflective, honest, and concise in their responses. The key advice is to remain authentic and present oneself genuinely. Additionally, applicants should carefully consider the specific questions posed by Wharton and provide detailed, compelling answers that highlight their unique qualities and experiences. By following these guidelines and diving deep into their responses, applicants can create standout essays that effectively communicate their suitability for Wharton's academic environment.

Essay #1

How do you plan to use the Wharton MBA program to help you achieve your future professional goals? You might consider your past experience, short and long-term goals, and resources available at Wharton. (500 words)

This is your typical career goals essay for an in-depth analysis on how to craft a persuasive career goal essay check out this article.

To answer this question, think big picture, what are your aspirations and career goals? How does Wharton fit into this narrative? Avoid the common pitfall of making this question about your professional background and past accomplishments, as tempting as it may be. You may add a few elements from your past professional life only if they informed your future career goals and/or your decision to pursue and MBA.

Make sure you touch upon your immediate post-MBA career plans as well as your long-term plans. What impact would you like to have on your industry/company? What skill gaps are you trying to fill with a Wharton MBA?

In this essay, you will also need to identify specific courses; conferences or students organizations, that will help you position yourself post MBA. Be as specific as possible. Mention what you are planning on gaining from these opportunities but also what you will contribute. Don’t go into too much specifics on the latter. You will have the opportunity to show how you will contribute to the Wharton community in essay #2.

Essay #2

Taking into consideration your background—personal, professional, and/or academic—how do you plan to make specific, meaningful contributions to the Wharton community? (400 words)

This question was added this year to give AdComs an opportunity to know you on a more personal level. To answer this question think about your past experiences and connect them with your potential contribution to Wharton.

AdComs are looking for people who have a track record of bringing about positive changes in the industry or company they worked in… and how they will continue to have an impact on the Wharton community as a student or alum.

For this essay, you can draw on either your personal, academic or professional background to highlight your past contributions as long as these experiences can translate into your potential involvement at Wharton.

Make sure you are as specific as possible, describe a leadership role you are planning at undertaking at Wharton: launching a new club, organizing a conference- or whatever your personal interests are and select a few experiences in your past that show you successfully undertook a similar project before. Here's an example:

"In response to the question regarding how I intend to contribute meaningfully to the Wharton community by drawing upon my personal, professional, and academic background, I aim to bring a diverse set of experiences and skills that align with the core values of Wharton. I plan to contribute to the Wharton community by leveraging my extensive experience working in diverse, international teams. Through past experiences, I have learned the value of diversity as a key factor in overcoming challenges and achieving success. I intend to promote diversity and inclusion at Wharton by actively participating in initiatives that celebrate different perspectives and backgrounds, fostering a more inclusive and collaborative community. Furthermore, my strong analytical skills and effective communication abilities will be instrumental in analyzing complex business problems and facilitating discussions within the Wharton community. I aim to contribute by sharing insights derived from my professional experiences and engaging in thoughtful discourse that stimulates innovative thinking and problem-solving among my peers. By embracing the STAR method in sharing my experiences, I will clearly illustrate the roles I have played in various situations, the lessons learned, and how these experiences have shaped my approach to contributing meaningfully to the Wharton community. I am committed to identifying opportunities within the Wharton environment where I can apply my skills and knowledge to enhance the overall experience for all members of the community. In conclusion, I am determined to be an active leader and team player at Wharton, utilizing my diverse background and skills to make specific and significant contributions that align with the values and goals of the Wharton community."



Re-applicant Essay

Please use this space to share with the Admissions Committee how you have reflected and grown since your previous application and discuss any relevant updates to your candidacy (e.g., changes in your professional life, additional coursework, and extracurricular/volunteer engagements). (250 words)

If you are a re-applicant, this essay is mandatory. Given the very limited number of words allocated you will have to be concise and straight to the point.

Instead of simply mentioning a new job title or a change of address you will want to highlight the thoughtful steps you took to improve your profile.

AdComs want to see in this section new and improved GMAT/GRE scores, a promotion at work, or additional extra-curricular activities. Approach this essay as a way to showcase how your initial rejection prompted you to spring into action, embrace challenges and work on improving your profile.

Optional First-time Applicant Essay

Please use this space to share any additional information about yourself that cannot be found elsewhere in your application and that you would like to share with the Admissions Committee. This space can also be used to address any extenuating circumstances (e.g., unexplained gaps in work experience, choice of recommenders, inconsistent or questionable academic performance, areas of weakness, etc.) that you would like the Admissions Committee to consider.

As tempting as it may be this is not a place to add bonus information, instead use this section to address any weaknesses, gaps in employment or anything that you didn't already address in your application. Be concise, offer an explanation but do not dwell on these weaknesses or make excuses. The purpose of the Optional Essay in the Wharton MBA application process is to give applicants a platform to communicate any additional information that is vital for the admissions committee to know but isn't covered elsewhere in their application. It serves as an opportunity for applicants to address any extenuating circumstances that may have affected their academic performance, work experience, or any other aspect of their profile. The essay is not meant to duplicate information already provided in the application or restate why an applicant wants to attend Wharton. Instead, it should offer a clear and direct explanation of any challenges or unique circumstances that the Admissions Committee should consider when evaluating the applicant's candidacy.

Mistakes to avoid/The Bottom Line: Common mistakes to avoid in MBA essays, include failing to tell compelling stories. Candidates often overlook the importance of crafting narratives that engage the reader's interest and highlight their unique qualities and experiences. By neglecting to convey their stories in a captivating manner, applicants may miss the opportunity to make a strong impression on the admissions committee.

Need assistance with your essay? www.admissionconcierge is a one-on-one approach consulting service, founded by a former director of admissions with extensive experience in guiding applicants through the application process including interview prep and post admission assistance.