Kellogg MBA Admissions Tips (Northwestern)

GMAT

The average GMAT for enrolled students is 711, with approximately 75 percent of enrolled students scoring between 650 and 740.

Interviews

All applicants are required to request an on-campus or off-campus interview, each of which carries equal weight. Although Kellogg makes every attempt to interview all applicants, heavy demand in certain locations may require that we waive the interview so as not to delay the review of the application. Candidates whose interviews are waived are not at a disadvantage. The Office of Admissions will follow up with candidates whose interviews were waived should the committee feel an interview would make an impact on the final decision.

Essays

And less can be more: Instead of listing seven clubs or organizations that you have marginally participated in, focus on the one or two things that you’re really passionate about and show exactly how you got involved in those things and made a difference. A distinguishing characteristic of Kellogg is that pretty much everything is student-run, from clubs to international study trips (“Global Initiatives in Management”) to an almost endless series of professional conferences that the school hosts. A current student will probably even review your application. It’s not uncommon for a student to be involved in five or six different activities or clubs outside of the classroom. What this means for you is that you need to demonstrate that you will get involved.

Examples of essay prompts previously used by Kellogg:

Application Essays

1. Briefly assess your career progress to date. Elaborate on your future career plans and your motivation for pursuing a graduate degree at Kellogg. (one to two pages double-spaced)
2. Describe how your background, values, academics, activities and/or leadership skills will enhance the experiences of other Kellogg students. (one to two pages double-spaced)
3. Describe your key leadership experiences and evaluate what leadership areas you hope to develop through your MBA experience. (one to two pages double-spaced)
4. Complete 2 of the 3 essays. (two to three double spaced paragraphs for each question)
1. Describe a time when you had to motivate a reluctant individual or group.
2. I wish the Admissions Committee had asked me…
3. What do others admire about you?
4. (Required essay for re-applicants only) Since your previous application, what are the steps you've taken to strengthen your candidacy?

Recommendations

One of your letters of recommendation, or Career Progress Surveys, should be written by your current supervisor or manager. The second letter of recommendation also should be from someone who can objectively evaluate your professional performance as well as managerial and leadership potential, such as a former supervisor, previous employer, client, etc. If you are unable to ask a current supervisor or manager for a letter of recommendation, then you should include a brief statement regarding your choice in the Additional Information section of Part 2 of the application.

For expert help with your application, check out our MBA Admissions Consulting.