NYU Stern MBA Admissions Tips

GMAT

Average score: 708

Interviews

Interviews are by invitation only and are conducted in-person in New York City.

Essays

Showing the admissions committee that Stern really is where you want to be—and having convincing reasons for why this is the case—is important. In your Stern application, take particular note of Essay #2, which specifically asks you to describe what interactions you have had with the “Stern community” and what you have done to learn more about the program. It’s a great question, and a strong cue that you need to really do your homework about Stern. If you do, you can greatly improve your odds of success. 

If you apply to Stern, don’t discount the importance of teamwork in your message. The school is less impressed by individual achievers than it is in well-grounded people who have excelled in their past jobs by working with others.

Examples of essay prompts previously used by Stern:

Application Essays

1. Think about the decisions you have made in your life. Answer the following (maximum of 750 words):
1. What choices have you made that led you to your current position?
2. Why pursue an MBA at this point in your life?
3. What is your career goal upon graduation from NYU Stern?
2. The NYU Stern collaborative community is one of our strongest assets. We seek individuals who are passionate about our community and committed to growing as leaders at Stern. Please answer the following questions about our community (500 word maximum):
1. What is your personal experience with the Stern community? What actions have you taken to learn more about us?
2. What is the most difficult piece of constructive feedback you have received, and what did you do as a result of it? How will this experience make you a better member of the Stern community?
3. Please describe yourself to your MBA classmates. You may use almost any method to convey your message (e.g. words, illustrations). Feel free to be creative. (See notes on the content parameters)
4. Please provide any additional information that you would like to bring to the attention of the Admissions Committee. This may include current or past gaps in employment, your undergraduate record, plans to retake the GMAT and/or TOEFL, or any other relevant information. If you are unable to submit a recommendation from a current supervisor, you must explain your reason in this essay. If you are a re-applicant from last year, please explain how your candidacy has improved since your last application. If you are applying to a dual degree program, please explain your decision to pursue a dual degree.

Recommendations

Two recommendations are required with your application. Professional recommendations are strongly preferred over academic recommendations. One recommendation must come from your current supervisor. If a recommendation from your current supervisor cannot be included, you must provide an explanation in Essay 4.

Recommendations should come from individuals who can objectively assess your professional performance and your potential for success in Stern's MBA program and in your future career. Recommendations from family members, family friends and close friends are discouraged.

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