What I wish I’d known before applying to business school

Applying to business school can feel completely overwhelming. There’s so much information out there—from websites and blogs to conferences and seminars—that it can quickly feel like a lot to process.

>> Learn more about the Full-Time MBA program

Since earning your MBA is one of the biggest investments you’ll make in your life, it’s important to take a long-term view when deciding where to apply – I certainly did!

Looking back, there are a few things I wish I’d known before starting my business school journey. I often share these insights with friends and colleagues, and I hope they boost your confidence as you prepare to apply.

1. Think through your career goals

One of the smartest moves you can make is to understand the recruiting scene at each school you’re considering. Take time to research the top industries and companies that recruit on campus. You can usually find this information on the school’s website, on third-party MBA blog sites, and by talking to current students and alumni.

Pay close attention to companies that recruit multiple students from a particular school. This can be a good sign that the company has a strong relationship with the school and regularly engages with students through presentations, interviews, and other recruiting activities. If your dream company doesn’t recruit on campus, be ready to put in the extra effort to network and apply off-campus. Each year, UNC Kenan-Flagler MBAs go on to work at more than 280 different companies, and more than 100 organizations participate in facilitated recruiting events here.

2. Learn about the culture and see if it’s the right fit for you

Your MBA experience will be defined not only by the academics but also by the community you join. This is a huge part of your experience! Before applying, try to visit campus, sit in on a class, or talk to current students and alumni. The goal is to get a genuine sense of what it’s like to be part of that community.

When connecting with people, consider asking questions like:

• Do students have strong relationships with each other and with alumni?
• Is the environment collaborative, or more competitive?
• How do students spend time together outside of the classroom?
• Do faculty members provide a supportive learning environment and make themselves available to students outside of class?

Finding a school where you’ll build lasting relationships and a strong professional network is very important. You want to feel confident that this community will be there to support your growth during and long after your MBA.

3. Be strategic about costs

Business school is a significant investment, but there are ways to make it more affordable. Consider applying through clubs or affinity groups you’re currently a member of, which can help with both the application process and financing your degree.

You’ll also find that some organizations, including The Consortium for Graduate Study in Management and Forté Foundation (both of which UNC Kenan-Flagler is a partner), offer discounted application fees, networking opportunities, and access to exclusive scholarships.

Additionally, it’s worth exploring other scholarships, fellowship programs, and financial aid opportunities. A little extra research can go a long way in reducing the financial burden that comes with an MBA.

Key takeaways

When weighing your MBA options, keep these questions in mind to maximize your return on investment:

• Does this school provide the curriculum that will help me to be most successful?
• Are there opportunities for me to practice what I’m learning in class through hands-on opportunities tackling real business problems?
• Does this school offer exposure to the companies that I’m interested in?
• Have I spoken with alumni from this school, and if so, did we have a strong connection?
• Do I want to build my network with the students, alumni, faculty, and staff here?
• Have I explored external opportunities that could help with both applying to and financing my MBA?

If you can confidently answer “yes” to these questions, you’re likely on the right track to making a smart, strategic MBA investment—and setting yourself up for an enriching and transformative experience! Good luck!

By Alex Binnie (MBA ’25)