How to Apply for an MBA in the US

Here are a few things to take note of when applying for an MBA in the US:

Visa Requirements

As an international student, you need to acquire a valid US student visa before you can attend school. Since you’re entering the US for academic purposes, you need to obtain an F-1 visa.

If you are an F-1 visa holder, you can stay in the US for one more year after completing your MBA program. If you intend to work in the country after graduating, you can transfer your F-1 visa to an H-1B visa or work visa (if a US-based employer is planning to hire you).

To get your F-1 visa, you need to follow the steps below:

1. Complete Form DS-160.
2. Pay the visa application fee 
3. Complete the I-20 application form (This document will be sent by your school once you’ve been accepted).
4. Bring the duly completed DS-160 form and I-20 application form, as well as your valid passport to the US Embassy or Consulate nearest to you.
5. Pay the I-901 fee through the website of US Immigration and Customs enforcement.
6. Book a student visa interview via Visa Facilitation Services (VFS) Global website.

Bring the following documents for the student visa interview:

• Your valid passport
• Receipt of visa application fees
• Student and Exchange Visitor information system (SEVIS) receipt
• Your I-120 form
• DS-160 confirmation with the barcode
• VFS appointment letter
• Most recent passport size photograph (white background)

General Eligibility Requirements

To apply for an MBA in the US, most universities have eligibility criteria for applicants. Here are some common eligibility requirements for MBA applicants:

• At least 16 years of basic education
• A completed four-year bachelor’s degree
• A GMAT score of at least 600 (Some universities may waive this requirement based on certain conditions).
• IELTS or TOEFL
• Minimum of two to three years of work experience (most universities)

Common Admission Requirements

Aside from the F-1 visa and general eligibility requirements, international MBA applicants need to also prepare the following entry requirements:

• Academic CV – The CV must detail the professional summary of the applicant as well as educational and professional qualifications. An academic CV is relatively short and is only one to two pages long.
• Essays – You need to write exceptional essays that describe your purpose for choosing that degree. The selection committee needs to realize your conviction and motivation for taking an MBA.
• Academic Records – You need to prepare academic documents and records related to your undergraduate degree. These include the Transcript of Record (ToR), as well as other certificates proving your attendance and completion of the degree.
• Standardized Tests – As mentioned, most universities in the US, especially top-ranked universities require standardized tests like the GRE and GMAT. You may be required to obtain a specific average or minimum score to be eligible to apply.
• English Proficiency Tests – Foreign non-English speaking applicants need to present proof of English proficiency. Tests like the IELTS and TOEFL are required for admission.

Requirements and application process vary depending on your chosen university. Make sure to check out particular steps and specific requirements on their websites or announcements on their social media accounts.

Taking an MBA in the US exposes students to the latest trends in business. Stay notified with MSM Unify to receive the latest news, stories, and quick updates about applying for an MBA in the US.