MBA interviews can be nerve-wracking, but knowing what to expect can make them a bit easier. Here are some of the most common types of questions you’ll likely encounter:

Self-awareness: These questions are all about getting to know you as a person and understanding your motivations. You might hear things like, “Tell me about yourself,” “What are your biggest strengths and weaknesses?” or “How would your colleagues describe you in three words?” It’s a chance to share your story and reflect on your personal growth.

Goals and ambitions: Here, interviewers want to see what drives you and how an MBA fits into your future plans. Questions like “Why are you pursuing an MBA now?” or “Where do you see yourself in five years post-MBA?” are typical. Think about your career trajectory and how this degree will help you get there.

Experience and skills: This is where you’ll discuss your professional background. Be ready for questions like, “Tell me about a time you demonstrated leadership” or, “What are your greatest professional achievements?” Highlight your experiences and the unique skills you bring to the table.

Fit for the program: Finally, interviewers will want to know why you chose their specific MBA program. They might ask, “Why are you interested in our MBA program?” or “What aspects of our school particularly resonate with you?” This is your chance to show that you’ve done your homework and that their program perfectly fits your goals.

On top of these common questions, some programs might throw in more specific ones about your background or how you align with a particular concentration within their MBA program. Being prepared for these will help you shine in your interview.

Moreover, here is a list of questions from each category to help you with the preparation: 

I. Self-awareness

• Tell me about yourself.
• What are your biggest strengths and weaknesses?
• How would your colleagues describe you in three words?
• What are your proudest achievements (personal or professional)?
• What motivates you?
• How do you handle pressure?

II. Goals and ambitions

• Why are you pursuing an MBA now?
• What are your short-term and long-term career goals?
• Where do you see yourself in five years post-MBA?
• What are your leadership aspirations?
• How will an MBA help you achieve your goals?
• What are your biggest challenges, and how do you plan to overcome them?

III. Experience and skills

• Tell me about a time you demonstrated leadership.
• Describe a situation where you had to work effectively in a team.
• What are your most outstanding professional achievements?
• How do you approach problem-solving?
• Give an example of a time you overcame a setback.
• What are your quantitative and analytical skills like?

IV. Fit for the program

• Why are you interested in our MBA program?
• What specifically interests you about our school’s curriculum or faculty?
• How will you contribute to the student body at our school?
• What are your career goals after graduation, and how does our program align with them?
• Are you applying to other schools? (Optional: How does our program compare?)
• What questions do you have for us about the program?

Remember, this is not an exhaustive list, and some programs might ask more specific questions based on your background or program focus.