The Master of Business Administration (MBA) is a prestigious degree significant to your career, job or business endeavours. However, preparing for the programme is not as straightforward as one might expect with any other degree. You must take certain steps before and during your MBA application process.

1. Choose the right MBA degree and school

People decide to enrol in MBA programmes for various reasons like career development, promotions, networking opportunities, and self-fulfilment. Your reason for pursuing an MBA degree will significantly influence the programmes you eventually select and the business schools you apply to.

There are various study options ranging from online to part-time or full-time programmes. The benefit of an online programme is that you can study from anywhere, while on-campus programmes yield benefits such as localised networking opportunities, among other benefits.

2. Prepare for the GMAT or GRE tests

Most MBA programmes require the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) during the application process. Fortunately, this result is totally within your control. You have to prepare adequately and aim to get well over the required score for the business school you wish to attend to improve your chances of entry.

There are also options at this stage. If you feel the GMAT is too strict or demanding, the GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) is a viable alternative. There are five GRE test centres in Nigeria, and various consults and academies such as Exam Brains and Mafit Study, that can help you with your GRE application and preparation.

3. Tweak your CV and recommendations

You’ll need to submit your CV and professional references during your MBA course application. Any shortcomings at this point could come at the cost of your admission acceptance. So you would need a CV or resume tailored to your MBA application which presents your professional achievements and focuses on your most recent and relevant work experience.

When sourcing recommendations, don’t request from people you hardly know or someone who hardly knows you. Personalised and thoughtful references show your impact on the lives of others and their work. You should also align the recommendation style to the institution you are sending them to. Think about the language and the requirements the business school values the most, and ask your referees to highlight them in their letters.

4. Interact and network with current students and alumni

Networking is a crucial MBA culture. In fact, the key reason some people sign up for an MBA programme is to get the opportunity to interact with business leaders of the present and future.

So, before you apply, join some MBA communities and learn from the students and alumni who can provide insights and offer guidance.

5. Expand your reading lists

Finally, read up on specific texts that would aid your MBA programme application. Much of what you learn during the programme is problem-solving and leadership skills, so it’s beneficial to build your expertise in those areas by reading relevant texts.

MBA programmes are professional and technical, which may require a lot of quantitative skills. As such, you’d need to read various books, articles, and journals both before applying and during your MBA programme.