oxford mba application essay

Application requirements

Applications for the Oxford MBA  class of 2024-25 are now open.

Find out everything you'll need to prepare to submit a complete and competitive application.

Work experience

Relevant experience.

You should have at least two years of full-time work experience, detailed on a one page CV . We look for evidence of career progression and international exposure, as well as being able to show leadership potential. We do not look for experience in a specific sector. 

Career plan

You will be asked to detail your post-MBA career plans and demonstrate how the programme will equip you with the skills to reach these goals. By indicating a clear view of your professional development, you will show us that you understand the strengths of your professional experience, have researched your future professional goals, and how an MBA will bridge the gap between the two.

Undergraduate degree

You will be asked to upload all your university degree academic transcripts/mark-sheets to the online application form.

All applicants are required to have completed a recognised undergraduate degree. As evidence, you will be asked to upload all your university degree academic transcripts/mark-sheets to the online application form. These must outline the subjects studied or grades obtained from each academic year.

If your original transcripts are not in English you must also supply an official translation. 

GMAT or GRE score

We look for a high level of quantitative and analytical skills evidenced by your GMAT or GRE results.

We accept valid scores for both the original GMAT and GMAT Focus Edition. We don't ask for a minimum score, but GMAT scores of 650 or above are considered competitive. Our current class has a median GMAT score of 690.

• All sections of the GMAT must be taken in order to be considered valid
• Official online scores must be accessible by our admissions department for your application to be considered complete. For GMAC to release your official scores to Saïd Business School, please give your test centre the following code: Q0G-4B-59
• GMAT scores are not valid if they are older than five years on the application deadline date
• Contact GMAC directly to arrange to take the test

A GRE verbal score of 160 and a quantitative score of 160 is considered competitive, however we do accept all scores. Our current class has a median of 160 (verbal) and 160 (quantitative).

• All sections of the GRE must be taken in order to be considered valid
• Official online scores must be accessible by our admissions department for your application to be considered complete. For ETS to release your official scores to Saïd Business School, please give your test centre the following institution code: 0807
• GRE scores are not valid if they are older than five years on the application deadline date
• Contact ETS directly to arrange to take the test

Please note you  must  submit either a GMAT or GRE score result with your application, regardless of your previous work experience, studies, or qualifications. Further detail can be found on our FAQs page.

Written work

As part of your application, you will need to submit a supporting statement

• Tell us something that is not covered in your application which you would like the Admissions Committee to know about you. (Maximum 250 words)

If you are applying under the Oxford 1+1 MBA scheme you also need to submit the following essay:

•  Explain why you see this as particularly beneficial for you and how it fits with your career and personal development aims. (Maximum 250 words)

Re-applicants will need to submit an additional essay as below:

• What improvements have you made in your candidacy since you last applied to the Oxford MBA? (Maximum 250 words)

When reviewing your essays, the admissions committee will be looking for evidence of the following: good communication skills, leadership potential, analytical skills, fit with the Oxford MBA community, among other characteristics.

Online assessment

You will need to complete four questions via our online assessment platform.

To virtually meet you, get a sense of your personality and see how you think on your feet, you will need to complete an online assessment as part of your application:

• Two motivation-based questions - all candidates will answer the same questions
• One competency-based questions - this will be randomised
• Written response  - this will be randomised and light-hearted to show us how you can think on your feet!

The motivation-based questions give you the opportunity to demonstrate your motivations for undertaking an MBA and why the Oxford MBA is the right programme for you.

The competency-based question lets you demonstrate the skills and qualities we look for, such as decision-making, problem-solving, influence, leadership and strong communication skills. 

Once you have submitted your application for either the Oxford MBA or Oxford 1+1 MBA you will see a link in your application status portal. This will enable you to register with Kira Talent, our online assessment platform, and complete your assessment. This link will appear up to 24 hours after submitting your application, therefore we strongly encourage you to leave yourself enough time to practice and complete the online assessment by the deadline in which you are applying.

You will be provided with preparation time and practice sessions before going live with your real responses. The whole online assessment should only take up to 30 minutes for you to complete. All you need is a desktop or laptop computer with a functioning webcam, microphone and internet connection.

We require two professional or academic references.

Using the online application form you will need to submit two references, preferably from professional referees. Once your referee details are input into the form, your referee will receive an automatic email from the School with details on how to complete the online reference form. Please note we can only accept references from a valid work/professional/institutional email address and not from Gmail/Hotmail accounts.

English language capability

You will need to prove your English language capability through one of the below means if you are a national of a non-majority English speaking country (listed below) as defined by the UK Visas & Immigration Office*.

A TOEFL score

Test of English as a Foreign Language® is a standardised test to measure the English language ability of non-native speakers wishing to enrol in English-speaking universities. The institution code for ordering your official TOEFL score sheet from ETS is 0807. There is no department code, this can be left blank.  TOEFL scores are only valid if they have been taken less than two years prior to the start date of the course for which you are applying.

• Minimum Score: 110
• Minimum required on each component: Listening - 22; Reading - 24; Writing - 24; Speaking - 25

An IELTS score

The International English Language Testing System, or IELTS™, is an international standardised test of English language proficiency for non-native English language speakers. If you choose to take the IELTS you need to sit the academic test.  IELTS scores are only valid if they have been taken less than two years prior the start date of the course for which you are applying.

• Minimum Score: 7.5
• Minimum required on each component: 7.0

Cambridge Certificate (C1 Advanced)

The C1 Advanced (formerly known as Cambridge English: Advanced or CAE) is an international standardised test of English language proficiency for non-native English language speakers.  We will only accept scores that have been taken less than two years prior to the start date of the course for which you are applying.   If admitted you will be asked to supply an official copy of the certificate.

• Minimum score: 191
• Minimum required on each component: 185

Cambridge Certificate (C2 Proficiency)

The C2 Proficiency (formerly known as Cambridge English: Proficiency or CPE) is an international standardised test of English language proficiency for non-native English language speakers. We will only accept scores that have been taken less than two years prior to the start date of the course for which you are applying.  If admitted you will be asked to supply an official copy of the certificate.

• Minimum Score: 191

*UK Visas & Immigration office English speaking country list

Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Canada, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Ireland, Jamaica, Malta, New Zealand, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, USA, UK. 

English language wavier

At the discretion of the Admissions Committee, the requirement to provide English language test scores may be waived. You can apply for a waiver if you have completed, or are currently completing one of the following:

A degree-level course that is:

• at least nine months in duration
• undertaken at a recognised institution where teaching and assessment throughout the course is undertaken entirely in English; and
• has been completed within 2 years of the start date of the course to which you are applying.

You can also apply for a waiver based on substantial professional experience if:

• you have worked for a minimum of two years in a majority English speaking country where the main language for the role was English
• your role involved daily professional use of each of the four language components (reading, writing, listening, and speaking)
• you worked in an appropriately technical context to demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively in an academic environment; and
• your role has ended no more than two years before the start date of the course to which you are applying.

If you meet either criteria based on your previous education or your professional experience, you will need to indicate this by answering yes or no to the English Language waiver questions on the 'English Ability' tab on your application form. If you choose the professional experience option, you will need to summarise your role and use of English to enable the assessors to judge whether it meets the criteria.

Application form and fee

Please ensure you have all the above requirements before submitting your application form.

Please ensure your application is complete and that your £150 application fee has been paid upon submission.

The admissions committee can only consider a candidate once all supporting documentation has been received. We conduct spot checks on a regular basis to ensure the authenticity of applicants' references, work experience and academic background. We also reserve the right to ask for supporting evidence if necessary.

Ready to apply?

Start your application today, or browse our frequently asked questions (FAQs) to answer any further queries you may have.

• Oxford Saïd Business School Essay Tips and Examples

August 18, 2023

Jeremy Shinewald

Oxford Saïd 2023–2024 Essay Tips

Mandatory statement: please provide a personal statement that outlines anything additional that you would like the admissions committee to consider. (maximum 250 words).

This essay prompt is worded much differently than the school’s first essay prompt for last year, but it essentially asks for the same type of information. Interestingly, in our previous essay analysis, we noted that if a candidate was not paying close attention as they read through Oxford Saïd’s application information, they could accidentally interpret the prompt as one for a standard optional essay, given that the phrasing was almost verbatim what we see from other schools as an add-on essay invitation. This season, however, the admissions committee has tightened and clarified the wording—even adding “mandatory statement” at the beginning—to avoid any such possible misinterpretation. 

If you have a notable problem or issue in your candidacy, this might be the right place to address it, given that the school does not offer a separate optional essay opportunity with which to do so. However, because this is an essay that all applicants must submit, your goal is to provide some key additional information here for the admissions committee to use in deciding whether to include you in its next incoming class, even if your profile is free of questionable components. You will therefore need to determine what is most important for the committee to know to be able to evaluate you thoroughly and fairly, whether that is the story behind a seemingly unfavorable part of your application or whether it is one about a significant learning experience, impressive accomplishment, or unique ability (or something else altogether). As always, take time to consider everything the admissions committee will already be able to learn about you via the other parts of your application, from your statistics and resume to your recommenders’ contributions. With this essay, you want to round out that information in a positive way that pushes your candidacy forward in the direction of acceptance. 

Even though this submission is not optional, we still recommend downloading a free copy of our mbaMission Optional Essays Guide . It might help you in determining whether or not you should write this essay on a problem area/issue (or perhaps which one, if your candidacy includes multiple questionable elements), and if so, the advice and many examples within will direct you in how to do so most effectively. 

If you are applying under the Oxford 1+1 scheme you also need to submit the following essay:

Explain why you see this as particularly beneficial for you and how it fits with your career and personal development aims. (maximum 250 words).

For this essay, Saïd provides a very straightforward prompt. Oxford has created an innovative two-year program through which you can earn two master’s degrees simultaneously. But the school has a simple request first—explain why the additional, non-MBA master’s degree is necessary for you. If you hope to participate in this program, you will need to help the school understand exactly why and how doing so will affect your career. With a mere 250 words in which to detail precisely how the 1+1 program will contribute to your management education and where you intend to apply that learning, you have no room to be vague. Clearly demonstrate a cause-and-effect relationship between the dual-degree program and the achievement of your goals. Your underlying message needs to be readily comprehensible: “I will complete X degree, which will benefit me by manifesting in Y part of my career.” 

Re-applicants will need to submit an additional essay: What improvements have you made in your candidacy since you last applied to the Oxford MBA? (Maximum 250 words) 

Whether you have improved your academic record, received a promotion, begun a new and exciting project, increased your community involvement, or accepted some sort of personal challenge, the key to success with this essay is conveying a very deliberate path of achievement. Sa ï d wants to know that you have been actively striving to improve yourself and your profile, and that you have seized opportunities during the time since your previous application to do so, because earning a Sa ï d MBA is important to you. The responses to this essay question will vary greatly from one candidate to the next, because each person’s needs and experiences differ. We are more than happy to provide one-on-one assistance with this highly personal essay to ensure that your efforts are presented in the best light po ssible.

Online assessment: To virtually get to know you and see how you think on your feet, you will need to complete an online assessment as part of your application. This comprises:

– two motivation-based questions – all candidates will answer the same questions, – one competency-based question – this will be randomised, – written response – this will be randomised and light-hearted , the motivation-based questions give you the opportunity to demonstrate your motivations for undertaking an mba and why the oxford mba is the right programme for you. the competency-based question will allow you to demonstrate the skills and qualities we look for, such as decision-making, problem-solving, influence, leadership, and strong communication skills. , once you have submitted your application for either the oxford mba or oxford 1+1 mba you will see a link in your application status portal. this will enable you to register with kira talent, our online assessment platform, and complete your assessment. you can complete this any time before the application stage deadline in which you wish to apply., you will be provided with preparation time and practice sessions before going live with your real responses. the whole online assessment should only take up to 30 minutes for you to complete. all you need is a desktop or laptop computer with a functioning webcam, microphone and internet connection..

We know that required videos—and spontaneous ones, in particular—often strike fear into the hearts of business school candidates, but let us reassure you a bit about this component of the Oxford application process, so you can relax and put your best self forward. First of all, keep in mind that video questions like these are not intended to trip you up or entice you to do or say anything that would immediately disqualify you from consideration. Video submissions are most often merely opportunities for the admissions committee to put a “face,” so to speak, on your written application and learn a little more about your personality, energy level, communication style, and other such intangibles. In reference to the video component, the school’s admissions FAQs page even states outright, “There are no right or wrong answers, and this isn’t a test. It’s just a way for us to get a glimpse into you and your personality and help to let you stand out as the unique candidate that you are!” If you focus on being authentic and sincere, you will provide the admissions committee with exactly what it is seeking. Thankfully, the Kira platform is set up so that you can practice an unlimited number of times, so you will not have to go into this portion of the application cold. This is a valuable opportunity that we cannot encourage you enough to make the most of.

To start, you will need to respond to two “motivation” questions, which will be the same for all applicants. Although the school does not present outright exactly what these questions will be, it does explain that it is interested in the “whys” behind your application and offers on its FAQs page the sample question “Why is an MBA the next step for you to further … your career?” We assume from the prompt that the other question would then naturally be some version of “Why do you want to earn your MBA from Oxford specifically?” (You might also want to be prepared to answer the query “Why is now the right time to get your MBA?” just in case.) You will be given one minute in which to prepare your answer and 90 seconds to record it. Because these topics are common elements of a traditional personal statement, we encourage you to download a free copy of the mbaMission Personal Statement Guide , which explains how best to prepare for and respond to questions related to these subjects and offers multiple illustrative examples.

You will also be required to answer one “competency” question, which will be drawn from a group of options and will therefore vary for each candidate. Judging from the school’s proffered example—”Take a minute to tell us about a time where you’ve overcome a challenging situation, either professionally or personally. What was your approach to resolving the situation?”—these appear to be in the vein of typical interview questions. We suggest using the STAR (situation, task, action, result) method when responding to this question to ensure that your answer includes all the relevant information the admissions committee seeks. Take time to do some research on what this technique entails, and make it a central part of your practice efforts. You will be given 45 seconds to prepare your answer to this question and one minute in which to respond. For sample questions you can use to practice, consider downloading a free copy of the mbaMission Interview Guide , in which we present a list of 100 common interview queries.

We recommend practicing in front of a mirror to exercise maintaining a pleasant and natural expression as you speak and timing yourself to ensure your answers do not tend to run long. Although you can prepare as much as you want, you will have only one chance to record your response(s) when you do the official interview. If you stumble while answering or ultimately are unhappy with your answer, unfortunately, you will not be able to rerecord anything or try again another time. This might make you nervous, but we encourage you to view the situation a little differently. As we have noted, Oxford wants to get to know the real you through these video essays. If you fumble for words or lose your train of thought, just laugh or shrug and continue with your response. Accepting a mistake with a sense of humor and grace will give the admissions committee a more positive and natural impression of your personality than rigid scripting and overpreparation ever could.

The final portion of the online assessment involves a written response to a query the admissions committee describes as “light-hearted,” offering as an example “Apples are more versatile than bananas. Discuss.” Because truly preparing in advance for such a casual and nonpersonal prompt is largely impossible, this is the question that will give the admissions committee the best impression of how you improvise and perform extemporaneously, as well as communicate clearly under pressure. Focus a little less on trying to write a serious treatise and more on being authentic to your personality and letting a bit of your creative side shine through—though be sure to stay on topic and actually provide an answer to the question! You will be given five minutes to craft your response, which the FAQs page notes should allow you to write up to 500 words. If you want to practice for this part, ask a friend or family member to Google “silly questions,” or “funny” or “random” ones (a quick search brought up such examples as “Is cereal soup?” and “If animals could talk, which would be the rudest?”), and choose some for you. Then give yourself five minutes in which to formulate and type up a response to each. This will give you a feel for how much time five minutes really is, how much you can generally write in that period, and how well you are able to develop a mini essay that both provides a clear answer and is reflective of your personal style.

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2023–2024 MBA Essay Tips

• Berkeley Haas School of Business Essay Tips and Examples
• BU Questrom School of Business Essay Tips and Examples
• Cambridge Judge Business School Essay Tips and Examples
• Carnegie Mellon Tepper School of Business Essay Tips and Examples
• Chicago Booth School of Business Essay Tips and Examples
• Columbia Business School Essay Tips and Examples
• Cornell Johnson Graduate School of Management Essay and Examples
• Dartmouth Tuck School of Business Essay Tips and Examples
• Duke Fuqua School of Business Essay Tips and Examples
• Emory Goizueta Business School Essay Tips and Examples
• Esade Essay Tips and Examples
• Georgetown McDonough School of Business Essay Tips and Examples
• Harvard Business School 2+2 Deferred MBA Program Essay Analysis 2024
• Harvard Business School Essay Tips and Examples
• HEC Paris Essay Tips and Examples
• HKUST Business School Essay Tips and Examples
• IE Business School Essay Tips and Examples
• IESE Business School Essay Tips and Examples
• INSEAD Essay Tips and Examples
• International Institute for Management Development (IMD) Essay Tips and Examples
• Ivey Business School Essay Tips and Examples
• London Business School Essay Tips and Examples
• Michigan Ross School of Business Essay Tips and Examples
• MIT Sloan School of Management Essay Tips and Examples
• Northwestern Kellogg School of Management Essay Tips and Examples
• Notre Dame Mendoza College of Business Essay Tips and Examples
• NYU Stern School of Business Essay Tips and Examples
• Ohio Fisher College of Business Essay Tips and Examples
• SMU Cox School of Business Essay Tips and Examples
• Stanford Graduate School of Business Application Essay Tips and Examples
• Texas McCombs School of Business Essay Tips and Examples
• The Consortium for Graduate Study in Management Essay Tips and Examples
• The Wharton School Essay Tips and Examples
• Toronto Rotman School of Management Essay Tips and Examples
• UCLA Anderson School of Management Essay Tips and Examples
• UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School Essay Tips and Examples
• USC Marshall School of Business Essay Tips and Examples
• UVA Darden School of Business Essay Tips and Examples
• UW Foster School of Business Essay Tips and Examples
• Vanderbilt University Owen Graduate School of Management Essay Analysis, 2023–2024
• Villanova School of Business Essay Tips and Examples
• Yale School of Management Essay Tips and Examples

Click here for the 2022–2023 MBA Essay Tips

MBA Program Updates

• Berkeley-Haas
• Boston University (Questrom)
• Cambridge Judge Business School
• Carnegie Mellon University (Tepper)
• Columbia University (Columbia Business School)
• Consortium for Graduate Study in Management
• Cornell University (Johnson)
• Dartmouth College (Tuck)
• Duke University (Fuqua)
• Emory University (Goizueta)
• George Washington University (GWSB)
• Georgetown University (McDonough)
• Harvard University (Harvard Business School)
• IE Business School
• IESE Business School
• Indian School of Business
• Indiana University (Kelley)
• Ivey Business School
• London Business School
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Sloan)
• New York University (Stern)
• Northwestern University (Kellogg)
• Notre Dame (Mendoza)
• Ohio State University (Fisher College)
• Oxford University (Saïd Business School)
• Penn State Smeal College of Business
• Rotman School of Management
• Saïd Business School
• Southern Methodist University (Cox School of Business)
• Stanford University (Stanford Graduate School of Business)
• University of California Los Angeles (Anderson)
• University of Cambridge (Judge)
• University of Chicago (Booth)
• University of London (London Business School)
• University of Michigan (Ross)
• University of North Carolina (Kenan-Flagler)
• University of Pennsylvania (Wharton)
• University of Southern California (Marshall)
• University of Texas at Austin (McCombs)
• University of Virginia (Darden)
• Vanderbilt University (Owen)
• Villanova School of Business
• Yale University (School of Management)

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Oxford Saïd MBA Essay 2023 – Tips and Analysis

Admit expert.

• July 31, 2022

Oxford’s Saïd Business School requires one essay for its 2022-2023 MBA application. In addition to this essay question, applicants must answer five questions about their career goals. There is one reapplicant essay as well.

When reviewing your essays, the admissions committee will be looking for evidence of the following: good communication skills, leadership potential, analytical skills, and fit with the Oxford MBA community, among other characteristics.

Therefore, you need to submit an impeccable essay to impress the Oxford Saïd admissions committee. 

In this article, we analyze and share tips on how to approach the Oxford MBA essay questions.

Application deadlines

Oxford saïd mba essay – 2023 admissions, essay analysis, re-applicant essay, let us help you get into oxford saïd.

Applications for the Oxford MBA class of 2023-24 will open on 1 August 2022.

You need to submit your online application form with all application requirements by your chosen application deadline. 

Application deadlines for the Oxford MBA class of 2023-24:

• Stage 1: Wednesday, 31 August 2022
• Stage 2: Wednesday, 12 October 2022
• Stage 3: Wednesday, 4 January 2023
• Stage 4: Wednesday, 22 March 2023

Tell us something that is not covered in your application which you would like the Admissions Committee to know about you. (Maximum 250 words)

Re-applicants will need to submit an additional essay as below:

What improvements have you made in your candidacy since you last applied to the Oxford MBA? (Maximum 250 words)

This essay for the Oxford MBA program is open-ended. So, it lets you talk about almost any subject you think needs more explanation. You might want to talk about something from your own background. On the other hand, you might want to talk about a leadership role.

You can also use this essay to talk about your career goals in more detail. If you have international experience, you might want to talk about what you did there. Oxford wants applicants who are mature, can lead, and come from different backgrounds. So, this essay is a chance to show that you have these qualities.

Once you have chosen a topic for your Oxford MBA application essay, you will want to explain yourself clearly. With only 250 words, you should use clear language and specific examples. The admissions committee will understand you better if you give them examples. For example, you could talk about something you did as a volunteer. To do this, talk about who was there, what you did, and how it made you feel.

There are 3 ingredients to crafting an essay that would impress the Oxford Saïd admissions committee:

• Relevant anecdotes

Authenticity

If you don’t know much about the Oxford community, it will be hard to write a good essay about why you feel like you belong there. So do your homework as a first step. Which parts of Oxford’s culture do you like, and how do you think you’ll be able to use them during your time there? How can you help the people of Oxford in a way that no one else can?

Relevant high-impact anecdotes

Providing supporting evidence is essential for creating a strong and convincing essay. Therefore, choosing an anecdote that adds the most value to your profile is of paramount importance.

Thus, we recommend that you first evaluate the various components of your profile and unique brand that you’ve previously discussed in other stages of your Oxford application – especially since you will be required to answer a series of mini-goals essays within the online application form! Then, consider further means by which you might contribute to the Oxford community.

These are the mini-goals essays that you would also have to answer. So, make sure that you do not repeat any information that you’ll cover in these mini-essays.

• Describe below your immediate plan after graduating from the MBA

How does your preferred sector in your preferred location recruit MBA talent and what do they look for in a candidate? Describe the research you have done so far.

Reflecting on your answer above, how do you meet these requirements?

What do you plan to do between now and starting your MBA to prepare and maximise your chances of success?

Should you not be successful in securing your first choice of role, what is your alternative?

Keeping this in mind and after determining what will be included in the application, you can then assess what you wish you had room for or what may be missing. 

This could be anything: a favorite hobby or community involvement, a difficult work project that was ultimately successful, an aspect of one’s upbringing that has had a lasting impact, an international or cross-cultural experience that prompted learning or growth, or one’s plans for community involvement in Oxford. In assessing your personal statement and essays, the admissions committee will seek evidence of, among other qualities, your communication abilities, leadership potential, analytical ability, and fit within the Oxford MBA community.

You should evaluate the balance of material between this response and the application, and seek to emphasize something fresh that will demonstrate to the admissions committee an additional facet of your personality and your potential to contribute to the Saïd community. 

Given the limited word count, we believe the most successful replies to this question will completely develop a single topic (or offer two instances with a similar theme) as opposed to attempting to cover multiple unrelated topics.

However, because Oxford does not provide an optional essay question, applicants with a weakness in their candidacy may need to use this response to provide an explanation or highlight a mitigating circumstance. 

This should be accomplished as succinctly as possible, ideally in 50-100 words, and then the candidate should be inventive in giving positive facts under a single umbrella. 

Finally, make sure that your story is truly yours and is not exaggerated in any form. Moreover, the overall tone of your essay can also make it sound more authentic. So, write as though you are having a conversation with a family member or a friend. This can make the essay feel more personal and real, which could help you convince the Oxford admissions committee of the authenticity of your story.

Do you want to impress the Oxford Saïd Adcom?

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Given that you only have a few words for this response, people who are reapplying will want to be clear about the steps they’ve taken to improve their applications since they last applied to Oxford. 

Candidates should try to be as thorough as possible when they talk about how they’ve worked to become stronger applicants this season. 

They should talk about how they’ve improved their quantitative records, their professional qualifications, how they’ve worked to learn more about the Oxford MBA program, and anything else they’ve done.

Mini Goals essays

Oxford has also “hidden” many small essays about your goals inside the application form. Even though there isn’t a set number of words, you should make sure to be complete but brief. We think that anything between 100 and 250 words should be fine.

Here are the topics:

Describe below your immediate plan after graduating from the MBA.

When talking about your goals, it’s important to be clear, so make sure you include a job title and industry when you talk about what you want to do after you graduate.

After you’ve made your goal clear, you should spend a little time talking about your motivation behind your goal. Here, you can give a bit of background information about yourself that is related to the job you want, but be careful not to repeat information from the “How do you meet these requirements?” question below.

The perfect way to end this essay is with a high-impact sentence that gives the reader a clear picture of who you are.

So, we suggest that you start by talking to as many people as you can who work in the field you want to go into after your MBA. Since Oxford wants to know how recruitment works where you want to work, make sure to narrow your focus to just your target geography.

You might want to talk to the HR departments of companies you’d like to work for, talk to headhunters who specialize in this area, or even talk to friends or coworkers who have successfully hired for your post-MBA role in the past.

Then, in your essay, describe how hiring works in your industry and where you want to work, as well as what they look for in a good candidate. For the second part, be sure to list things like specific skills needed (like being able to use advanced analytics tools or speaking Spanish fluently), personal traits, and degrees/certifications.

Then, list all of the steps you took to find this information, including the names of the people and businesses you talked to and the information they gave you.

To wrap up, you might want to end with a sentence about why you’re sure you’ll be successful in your own recruitment process now that you know what you’ve learned. You’ll go into more depth later, so keep this part short.

This essay requires knowing a little bit about your work history. This gives your goals some context and shows that you have the experience that is relevant to your goals.

Keep in mind what the admissions counselors already know about you when you talk about your career so far. Here, the goal isn’t to list all of your accomplishments (they can see that on your resume), but to give short, strong examples of a successful career, focusing on accomplishments that relate to your future goals.

To answer this question, you must show clearly what you are doing or what you plan to do before you get your MBA to get ready to reach the goals you listed above.

If you want to switch industries, you should also describe in detail the steps you’re taking to improve your skills before joining Saïd and mention the networking you’ve done. 

Showing that you’ve already started building the network you’ll need to be successful in your target industry and area will go a long way toward proving that you’ll reach your post-MBA goals.

It’s always a good idea to have a backup plan, especially since the economy is hard in many parts of the world right now. Make sure that your Plan B has something to do with your “official” goal so that it doesn’t hurt your goal statements.

For example, if your goal is to work in Management Consulting but your Plan B is to work for an NGO, the admissions committee will wonder how committed you were to your original goals.

But the best job would be one that lets you make the same kind of difference in a different way.

For example, if you want to work in a Web3.0 tech startup to learn best practices of blockchain technology, you could work in a more established technology firm and then switch to an earlier stage venture later.

We will help you write essays that portray your unique strengths and experiences in the most favorable light so that your application shines above the rest. We have helped hundreds of students get into top US business schools. Let us help you too.

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Oxford Saïd MBA Essay Tips and Deadlines [2022 – 2023]

Oxford lets your resume, recommendations, application form, and transcript(s) speak for themselves. The one required MBA essay question indicates that the adcom wants a glimpse of you beyond these core elements. It seems like a simple question – but there is a little twist in it that amplifies its importance in the application and its connection between you and the admissions readers. Also realize that the adcom learns about you from this essay not just through the details of the topic you present but also through your decision to use that topic. That decision reflects your values, your understanding of fit with Oxford , and your overall perspective.

Oxford Saïd 2022-23 MBA application essay

Tell us something that is not covered in your application which you would like the Admissions Committee to know about you.  (Maximum 250 words)

While the “something” will be the topic of the essay, the real heart of this essay question lies in the phrase “which you would like the Admissions Committee to know.” It almost posits a dialogue between you and the adcom; it sets up a relationship, a dialogue. It’s personal; they’re talking to YOU. Reading the spirit as well as the literal meaning of these words, you can infer that the adcom is looking for a story or a message that gets to the essence of  who you are  in some way.

Therefore, don’t try to find the most dramatic or exotic topic possible; this essay doesn’t have to shout. Rather, it should incisively reveal a fresh dimension of you – one that is relevant to the application and that will add to the Oxford Saïd community.

That leaves a lot of room for topic choice. I suggest committing to one topic and discussing it in as much depth as is possible in 250 words. Make this single essay vivid and memorable by basing it on your actual experience, which gives the adcom not just information about you but also your unique perspective on an aspect of your life.

As for topic, be strategic in selecting one that is relevant, will engage the Oxford adcom, and  enhances your fit  for Oxford Saïd.

Oxford Saïd at a glance

Saïd median GMAT score: 690

Saïd class size: 350

94% of the Saïd MBA class are international students.

Check out the Business School Selectivity Index for more stats about top b-schools.

Has this blog post helped you feel more confident about approaching your Oxford Saïd application? We hope so. It’s our mission to help smart, talented applicants like you gain acceptance to your dream schools. With so much at stake, why not hire a consultant whose expertise and personalized guidance can help you make your dream come true? We have several flexible consulting options— click here to get started today!

We’ve helped hundreds of applicants get accepted to top MBA programs and look forward to helping you too!

Oxford Saïd 2022-2023 MBA application deadlines

Source:  Oxford Saïd website

Related Resources:

• School-Specific MBA Application Essay Tips
• Different Dimensions of Diversity , a podcast episode
• “I’m Smart, Really I Am!” Proving Character Traits in your Essays

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Oxford MBA Personal Statement: Best Examples

Featured Expert: Nirusan Rajakulendran, MBA

The Oxford MBA personal statement is as crucial as your MBA resume , when applying to one of the most coveted professional development programs in the world, according to MBA rankings . Oxford University is a hallowed name in higher education and its reputation extends to the three MBA programs hosted by the Saïd Business School. The international sheen of the Oxford name draws applicants from all over the world and international students make up the majority of every new class. This article will set out the various requirements for Oxford’s three MBA programs and give you expert-reviewed samples to help your application stand out!

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Article Contents 10 min read

Oxford mba personal statement for oxford mba.

Essay Prompt: Tell us something that is not covered in your application which you would like the Admissions Committee to know about you. (Maximum 250 words).

Outside of my formal commitments, I have actively engaged in volunteer work focused on empowering underprivileged youth through education. For the past four years, I have been involved with an organization called "Youth Empowerment Initiative" (YEI), which aims to bridge the educational gap for children from low-income backgrounds.

YEI is located in my hometown, Chicago. One particular student I had the privilege of mentoring through YEI was Maya Davis. Maya was a bright and determined young girl who faced numerous challenges in her academic journey, such as losing both her parents at a young age and having a severe case of asthma.

When I first met Maya, she was struggling academically and lacked confidence in her abilities. We worked on developing effective study strategies, setting achievable goals, and fostering a growth mindset. Over time, Maya's dedication and hard work paid off. She became more engaged in her studies and raised her grades.

The experience of mentoring Maya and other students at YEI has reinforced my commitment to educational equity and social impact. As I pursue my MBA at Oxford University, I hope to leverage the knowledge and experiences gained to continue supporting initiatives like YEI and driving positive change in education. I firmly believe that by investing in the potential of young minds, we can shape a brighter and more equitable future for all.

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 Oxford MBA Personal Statement for Oxford 1+1 MBA Dual-Degree Program

Essay Prompt for MBA Application: Explain why you see this as particularly beneficial for you and how it fits with your career and personal development aims. (Maximum 250 words).

I have always been interested in the ways economic change have presaged seismic societal shifts, such as how the agrarian-based economy in England transformed itself because of the Industrial Revolution. The constant exchange between economy and society is why I am applying to the Oxford MBA 1+1, as I believe it is the ideal program to explore how to affect positive change through economic and social policy.

One area where I would like to affect positive change is in the traditional linear economy, which is characterized by the take-make-dispose model. This production and consumption model has led to resource depletion, environmental degradation, and waste generation. In contrast, the circular economy aims to create a closed-loop system where resources are reused, recycled, or regenerated to minimize waste and maximize value.

As a sustainability-minded professional, I would advocate for the adoption of circular economy practices within an organization. These practices could involve anything from encouraging the development of products that are durable, repairable, and modular to establishing closed-loop supply chains. But these practices can only be widely adopted if consumption patterns and marketing campaigns are also adjusted to motivate consumers to consume less.

Through the insights gained from the MBA program, I aim to champion circular economy practices within organizations. By collaborating with cross-functional teams, driving cultural change, and leveraging data and analytics, I believe we can successfully implement sustainable business models that bring environmental, social, and economic benefits.

Essay Prompt: What improvements have you made in your candidacy since you last applied to the Oxford MBA? (Maximum 250 words)

Since my last application to the Oxford MBA program, I have made significant improvements in several areas of my candidacy. One area that was lacking in my initial application was a dearth of international experience, as I had stayed only within the United States during my undergraduate at Stanford and subsequent internship at Roundtree Investing and Capital.

I sought out positions in new environments and also became a member of the Asia Pacific Career Development Association. It was during one of APCDA’s conferences in Kuala Lumpur that I met Anthony Wong, a senior executive with a venture capital firm in Singapore. Motivated by Anthony’s guidance and encouragement, I applied for a year-long professional development course offered by his firm.

I was accepted and spent an enlightening year in Singapore learning about the value of cultural intelligence and navigating the unique nuances that come with doing business in Southeast Asia. In Singapore, there is a cultural value placed on preserving face and avoiding direct confrontation or conflict. I learned to navigate conversations with tact and sensitivity, using indirect communication styles to address sensitive issues and maintain harmony within business relationships.

Understanding and adapting to these cultural nuances and local business practices was crucial for successfully establishing our subsidiary and building partnerships in Singapore. By bringing this firsthand knowledge of Singapore's market dynamics to the Oxford MBA program, I aim to contribute unique perspectives and insights during discussions on international business, cross-cultural management, and global strategy.

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Oxford MBA Personal Statement for MBA for Executives #1

My journey from being a policy analyst at the Michigan Department of Education to my current position as the Head of Policy Analysis at Altra Healthcare Systems has been one of continuous growth and learning. It has provided me with a unique perspective on the intersection of education and healthcare and deepened my understanding of the challenges and opportunities in these sectors.

After gaining valuable experience at the Michigan Department of Education, where I worked closely with policymakers, educators, and community stakeholders, I recognized the need for innovative solutions that bridge the gap between education and healthcare. This realization motivated me to transition into the private sector, where I could have a direct impact on developing and implementing strategies that address the health needs of students and contribute to their academic success.

In my role as a policy analyst at Altra Healthcare, I have had the privilege of leading the policy analysis team and driving evidence-based decision-making. I have been involved in shaping policies and programs that promote equitable access to healthcare services and improve health outcomes for diverse populations. This experience has allowed me to deepen my understanding of the complexities of the healthcare industry, develop strong analytical and leadership skills, and foster a results-oriented approach.

However, as I progressed in my career, I realized that to truly make a transformative impact and lead change at a broader level, I needed to enhance my business acumen and develop a comprehensive understanding of strategic management and leadership. This realization led me to explore the Oxford MBA for Executives program.

I am drawn to the Oxford MBA for Executives program because of its reputation for academic excellence, global perspective, and emphasis on leadership development. I believe that the program's outstanding curriculum, diverse cohort of experienced professionals, and world-class faculty will provide me with the necessary tools, knowledge, and network to drive meaningful change in the education and healthcare sectors.

Furthermore, the program's focus on experiential learning, case studies, and international modules aligns perfectly with my goal of gaining practical insights and cross-cultural understanding to navigate the complexities of the global business landscape. I am particularly excited about the opportunity to collaborate with fellow executives from diverse backgrounds, exchange ideas, and engage in enriching discussions that will broaden my perspective and challenge my assumptions.

By pursuing the Oxford MBA for Executives, I aim to develop a well-rounded skill set that combines my policy analysis expertise with strategic thinking, innovation, and effective leadership. I am committed to leveraging my experiences, knowledge, and the resources provided by the program to drive positive change, improve educational and healthcare outcomes, and contribute to building sustainable and inclusive communities.

I hold a degree in Environmental Science and Policy from Georgetown University, where I developed a deep understanding of the intersection between environmental issues, policy, and sustainable development. Following my graduation, I had the privilege of working as a research fellow at the Center for Sustainable Energy and Policy, a renowned think-tank based in Washington, DC.

During my time at the think-tank, I delved into various energy-related research projects, focusing on the social, economic, and environmental aspects of energy policy. I conducted extensive analyses of renewable energy adoption, energy efficiency programs, and the impact of policy frameworks on energy markets. Through my research, I recognized the crucial role that effective policy-making plays in driving the transition to a sustainable and equitable energy sector.

In Washington, I was fortunate enough to make the acquaintance of Juan Gutierrez, a senior executive at Repsol SA, a renowned energy company based in Spain. We discovered that we were both interested in the topic of divestment, which refers to the process of removing investments from specific sectors, industries, or companies for ethical, political, or financial reasons.

Many European nations have sought to reduce their dependency on energy sources from hostile nations and meeting Mr. Gutierrez coincided with Repsol’s desire to divest itself of its holdings in various problematic nations. My expertise in energy policy proved valuable and I was offered a position to spearhead their divestment initiatives, which I took and currently still hold.

In this role, I collaborate closely with senior executives, legal teams, and financial experts to evaluate the company's current holdings and identify opportunities for divestment. I conduct thorough analyses of political dynamics, regulatory environments, and market trends to assess the feasibility and potential impacts of divestment decisions. The opportunity to work with Repsol SA allows me to further expand my expertise in energy divestment and contribute to creating a fair, equitable, and environmentally conscious energy sector.

I am motivated by the potential to drive positive change, not only within the company but also within the broader energy industry, by influencing investment decisions and promoting responsible practices. With my solid background in energy policy, my role at Repsol SA enables me to apply my knowledge and skills in a practical and impactful manner.

It is this combination of expertise, passion for sustainability, and dedication to ethical business practices that fuels my desire to pursue the Oxford MBA for Executives program. I am confident that the program will equip me with the necessary tools, knowledge, and networks to further enhance my leadership capabilities and contribute to shaping a more sustainable and responsible future for the energy sector.

As an executive at Tata Group, my journey from Uttar Pradesh to Mumbai has been a transformative one, shaping my passion for next-generation manufacturing processes and theories. After completing my secondary education, I enrolled in the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay, where I pursued a degree in Mechanical Engineering with a specialization in advanced manufacturing techniques.

Equipped with a strong technical foundation, I began my career at Tata Group, starting in an entry-level position within the manufacturing division. In this role, I gained valuable hands-on experience working on various projects, honing my skills in process optimization, quality control, and systems engineering. My dedication, innovation, and leadership qualities propelled me through the ranks, and I eventually assumed the position of Senior Manager of Systems Engineering.

As Senior Manager of Systems Engineering at Tata Group, I am responsible for overseeing the development and implementation of advanced manufacturing systems and processes across multiple divisions. I lead cross-functional teams, collaborating with engineers, technicians, and executives to optimize operations, drive efficiency, and ensure the highest quality standards.

Throughout my career, I have demonstrated a strong commitment to innovation, continuous improvement, and strategic thinking. I have spearheaded initiatives to adopt cutting-edge technologies, such as automation, robotics, and data analytics, to streamline production processes and enhance overall productivity. These efforts have not only resulted in significant cost savings but also improved product quality and customer satisfaction.

While I have achieved considerable success in my current role, I aspire to take on broader leadership responsibilities as a vice-president or president in another organization. I believe that the Oxford MBA for Executives program will provide the perfect platform to accelerate my career progression and equip me with the necessary skills, knowledge, and global perspectives to excel in a senior leadership role.

The Oxford MBA for Executives program will enhance my business acumen, strategic thinking, and leadership capabilities, enabling me to navigate complex business challenges and make informed decisions that drive organizational growth. The program's emphasis on diverse perspectives, critical thinking, and experiential learning will broaden my understanding of global business dynamics and expose me to a network of accomplished professionals from various industries.

Furthermore, the program's focus on leadership development will allow me to refine my leadership style, learn from renowned faculty and industry experts, and gain insights into the latest management practices. The program's strong emphasis on entrepreneurship and innovation will also fuel my entrepreneurial ambitions and enable me to leverage emerging technologies to drive business transformation.

By combining my technical expertise in advanced manufacturing with the comprehensive business knowledge and leadership skills gained from the Oxford MBA for Executives program, I am confident in my ability to make a significant impact as a vice-president or president in a leading organization. My goal is to drive sustainable growth, foster innovation, and shape the future of the manufacturing industry by leveraging technology and strategic decision-making.

The Oxford MBA personal statement is an opportunity for both upcoming leaders and established executives to showcase their career highlights to the admissions committee. The personal statement along with MBA recommendation letters , MBA cover letters , and MBA motivation letters are all important when applying to one of the best MBA programs in the world . 

Yes, the program is highly visible and competitive and attracts applicants from all over the world. The program has strict MBA requirements such as applicants needing to take either the GMAT or GRE exams, as well as having to write essays on several MBA essay topics . There is also an online assessment that asks you several MBA behavioral interview questions to determine things about your personality and character. The MBA for Executives has even more requirements, as all applicants must have years of work experience to apply. 

The MBA essay prompts above give you the exact word counts, but the MBA for Executives program does not disclose its word count nor its topics, but you should always adhere to the stated format requirements according to many reputable MBA essay writing services . 

The MBA acceptance rate for the Oxford Said School of Business is somewhere between 20 and 25%, which is higher than the ultra-competitive programs at the Harvard Business School and Stanford Graduate School of Business , which can be as low as 10%. 

Yes, the Oxford MBA personal statement is as important as the Stanford MBA personal statement or Yale MBA essays . It provides the admissions committee a valuable example of your communication and writing skills, your professional experiences and why you decided to pursue an MBA. 

The main Oxford MBA program asks applicants to write two essays based on their prompts – one essay is optional. The dual-degree MBA and Masters requires a separate statement for each program, MBA and Masters. The MBA for Executives program asks applicants to write three essays. 

The application for the Oxford MBA is done online, as is the application for the Oxford MBA 1+1 and the MBA for Executives program. 

The exact requirements are that every essay be written in 12-point font, Times New Roman and with a certain word count, depending on the program and essay. 

All MBA personal statements should include details about your work experience with concrete examples of how you contributed to the success of project or company. You can also talk about your motivations for pursuing an MBA and what goals you have for the future. 

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Homepage > MBA Admissions > Business Schools > Oxford MBA essay 2019-2020 | Analysis and Tips

Oxford MBA essay 2019-2020 | Analysis and Tips

Posted by Lekhika Dhariyal | Oct 27, 2019 | Business Schools , MBA Admissions , MBA Application Process

For its 2019 -2020 MBA application, Oxford Saïd Business School essay consists of only 1 required essay. In addition to its essay question, applicants are required to respond to five career goal-related questions.  Once the candidate has submitted the online application, they receive a link for an online assessment where they need to provide responses to multiple video essay prompts. In this article, we analyze and share tips on how to approach the Oxford MBA essay questions.

Here is an outline of the article:

Oxford MBA Application deadline

Oxford mba essay 1, career goal questions, oxford mba essay for re-applicants.

• Two motivation-based questions
• Two competency-based questions
• Live Written Response

To get admitted to Saïd business school, the applicant needs to submit an online application. There are four application rounds, and the deadline for each stage is:

Know more about the Oxford Saïd Business School MBA program – Class profile| Employment report | Notable Alumni.

Oxford MBA Essay 2020

Saïd Business School asks for a single written essay in their online application. In addition to the essay, there are five post-MBA career goal related questions.

Re-applicants need to submit an additional essay where they would highlight the improvements in their candidacy since they last applied to the Oxford MBA program.

After submitting the online application form, applicants will receive a link to an online assessment where they respond to four video essay prompts followed by a live written essay prompt.

Let’s have a look into the Oxford MBA essay questions for 2020–21:

Is there anything not covered in the application form that you would like the admissions committee to know about you? (250 words max)

As stated by the admissions committee , among other characteristics, they are looking for evidence of the following while reviewing the application:

• Leadership potential
• Good communication skills
• Analytical skills
• Fit with the oxford MBA community

Highlighting the above characteristics in response to this essay prompt will be a good strategy, however, applicants should keep in mind that the question clearly states to include information which is not reflected elsewhere in your application. Thus, make sure that you take time to consider everything the admission committee already knows about you from other parts of the application form and provide a holistic view of your candidacy.

This essay can also be utilized to communicate any issues or problems in your application form, for e.g. a low GMAT score or a gap year in your employment. Make sure you highlight the reason behind the situation.

The essay question doesn’t state whether you should talk about your personal or professional life. Thus, you can pick either or both to answer the question.

In case your profile is free from any questionable components, you need to still provide additional key information for the school to decide whether to include you in its next class. Thus, it’s left for you to decide whether to include a story about an unfavorable part of the application or to highlight any significant learnings /accomplishments.

Once you complete your essay response, you need to upload the same in the online application portal. Here’s a snapshot of the Oxford MBA essay:

As discussed earlier, the Oxford MBA application includes five career goal questions that are related to your short-term goals after completing the MBA program. Under this section, the candidate needs to select the option most aligned to their short-term career goals, i.e., Employment, Entrepreneurship, others (like family business), or returning to current employer.

Here’s a snapshot of how the post-MBA plan section looks like:

Note: You can choose more than one option, and no matter which option you choose, the questions asked are a variation of your post-MBA plans and ‘why MBA.’

The applicants should also keep in mind that it’s not expected by the admissions committee to craft a full-length essay to the responses. Thus, you should focus on concisely providing the information.

Let’s have a look at the five career- goal questions asked if you choose ‘employment’ option as your short-term career goal:

Describe below your immediate plan after graduating from the MBA

In this question, the admissions committee expects you to have a goal in mind after your graduation. It is recommended to be straightforward while detailing your intentions. If your career goals are in line with your resume, i.e., you have prior experience or knowledge in the field you want to work for, then you don’t need to provide much explanation towards why you choose this career path.

But, let’s say if you are changing careers, then you need to provide context to your story and explain as to what led you to decide that path and why you are a feasible fit for it.

How does your preferred sector in your preferred location recruit MBA talent, and what do they look for in a candidate? Describe the research you have done

After responding to the first question, you need to select your preferred sector and location upon graduating and then respond as to how your preferred industry and location recruit MBA talent and what they look for in a candidate.

The admissions committee wants to know that you have done significant research towards the chosen career path and are ready to pursue an MBA to achieve your goals.

In short, the response to this question will help the admissions committee in knowing your thoughtfulness, and reasoning behind your goals.

Reflecting on your answer above, how do you meet these requirements?

In response to this question, you need to specify what skills/knowledge/experiences you have gained over your professional career that will help you to pursue your post-MBA goals. Highlighting these qualities and experiences will give the admissions committee confidence in your ability to be successful in your chosen post-MBA career.

What do you plan to do between now and starting your MBA to prepare and maximize your chances of success?

As pointed out in the mbaMission blog , the admissions committee at Saïd business school are looking for individuals who want to do more than attending classes and securing a job post-MBA. In this question, you need to show that you are willing to put effort and go after what you want. Thus, highlight the things that you are doing towards achieving your goals is a good strategy for this question.

Should you not be successful in securing your first choice of role, what is your alternative?

This question wants to know whether you have a plan B for your career goals. The university wants to make sure that you have thought of alternative career choices post-MBA. Thus, demonstrating that you have identified and considered an alternative path towards your goal is an excellent way to respond to this question.

According to mbaMission, you need to outline an option that is aligned and consistent with your interests.

Questions asked for ‘entrepreneurship’ as your short-term career goal:

• Describe your business idea and the steps you have taken so far to develop/launch your plan.
• How will an MBA help you to develop further or start your business?
• What do you plan to do between now and starting your MBA to achieve success?
• What is your alternative if you are not successful in developing/launching your own business?

Questions asked for ‘Others’ (including family business) as your short-term career goal:

• Describe your plan after graduating with an MBA
• How does an MBA fit into your plans, and how will it enhance your short-term direction?
• How will you develop your career goals before starting your MBA?
• What research have you already conducted, and what further research you will do?
• How will an MBA help you get equipped for the future?

Questions asked for ‘ returning to current employer’ as your short-term career goal:

• Is your current employer planning to sponsor your MBA?
• Describe the role you will be returning to and provide any other information in regards to the role.

Apart from the above essay prompt and career goal questions, re-applicants need to submit an additional essay answer:

What improvements have you made in your candidacy since you last applied to the Oxford MBA? (250 words max)

By asking this question, the admission committee wants to know how you have improved your profile as compared to last time. Highlight things such as:

• Improved GMAT score
• Worked on a new project/assignment
• Extra classes
• Increased community involvement
• Development of new skills
• And many more

Oxford MBA Online Assessment

A link to an online assessment portal will be updated on your application portal once you have submitted your form. According to the application requirement section of the Saïd business school, to get a sense of an applicant’s personality and see how they think on their feet, the following questions need to be submitted:

• Two motivation-based questions (same questions for every applicant)
• Two competency-based questions (randomized questions)
• Live Written Response (randomized question)

The motivation-based questions are an opportunity for you to demonstrate your motivation for pursuing an MBA and why an Oxford MBA program the right choice for you. For example, “why is an MBA the next step for you?”.

The competency-based questions allow you to demonstrate your skills and qualities that oxford university looks for, which is decision-making, leadership, problem-solving, and strong communication skills.  For example, “Tell us about a time where you have overcome a challenging situation personally or professionally. What was your approach to resolving the issue?”

At last, there is a live written response within the Kira talent platform. This question will allow the applicants to demonstrate their written communication skills and will help in knowing how well they can think on their feet. For example, “Apples are more versatile than bananas. Discuss.”

Before going live with your responses, the portal will provide you with adequate time to prepare and practice for your video interview questions. The online assessment will take up to 30 minutes, and you will need a desktop/laptop with functioning webcam, internet connection, and microphone.

Are you aspiring to pursue an Oxford MBA? A 730+ GMAT score can increase your chances of getting an admit. Sign up for our free trial today!

Here are some additional articles for writing MBA Application:

• Oxford Saïd School of Business: Class Profile, Employment Reports, and Salaries
• The UK has extended its post-study Visa to 2 Years | Thousands of International Students stand to Benefit
• 1-Year vs 2-Year MBA | Pros and Cons
• How to make an impressive MBA Application Video Essay
• Avoid these MBA application mistakes and make it to your dream business school
• Importance of MBA Essays in Business School applications
• How to improve your MBA profile and boost your application

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