mba stanford essay

A Successful Stanford GSB Essay Example

March 28, 2023

Jeremy Shinewald

“What matters most to you, and why?”

This is a huge question and one that requires a great deal of thought before answering. How do you approach this essay prompt that the (GSB) poses in its application? To help you, we have recorded a video offering guidance on this topic! Be sure to subscribe to mbaMission’s YouTube channel for the most up-to-date content. Today, we are going to take you through an actual successful GSB essay and discuss its strengths. 

The essay we will review in this post is showcased in the book “What Matters?” and “What More?”: 50 Successful Essays for the Stanford GSB and HBS (and Why They Worked) , co-authored by mbaMission Founder Jeremy Shinewald. To read more of our analysis of this essay, and that of 49 other examples, be sure to download your copy today. Note that this essay is not meant to be a template—it is one applicant’s personal answer. At mbaMission, we encourage you to reflect on and write about what is meaningful to you ! The first paragraph of our highlighted GSB example follows;

In Lithuania, one of the most Catholic countries in the world, it is almost inconceivable for anyone to leave the church. Yet, as I grew older, I increasingly felt that as a person of science, I couldn’t reconcile being committed to an organization founded broadly on beliefs. Despite a rich tradition and the good guidance the church provides, I still felt that to be true to myself I should file for apostasy—a challenging process! Several of my friends refused to be my witnesses and vouch for my sanity—in our society one is “insane” to leave the church—because they feared I would be ostracized. Finally, finding two people who confirmed the thoughtfulness of my choice, I met with the priest only to hear him reject my deed of will. I had to find his superior to finally get my act stamped and my name removed from the baptismal book. Although I would no longer gain entry to sacred grounds and could not be married in my country, making my life marginally more difficult socially, I was nonetheless at peace with myself because I know that there is no price for living by the truth.

This is an aggressive opening. Three sentences in, and the reader learns that the applicant filed for apostasy. Note that our writer is not trying to tell us about the church. Rather, he is sharing a lot about himself. In fact, he is even deferential to the church to ensure that the admissions committee understands that can be diplomatic. Nonetheless, he very forcefully asserts that he is an independent thinker, taking a symbolic step that will disadvantage him, just to be true to himself and his conscience. That said, the next paragraph is really critical:

To me, this is emblematic of my approach to work and life: I have always had strong opinions, unwavering whether they are aligned with the majority or not.From a young age, my teachers joked that one day I would start a revolution setting Lithuania straight. By the end of high school, my educator asked me if he could resign from applying for highest distinction on my behalf, rather than start a storm by presenting my candidacy, as not all teachers appreciated my independence as he did. (I actually agreed to his request because grades and titles were confirmations rather than goals.) Later, while at Vilnius University, I made my approach of a thesis advisor very carefully, seeking an individual who would strenuously challenge me, because truths must withstand scrutiny. I found that advisor in Professor Sarkinas, our former chairman of the central bank. He was known to intimidate, but I just accepted that he pushed students to reconsider their thoughts and reveled in his constant challenges. Over my four years with him as an advisor, he expanded my view of economics and my perspective on learning. His most important lesson was not a theorem, but was about debate and seeking truth: to oppose, one must understand his opponent, at times, better than one understands himself.

The reader understands that the applicant’s theme is independent thought, but what is important to a business school is that an independent thinker is still productive and does not yield to dogma or consider themselves an expert on everything. In this paragraph, our author talks about how he specifically chose an advisor who would challenge his opinions. In doing so, the writer shows that he seeks understanding before asserting himself. Again, this is a strong theme, but he thoughtfully balances it out.

Equipped with my professor’s wisdom, I have embarked on my career in investment management by building my brand on independence and truth. When the biggest mobile telecom provider in the Baltics was going public, I gave an interview about its prospects, wherein I stated that the IPO was a “smoke screen” to force a higher bid in a parallel private process with a competitor (as synergies in a unified company were far more compelling). Furious, the company excluded me from the IPO, canceled its road show for me and even resigned on group insurance offered by our parent company.In the end, after its IPO, news surfaced that it in fact was in negotiations with its competitor throughout the IPO process, which was intended to inflate its price. Later, in an offering by eight brokerages, an overhyped, fast-growing, Lithuanian financial institution launched its IPO. Listening attentively, I understood that its CEO had admitted to two minor fraudulent practices during its road show and found its business model simply did not add up. I was certain the firm was a deceit that the market did not want to see. At the time, I was on a road show and was repetitively asked about that IPO. I answered honestly that the company was a swindle and that management would end up in jail—not a popular thing to say! As I write this essay, the company is being liquidated and management is in custody, in one of the biggest financial scandals in my country’s history.

In this paragraph, the reader sees the payoff—all the author’s independent thought comes in service of others. The applicant is recognizing frauds that others cannot spot. He is not blinded by a good story. He digs deeper and sees that something is fishy. Something does not add up, and this is to the benefit of his firm, investors, and society at large. His independence is a superpower, not a crutch or a problem. Further, throughout this essay, we are not just learning about a character trait but are also gaining a picture of an individual who has had distinct experiences and will add a unique voice to his class, through his background, knowledge of the capital markets in an emerging region, and other aspects of his character. His message is complete—the applicant has an authentic voice and has led an interesting life. He concludes his essay with the following paragraph:  

Recently, I visited one of the distributors who asked me for another market presentation. When I was about to start my talk, the regional director stood up and said to his colleagues, “Quiet, let’s now listen to the truth.” Maybe just a brief utterance, but also the most rewarding moment of my career, when it became clear to me that truth is not a liability, but a way to help and shape reality.

This is a nice closing to a well-constructed essay. Of course, writing somewhat aggressively can be risky, but readers clearly understand what this applicant stands for, and his principles certainly manifest in this essay, as they no doubt did when he was on the GSB campus!

If you found this post helpful, consider downloading the, “What Matters?” and “What More?”: 50 Successful Essays for the Stanford GSB and HBS (and Why They Worked) . Also, sign up for a  and speak with an mbaMission consultant about any questions you might have about your GSB application—or really about anything related to MBA applications. mbaMission is here to give you our expert opinion and help you on your journey.

Finally, be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel for even more MBA application tips and advice. Thanks so much for reading, and good luck with your applications!

2022-2023 Application Tips Business School MBA Essay Tips Stanford University (Stanford Graduate School of Business)

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2023–2024 MBA Essay Tips

• Berkeley Haas School of Business Essay Tips and Examples
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• Michigan Ross School of Business Essay Tips and Examples
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• 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
• Oxford Saïd Business School 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
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• Vanderbilt University Owen Graduate School of Management Essay Analysis, 2023–2024
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Click here for the 2022–2023 MBA Essay Tips

MBA Program Updates

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• Stanford University (Stanford Graduate School of Business)
• University of California Los Angeles (Anderson)
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• University of Michigan (Ross)
• University of North Carolina (Kenan-Flagler)
• University of Pennsylvania (Wharton)
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• Villanova School of Business
• Yale University (School of Management)

Stanford GSB 2024: Comprehensive MBA Guide with In-Depth Essay Analysis

The Stanford Graduate School of Business (GSB) stands as a beacon of academic excellence in the world of business education, boasting an admission rate that hovers around a competitive 6.1%. This esteemed institution is synonymous with academic prestige and is renowned globally for its exceptional degrees.

The cornerstone of their offerings is the immersive two-year Stanford MBA Program. This comprehensive, full-time, residential course not only awards a general management degree but also nurtures students’ entrepreneurial visions and equips them with a dynamic set of skills to turn those visions into reality.

The Stanford Advantage

Nestled in the heart of Stanford, California, Stanford University offers a unique platform that merges the academic world with the real-world. The institution opens doors to a world of opportunities, including state-of-the-art facilities, an influential alumni network, and remarkable placement prospects. This environment attracts the finest talents from around the world, creating a vibrant and diverse campus, conducive to enriching learning experiences.

The full-time two-year MBA program at Stanford typically enrolls approximately 400 students annually, fostering a close-knit community of aspiring business leaders.

Silicon Valley’s Innovation Hub

Located within the innovation hub of Silicon Valley, Stanford GSB provides unparalleled access to major technology firms and some of the world’s most promising startups. The past few years have witnessed a remarkable surge in the creation of MBA startups at Stanford, cementing the school’s reputation as the ideal place to transform business ideas into reality. It offers an environment to incubate startups from scratch, secure capital from angel investors and venture capitalists, and successfully launch entrepreneurial ventures.

The Two-Year MBA Program in Detail

The Stanford GSB’s two-year MBA program, based in Stanford, California, ranks prominently on the world stage, securing the 6th spot in the prestigious Financial Times Global Business School rankings. What truly sets the program apart is the caliber of its faculty members. They are not only distinguished in their respective fields but are also known for influencing and shaping contemporary business practices.

Joining Stanford GSB means joining a network that you can always count on. The institution connects you to over 500 speakers from various industries annually and links you with an expansive alumni network comprising more than 47,000 influential leaders across the globe.

In terms of affordability, tuition fees for one year amount to $76,950, with the total first-year budget totaling $124,389, including various expenses such as boarding.

Stanford takes pride in offering generous scholarships to outstanding international candidates, primarily on a merit basis. These scholarships include Stanford GSB Need-Based Fellowships, the Stanford GSB BOLD Fellows Fund, and the prestigious Stanford Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program. Additionally, students can explore various avenues for career support, summer stipends, external scholarships, employer sponsorships, and military-related Yellow Ribbon programs.

Diverse Class Profile

One of Stanford GSB’s standout features is its diverse MBA cohort, representing a wide array of industries and professional backgrounds. This diversity translates into a truly global learning experience, where students gain insights from diverse perspectives.

Students joining the program bring a wealth of industry experience, spanning diverse sectors such as consulting, banking, financial services, fashion, and the performing arts. What’s particularly remarkable is that around 47% of the student body comprises international or non-US students, fostering a rich global learning environment.

With an average work experience of 4.8 years for full-time MBA students, Stanford ensures that its classrooms are enriched by the varied industry experience that students bring. This peer-to-peer learning extends beyond the classroom, creating a holistic educational experience.

Stanford GSB proudly maintains one of the best gender diversity ratios among business schools worldwide, with women making up 44% of the student body. This commitment to inclusivity adds to the school’s appeal.

In terms of academic prowess, the incoming class exhibits an impressive mean GMAT score of 734, and an average GRE score of 330. Furthermore, the students boast an average GPA of 3.78, reflecting their academic excellence.

Comprehensive Overview of the Stanford MBA Program Curriculum

At the Stanford MBA Program, the primary goal is to help you nurture your vision and arm you with the knowledge and skills needed to bring that vision to life. The program is structured into two years, each designed to provide you with a unique blend of core and elective courses, ensuring you are well-prepared to excel in the dynamic world of business management.

First-Year Curriculum: Building Strong Foundations

In your first year, the curriculum focuses on building a robust foundation in general management. It’s a transformative journey that begins with the following components:

Core Courses: Immersive Learning

This is where you dive deep into intricate managerial challenges. These core courses offer invaluable insights into the mindset of senior managers and leaders, enabling you to grasp the broader context of management. Through a combination of hands-on experience and constructive feedback from both peers and dedicated leadership coaches, your leadership style will evolve, and your managerial skills will flourish. Additionally, the curriculum emphasizes global management, helping you thrive in an increasingly interconnected world. The core courses are thoughtfully designed, with options tailored to your unique skills, experiences, and future aspirations. Although the initial year primarily comprises core courses, there’s room for flexibility with one to two elective courses available during the winter and spring quarters.

Global Experience Requirement: Expanding Horizons

Our Global Experience Requirement is a hallmark of the Stanford GSB experience. It offers a spectrum of exciting opportunities to immerse yourself in global issues and appreciate the complexities of global management. MBA students are mandated to partake in and successfully complete at least one global experience. These experiences are transformative, broadening your perspective and enhancing your leadership capabilities, which will serve you well, regardless of your future career path.

Second-Year Curriculum: Tailoring Your Journey

In the second year, you have the flexibility to customize your educational journey to align with your personal and professional interests. This is accomplished through a wide array of elective courses, seminars, joint or dual degree programs, and the opportunity to explore courses offered by other Stanford schools.

Electives: Specializing Your Knowledge

During the second year of the MBA program, the focus primarily shifts to elective courses. These courses are designed to enrich your experience and broaden your perspective. They allow you to deepen your expertise in specific areas of interest, bolster areas of development, explore new subjects, and ensure a well-rounded education in general management. Our curriculum is dynamic, with new electives continually added or existing ones revised to stay in tune with changes in the business environment, the social sector, and students’ evolving interests. Elective topics span a wide range, encompassing disciplines such as Accounting, Entrepreneurship, Finance, Global Management, Human Resources, Information Technology, Leadership, Managerial Economics, Marketing, Operations, Organizational Behavior, Political Economics, Public Management, and Strategic Management.

Compressed Courses: Enhanced Learning Opportunities

Additionally, we offer compressed courses that provide intensive, focused learning experiences in specific areas of business management.

Placement Statistics

Stanford consistently delivers exceptional results, with over 91% of MBA graduates securing employment opportunities each year. The return on your investment is substantial, with alumni reporting an  average post-graduation salary of $160,000, complemented by a generous variable compensation of $78,000 . Many of our graduates choose to embark on entrepreneurial ventures, while others opt to join innovative startups and emerging ventures. These statistics serve as a testament to the remarkable success achieved by our MBA graduates.

By providing a more in-depth overview, we aim to give you a comprehensive understanding of the enriching and transformative journey that awaits you at the Stanford MBA Program.

Let’s also do the MBA essay analysis for Stanford GSB for the 2024 admit.

Essay A: What matters most to you, and why? (in 600 words)

“What matters most to you, and why?” This essay is a fundamental part of your application, as it offers you the opportunity to reveal your values, beliefs, and what drives you. To craft a compelling essay, follow these steps:

• Self-Reflection: Before you start writing, take some time to reflect on what truly matters to you. It might be a life experience, a personal value, a passion, or a commitment. What deeply motivates and guides your actions and decisions? Make sure to choose something authentic, meaningful, and unique to you.
• Storytelling: Your essay should tell a story or illustrate your point rather than merely listing your values. Share a specific and personal anecdote that demonstrates how this value or belief has impacted your life. Use vivid details to paint a clear picture.
• The “Why”: Remember that this essay is not just about what matters most to you but also why it matters. Explain the significance and the impact it has had on your life and the lives of others. Go beyond surface-level explanations and delve into the emotional and intellectual reasons behind your choice.
• Authenticity: Be genuine and honest in your writing. Admissions committees are looking for individuals who are sincere and self-aware. Avoid trying to guess what the committee wants to hear or using cliches.
• Connection to Stanford GSB: Connect your values or what matters most to you with your aspiration to attend Stanford GSB. How will your values align with the Stanford GSB community and its mission? What unique contributions will you make based on your values?
• Conciseness: While you have up to 600 words, it’s essential to be concise and focused. Every word should contribute to your narrative. Avoid unnecessary tangents or fluff.
• Revise and Edit: After writing your initial draft, revise it thoroughly. Consider seeking feedback from mentors, peers, or professional essay editors. Ensure your essay is clear, well-structured, and free from grammatical errors.

Here’s a sample structure for your essay:

Introduction : Begin with a captivating opening that introduces the central theme of your essay and what matters most to you.

Body : Use the body of the essay to narrate your story and explain why this value or belief is significant. Provide examples, experiences, or events that have shaped your perspective.

Reflection : Reflect on how this value or belief has influenced your decisions, relationships, and overall life.

Connection to Stanford GSB : Conclude by explaining how your values align with the Stanford GSB community and its goals. Emphasize what you hope to contribute to the Stanford GSB community.

Conclusion : End with a strong conclusion that reinforces the importance of your chosen value and leaves a lasting impression.

Remember, this essay is your opportunity to stand out and demonstrate your uniqueness. Be authentic, introspective, and passionate about what matters most to you. Good luck with your essay!

Essay B: Why Stanford (in 450 words)

“Why Stanford?” which has a word limit of 450 words. The purpose of this essay is to understand why you are interested in pursuing an MBA at Stanford specifically. Here are some key points to consider:

• Reflect on Your Values : Start by reflecting on your personal and professional values. What is it about Stanford GSB’s culture, values, and mission that resonates with your own beliefs and aspirations? Be specific in how your values align with the school’s ethos.
• Research the School : Show that you’ve done your homework about Stanford GSB. Mention specific programs, professors, resources, or extracurricular activities that are unique to Stanford and relevant to your goals. This demonstrates your genuine interest.
• Personal Growth and Development : Explain how you believe a Stanford MBA will help you grow as an individual. Highlight areas where you see the biggest potential for personal and professional development, and how Stanford GSB’s approach will support that growth.
• Contribution to the Community : Discuss how you plan to contribute to the Stanford GSB community. This could be through your unique experiences, skills, or perspectives. Stanford values diversity and the sharing of different viewpoints, so explain how you can enrich the school’s culture.
• Long-term Goals : Connect your aspirations and long-term career goals to what you hope to achieve at Stanford. How will this MBA program help you on your path? Discuss how the school’s resources and network will be instrumental in realizing your ambitions.
• Evidence of Fit : Share examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your fit with Stanford’s culture and values. This could be related to leadership, innovation, or making a positive impact.
• Avoid Generic Statements : Be specific and avoid generic statements like “Stanford is a top-tier institution.” Instead, delve into what makes Stanford unique for you and your goals.
• Reflect on Your Unique Story : Bring in your personal experiences and anecdotes that showcase your journey and the reasons behind your choice. Make it personal and authentic.
• Tone and Style : Maintain a professional and sincere tone throughout the essay. Your enthusiasm should shine through, but avoid being overly effusive.
• Edit and Proofread : Once you’ve written your essay, review and edit it for clarity, grammar, and coherence. Ensure that every word contributes to your narrative.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, pursuing an MBA at Stanford Graduate School of Business is a transformative journey that can open doors to countless opportunities. Stanford’s commitment to innovation, diversity, and social impact creates a unique environment that fosters personal and professional growth. The school’s renowned faculty, global network, and exceptional resources make it a top choice for those who aspire to lead, innovate, and make a difference in the world. Whether you’re looking to accelerate your career, launch a startup, or enhance your leadership skills, Stanford GSB offers an exceptional platform for achieving your goals. With its rich history, forward-thinking curriculum, and vibrant community, Stanford MBA is a path to greatness and a chance to join a network of alumni who are changing the world.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

• What is the application process for Stanford GSB MBA?

Answer: The application process typically includes essays, letters of recommendation, academic transcripts, standardized test scores, and an interview. It’s important to visit Stanford’s official website for the most up-to-date information.

• What is the ideal candidate profile for Stanford GSB?

Answer: Stanford values diversity, leadership, and innovation. Ideal candidates are typically accomplished professionals with a strong track record of leadership and a passion for creating positive change.

• What makes Stanford GSB unique among other business schools?

Answer: Stanford is known for its entrepreneurial spirit, focus on innovation, and emphasis on social impact. Its location in Silicon Valley provides unparalleled access to resources and opportunities.

• How long does the Stanford MBA program take to complete?

Answer: The standard Stanford MBA program is a two-year, full-time program.

• What is the cost of tuition for the Stanford MBA program?

Answer: Tuition and fees for the Stanford MBA program vary annually. It’s advisable to check Stanford’s official website for the most current information on costs and financial aid.

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Stanford MBA Essay Questions for 2023-2024

Stanford Graduate School of Business has confirmed the essay prompts for the 2023-2024 admissions cycle. The required Stanford MBA essay questions remain unchanged from previous admissions seasons.

Stanford asks for two personal essays in order to gain a greater understanding of applicants’ character and hopes. “In each essay, we want to hear your genuine voice,” the admissions team advises. “Think carefully about your values, passions, aims, and dreams. There is no ‘right answer’ to these questions — the best answer is the one that is truest for you.”

Stanford MBA Essay Questions

Essay a: what matters most to you, and why.

For this essay, we would like you to reflect deeply and write from the heart. Once you’ve identified what matters most to you, help us understand why. You might consider, for example, what makes this so important to you? What people, insights, or experiences have shaped your perspectives?

Essay B: Why Stanford?

Describe your aspirations and how your Stanford GSB experience will help you realize them. If you are applying to both the MBA and MSx programs, use Essay B to address your interest in both programs.

Both essays combined may not exceed 1,050 words. We recommend up to 650 words for Essay A and up to 400 words for Essay B. We often find effective essays that are written in fewer words.

Optional Short-Answer Question

In the Essays section of the application, we ask you to tell us about who you are and how you think Stanford will help you achieve your aspirations. We are also interested in learning about the things you have done that are most meaningful to you. If you would like to go beyond your resume to discuss some of your contributions more fully, you are welcome to share up to three examples (up to 1,200 characters, or approximately 200 words, for each example)

What do we mean by “optional”? We truly mean you have the opportunity to choose. If you feel that you’ve already described your contributions well in other areas of the application, congratulations, you’re done! If not, feel free to use this opportunity to tell us more.

Question: Think about times you’ve created a positive impact, whether in professional, extracurricular, academic, or other settings. What was your impact? What made it significant to you or to others?

The Stanford MBA application for the Class of 2026 is officially open. Here are the GSB’s updated application deadlines . For more information, please visit the Stanford GSB admissions website. If you need guidance on your Stanford MBA application or wish to discuss your MBA plans, reach out for a complimentary analysis  of your candidacy. We’re here to help!

Meanwhile, here’s a snapshot of the AdCom expertise on the Stacy Blackman Consulting team:

SBC’s star-studded consultant team is unparalleled. Our clients benefit from current intelligence that we receive from the former MBA Admissions Officers from Harvard HBS, Stanford GSB and every elite business program in the US and Europe.  These MBA Admissions Officers have chosen to work exclusively with SBC.

Just two of the many superstars on the SBC team: Meet Erin , who was Assistant Director of MBA Admissions at Stanford’s Graduate School of Business (GSB) and Director of MBA Admissions at Berkeley’s Haas School of Business.

Meet Andrea , who served as the Associate Director of MBA Admissions at Harvard Business School (HBS) for over five years.

Tap into this inside knowledge for your MBA applications by requesting a consultation .

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May 30, 2023

Stanford GSB MBA Application Essay Tips and Deadlines [2023 – 2024], Class Profile

In terms of its application, Stanford is once again re-using its essay questions. And there’s good reason for the recycling: Stanford has excellent questions that succinctly get to the heart of what Stanford wants to know about you. They are not easy questions to answer, but they are thoughtful, probing ones.

You should write the optional essays if you have experiences not presented in the required essays, that address the optional questions and that will reinforce the portrayal of you as a change agent and consequential member of your community , however you define that community. And most of us are members of multiple communities. 

If you have nothing to add, write nothing. However, I suspect most applicants will benefit by responding to the optional questions. Give GSB more reasons to admit you.

Stanford gives a lot of advice and guidance on its website as to what it’s looking for in the essays. You should access that advice in addition to reviewing my suggestions below.

In this post:

• Stanford GSB 2023-2024 MBA application essay questions
• Stanford GSB 2023-2024 deadlines
• Stanford MBA Class of 2024 profile
• More resources for Stanford GSB applicants

Stanford GSB 2023-24 MBA application essay questions

Essays help us learn about who you are rather than solely what you have done.

Other parts of the application give insight to your academic and professional accomplishments; the essays reveal the person behind those achievements.

We request that you write two personal essays.

In each essay, we want to hear your genuine voice. Think carefully about your values, passions, aims, and dreams. There is no “right answer” to these questions—the best answer is the one that is truest for you.

Stanford MBA Essay A: What matters most to you, and why?

For this essay, we would like you to reflect deeply and write from the heart. Once you’ve identified what matters most to you, help us understand why. You might consider, for example, what makes this so important to you? What people, insights, or experiences have shaped your perspectives?

The Stanford GSB’s tried and true essay question “What matters most to you and why?” is one of the most challenging MBA application prompts to respond to (so start early). Unlike most MBA essays, Stanford’s is not about describing your accomplishments, even if “achievement” is what you value most. It is not about highlighting your career, even if “ambition” matters most to you. It is not about revealing your “humble beginnings,” even if your childhood is the stuff about which memoirs are written. The school’s primary essay is about what you value most and, more importantly, why it matters most to you. It requires a level of maturity and introspection that only such a question can demand. It gives Stanford insights into who you are and what you can bring to the GSB beyond your academic background, professional accomplishments, and personal attributes. 

So where do you start? Start with the “what.” Ask yourself, “For what would I walk over hot coals?” Still stuck? Review lists of values that resonate with you. Is it peace, relationships, health, creativity, compassion, expression? The lists go on and on, and you should not worry about being cliché with your “what” because your why will be unique to you and how you have lived your life.

Moreover, you can choose something symbolic to help you tell your story. I often talk about a ring my mother gave me. The ring is precious to me because of what it represents and how it motivated me to make the choices that I have made. It is a symbol of an unbreakable mother-daughter bond. 

Where do you go after identifying your “what matters most”? Remember that your “why” is more important than your “what.” You need to explain why the values you highlight are essential to you. The best way to illustrate your “why” is by providing specific examples of how the values have shaped your life. Refrain from offering career examples because you can state your achievements in the optional “impact” essays, your resume, and the application form. You recommenders should be writing about your career achievements as well. If your values only motivate you for work, then these values are likely ones that don’t truly matter most to you, despite your spending 60-100 hours per week working.  

• State the value that matters most to you.
• Explain why this value is essential to you.
• Provide specific examples (anecdotes) that illustrate how the value has shaped your life.
• Discuss how your value has influenced your decisions and actions.
• Explain why you are better off by having this value drive you.

The essay requires a level of honesty and authenticity that few others demand. Be specific and concise. The admissions committee wants to get to know the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your personal stories and experiences. 

Stanford MBA Essay B: Why Stanford?

Describe your aspirations and how your Stanford GSB experience will help you realize them. If you are applying to both the MBA and MSx programs, use Essay B to address your interest in both programs.

Why Stanford? 

Two words pack quite a punch: why Stanford, indeed? As you approach this essay, consider the following.

Stanford values intellectually curious individuals who can solve problems, see beyond the obvious, and connect the dots. Therefore, I suggest you begin your essay with what you hope to achieve after you graduate from the Stanford GSB. Don’t think about a role as you might with other post-MBA goals essays. Instead, consider the problems you want to solve at the organizations for which you hope to work in the future. It does not matter if you are considering an MBB consultancy, a giant Fortune 100 behemoth, a small start-up, a large private equity firm, a midsize family business, or a nonprofit organization. Focus on identifying the problems you can solve with your current skill set and the knowledge you will gain at Stanford.

Next, address the crux of the essay: Why Stanford? Note that the question is not “Why the GSB?” It is “Why Stanford?” While you want most of your essay to be about how the GSB can help you achieve your aspirations, consider how other parts of Stanford can add value to your education. And please don’t state the obvious. Resist the temptation to lift your information directly from the program’s website. The admissions committee already knows that the school’s location is perfect for entrepreneurship, tech, and venture capital. They already know they are highly selective and, therefore, highly ranked. They already know the Stanford brand resonates worldwide – they communicated all this to you in their marketing materials. Instead, think about the resources, opportunities, and community Stanford can offer you that will enable you to reach your unique goals. Why does this program make sense for you?

Finally, you will want to discuss how you will contribute to the Stanford GSB community. How will you make a difference at Stanford? What unique skills and experiences do you bring to the table? Why will your peers benefit from having you as a member of their class? 

With only 1,050 words to use for Essay A (What matters most?) and B (Why Stanford?) together, you need to understand yourself, your goals, what Stanford offers, and your unique value proposition to the Stanford community before tackling this essay. 

Additional information

If there is any information that is critical for us to know and is not captured elsewhere, include it in the “Additional Information” section of the application. Pertinent examples include:

• Extenuating circumstances affecting your candidacy, including academic, work, or test-taking experiences
• Academic experience (e.g., independent research) not noted elsewhere

Additional information “essays” exist so that you don’t have to make the admissions committee guess what happened if you have something unusual or confusing in your profile, such as the following:

• You had terrible grades your first year of university when your parent became ill, and you flew back and forth to care for your parent, or you worked 30 hours a week to make ends meet.
• You received a subpar GMAT or GRE score because you are not a great test-taker and can prove it with your inadequate ACT or SAT score and a 4.0 GPA or because you were initially premed and realized after volunteering at a hospital that medicine was not your thing.
• You did not ask an immediate supervisor to recommend you because you have only been with the company for a short time, and they do not know you well, or because doing so could lead to losing your job.

Stanford also suggests that you use this section to discuss any academic research because they do not want to see it on your one-page resume.

Additional information does not mean you should add an essay you wrote for another school. Feel free to bullet your reasons, making the section easier to read. If you have many bullets, you might have too many excuses, and many schools, including Stanford, could be a long shot for you.

Stanford MBA optional short-answer questions

In this section, we provide an optional opportunity for you to discuss some of your contributions more fully. What do we mean by “optional”? We truly mean you have the opportunity to choose. If you feel that you’ve already described your contributions well in other areas of the application, congratulations, you’re done! If not, feel free to use this opportunity to tell us more.

Optional short-answer question

In the Essays section of the application, we ask you to tell us about who you are and how you think Stanford will help you achieve your aspirations. We are also interested in learning about the things you have done that are most meaningful to you. If you would like to go beyond your resume to discuss some of your contributions more fully, you are welcome to share up to three examples. (Up to 1,200 characters, or approximately 200 words, for each example) Question: Think about times you’ve created a positive impact, whether in professional, extracurricular, academic, or other settings. What was your impact? What made it significant to you or to others?

Why does Stanford have optional essays? The school offers these impact essays because too many applicants tried to squeeze their accomplishments into their “what matters most” essay. If you are tempted to write about your achievements in your “what matters most” essay, stop. Then, cut and paste that information here instead. Now you have a space where you can highlight activities and describe your impact on work, extracurriculars, community service, family, or anything else. 

The best approach to writing an impact essay is to use CAR or STAR with an added Sig (significance) framework. Select each impact to show some variety in your life (in other words, don’t draw all three examples from your daily work).

C = Challenge (What challenge did you face?)

A = Action (How did you address the challenge? What specific steps did you take?)

R = Result (What was the outcome? Quantify the outcome, if possible. Did you increase revenues? Did you decrease costs? Did you increase membership? Did you minimize the danger? If so, by how much?)

Sig = Significance (Why was this important to you? What did it mean for others in your life?)

S = Situation (What background must you describe for the reader to understand your example?)

T = Task (What was your goal?)

A = Action (What steps did you take to achieve your goal?)

R = Result (What was the outcome? Did you achieve the goal? Did you surpass the goal. If so, by how much?)

These frameworks will work for any behavioral question that an admissions committee or interviewer will ask you. They will help you stay on point, so use them. Finally, be succinct because the 1,200-character allotment includes spaces. 

Personal Information, Activities and Awards: Optional question

In this section, we provide an optional opportunity for you to discuss your background more fully and how it has shaped your perspective. We know that each person is more than a list of facts or pre-defined categories. Please feel free to elaborate on how your background or life experiences have helped shape your recent actions or choices- (up to 1,200 characters, or approximately 200 words). 

Some applicants miss this question because Stanford tucks it under the personal information section. Reflect on all those drop-downs you clicked on, and consider this the bookend to Essay A. In essay A, you discussed what matters most and why your values are what they are. For this essay, you need to consider how your identity, diversity, and uniqueness motivate your actions. Consider cultural upbringing, education, abilities, and life experiences. How have these factors influenced how you view the world? This question is about your identity. How has that identity – that core of who you are, that core of most significant influences and experiences – expressed itself in your recent actions? It’s about helping the admissions committee get to know you and what motivates you.

Given the meager 1,200-character limit, select one factor that drives your decisions. Then describe the subsequent action. Your action is the evidence to support how and why that factor motivates you. For example, my own life was heavily influenced by being the daughter of immigrants and a first-generation college student. It drove the overachiever in me. That background influences every action I take, from preparing clients for their GSB interview to advocating for the rights of disabled and infirm people. That identity is how I tell my story. Now, how will you tell yours?

Stanford GSB at a glance

• Stanford GSB average GMAT score: 738
• Stanford GSB average GPA: 3.78
• Stanford GSB acceptance rate: 6.2%
• U.S. News ranked the Stanford GSB #3 in 2023

For expert guidance with your Stanford GSB MBA application, check out Accepted’s MBA Application Packages , which include comprehensive guidance from an experienced admissions consultant. We’ve helped hundreds of applicants get accepted to Stanford’s MBA program and look forward to helping you too!

Stanford GSB 2022-23 MBA application timeline

Your completed application, including your  and application fee payment , is due at 4:00 p.m. Pacific Time on the deadline date for the round in which you apply.

Source: Stanford GSB website

***Disclaimer: Information is subject to change. Please check with the Stanford GSB to verify the essay questions, instructions, and deadlines.***

Stanford MBA Class of 2024 Profile

Here’s a look at the Stanford Class of 2024, taken from the  Stanford Graduate School of Business website :

Applicants :  6,152

New students : 424

Women : 44%

US students of color:  51%

International students : 37%

Countries represented : 56

Languages spoken : 71

U.S. students and permanent residents

Undergraduate field of study.

Average GPA : 3.76

First generation in their family to graduate from a four-year college or university : 12%

Hold advanced degrees : 13%

US institutions : 83

Non-US institutions : 79

Average years work experience:  4.9

Organizations represented : 285

Test scores

• Average score: 737
• GMAT score range: 630-790
• Average Verbal score: 164
• Verbal score range: 149-170
• Average Quantitative score: 163
• Quantitative score range: 150-170

TOEFL 

• Average score: 113
• Score range: 106-119

*Some students submitted both GMAT and GRE scores.

More resources for GSB applicants

Not sure that Stanford is the place for you? If you are in the research stage, these resources can help guide you: 

• How to Demonstrate Impact in Your Application to Harvard, Stanford, or Wharton
• M7 MBA Programs: Everything You Need to Know
• Which MBA Program is Right for Me? The Ultimate Guide to Choosing an MBA Program

To hear about life at Stanford GSB from the mouths of real students, listen to these podcast interviews: 

• Transitioning from the Military to an MBA at Stanford GSB – podcast Episode 471
• Stanford MBA Discusses Coffee Chats – podcast Episode 437
• What These Seasoned Startup Founders Have Done Since Earning Their Stanford MBAs – podcast Episode 382
• A Stanford MBA with a Passion for Both Business and Humanities – podcast Episode 377
• Stanford MBA Grows His Amazing Tech Startup – podcast Episode 369

Have you decided that Stanford GSB is your top choice? The road to acceptance isn’t easy, but check out the following links for pro tips on crafting your stand-out GSB application: 

• What Does It Take to Get Into Harvard, Stanford, and Wharton? , a YouTube video
• Why MBA? ,  a free guide to writing about your MBA goals
• What Stanford GSB is Looking For: Intellectual Vitality
• Stanford GSB’s Take on Demonstrated Leadership Potential  
• Understanding Stanford GSB’s Interest in Personal Qualities and Contributions

Our team of MBA admissions experts includes former admissions directors, published authors, and highly experienced business school admissions consultants. And we are all primed and ready to help you secure a seat at your dream school, just as we have done for thousands of clients for the past 25 years. Schedule your free consultation and speak to an expert admissions consultant.

By Natalie Grinblatt, the former admissions dean/director at three top business schools. Natalie has reviewed more than 70,000 applications, interviewed more than 2,500 candidates, and trained nearly 700 admissions directors and alumni volunteers to select outstanding candidates for admission. Her clients gain admission to top programs, including those at Harvard, Stanford, Wharton, MIT, Cornell, Columbia, Berkeley, Chicago, Northwestern, and NYU. Natalie holds an MBA from Michigan Ross.  Want Natalie to help you get Accepted? Click here to get in touch!

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“Why Stanford” MBA essay tips

W hy Stanford? Seems straightforward at first blush, right? Corralling the material you need to answer this classic MBA essay question is more challenging than you might think.

In this article, MBA Prep School delivers a fresh way to approach your “Why Stanford?” essay along with some practical advice on ways to make your essay stand out from other applicants’ essays.

Why Stanford?

Describe your aspirations and how your Stanford GSB experience will help you realize them.

Where Do We Begin?

To get started, imagine structuring your essay like a documentary film with three acts.

The first act of the movie must introduce the audience to your sense of purpose: a deeper motivation that has directed your career thus far and will undoubtedly drive your future endeavors.

The second act presents your desired destination: your career goals.

The last act , which is the most important to your target audience of Stanford admissions officers, explains why you need a Stanford MBA to continue your quest and ultimately reach the pinnacle of your career.

Developing Your Essay

Taking a cinematic approach to developing your essay will energize your imagination and help you capture rich detail in your writing.

Expressing your hopes and dreams to an outsider is never easy. By visualizing yourself as a character in a film, you may be better able to take a step back and describe where you have been and where you want to go from a perspective that the Stanford admissions committee will understand and appreciate.

Another benefit of the cinematic approach is that it provides a workable structure for Stanford Essay B: a hero’s journey where we meet you (the hero), learn where you dream of going in your career, and then understand how Stanford is going to prepare you to get there.

Always keep in mind that a successful essay will convey a sense of passion and emotion, not only for attending Stanford but also for the exciting career that awaits you on the other side.

Self-Awareness, Honesty

Before taking on “Why Stanford?”, the heart of the essay, you must establish your career progress up to now, while providing a brief account of your professional strengths and weaknesses.

You’ll want to be upfront and honest about what you are missing for the journey ahead. Self-awareness denotes maturity, and a degree of humility is valued by the admissions office. Be assured that every applicant has some holes in their credentials—if not, there would be no reason for them to attend Stanford.

For example, MBA candidates typically lack leadership experience and their business exposure is often one-dimensional. GSB prides itself on expanding the horizons of its students and preparing aspiring leaders to become agents of change.

Due Diligence

Before you write a word about why you want to attend Stanford, do your homework about the unique areas in which Stanford GSB excels. Visit campus, sit in on classes, talk to students, meet with alumni, and sign up for informational blogs and emails. It’s not difficult to become well-informed about the place, but it does demand time and effort.

However, your “Why Stanford?” essay will collapse if all you do is name a few classes, clubs, and professors, and offer knee-jerk praise of the alumni network. Your objective is to clearly connect the opportunities you discuss to your developmental goals.

In addition to leadership training, three main themes stand out in Stanford’s self-profile: innovation, a global view, and improving the human condition. Sixteen percent of students start companies upon graduating, often in tech and often in Silicon Valley. Innovation includes teaching methods and quirky campus traditions (Take a Professor to Lunch). Grounding your discussion of what draws you to Stanford to one or more of these key themes may help you show your fit for the school.

Obviously, GSB has many strengths, and you cannot discuss them all. Focus your essay on the greatest benefits of attending Stanford to you personally. Don’t forget to logically connect the skills and knowledge Stanford will help you to gain with the gaps you revealed in your first paragraph.

The Stanford MBA program believes in thinking and dreaming big; the school’s motto is, “Change lives. Change organizations. Change the world.”

Kirsten Moss, the director of MBA admissions at Stanford, says that what remains constant at GSB is “our students’ commitment to becoming leaders who will transform their industries and communities.”

Your “documentary” will be a hit with Kirsten & Company if you keep our cinematic approach in mind while designing and writing your essay. You want your readers to be cheering for you to succeed and you must convince them that Stanford GSB is the perfect next step in your hero’s journey.

Talk to an Admissions Expert

Do you know how to make your MBA application essays stand out ? Talk with one of our MBA admissions experts today!

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• Stanford GSB – What Matters Most and Why?
• Stanford GSB – Why Stanford?
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