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When should I get an MBA After I have had a full-time job or right after undergrad?
I am a rising junior in college and I am also wondering if I should take the GRE as opposed to the GMAT.?
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10 answers
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Paige’s Answer
Many MBA programs recommend at least 4-5 years of work experience before applying to their programs. It is possible to go right into an MBA, but without the experience to apply the lessons to, it won’t be as beneficial.
However, seeing that you are a rising junior in college, I want to make you aware of opportunities many top MBA programs have. Schools like UVA, UPenn, Harvard, and others have programs where you can apply for MBA admission during your senior year of college, get accepted, but wait to start your MBA until you’ve had 2-5 years of work experience. It’s a great program because it helps secure your spot for the future and gain a strong network. Some of them require the GRE or GMAT, but others you can submit your SAT or ACT even!
However, seeing that you are a rising junior in college, I want to make you aware of opportunities many top MBA programs have. Schools like UVA, UPenn, Harvard, and others have programs where you can apply for MBA admission during your senior year of college, get accepted, but wait to start your MBA until you’ve had 2-5 years of work experience. It’s a great program because it helps secure your spot for the future and gain a strong network. Some of them require the GRE or GMAT, but others you can submit your SAT or ACT even!
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Dhimant’s Answer
I highly encourage you to pursue work experience following your undergraduate studies. This invaluable experience will equip you with practical skills that will not only boost your MBA application, but also enrich your learning during your MBA journey. By immersing yourself in the industry, you'll be able to apply and understand your MBA lessons in a more profound way.
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Mohit’s Answer
Generally, it's a good idea to go for an MBA after gaining some work experience.
Here are a few points to think about:
- It's often simpler to continue studying right after finishing your undergraduate degree since you're already in the habit of learning.
- When you begin working, it might become challenging to make time for studying, especially as family responsibilities grow.
On the bright side, you might find an employer who's willing to support your MBA education. Just keep in mind that there could be some conditions attached to their help.
Here are a few points to think about:
- It's often simpler to continue studying right after finishing your undergraduate degree since you're already in the habit of learning.
- When you begin working, it might become challenging to make time for studying, especially as family responsibilities grow.
On the bright side, you might find an employer who's willing to support your MBA education. Just keep in mind that there could be some conditions attached to their help.
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Steve’s Answer
There's no such thing as a wrong answer here! Your choice can be influenced by various factors, such as a specific job requirement, different organizational levels, or simply a personal life goal. For me, it was a life goal that I didn't reach until later in my career. I discovered an amazing school designed for students juggling full-time jobs and family life. As someone in Sales and Management, I wanted a program that would relate to my daily experiences and boost my personal brand. You'll know when the moment is right, and when it comes, pick a program that complements and elevates your career. Find a university that caters to your needs and make sure you have enough time to commit to your studies.
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Emma’s Answer
Deciding when to pursue an MBA depends on your career goals, experience, and personal circumstances. Many students choose to gain several years of full-time work experience before pursuing an MBA to maximize the program's benefits. This experience can help you apply MBA concepts more effectively, make informed career decisions, and potentially access better job opportunities post-MBA. However, some individuals opt for an MBA directly after undergrad to expedite their career progression, change fields, or explore entrepreneurship. Ultimately, your choice should align with your long-term career objectives and the specific requirements of your target MBA programs, as some prefer applicants with prior work experience while others welcome recent graduates. It's advisable to research MBA programs, consult with mentors or admissions advisors, and weigh the pros and cons of each path to make an informed decision.
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Murph,’s Answer
Most MBA programs could ask for anywhere between 0-5 years professional experience before applying. Depending on the program and whether you are going full-time or part-time or weekends only, make sure you can commit to the program financially, you have the time to balance work and school. Reading and group projects are one of the biggest challenges. More so than financial because many jobs will pay for your MBA (full or partial). BALANCE is the key! TIME MANAGEMENT is the key! Utilize your Fridays and Saturdays to read and catch up and re-read stuff you skimmed during the week.
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John’s Answer
I'll share my personal opinion. I got my MBA after nearly a decade of experience. The average employment of my cohort was seven years. I would recommend having some professional experience before going for an MBA. The academic component of an MBA was almost secondary to learning by applying the concepts to experiences and building a professional network. Plus, get your employer to pay for your MBA ;)
Find an employer with a strong tuition reimbursement benefit, fully understand the strings attached. Save into a 529 program while working to cover the rest.
John recommends the following next steps:
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Molly’s Answer
Angelina,
This is a great question! I have full-on and first-hand experience as I was wondering the same thing my senior year of college. I was in the middle of my senior year when I started thinking about where my life would be after graduation. While doing some deep thinking, discussing with my counselors in college, as well as speaking with fellow friends and comrades through their after years once graduating from college, I was still in a dilemma. My head was confused on which path I should take.
What really helped in deciding was making a Pros and Cons list based on each path. After going through the list, and finding the most beneficial ideas and answers, I came upon my final conclusion that I would go into further an education and receive my MBA. And honestly, I believe it was the right path to take. My headspace was already still in school even after graduating, and I was even able to graduate early.. On top of that, having a further education can help your chances tremendously when finding a job. Because I had that Master's degree, I can fully say that it was so much easier to find a job, one in which I have to this day.
But on top of everything, it is up to you to decide what path you want to take in the future. You may receive feedback or opinions of what you should do, but overall, it is your decision and what you think you would appreciate down the line.
I hope this helped and thank you!
Molly H.
This is a great question! I have full-on and first-hand experience as I was wondering the same thing my senior year of college. I was in the middle of my senior year when I started thinking about where my life would be after graduation. While doing some deep thinking, discussing with my counselors in college, as well as speaking with fellow friends and comrades through their after years once graduating from college, I was still in a dilemma. My head was confused on which path I should take.
What really helped in deciding was making a Pros and Cons list based on each path. After going through the list, and finding the most beneficial ideas and answers, I came upon my final conclusion that I would go into further an education and receive my MBA. And honestly, I believe it was the right path to take. My headspace was already still in school even after graduating, and I was even able to graduate early.. On top of that, having a further education can help your chances tremendously when finding a job. Because I had that Master's degree, I can fully say that it was so much easier to find a job, one in which I have to this day.
But on top of everything, it is up to you to decide what path you want to take in the future. You may receive feedback or opinions of what you should do, but overall, it is your decision and what you think you would appreciate down the line.
I hope this helped and thank you!
Molly H.
Updated
Erin’s Answer
Great question! Speaking from my own journey, if I had the chance to turn back the clock, I'd certainly chase a higher degree immediately after completing my bachelor's. Even though work experience and tuition reimbursement have their perks, a full-time MBA program could potentially boost career opportunities. Wishing you the best of luck!
Updated
Mark’s Answer
Many companies now offer Tuition reimbursement. So you can start your working career, then get the help from the company and get help paying for it. One other options is that if you can't find a job right away, you could take the 1 year and do an MBA program.