Iowa State University MBA Application Tips
ISU MBA Application Requirements Online Application form Official Transcripts GMAT TOEFL (if native language is not English) 3 Letters of Recommendation 3 Essays Resume
Online Application Tips If you have not taken the GMAT before you complete the online application form, you do not need to indicate a score on the application. You do not need to write the personal statement on the application as the MBA requires 3 separate essays. The letters of recommendation can be submitted through the online application form. References will receive notification after you have submitted the application.
Official Transcripts If you are an ISU alum, the MBA office will get your transcripts for you. If you are not an ISU alum, please have your undergraduate institution send your transcripts to the Admissions Office. If you have international transcripts, the Admissions Office can make verified copies for you and you can keep your originals. You will need to bring your transcripts to campus to have the copies made.
GMAT Information Average scores for full-time MBA: 600s Average scores for part-time MBA: 500s The GMAT is offered several times each week in various locations. You can register for the GMAT at www.mba.com
GMAT Information The exam is divided into 3 sections: Quantitative, Verbal, and Written Essays The scores range from 200 800. Once you complete the exam, you will receive your unofficial results. ISU will receive your official results usually within 10 days.
GMAT Study Tips There are many study guides available check to see which guide suits your learning style best before purchasing a book. Software is available as well. www.mba.com has a free practice test that mimics the GMAT and provides a score so you can assess how much more time you need to commit to studying.
GMAT Study Tips Spend time reviewing the math and grammar. Practice the reading comprehension. Use the study guides to prepare you for the different types of questions you will see on the exam; for example, some of the math questions are designed to test your logic reasoning.
TOEFL If your native language is not English, you must submit TOEFL or IELTS. This requirement is waived if you have earned a degree from a country where English is the only official language. A minimum total score of 250 on the computer-based TOEFL or 100 on the internet-based TOEFL is required for admission (600 on the paper-based test).
Letters of Recommendation Letters of recommendation should be from professional and/or academic references. Letters can be submitted electronically through the online application form.
Essays Please review your essays prior to submitting them. When reviewing your essays, please check that you have answered the questions fully. Essays can be single or double-spaced. Each essay should be one-page in length.
Resume Resumes should be formatted in a professional manner.
Timing the Application Application materials do not need to be submitted as a package; please send in materials as you complete them. Essays and resume may be emailed directly to the ISU MBA office or Jenny Reitano at jreitano@iastate.edu.
Additional Tips Please give your references plenty of time to submit their letters of recommendation. Contacting your undergraduate institution early to have your transcripts sent ensures that ISU receives them in a timely manner.
Application Deadlines Full-time MBA program: July 1 International students are encouraged to apply by the end of March Part-time MBA program Spring semester: December 1 Summer semester: April 1 Fall semester: July 1
Additional Questions If you have any additional questions about the ISU MBA application materials or the program itself, please contact: Jenny Reitano, Director of MBA Marketing and Recruitment (515) 294-7819 jreitano@iastate.edu