Getting into Wharton: Insights from a Former Admissions Officer
September 23, 2015
Getting into Wharton is no easy task.
As the deadline for Round 1 approaches, we wanted to tell you exactly what Wharton looks for in applicants, straight from our Former Admissions Officers.
What do admissions officers value or emphasize?
What MBA admissions factors matter most?
How are their expectations and values different from other top MBA programs?
We asked one of our Wharton Former Admissions Officers—Aviva Legatt—to answer these important questions.
According to Aviva, “Wharton is known externally for strength in finance education. Candidates that bring a ‘fresh’ non-finance perspective may receive additional consideration.
Furthermore, having a clear articulation of why an MBA is necessary and specifics as to what the Wharton program can offer a prospective student is a huge plus.”
Getting into Wharton requires strategy. What should students highlight in their applications?
“Talking about school-based ‘gems’—clubs, organizations and resources—that can help you on your MBA path may be beneficial.
It is important to note that Wharton is especially embracing entrepreneurship, social responsibility and leadership.
You also should know that Philadelphia is an up and coming city for new startups—at the same time, the city has a history of economic disparity between the richest and poorest citizens.
If you have an idea for contributing to the community in the city of Philadelphia, that desired contribution may be looked upon favorably.
Because some Wharton alumni have unfortunately become infamous, candidates who have demonstrated a commitment to ethics and social responsibility (e.g. giving back to their community through service) may be more attractive than applicants who have not.”
Is there anything that applicants dreaming of getting into Wharton should avoid?
“I would suggest that applicants are mindful of their own ‘privilege’—in other words, if your work experience is from family or friends and you are looking to invest personal funds in different efforts, make sure to downplay this on the application and discuss the ways in which you are ‘self-made.’”
What about for international applicants?
“Do not mention that you wish to return to your home country after graduation; this is a fine goal, but schools generally would prefer to offer a seat to someone who is likely to ‘give back’ after graduating.”
Good luck with your applications!
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