What’s New This Year and What It Means for You
As we enter the 2024-2025 MBA admissions cycle, recent trends from the 2023-2024 season are shaping what applicants can expect this year. Application volumes, the impact of AI, and evolving diversity initiatives are all influencing the landscape. Here’s what’s happening now, based on last year’s data, and what it means if you’re applying in the current cycle.
1. Application Volume Trends: A Mixed Bag
In the 2023-2024 application cycle, many top programs reported slight decreases in applications. For example, schools like Harvard and Wharton experienced application declines between 1% and over 10% compared to previous years. This slight downturn is notable but expected, given that domestic applications have trended downwards recently. However, international applications are on the rise, with many candidates returning to U.S. programs as travel stabilizes post-COVID.
For the 2024-2025 cycle, these dynamics may mean that highly selective programs are slightly less competitive, at least for domestic applicants. However, international applications are likely to continue climbing, which could make top programs just as competitive for applicants from outside the United States.
2. AI’s Expanding Role in MBA Admissions
The role of artificial intelligence (AI) in MBA applications has grown significantly, impacting both applicants and admissions offices. Many applicants used tools like ChatGPT last year to draft essays or prepare recommendations, and admissions offices have responded. To better evaluate genuine, personal responses, many schools are incorporating video essays and live interviews. This trend is expected to continue throughout the 2024-2025 cycle, emphasizing the importance of real-time communication skills and authentic content in applications.
On the administrative side, schools are starting to leverage AI for the initial application review stages, helping to identify strong candidates efficiently. This doesn’t eliminate human review, but it does mean applications may be evaluated faster. For applicants, this trend underscores the need to provide thoughtful, clear responses to stand out amid AI’s growing influence.
3. Diversity and Inclusion: Evolving in Response to New Challenges
In the wake of the recent Supreme Court ruling against affirmative action, MBA programs are adapting their diversity and inclusion efforts to attract underrepresented candidates. Schools are emphasizing unique backgrounds, personal stories, and community impact in their recruitment strategies. Programs like the Consortium, ROMBA, and Forte continue to offer scholarships and dedicated resources, ensuring opportunities for underrepresented applicants remain robust as the 2024-2025 cycle progresses.
Another trend from the last cycle that continues this year is the increasing interest from candidates with non-traditional backgrounds—those from fields like non-profit work, healthcare, or the arts. Admissions committees are valuing the diverse perspectives and skills these applicants bring, broadening the profiles in incoming MBA cohorts.
4. Increased Interest in Part-Time, Flexible, and Online MBAs
While full-time MBA programs saw stable or slightly decreased application numbers last year, part-time, flexible, and online MBAs have gained popularity. These options attract working professionals who may be hesitant to leave their jobs amidst economic uncertainties. With programs like those at Booth and Kellogg offering flexibility through part-time MBA programs and other options, applicants are increasingly interested in balancing career continuity with academic advancement.
For the 2024-2025 cycle, these adaptable program formats are expected to maintain high interest, especially given their career compatibility.
Key Takeaways for 2024-2025 Applicants
The trends from 2023-2024 have set the stage for an intriguing admissions cycle in 2024-2025. With fewer domestic applications, highly ranked schools might be slightly less competitive for U.S.-based applicants, while international demand remains strong. AI is reshaping the application landscape, encouraging authenticity and genuine expression, and new approaches to diversity are expanding opportunities for underrepresented candidates.
As you navigate this year’s application process, consider how these trends can influence your strategy. Prioritizing personalized, thoughtful responses and highlighting what makes you unique could make all the difference in this evolving MBA admissions environment. Our expert MBA admissions consultants can help you craft your MBA story to put your best foot forward—reach out for a free consultation here.
