So, if you find yourself wondering, “What do business schools look for in applicants?” At its core, business school is about developing leaders who can navigate complex industries, solve problems creatively, and adapt to change.

To begin, there are different requirements for an undergraduate business degree and a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) program. But in general, business schools choose candidates who are eager to learn and apply theory to real-world practice.

Admissions committees also value applicants who show initiative, problem-solving ability, and a clear sense of purpose.

Why apply to business school?

Before diving into the application process, let’s take a step back and ask ourselves, why apply to business school? A key reason is career potential. Business degree graduates enjoy a wide range of opportunities across industries, with nearly half working in management or business and financial operations roles.

Popular positions such as management analysts, market research specialists, and logisticians earn median annual wages between $62,000 and $81,000, reflecting strong demand for analytical and organizational skills.

From 2023 to 2033, approximately 2.1 million job openings are expected annually in this sector, proof that skilled, adaptable professionals will continue to be in high demand.

A closer look at business schools

Leadership is the cornerstone of business school, as negotiation, ethical decision-making, and strategic thinking impact both your team and stakeholders, so this is another important skill to showcase. Programs range from undergraduate Business Administration degrees to specialized master’s programs and MBAs.

Undergraduate vs. graduate programs

Undergraduate business degrees typically span two to four years and provide foundational knowledge for those starting their business education journey.

If you have an unrelated undergraduate degree, you can still study business in a master’s program, based on your professional experience and career goals. For example, some Health Science degree holders might pursue a Master’s in Organizational Leadership (MSOL) to become administrators in their field.

Business school coursework

Coursework varies, depending on whether it’s a master’s degree or an undergraduate degree. It may include subjects like accounting, economics, operations management, data analytics, and human resources, all of which help students understand how different parts of a business work together.

Business school requirements

Before applying to a given program, you should reflect on what you want from it. Clarify your career goals and identify which business environment suits you best:

• Corporate
• Entrepreneurial
• Nonprofit

Also, determine your learning needs:

• Traditional in-person classes
• Fully online
• Hybrid learning environment

During your research, look for business programs that align with your goals, strengths, and career vision.

Start your career in business at Goodwin

Applying to business school

Prospective students often begin researching programs at least 12 to 18 months before their intended start date; however, not all programs have lengthy admissions processes or wait lists.

Once you pick your top schools, carefully prepare application materials for submission. These might include:

• Letters of recommendation
• Personal essays or statement of purpose
• Current resume
• Official or unofficial transcripts
• Standardized test scores (if required, such as GMAT or GRE)
• First-time college students complete a short English and math questionnaire.
• Transfer students submit prior transcripts for review (unofficial copies are acceptable to start).

Strong organization, clear communication, and timely submissions can make all the difference in a successful application.

What business schools value most in applicants

Tip #1: Demonstrate passion.

Admissions officers value applicants who show enthusiasm through internships, volunteer work, and extracurricular activities related to business.

Tip #2: Know your strengths and weaknesses.

Reflect on what you excel at and where you can grow; then find a program that nurtures both.

Tip #3: Choose a future-focused school.

Look for a university that offers career-focused learning and supports students beyond graduation, through robust career services.

Tip #4: Demonstrate leadership.

Show initiative in your academics, work, or community involvement. Business schools look for students who can lead teams, influence others positively, and make decisions with integrity.

Tip #5: Maintain a strong academic record.

Most schools expect you to maintain a certain GPA to get accepted or remain in good standing within your program. At Goodwin University, the Business program requires a 2.3 GPA to stay enrolled.

What to expect when you get accepted

Getting accepted into business school marks the beginning of an exciting journey. Students should fully engage in their courses, collaborate with peers, and connect with professors who can mentor their development.

Resources such as academic advising, career services, and networking events can help students build confidence and real-world experience.

Start your path to leadership excellence at Goodwin University

Goodwin University’s School of Business, Technology, and Advanced Manufacturing offers programs tailored to your needs.

Entrepreneurship concentration

• The entrepreneurship concentration at Goodwin University empowers students to build and grow their own ventures or lead existing businesses.
• It also prepares future leaders to manage and innovate within existing businesses.

Manufacturing Management program

A Manufacturing Management program focuses on manufacturing logistics.

• Green manufacturing practices, lean manufacturing, and advanced manufacturing technology
• Focuses on manufacturing logistics
• Emphasizes advanced manufacturing technology

Organizational Leadership Master’s program

An Organizational Leadership program covers the foundations of leadership.

• Organizational change.
• Data-driven decision-making
• Strategic and people-management skills

Bookkeeping Certificate

A Bookkeeping Certificate gives students a solid foundation in financial recordkeeping, budgeting, and accounting principles.

• Business finances
• Interpreting financial data
• Using accounting software

Business Startup certificate

A Business Startup certificate is perfect for aspiring entrepreneurs ready to turn their ideas into reality.

• Teaches management, marketing, and personal finance.
• Teaches small business operations, planning, launch, and growing a sustainable business.

Start your path to leadership excellence at Goodwin University

Each business program at Goodwin is designed to help you graduate with a strong foundation in management, finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship. Every degree program and certificate is offered in flexible hybrid and online formats, making it easy to balance your studies with work and life.

A core aspect of the program is the 180-hour internship capstone, during which learners apply classroom theory in a real business environment tailored to their career goals.

Whether pursuing an associate, bachelor’s, or minor in Business Administration, students gain the practical skills to thrive in today’s dynamic business landscape.

Check out the Business programs at Goodwin University to see which program is right for you.