Best Ways to Answer Why MBA Question in Personal Interview (PI)

For MBA admissions in top B-schools, the "Why MBA?" stands as an important question that candidates can expect from the interviewer. Candidates must prepare a well-developed answer expressing their motivations and aspirations, demonstrating to the interviewer their genuine passion for pursuing this degree. While seemingly straightforward, this question demands a thoughtful response that reflects a genuine understanding of one's career path. In this article, we will provide candidates with tips on how to craft an impactful answer to the “Why an MBA” interview question.

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This Story also Contains

1. Why is This Question Asked?
2. Pro Tips for Preparing Your Answer
3. Sample Answers For “Why MBA?” Question

Also Read: Top Personal Interview (PI) Questions for MBA Admission 2023

Why is This Question Asked?

Interviewers want to ensure that you're pursuing an MBA with a clear purpose. It's not just about education, but about how this degree will move your career forward.

Adapting your answer to align with the institution's values can leave a powerful impression. Candidates must know why they want to pursue this course and how it will help them achieve their future goals. Below are a few steps on how one can prepare an answer to this question effectively.

1. Practicing and Preparing Reasons

Before appearing for an interview, try to practice a few general interview questions this will boost the confidence level of the candidate. One must list down the reasons why they want to pursue the MBA programme. Candidates should answer the questions honestly talking about their career aspirations, long-term career goals and ways in which this programme will help to fulfil them.

2. Conveying the Purpose

The nature of the "Why MBA?" question lies in understanding the reason why you are starting this educational journey. It is not merely about seeking knowledge, but rather about having a clear vision of your desired professional path in the future as well. The interviewer is keen on learning if your goals align with the values of their institution.

Also Read: MBA Personal Interview (PI) Preparation Tips by Expert

Candidates must convey their purpose of pursuing an MBA honestly and confidently stating several reasons to demonstrate a genuine interest. They can also share about any particular specialisation they want to pursue from any particular institute to be more specific. Stating the benefits of the skills gained from that specialisation and how it will contribute to their professional advancement can be highly impactful.

3. Stating the Listed Reasons for Pursuing an MBA

While there are universal reasons like networking opportunities and skill enhancement, it is important to combine your response with a personal touch. Consider aspects offered by the programme like:

• Brand value of the B-school

• Placement prospects

• Experiential learning

• Career advancement

• Professional knowledge

• Skill development

Candidates must give multiple reasons demonstrating to the interviewer a sincere passion for pursuing an MBA and a well-considered commitment to it.

4. Communication and Speech Delivery

When addressing the question of “why you wish to pursue an MBA” in personal interview, it is crucial to strike a balance. Candidate should offer enough information to provide a comprehensive response along with demonstrating their ability to stick to the key points making the response more precise and showcasing their communication skills. Candidates must speak with confidence and clarity at an appropriate pace to make it look more genuine and impactful. Moreover, remember that delivery matters just as much as the content. Maintaining a good upright posture or using physical gestures to express their enthusiasm will potentially enhance the delivery of their response.

After this, the interviewer may also ask a few follow-up questions which could be general or based on the answer given by the candidate. For example, they can ask candidates about the steps they have taken to familiarise themselves with the institute’s MBA program, their intent to maintain their current employment while pursuing MBA, or the factors that led them to choose any particular institute over other admission offered to them.

Also Read: Top Questions to prepare for Personal Interview rounds

Pro Tips for Preparing Your Answer

Be Genuine: Authenticity is crucial. The candidate’s answer should reflect their true aspirations, as interviewers can sense their sincerity.

Keep it Concise: Time is valuable in interviews. Provide a clear and impactful response within a reasonable timeframe.

Harness the Power of Positivity: Maintain an optimistic perspective. Whether it is gaining management skills or broadening a candidate’s network, showcasing enthusiasm sets a constructive tone.

Make it Personal: Candidates must combine their choice to pursue an MBA with their individual experiences, motivations, and perspectives. They must tailor their response to align with the distinctive qualities of the business school.

Also Read: 10 Tips to Ace MBA Interview

Sample Answers For “Why MBA?” Question

"I'm driven to pursue an MBA to transition from the financial sector to operations management. With a strong liking for managerial roles, I believe this prestigious MBA programme will equip me with the academic knowledge and tools needed to achieve my goals."

"In my current role, I collaborate with clients on strategic projects. While I excel in operations and marketing management, I eagerly want a role where I can contribute to developing solutions. An MBA from your esteemed institution will empower me to work on long-term initiatives."

In a nutshell, the "Why MBA?" question is not just a question, but an opportunity to showcase your foresight and determination. By understanding its significance, combining your response with a personal flair, and adhering to these pro tips, you will be well-prepared to tackle this question with confidence. Remember, your journey toward an MBA is a reflection of your ambitions and your response should resonate with that strong sense of purpose.

Also Read: PI Tips: 8 keys to crack Personal Interview for B-school admission