When you want to take an MBA degree, you need to fulfill all MBA requirements – both in terms of academic needs or to go successfully through the MBA application process. Although different schools have different regulations about these requirements, there are some basic and general things you need to consider.

The General MBA Requirements

When you want to continue your studies to a higher level, there are the basic requirements you need to observe:

Have the BA degree. Most MBA schools require their students to complete and have an undergraduate degree. It would be best if you achieve your degree from an accredited university. However, you don’t have to take business as the undergraduate degree, as MBA programs accept any major of study. Some people have their business undergraduate degree, while some may come from other subjects, such as mechanical engineering, medical and even law.
Take the GMAT test. Since most of the admission committees would want to know about your academic achievement and track record, informing them about your GMAT score is desired. Some schools are okay with GRE scores, but the GMAT test is more widely accepted as a benchmark and will improve your chances to a successful application.
Have real life experience. Most business schools would appreciate it when you have previous real working experience, but it is basically optional. Some students decide to continue their study right after they finish their undergraduate program, so they won’t have any real life experience. However, it would help if you have a certain achievements that makes you different from the others. These might include for example voluntary work with NGOs and charities.
Find out about the available programs. Although some MBA programs are quite universal and similar, some are offering specialized subjects. After all different school have different systems and subjects. Make sure that you have done your own research when it comes to your choice of subjects. Take into account your future career goals.
Understand the overall requirements. Read all the requirements before you decide to join. How much is the admission fee? How about the GMAT and GPA score? What documents do you need to submit? Those are the things you need to consider before you decide to apply to get your MBA degree.
Make sure that you choose reputable and accredited schools only. The credibility and reputation of the school will determine your future career when companies will consider your qualification. A good, reputable MBA school is an investment, as you will be targeted by the most prestigious companies looking for new talents even during the MBA program. So be sure to check MBA rankings to find the best school for you.
Consider whether you should take a part time or full time program. An MBA program usually takes 2 years, if you take the full time one. However, if you are busy and you can only take the part- time program, you may have to extend the program to 3 years. You also have the option of an online MBA program

The General Admission Requirements

Generally, most MBA schools have these criteria for their admissions:

Professional experience. It would be better if you have previous professional experience. The admission committee would be more interested on applicants with previous proven working experience, although some of the academically standout applicants without working experience will also be considered.
Academic aptitudes. It will be one of the main considerations for the admission committee to understand your ability; whether you will be able to keep up or the program will be too much for you. Having a general 3.0 GPA will be considered good; even better if you can go more than that. TOEFL or IELTS scores will also help a successful application process.
Quantitative proficiency. In MBA program, quantitative focus will be more important, so you will be required to understand statistics or math understanding at college level – not only basic knowledge.
Personal qualities. Most schools are looking for students who aren’t only bright, but also dedicated and have good soft skills.

Other Requirements

Besides the general requirements mentioned above, you will also have to submit:

Application. Whether you are applying online or offline, you need to write an application letter
Letter of recommendation. It would be best if you can submit two professional recommendations, including one from your current employer. Clients or supervisors will also do; never ask for letter of recommendation from relatives, co-
workers, family friends, or family. Not only they will make you look silly, they won’t be acceptable either – trust me, some applicants have actually done this before.
University transcripts. A copy of official transcript will do it. If you are a foreign student applying for MBA schools in America or Europe, you need to include the copy of the transcript in the original language as well as the already- translated one.
GMAT score, along with TOEFL/IELTS score. English proficiency is crucial for the learning process, so the admission committee wants to know about your ability to follow the curriculum.
Interviews. It is crucial for the admission committee to see what kind of person you are, so if you pass the first stage, it is likely that you will be invited for interview. It can be done on campus or online.