How to prepare for a video essay as part of your business school application

McCombs: Each video assessment will start with a fun, non-evaluative question that will help the admissions team learn who you are as a person. 

Applicants will then be asked to use the video assessment tool to record responses to four questions covering the candidate’s MBA goals and assessing the following competencies: adaptability, empathy and aspiration.   

MIT: We ask you to introduce yourself to your future classmates – be yourself and be truthful.  

McCombs: This is your time to show us your personality and enthusiasm! We recommend that you prepare for the video assessment similarly to how you might prepare for an interview. Think reflectively about your work experience, strengths, weaknesses, and work on your delivery. 

If you still find yourself nervous, practice your answers in front of a mirror or with a friend or colleague and ask them how you did. Did you answer the question? Did you rush through it?  

Take a moment to outline your answer in your mind first, and then address it calmly and confidently.   

Don’t get too comfortable though. While we’re an easy-going group, maintaining an appropriate level of professionalism is always a good idea. This includes professional language and attire.  

MIT: Videos are not expected to be production quality. Most are recorded using a cell phone and either the candidate is holding the phone or someone else is holding the phone for them.  

Feel free to be a little creative, but don’t feel the need to go overboard. Share with the audience who you are and tell us about your passions, your interests, and what gets you up in the morning. 

McCombs: Number one, pace yourself and don’t feel like you need to use the whole time to answer a question. A common pitfall to avoid is rambling on after you answer the question.  

A big reason that we limit response times is because it is excellent practice for your MBA or master’s experience and future career journey.   

Keeping responses concise, yet clear, is important, especially if you’re applying for US based jobs. However, make sure you’re answering the question in full. 

MIT: Videos should be around 60 seconds – no more!  A five-minute video sends the wrong message (the applicant cannot read or follow instructions).   

Don’t sacrifice audio for creativity. Make sure that we’re able to hear what you’re saying regardless of what else may be going on in the background.