How To Ace The MBA Video Essays for 2026 Applications
The one component that continues to gain prominence in the MBA applications process is the video essay. Many business schools require candidates to respond to prompts from the admissions committee through self-recorded videos instead of relying solely on written responses.
If you’re preparing your MBA applications this year, understanding how to excel at video essays could be the differentiator between a good application and a great one.
What Exactly Are MBA Video Essays?
MBA video essays are an additional element in the application process for select business schools, without replacing traditional written essays or the final admission interview. Think of them as your opportunity to bring your application to life, to show the admissions committee not just what you’ve accomplished, but who you are as a person.
Two Types of Video Essays You’ll Encounter
There are generally two types of video essays asked in MBA admissions: Live/Impromptu and Pre-recorded.
Live or Impromptu Video Essays
These require MBA applicants to respond to questions or prompts in real time, with candidates typically given limited preparation time ranging from 30 seconds to a few minutes before recording their response immediately.
Pre-Recorded Video Essays
Pre-recorded video essays allow MBA applicants more control, with candidates receiving questions or prompts in advance and allotted a specific amount of time to record their answers, typically ranging from a few hours to several days.
Why Do Business Schools Use Video Essays?
You might wonder why schools have added this extra step to an already demanding process. Business schools introduced video interviews and essays seeking more authentic replies from applicants, without the direct support of admissions consultants and other professionals.
The MBA video essay allows admissions committees to evaluate your authenticity, grasp of the English language, communication and interpersonal skills, and ability to think on your feet. It’s also a great opportunity for you to show your personality and reinforce your career goals beyond what’s written on paper.
While your written essay provides insight into your academic and professional goals, the video essay offers a chance to introduce your authentic self to the Admissions Committee and showcase your personality, communication style, and what drives you.
What Are Admissions Committees Looking For?
When evaluating video essays, admissions committees assess several key qualities:
Authenticity and Self-Awareness
They want to see the real you, not a rehearsed performance. Can you articulate your thoughts genuinely? Do you exhibit self-awareness about your strengths and areas for growth?
Communication Skills
Your ability to express complex ideas clearly and concisely matters. Video interviews give the school an idea of English language skills as well as communication skills, particularly for foreign applicants.
Composure Under Pressure
Live video essays assess an applicant’s ability to think on their feet, communicate clearly, and maintain composure under pressure. This mirrors real-world business scenarios where quick thinking is essential.
Cultural Fit
Beyond your qualifications, schools want to understand if you’ll thrive in their specific program environment and contribute positively to the cohort.
How You Should Tactfully Approach Video Essays
Before Recording: Preparation Without Over-Preparation
Practice the Format
Because you don’t know your questions ahead of answering a video essay, this does not mean you should not practice. Get comfortable with the timing and understand how much you can say in 60-90 seconds.
Test Your Technology
Schools allow you to test your audio-visual connection before recording. Take advantage of this. Ensure your lighting is good, your background is clean and professional, and your audio is clear.
Research Common Question Types
While you won’t know the exact questions, you can prepare for common themes. Yale MBA application materials state that video questions are similar to typical interview questions and do not require any specialized knowledge or preparation. Expect behavioral questions, motivation questions, and questions about your experiences.
During Recording: Be Natural, Be You
Authenticity Over Perfection
The MBA video essay is an opportunity for the admissions committee to get to know you on a personal level, so it is important to be genuine and authentic in your responses. Don’t try to memorize answers or sound overly polished, it comes across as inauthentic.
Maintain Eye Contact
Look directly at the camera as if you’re speaking to a person. This creates connection and demonstrates confidence.
Use Your Preparation Time Wisely
When given 30-60 seconds to think, quickly structure your response:
- What’s the core point you want to make?
- What’s one specific example you can share?
- What’s your takeaway or conclusion?
Mind Your Body Language
Sit up straight, use natural hand gestures, and smile when appropriate. Your non-verbal communication is just as important as your words.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Don’t Memorize Scripts
Don’t try to memorize answers or regurgitate information from your resume; instead, focus on sharing stories and experiences that will give the admissions committee insight into who you are.
Don’t Rush
It’s better to say less with clarity than to rush through multiple points. Take a breath, speak at a natural pace, and be comfortable with brief pauses.
Don’t Look Down at Notes
While you might jot down a quick outline during prep time, constantly looking away from the camera breaks connection and suggests you’re reading rather than speaking authentically.
Don’t Apologize or Restart Mid-Response
Many schools ask to complete the video essays in one take, if you stumble slightly, keep going. Don’t fret over minor imperfections.
Sample Question Types and How to Approach Them
While specific questions vary by school, here are common themes with strategic approaches:
“Tell me about yourself”
Focus on your professional journey, what drives you, and what you hope to achieve. Keep it concise. This isn’t your life story. Connect your past experiences to your MBA goals.
Behavioral Questions
When answering such questions, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) but keep it brief. Focus more on your actions, qualities, and the outcome.
“Why this MBA program?”
Be specific. Don’t give generic answers about rankings or prestige. Reference specific courses, clubs, professors, or aspects of the culture that align with your goals.
Personal Questions
Such questions help schools understand your personality and values. Choose stories that reveal something meaningful about who you are.
Final Thoughts
The video essay is your moment to step off the page and show who you are beyond your resume and test scores. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about being genuine, articulate, and prepared.
Take the time to practice, but don’t over-rehearse. Understand the format and timing, but bring your authentic self to each response. Show the admissions committee why you’re not just qualified on paper, but someone they’d be excited to have in their classroom and community.
Preparing for your MBA applications and need personalized guidance on video essays and every other component? At The MBA Edge, we help candidates craft compelling applications that stand out. Reach out to us for a consultation.
