How to Apply to a Business School – The Ultimate 10-Step-Guide

MBA or Master: Managing the application process

The application process begins long before you submit your application documents. Much more important is choosing the right program that will lay the foundation for your professional career and personal development. This can be time consuming and sometimes overwhelming. Take your time and talk to your family and friends as well as faculty members and alumni to get relevant information.

Once you have found your perfect fit, it's all about convincing the business school of your merits. The application process is usually entirely online. Most business schools have intuitive online application forms where you can easily upload all the necessary documents for the admission committee to review. Having successfully done that (congrats, btw), there are still a few bureaucratic hurdles to overcome - especially if you want to study in Germany (well, some cultural prejudices might be true 😉)

However, as the study management team is keen to get you on board with their MBA or master’s program, they will be on hand to give you advice and support you with your visa application or insurances.

But…. first things first, let's smoothly start with step 1: Research and select the right program.

1. Research and select the right program

The first step in the application process is to select the right program that aligns with your career goals, educational background, and personal interests. Consider factors such as:

• Program focus e.g. digitalization, technology, management, entrepreneurship, innovation, sustainability, or data analytics.
• Target group / class profile/ admission requirements.
• Duration and format: Full-time, part-time, or executive programs.
• School reputation and career services.
• Life-long-learning options and alumni network.

Read tips from a student on what to consider when choosing your business school.

RWTH Business School offers a diverse range of programs from MBA to Master of Science degree, full-time or part-time. The special thing about all the programs at this institution is that they are explicitly aimed at engineers and technology enthusiasts. This is because it is the business school of one of the most renowned technical universities. It therefore offers far more than “just” general management. The programs are interdisciplinary in structure and offer a lot of extracurricular career services.

2. Understand admission requirements

Each business school has its own set of requirements. Generally, you will need:

• Educational background: A first degree (Bachelor’s) in a relevant field such as business, STEM, or economics.
• Work experience: Required for most MBA and M.Sc. programs in higher education. At RWTH Business School:
  • MBA requires at least 2 years of work experience.
  • M.Sc. programs require at least 1 year of professional experience.
• Language proficiency:
  • TOEFL (minimum 90 pts.) or IELTS (minimum 6 pts. overall band score).
  • Exemptions apply to applicants from English-speaking countries.
• Specialized requirements:
  • M.Sc. in Data Analytics & Decision Science: Requires 125 credit points in STEM-related subjects and programming skills.
  • M.Sc. in Sustainability Management: Requires at least 10 CP in Mathematics & Statistics.
  • Part-time M.Sc. Management & Engineering: Requires a proof of part-time attendance (e.g. employment contract).

3. Gather necessary documents

Having all documents prepared in advance is crucial. The more details you provide, the faster and more accurate the assessment by the admission team will be. You will usually need:

• Transcript of records (official academic record from your previous institution).
• Curriculum Vitae (CV): well-structured and concise (1–2 pages max).
• Letter of motivation: one page explaining your reasons for applying and career aspirations.
• Letters of recommendation (e.g. from professors or employers).
• Proof of professional experience (work certificate, employer's reference or contract).
• English Language Certificate (TOEFL/IELTS scores if required).
• APS certificate (for applicants from China, India, or Vietnam).
• Optional documents (German language certificate, additional degree certificates).

4. Write a strong motivation letter

A well-written motivation letter is your opportunity to make a strong impression and to stand out from a huge number of applicants. Make sure to include:

• Why you chose this program
• Your career goals and how the program will help you to achieve them
• Your academic and professional background and how it aligns with the curriculum
• Personal insights that make your application stand out

Pro Tip: Using artificial intelligence such as ChatGPT for motivation letters is a common practice. But the admission teams of business schools are aware of this and know the characteristics of a AI-generated text. Think about it carefully - it's probably worth going the extra mile and writing the letter yourself.

5. Get strong letters of recommendation

A strong letter of recommendation should include:

• Institution/company letterhead
• The relationship between the recommender and applicant
• Your qualities, achievements, and ambitions
• Signature and contact details of the recommender.

Pro tip: Choose a recommender who knows you well and can effectively highlight your strengths.

6. Prepare for an interview

Some business schools conduct interviews as part of the admission process. Make sure to:

• Understand the format (online or in-person)
• Understand the institution and its vision and mission
• Practice common interview questions
• Demonstrate why you are a good fit for the program.
  

7. Submit your application on time

There are numerous deadlines in the application process. Many depend on the student's country of origin, due to long visa processing times. RWTH Business School has the following deadlines:

• Early Bird Deadline: January 15 (for all programs)
• Final deadline for non-EU applicants (M.Sc.): March 1
• Final deadline for EU applicants (M.Sc.): August 31
• Final deadline for MBAs: August 31

Pro Tip: Applying early increases your chances of securing admission due to limited spots. “The application process was very straight-forward” – Medha, student

8. Scholarships and student loans

Financing your education is an important aspect of the application process. Many business schools, including RWTH Business School, offer scholarships based on merit or specific eligibility criteria. It is highly recommended to research available funding options early in the application process. Additionally, student loans and financial aid programs may be available from the government or institutions such as the DAAD. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement programs for employees pursuing advanced degrees.

Ensure you explore all available options to reduce costs and make your business school education more affordable. “A scholarship gives you the credibility with financial institutions and, of course, reduces the total amount of your education loan. All in all, you will save money.” – Kunal, Student

9. Get ready for enrollment and onboarding

Once admitted, you will go through an onboarding process, usually including

• Connecting with peers and faculty through live webinars or online platforms
• Enrollment procedures and preparation for your studies
• Information about the business school’s values and expectations
• Creating your individual study plan, if the program offers elective modules and a flexible course structure.
  

10. Manage visa & health insurance

Before you start studying in Germany, you’ll need to apply for a student visa. Plan ahead, as visa processing can take 2-3 months. Schedule an embassy or consulate appointment early to ensure a timely application. Required documents typically include:

• Valid passport
• Letter of admission from the university
• Proof of financial resources
• Travel health insurance
• English Language Certificate
• APS Certificate

Please note: Visa document requirements vary by embassy. Confirm specific requirements with your regional embassy.

Having a health insurance is crucial if you’d like to study in Germany. Students from EU countries are typically covered by the insurance in their home country’s health insurance and exempted from registering with a German health insurance provider. Students from non-EU countries must register with a German health insurance provider. There are several options, but TK (Die Techniker) is recommended to students of RWTH Business School as they have a long-term partnership and a lot of experience with the needs of international students.

Conclusion

Applying to business school requires careful planning, from researching the right program to preparing strong application materials and submitting your application on time. Following these steps will help you maximize your chances of securing admission to a prestigious program like those offered by RWTH Business School.

Need more information?

Use the chance to chat with current students (from your home country) to get first-hand insights. Talking to someone in your native language can help you understand complex issues better. RWTH Business School offers direct communication via the Unibuddy platform.