The same way as any other. Getting there is not easy, but it is exciting. Those who want to apply must go through four main steps.
1. Make a list of schools to consider.
The first step is to determine exactly what you want from an MBA program and which business schools you want to apply to. Base your decision on international rankings, preferably in your industry. In any case, by now you should already have a list of schools of your choice and their respective admission requirements.
2. Take tests to check your level of English.
You only need to take one of many tests - the choice depends on your personal preferences and the requirements of the business schools. Usually, a score of 7 out of 9 on the IELTS or 100 out of 120 on the TOEFL is enough. For Harvard, you'll need to work hard to score 7.5 and 109, respectively.
GMAT It will be very helpful if you test not only your language skills, but also your math and logic abilities. It is much more difficult to pass this test with a sufficient score, and it takes 3-4 months to prepare for the test in courses.
To get into one of the best business schools, you need to score at least 650 out of 800 possible points, but there are also schools that require a score above 720 points.
3. Application documents.
Write a motivation letter, collect recommendations, and translate your diploma.
In addition to good test scores, you must provide the admissions committee with other evidence that you are a strong and worthy candidate for admission to a business school. A business school usually requires 2 to 7 cover letters and up to 3 references from supervisors, contractors, and colleagues from other departments. You also need to have your university degree and resume translated into English and notarized.
4. Think about how you will finance your studies.
What will it be:
- personal savings
- scholarship from a business school
- a student loan
Of course, you don't have to limit yourself to one type of financing. It is not always possible. For example, many applicants combine payment from private funds with a scholarship. Getting a scholarship or student loan is often very difficult, if not impossible. However, those who are accepted are happy to receive them. There are schools that provide scholarships that cover up to 70% of the tuition fee.
5. Start now.
Do not put it off until later. After all, the preparatory process is the main one, because it is your first step towards your goal. The preparatory stage - taking tests, writing essays, and collecting recommendations - takes up to 8 months. The entire preparation process takes about a year.