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Applying to a US MBA program from abroad, or applying to an MBA program abroad from the US, demands more than strong stats – it requires translating your impact across cultures, markets, and admissions lenses. The coaches below are a carefully curated group with standout results helping international applicants craft clear, compelling stories and win seats at top programs. From current adcom insiders to M7 admits and European-school specialists, you’ll find a range of styles, geographies, and strengths to match your goals. See all MBA admissions coaches here.
Abdi S.
Experience: Former HBS and MIT admissions committee insider with 7+ years of coaching and 2,000+ successful admits. Chairman of Sherif Academy, where he built relationships with admissions leaders and leveraged long-term application data to shape winning strategies.
Specialties:
- Essays and interview preparation
- Data-driven application strategy
- Targeting HBS, Stanford GSB, Wharton, and MIT Sloan
- International and underrepresented applicants (first-gen, low-income, LGBTQ)
- Story development and positioning
International candidates aiming for top U.S. programs benefit from Abdi’s rare combination of adcom perspective and evidence-based playbooks. He zeroes in on what decision-makers look for, then helps you express your story with clarity and confidence. If you want an edge at the very top schools, his insights and personalized approach are hard to beat.
"Working with Abdi was an absolute game-changer for my DMBA application essays. Abdi was great at brainstorming with me, challenging me to think about the nuances of my stories and the why behind each, and I couldn't be more pleased with the results. He genuinely cared about my success and took the time to get to know me thoroughly. I recommend Abdi to anyone looking for a competent, humble, and genuinely kind coach for their MBA applications."
Coached by Abdi, accepted to CBS
Cathy M.
Experience: INSEAD MBA, ex–Wall Street professional and former coach with Stacy Blackman Consulting. Has guided applicants into INSEAD, LBS, Wharton, HEC Paris, IESE, Cambridge Judge, Oxford Saïd, and NYU Stern.
Specialties:
- Global/European school strategy (INSEAD, LBS, HEC, IESE, Oxbridge)
- Career and geographic pivots
- Essays, resumes, and recommender strategy
- First-generation and international applicants
- Mock interviews and prep
If you’re targeting top programs outside the U.S. or planning a significant career or country transition, Cathy brings an empathetic, energizing approach that keeps your application authentic and sharply tailored. She understands how to differentiate international profiles and will help you tell a story schools remember.
"Working with Cathy was one of the best (and frankly, luckiest) decisions I made during my MBA application process as a nontraditional, early 30s applicant looking for an industry change. Due to my previous job, I had a very short window to prepare for my Round 2 interviews. Cathy patiently and thoroughly helped me refine my pitch, solidify my narrative and my career goals for the short and long term aspects of the MBA track. Cathy was there every step of the way with both support and true, honest feedback to help present my best self, and had a deep well of knowledge about the process. Her positive reassurance and steadfast common sense made sense to me as someone who has been in the workplace for over 10 years now. She truly helped me find the best way to present my work and self. I would not have gotten into my top program (a global top 4 school) without her guidance. I'm incredibly grateful for Cathy and her time and knowledge! "
Coached by Cathy, accepted to SDA Bocconi
Deep B.
Experience: Harvard Business School MBA (with Distinction) and Cambridge MPhil; former diplomat who has coached ~60 applicants. Former HBS consulting coach and tutor, with personal experience navigating rejection and reapplication to ultimate success.
Specialties:
- Nontraditional and international candidates
- MBA/EMBA strategy, essays, and interview prep
- Reapplicant guidance
- First-generation, low-income, and veteran applicants
- Narrative clarity and positioning
For international or nontraditional candidates who feel “off-template,” Deep offers a measured, practical path to stand out. He’s lived the highs and lows of the process and channels that into crisp strategy and preparation. Expect honest feedback, targeted storytelling, and coaching that reflects exactly what resonates with top schools.
"When I was considering pursuing another master’s degree in the US, Deep inspired and encouraged me to apply, providing the motivation I needed to aim high. His support and belief in my potential led me to be accepted into every university I applied to. Deep has a rare ability to uplift and guide others toward achieving their dreams, and I have no doubt he will bring the same passion and dedication to this community."
Coached by Deep, accepted to Harvard
Hanie L.
Experience: Schwarzman Scholar (Tsinghua) and admit to Chicago Booth and Columbia Business School with substantial scholarships; former Morgan Stanley management trainee in Asia. Has coached 20+ applicants to top programs across the U.S. and Europe.
Specialties:
- M7 and T15 targeting
- Scholarships and competitive fellowships
- Essays, resume, and interview coaching
- International applicants, especially with Asia experience
- Proven templates and success frameworks
International applicants with big goals – and an eye on scholarships – will appreciate Hanie’s high-impact frameworks and firsthand wins at elite programs. Her trajectory from Vietnam to global fellowships and top MBAs informs practical guidance that helps you tell bold stories and convert them into admits.
"SIMPLY AMAZING! After a couple of reviews on my essays for the Master's application, Hanie took it to the next level with her insightful feedback. I don't think my personality and narrative could have shined through the way it did without her help. I highly recommend hiring Hanie as your coach!"
Coached by Hanie, accepted to Harvard, Johnson, Wharton, Columbia Business School, and Chicago Booth
Jacob C.
Experience: Current associate director of admissions for IESE Business School in North America and IESE MBA graduate; has conducted 4,000+ interviews. Coaches admits and scholarship winners at top European schools (INSEAD, LBS, HEC, Oxford Saïd) and leading U.S. programs.
Specialties:
- European MBA strategy and scholarships
- Interview prep from an admissions commitee lens
- Story positioning for nontraditional or imperfect profiles
- International applicants
- School selection across regions
If Europe is on your shortlist or you’re navigating the process without a perfect GPA/test score, Jacob’s day-to-day adcom vantage point is invaluable. He’ll help you align your narrative with what top international programs prioritize and prepare you to shine in high-stakes interviews.
"Jacob goes above and beyond to understand your unique circumstances and goals. This ability combined with his unique insights into the admissions process makes him a stellar coach. Even more, he’s just an all around interesting and kind person!"
Coached by Jacob, accepted to IESE, London Business School, and Said Business School
Jennifer P. D.
Experience: American coach based in Berlin with 10+ years working with MBA candidates and service on the Wisconsin School of Business Alumni Advisory Board. Has guided hundreds of candidates to INSEAD, LBS, HEC Paris, Oxford Saïd, IESE, Cambridge Judge, and more.
Specialties:
- European programs and cross-border career goals
- Essays and interview preparation
- Narrative clarity and goal articulation
- International applicants
- Test-prep mindset and performance coaching
A great match for applicants building an international career in Europe, Jennifer helps you translate your experience into a crisp, compelling case for admission. With perspective from an alumni advisory role and years of one-on-one coaching, she’ll help you express who you are and where you’re headed.
"Jennifer is an exceptional coach. While her technical expertise is outstanding, what truly sets her apart is her ability to seamlessly combine that knowledge with personalized coaching on mindset and test anxiety. She helps you build the confidence needed to overcome the mental hurdles that often arise in challenging situations. Her approach is holistic, addressing both the intellectual and emotional aspects of learning and managing test-related stress. Working with her was a game changer for me, improving my score by +100 points in just three hours of mindset and test anxiety coaching. I am forever grateful to have found her and wholeheartedly recommend her."
Coached by Jennifer, accepted to Said Business School and HEC Paris Business School
Jesse L.
Experience: Professional MBA consultant with a 100% acceptance rate to top 30 programs for full-service clients and 95% to the top 20. Broad success across M7 and leading European schools, including many international applicants and candidates with below-average stats.
Specialties:
- End-to-end application management and sequencing
- International and second-language applicants
- Low GPA/test score positioning
- Essay/story development and interview prep
- School selection, round strategy, and final application polish
For international candidates seeking structure, momentum, and a proven path, Jesse’s methodical process and results stand out. He digs deep into your personal and professional arc to surface the differentiators that admissions committees reward – especially when your profile isn’t “perfect” on paper.
"I recently had the pleasure of working with Jesse for interview preparation. From our initial session, Jesse demonstrated excellent communication skills that made all the concepts presented very easy to understand. His insights were also relevant and tailored specifically to my background and the programs I’m applying to. What truly stood out was Jesse’s commitment to supporting me throughout the process. His constructive feedback boosted my confidence as I approach my upcoming interview, and I now have a clearer understanding of areas for improvement. Thanks to Jesse's guidance, I feel much better prepared. I highly recommend him to anyone seeking expert advice and encouragement on their MBA journey!"
Coached by Jesse, accept to Columbia Business School, Darden, and NYU Stern
Omar A.
Experience: Harvard Business School MBA and Vice President of Sustainable and Transition Solutions at BlackRock, with 10+ years of leadership across strategy, climate change policy and negotiation, sustainable investing, operations, and entrepreneurship. Former climate policy negotiator representing Saudi Arabia at the UNFCCC, IPCC, and ICAO.
Specialties:
- HBS and M7 application and essay strategy
- Sustainability, energy, and climate policy narratives
- International applicants and cross-border career transitions
- Entrepreneurship and operations leadership stories
- Career vision articulation for impact-driven MBA paths
Military veterans, energy professionals, and international applicants seeking admission to Harvard Business School or other top MBA programs will benefit from this coach’s deep expertise in global negotiations, sustainable finance, and entrepreneurial leadership. With a track record of coaching successful MBA applicants, he helps craft compelling stories that highlight impact, resilience, and vision – qualities that resonate with admissions committees at the world’s most competitive business schools.
"I reached out to Omar for a mock interview right before my actual HBS interview. He nailed it with the questions, as they were very similar to those asked in the actual interview. He's super knowledgeable and I really appreciated his follow up after my interview and his detailed commentary after our mock interview feedback on my strengths and what to improve. HIGHLY recommend. You can tell that he genuinely wants to help and see you succeed."
Coached by Omar, accepted to Stanford GSB and MIT Sloan
Margaret H.
Experience: Wharton MBA and former McKinsey Associate with admits coached to Wharton, Stanford GSB, NYU Stern, Kellogg, and Cornell EMBA. Multicultural background across China and the U.S., with a holistic, upbeat coaching style.
Specialties:
- Nontraditional and international applicants
- Consulting career positioning
- Essay ideation and editing
- Resume refinement and interview prep
- Confidence-building and self-exploration
If you’re an international applicant pivoting from startups/tech or eyeing consulting, Margaret blends insightful self-discovery with practical guidance. She’ll help you own your story and translate multicultural experiences into a crisp, school-ready pitch.
"Maggie was an amazing advisor and sounding board for me when I was applying to MBA programs, helping me get into my top choice at Stanford GSB. She provided thoughtful feedback on my application, shared valuable insights about the entire application process, and even tutored me for the GMAT! I would highly recommend working with Maggie as she is an experienced and empathetic coach that can confidently support you on your academic or career journey."
Coached by Margaret, accepted to Stanford GSB
Matthew M.
Experience: Oxford Saïd MBA Scholar and former BCG consultant with 13+ years of global, cross-sector experience. Studied at 7 universities, lived in 9 countries, visited 12 business schools across the U.S., Europe, and Asia while researching fit.
Specialties:
- Cross-cultural applications and school fit
- Strategy for U.S., European, and Asian programs
- Narrative development and essays
- Consulting and social impact trajectories
- International applicants
International candidates weighing programs across regions will value Matthew’s nuanced, global perspective. He helps you compare options beyond rankings and craft a narrative that travels so your application resonates no matter the market.
"Matthew is a great coach and a thought partner who operates with a lot of humility. He is honest in his assessment, very practical and outcome-oriented. He helped me land my dream MBA program and even navigate to get the funding. He enjoys quite a reputation among Oxford graduates, where he coached 20+ graduates on how to break into consulting in different competitive markets. If you are thinking of an MBA, getting into consulting, or changing careers or geographies, reach out to Matthew - he speaks from his experience."
Coached by Matthew, accepted to Oxford
Find the Best International MBA Admissions Consultant for You
Working with the right MBA admissions consultant can be the difference between a standard application and one that truly resonates with admissions committees at top business schools like Harvard Business School, the Wharton School, Stanford GSB, and Columbia Business School. The best mba admissions consulting services go beyond polishing essays and resumes – they provide expert insights, interview preparation, and the kind of advice that helps MBA applicants win acceptance at their dream school.
Explore each coach’s profile to see their admissions consulting style, track record with past clients, and how they’ve guided candidates through the MBA admissions process, from the MBA application process to mock interviews. Book a free 15-minute intro call to ask questions and get personalized guidance.
Not sure where to start? Schedule a free strategy and coach-matching call with a member of the Leland MBA admissions consulting team. You’ll be paired with a consultant who has the admissions committee experience, proven success rate, and valuable advice to help you stand out in the business school application process—whether your target is a top business school in the US or a global program like London Business School.
Read more:
- MBA Application Deadlines of the Top 25 Business Schools
- What Are MBA Adcoms Looking for in Resumes
- How to Accelerate Your MBA Application – From an Expert Coach
- MBA Application Timeline: What to Do and When to Apply (Month-by-Month Guide)
- MBA Interviews: What to Expect, How to Prepare, and How to Stand Out
International MBA – FAQs
How much do MBA admissions consultants cost?
- The cost of working with an MBA admissions consultant can vary widely depending on the firm or individual. Traditional MBA admissions consulting firms often charge between $5,000 and $12,000+ for full-service packages, with hourly rates ranging from $200 to $500. These services usually include support across the MBA admissions process – from the MBA application process and essays to interview preparation and scholarship strategy. On Leland, you’ll find a more affordable and flexible approach. Instead of paying for rigid packages, you can book time directly with top MBA admissions consultants – including those with admissions committee experience at schools like Harvard Business School, Stanford GSB, the Wharton School, and Columbia Business School. Whether you need a single essay review, a mock interview, or end-to-end guidance through the business school application process, you can customize your support to fit your goals and budget. This makes Leland one of the most cost-effective ways to access valuable advice and expert insights from elite coaches.
Is an admissions consultant worth it?
- Yes, working with the right MBA admissions consultant can dramatically increase your odds of success at top business schools. The MBA admissions process is highly competitive, and having an experienced coach gives you an edge: they know what admissions committees look for, how to frame your MBA application around your strengths, and how to avoid common missteps. Consultants also provide structured feedback on your essays, resume, and interview preparation, helping you deliver a compelling story that resonates with admissions committees at schools like London Business School, Stanford Graduate School of Business, and Harvard Business School. With Leland, the value is even greater. Instead of locking into expensive packages with other admissions consultants, you get access to a curated network of experts with proven success rates and track records of helping MBA applicants win admission to their dream school. You can work with multiple consultants, tap into diverse expert insights, and choose a coaching style that matches your needs. For international students, career switchers, and first-generation MBA applicants, that flexibility can make all the difference in standing out during the application process.
