Leland+ for MBA

M7 MBA Essay Question Bank: Prompts by School (2024–25)

A reference guide to official M7 MBA essay prompts — organized by school. Covers all seven programs with each school’s full prompt list, word counts, what the admissions committee is actually evaluating per prompt, the most common mistakes that cost applicants, and strategic tips on what each school’s adcom is really looking for. Includes a format comparison table and universal essay principles that apply across all M7 applications.

GRE Score Distributions

This document shows a visual representation of the scoring distribution for quant, verbal, and analytical writing; and it also offers data insights for each.

What Top Deferred MBA Admits Do Differently

Top deferred MBA admits don’t just have strong resumes, they position themselves with clarity, maturity, and long-term vision that stands out in a crowded applicant pool. In this session, we’ll break down the specific behaviors, strategic choices, and storytelling techniques that differentiate successful deferred candidates, from how they articulate career goals to how they demonstrate leadership and impact early on. You’ll leave with a clear understanding of what admissions committees are truly looking for and how to elevate your own candidacy.

AI in MBA Admissions: Opportunity, Risk, and Strategy [3/26/2026] (Recording)

AI is quickly changing how applicants research schools, refine essays, and prepare for interviews—but most candidates aren’t sure how to use it strategically without weakening their application. This session is for MBA applicants who want to understand where AI can genuinely strengthen their process and where it can quietly undermine authenticity. You’ll learn practical ways to use AI for brainstorming and feedback, how admissions readers may detect overly AI-generated materials, and how to maintain a strong personal voice while leveraging new tools. Join live to ask your questions about essays, school research, and interview prep in an AI-enabled world. The speaker is a Stanford instructor with experience in both MBA admissions and AI research, and regularly advises applicants navigating these decisions. They’ll share the kinds of frameworks and examples that typically come up in 1:1 strategy conversations with candidates.

The R2 Rejection Recovery Roadmap

You didn't get the R2 interview invite or you interviewed and got dinged. Now what? This workshop transforms your disappointment into strategic advantage. We'll reverse-engineer what went wrong, identify the exact gaps in your profile, and build your comeback plan: R3 application, reapplication timeline, or alternative pathways. You'll learn: - The 5 reasons R2 candidates get rejected (and how to diagnose which one was yours) - R3 application decision framework: When to pivot vs. when to wait - Building "new evidence" in 60 days for R3 applications - Reapplication timeline: What to fix between now and next R1 We'll discuss how I can best help: through a Ding Analysis, R3 strategic support, or something else.

2025 Knight-Hennessy Scholars Resume Guide

A comprehensive guide to revamping your resume for the Knight Hennessy Scholars program.

Writing the “Why MBA?” Essay

Learn to clearly articulate why you need an MBA now, why each school fits, and how it connects to your long-term vision.

Women in MBA Panel

Join us for an exclusive Office Hours session with former MBA Admissions Committee members and top admissions experts! ​This is your chance to get insider advice on the MBA application process—directly from those who used to make the decisions. Learn how to craft a compelling narrative, avoid common pitfalls, and stand out in competitive applicant pools. Whether you're just starting your MBA journey or putting the finishing touches on your application, our panelists are here to answer all your questions. ​Meet our panelists: ​Faisal K., Chicago Booth MBA, Chicago Booth Admissions Office, coached 100+ M7 admits, 15 years of experience aiding US and international applicants translate their rich global experiences into compelling, relevant, and memorable applications.

2025 Knight-Hennessy Scholars - How to Answer the Short Answer Questions

This insider guide reveals what KHS really wants beyond stated criteria, offering specific frameworks for the three critical short answer questions

Writing Standout Application Essays

​​Led by an experienced admissions panel, this session will provide you with valuable insights, proven strategies, and expert guidance to help you create impactful essays that reflect your unique experiences and aspirations.

Live Mock MBA Interview

​In this workshop, you’ll experience what it’s really like to be in the MBA hot seat through a mock interview led by top Leland coaches Angela C. and Ben L. With years of experience coaching applicants into programs like Stanford GSB, HBS, and Wharton, they know exactly what admissions committees are looking for. ​You’ll practice tackling the toughest questions, get real-time feedback on your answers, and learn strategies to communicate with confidence and authenticity. Whether you’re preparing for your first interview or refining your approach for final rounds, this session will help you sharpen your skills and stand out in the competitive MBA admissions process.

Stand Out: R3 MBA Admissions

Are you gearing up for Round 3 MBA applications and wondering how to make your application stand out? Join me for an insightful session - we'll focus on 5 key insights to help you stand out in the most competitive round of MBA admissions! With extensive experience helping applicants gain admission to top MBA programs like Stanford GSB, Harvard Business School, and Wharton, I specialize in guiding you through every step of the application process. Whether you're looking to pivot careers, secure scholarships, or simply present your best self, this session will provide you with the strategies and insights you need.

Resume for Knight-Hennessy Scholarship Application

Resume of an admitted Knight-Hennessy scholar

AMA: Insider Tips from 20+ yrs of MBA Admissions & Coaching

Unlock the secrets of MBA admissions with Christine, a seasoned one-of-a-kind expert with 20+ years of admissions experience across three elite MBA programs. This "Ask Me Anything" session is your chance to gain invaluable insights into the application process. Christine's impressive background includes admissions roles at Chicago Booth, London Business School, and Yale School of Management, where she has helped craft MBA classes and understands the nuances of what makes a successful applicant. With a track record of over 400 M7 admits and more than $5 million in scholarship awards secured for her clients, Christine is a one-of-a-kind consultant equipped to guide you through every step of your MBA journey. Join us to explore application strategies, discuss how to make a stand out MBA resume, learn what makes a candidate stand out, and gain insight into how applications are reviewed and admissions decisions are made. Christine's no-nonsense, tell-it-like-it-is approach will help you craft an authentic story that highlights your unique strengths and differences. Whether you're just starting your MBA application journey or you're already on your way, join me and leave equipped with insights into the M7 (and beyond) application process.

The Smart Outreach Guide: Questions to Ask MBA Alumni and Students

Guide to help users make the most out of outreach to alumni and current students of their desired program

MBA Interview Series: Kellogg

Jumpstart your Kellogg MBA interview prep with up-to-date insights and stage-specific strategies. As application deadlines approach, join expert coach Andrew D. who will help you understand what’s expected, how to prepare, and how to stand out. ​You’ll learn about the format of the Kellogg interview (virtual, resume-based, behavioral), key evaluation criteria, and how to craft strong stories using frameworks, and balancing polish and authenticity. ​By the end of this session, you’ll have a clear action plan for your interviews—what to practice, how to outline your answers, and how to present your best self when your invitation arrives.

Writing Standout Application Essays

​Led by Tim F. (Former Adcom at Chicago Booth), Laura N. (Former Adcom at Michigan Ross), and Angela C. (Stanford) this session will provide you with valuable insights, proven strategies, and expert guidance to help you create impactful essays that reflect your unique experiences and aspirations. ​​​Discover top tips for capturing the attention of admissions committees, structuring your essays effectively, and showcasing your authentic voice. Whether you are just starting your application or looking to refine your existing essays, this workshop will equip you with the tools and techniques necessary to make your application shine.

MBA Interview Series: HBS

The HBS interview is one of the most challenging—and distinctive—parts of the MBA admissions process. In this workshop, Leland coach Geri T., a former HBS Admissions Board member with years of experience evaluating candidates, will break down what makes the HBS interview unique and how you can prepare with confidence. ​Drawing on her time at HBS and her track record coaching applicants into top MBA programs, Geri will share what the admissions team is really looking for, the kinds of questions you should expect, and strategies to present your experiences authentically while staying structured under pressure. With Round 1 interviews approaching, this session will give you the clarity and confidence to stand out when it matters most.

Military to MBA Panel Oct 2025

​In this panel, Alex S., Alec E., and Zack D., veterans who have successfully transitioned from military service to top MBA programs will share their experiences and advice on making the leap. You’ll hear how they translated their leadership and operational skills into compelling applications, built strong narratives, and navigated the unique challenges of the transition. ​Whether you’re just starting to explore an MBA or actively preparing your applications, this session will give you practical insights, strategies, and inspiration to help you take the next step in your career with confidence.

GRE Arithmetic - Percent Bakery Question

This is a review for how to structure and solve a percent change question for the GRE.