yale som video essay questions

The Yale SOM Video Essay Questions – And How to Successfully Answer Them

Sep 18, 2023

Why does Yale require a video essay?

How does the yale video essay work, technical requirements, which types of questions are asked.

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UPDATE : This article was originally posted on September 18, 2019. It has been updated with new information and tips below. 

With curricular flexibility that allows students to take classes across Yale’s many faculties (not just the business school!), Yale SOM is a top choice for engaged, globally-minded leaders who seek to make a meaningful difference in the world, all while benefiting from an Ivy League education. 

Despite this fact, many applicants dedicate countless hours to writing Yale’s admissions essays and then rush through the video essay component. 

This is a huge mistake. 

In addition to giving the admissions committee the chance to “put a face with a name,” the Yale SOM video essay is an essential part of the Yale application, as it allows committee members to determine if your communication style and values are a good fit with the Yale community. 

In fact, in our experience helping our Yale applicants secure a place at the school, we have noticed that the video essay can be as influential in an applicant’s admissions decision as the admissions interview . 

That’s why we’ve prepared this guide to help you understand how the Yale video essay works and have shared a list of Yale video essay questions to ensure you put your best foot forward! 

When we first started working with Yale applicants many years ago, the video essay component had not yet been introduced. However, after being one of the first business schools to incorporate the video essay into their admissions process, this component has quickly become a critical part of the application. 

That’s because it gives the admissions committee the chance to truly “meet” candidates — as well as identify red flags in potential members of the Yale community. 

Here is what they say about it: 

The way the video essay works is very simple. 

After submitting your application, you will receive an email from a company called Kira Talent. This email will contain a link that allows you to access the video essay platform. 

After signing in and starting the session, you will get three Yale video essay questions in total, one at a time. All will be random, but each question falls into a certain category (more on that below!). 

• For questions 1 and 3 , you will have 20 seconds to think and 60 seconds to answer. 
• For question 2 , you will have 30 seconds to think and up to 90 seconds to answer. 
• You will be able to stop the question and move on if you finish before the time runs out.

If you’ve taken the TOEFL exam , you’ve already practiced for the type of format you can expect in the Yale video essay! 

After signing in and “starting” the session, a video will appear on the screen. This video will show a member of the Yale community, who will read the question you are tasked with answering. The question will also appear in written form under the video. 

After the time runs out, the screen video will disappear, and your image will be visible on the screen. At this point, your 20 or 30 seconds to think will automatically appear. 

After the preparation time runs out, the clock to answer (60 or 90 seconds!) will start, and you will need to give your answer during this period of time. Remember: you cannot redo any of the Yale video essay questions . 

After you answer the question, the system will upload your answer to the server (depending on your connection this can take a while) and will present you with the next question. 

DO NOT leave your computer during the upload time, even if it’s taking a while. You cannot pause the process, and you may end up missing questions!

The Behavioral Assessment

Yale also has a unique separate video essay requirement: the behavioral assessment . 

Unlike the video essay, the behavioral assessment is a fixed-choice assessment conducted by ETS that does not require any previous preparation. It is designed to measure a set of “interpersonal and intrapersonal competencies associated with business school success,” according to the Yale SOM site. 

The behavioral assessment should be completed in a single sitting and should take you about 20 minutes to complete. 

Given past applicants’ issues with iPad and mobile versions of the application, we strongly suggest you record your answer on a computer . 

If you do end up experiencing technical issues, access the support page here . 

Regardless of when you submit your application, you need to submit your responses to the Yale video essay questions no more than 48 hours after the round’s deadline . Find Yale’s most current application deadlines here. 

If you submit your application early, you can submit the Yale video essay questions at any time, as long as you make the final deadline.  

The Yale video essay questions are grouped into three different categories, each with a different focus. 

Group 1: MBA Motivations

The first question in the Yale SOM video essay will focus on your interest in Yale or the reason you are pursuing an MBA.

(Photo courtesy of @yalesom on Instagram)

This might take the form of “Why Yale?”, or “What are you expecting to learn at Yale?”. Conversely, they may also ask why you think now is a good moment in your career to stop and go to business school. They obviously want to be sure that you have researched Yale and have good reasons for applying for an MBA.

For this section, refer back to your goals essay , reflect, and be honest with yourself about why you’re applying to Yale. Maybe you like the program’s focus on diversity, maybe the raw case method, or perhaps you have colleagues who attended and spoke highly of Yale. 

The curriculum should also be a selling point for you, as well as the clubs and campus life, the diversity of the students, the experience of the teachers, and the internships and alumni network.

Now, please don’t reel off that list! It won’t be personal enough to you. 

Instead, clearly articulate your top three or four reasons for applying to Yale , and speak about them.

You don’t need to spend much time introducing this topic, saying “There are three main reasons why I want to attend Yale” and then giving us the reasons is more than enough.

It’s always good to include something that shows you’ve researched the program, so mentioning something specific, be it the academic modules or a specific club you want to join is a must for a winning video essay. 

Group 2: Behavioral questions

Yale is a community that values purpose-driven, adaptable people who work well in teams and are strong communicators. 

For that reason, Yale often asks questions aimed at determining if you work well with others and will be a positive addition to the Yale community. 

These questions won’t specifically ask, “Do you like working in a team,” but if you can keep in mind that this is a chance to show how you interact with others, you’ll have a good starting point for this question.

Typically questions range from how you help someone who needs advice, to your management style to how you handle conflict.

To do well in this question, it’s great to draw on examples , and to be clear and to the point.  Furthermore, make sure to show your human side and demonstrate that you genuinely care for others and want the teams you join to succeed. It can be easy to answer in a very conversational way, but doing so can often lead to an answer without a point, so make sure you use your planning time to structure the key elements of your answer. 

For this question, you want to make sure you’re showing what you do and use active language.

Your answer will want to show that you’re mature, that you’re emotionally intelligent, that you can see the bigger picture, that you’re empathetic, and that you make a positive contribution to those around you.

If the question is about helping someone with a problem, tell us what you do. Perhaps you first like to listen, then help them get clear on what they really want, and then decide together on some next steps.

If the question is about your management style, be precise. Tell them how you manage people and why. Maybe you’re very hands-off, and like to give everyone the opportunity to take responsibility within their role, as you think this empowers them the most to learn and develop. Maybe you’re more hands-on and like to make sure your team knows they can come to you with problems, as giving people too much freedom too soon can actually be overwhelming to them.

Regardless, make sure to show your reasons for your actions and demonstrate that you’re a person who embraces collaboration and who sees setbacks as opportunities for learning.

Group 3: The thinking question

In addition to the traditional interview questions, you will also be required to answer a thinking question (similar to a case study) during the Yale video essay. 

The key to the thinking question is to see how you think on your feet (and, as a result, test how well you’ll do with Yale’s raw case method ). 

The point of this task is to see if you can present a clear idea and demonstrate good critical thinking abilities, not to get the “right” answer. As such, focus on using your answer to walk through a clear, well-reasoned answer to the prompt. 

Sample Questions

To help your preparation, here are a few sample Yale video essay questions that our clients received when completing their own Yale video essays. 

Group 1 Questions

• Why are you pursuing an MBA at this point in your life?
• Why are you doing an MBA now?

Group 2 Questions

• You are starting a new project with team members coming from different cultures and educational backgrounds. How would you help them get to know each other?
• What do you do when someone comes to you with a problem?
• A colleague is asking you to help them assess their future career options. How do you help them grow?

Group 3 Questions

• Please respond to the following statement: “It is better for a leader to have a superficial knowledge of many topics than to be an expert in one topic.” Do you agree or disagree with this statement?
• Providing health insurance for employees is the most pressing issue for business leaders at the moment. Do you agree or disagree with this statement? 
• Please respond to the following statement: “It is more important to judge people by their actions than by their intentions.” Do you agree or disagree with this statement?

The difference between a good and great Yale SOM video essay

Given the importance of the video essay in your Yale SOM application, it’s crucial to make sure you don’t just have a good video essay but that you have a great video essay. 

Now that you’ve learned how the video essay will work, we’ve gathered our top 5 tips here to ensure your video essay performance brings you one step closer to reaching your goal of attending Yale. 

Make sure you get into Yale SOM

You have stressed about every aspect of your Yale application, and now you are ready to record your video essay! With the right preparation, this can be your chance to shine and get a highly-coveted spot at Yale. 

However, maybe you don’t know where to start in preparing, or maybe you ramble on and lose your focus while answering. Maybe you’ve even downloaded the sample questions and written out your answers. The problem is, when you try to apply these templates to your own story, it doesn’t quite work.

Our video essay prep focuses on helping you determine how to present yourself to Yale while using appropriate, impact-driven language without being artificial, or worse, robotic.

Regardless of where you’re from or what type of experience you have, we are focused on helping you do your best. 

Want to put the Ellin Lolis advantage to work for you? Schedule your preparation session with our team of video essay experts today!

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Essay • Video Interview • Yale SOM

Yale School of Management MBA 2022-2023 Essay and Video Question Tips

June 29, 2022

For this admissions season, Yale SOM has chosen to keep its MBA essay topic, video questions and Behavioral Assessment , which is a 30-minute exam integrated into its online application.

Also, be sure to keep an eye on Yale SOM’s MBA deadlines if you’re planning to submit an app.

Describe the biggest commitment you have ever made. (500 words)

While only having to answer one essay question for an application can feel like a relief, it also means you only have 500 words in which to make the largest part of your pitch to SOM.

It’s best to start by evaluating what Yale is really asking for in this question. The topic came from a discussion with Yale’s Professor of Organizational Behavior Amy Wrzesniewski. Amy rationalized the question in the following manner: “Reading about future plans is helpful, but actions speak louder than words. What big commitments have applicants already made in their lives to date, how did they follow through on them, and what does this tell us about who they are? That is what is at the heart of this question.” Now, in terms of commitments, it doesn’t matter whether you choose one from your personal or professional life, as long as what you’ve chosen has had an impact on you and/or on others.

Given the wide spectrum of examples that can fit this criteria, it may be helpful to narrow down your topic choice based on what aspects are otherwise missing from your application. Is there an important part of your personality, values or history that is not present in, say, your resume or recommendation letters? If you’re unsure what might be missing, take some time to learn more about what makes Yale SOM a unique program. Highlighting a commitment that mirrors Yale SOM’s values would help lift the quality of your essay, notably if you mention your capacity for leadership, teamwork or, if it happens to be the case, your ability to handle a global commitment.

Video Questions

After submitting your written application, you’ll be asked to answer a series of video questions that will require 60 to 90 second responses. Moreover, before you start, you’ll have the option to complete one practice question, so you’ll have the chance to familiarize yourself with the platform.

Initially conceived as an English language proficiency replacement test, SOM’s video questions have grown to serve as basic behavioral interview questions to help the admissions team better assess your potential for leadership and your communication skills. So, they’re not expecting the same highly-polished, thoughtful answers someone would present in a written format. Rather, they want to gauge how well you can express yourself and your ideas in a natural, ‘face-to-face’ fashion. The best way to prepare is to practice, practice, practice. Get comfortable speaking out loud and delivering 60 to 90-second responses, while remaining careful not to seem scripted; though not as damaging as during an in-person interview, robotic responses are still strongly frowned upon to the video questions.

To develop a truly stellar application, reach out to our Yale SOM Experts today. Otherwise, for technical points, you can visit Yale’s official site .

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MBA Video Essay Samples

Featured Expert: Aali Malik, MBA

Are you curious about the MBA video interview questions/MBA video essay? You're not the only one. This relatively new application component has become a part of the admissions process for several top business schools, including some  Ivy League schools  like Yale University's school of management and other prestigious institutions like MIT . MBA video interviews or essays can be challenging for applicants, mainly because most applicants are unsure how to prepare for them. Much like with other interview formats and essays, the key to success is practice! In this blog, we will share some common MBA video essay prompts so that you have some questions to practice with, and we will also provide some sample answers to those questions to help you prepare.

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Article Contents 6 min read

What are mba video interview questions/video essays.

MBA video interviews and MBA video essays are short, self-recorded videos where candidates answer questions given by the admission committee in a video instead of writing. This application component has simply been added to the admission process of some business schools; it does not replace any other written MBA admission essay or the final interview for admission. 

It's also important to note that because this concept is relatively new in the MBA application process, business schools refer to it by different names. For example, Kellogg Business School and London Business School both call it a video essay, while INSEAD refers to it as Video Interview, and MIT refers to it as a Video Statement. Ultimately, these are all the same thing. The only thing that may vary is the format of the video essay. 

There are two main types of MBA video essays:

This format asks candidates to record a short video answering a specific question or prompt given by the admission committee. The timeframe and questions or topics are usually provided beforehand, thus giving you more time to think through your answers and ensure that your video essay is of the best quality. ","label":"Pre-recorded video essays","title":"Pre-recorded video essays"}]" code="tab1" template="BlogArticle">

Kellogg Business School

Kellogg business school  is one of the pioneers of the MBA video essay. This component was added to their already thorough application process in 2013 and is here to stay. Kellogg no longer publishes their admission statistics, but in previous years, the acceptance rate was roughly 20%, making it one of the most selective business schools in the world. To apply to Kellogg’s MBA programs, applicants must submit two written  MBA admission essays , and answer 3 MBA video essay questions.

Kellogg Business School's acceptance rate

The Kellogg MBA video essay comprises three essay prompts. Applicants have 20 seconds to prepare and 60 seconds to answer each question. The first two questions are predefined, and the third question is usually randomized. It should be noted that this is subject to change. For example, not too long ago, the admissions committee was specifically asking students about their experience with COVID as a third question instead of using a random prompt. So, it is always best to verify the school’s website for the most up-to-date information.

My name is Angela Faye, and I am a corporate lawyer from New York City. I was born in Normandy, France, but I moved to the United States at the age of eighteen to attend university. I quickly fell in love with the melting pot of cultures found in New York and the different aspects of American culture. So, I decided to stay and make a life for myself here. I am a wife and mother to two beautiful children who look up to me and for whom I'd like to set a good example by doing what it takes to accomplish my goals. One of those goals is to open a law firm of my own, and I believe that the next step for me on my journey to making that happen is to gain more knowledge and experience in business administration and management. ","label":"Sample answer","title":"Sample answer"}]" code="tab2" template="BlogArticle">

I aim to own and operate an affordable, sustainable clothing brand that caters to women of all sizes and body types. I have been working towards this goal for the past five years. I own a personal shopping business, and I have noticed how limited the options are for ethically made clothes, especially for women with different body shapes. In the past five years, I have taken the time to research and learn about the logistics of the clothing industry, study the market and begin gathering funds for this project. The next step for me is to gain even more knowledge about what it takes to successfully and ethically run a business while networking with some of the best business minds in the world. Based on my research, the best place for me to do that is at Kellogg business school. ","label":"Sample answer","title":"Sample answer"}]" code="tab3" template="BlogArticle">

This is the power that the main character of the sci-fi show Heroes possesses. This power allows you to learn and replicate the abilities of those in close proximity to you. This means that you would be able to learn a wide array of abilities, including flight, invisibility, and anything else that exists. To succeed, you need to be prepared and have multiple tools at your disposal. This superpower definitely gives you that. ","label":"Sample answer","title":"Sample answer"}]" code="tab4" template="BlogArticle">

Be sure to read some Kellogg MBA essay examples for inspiration! Here are a 10 additional common Kellogg MBA video essay questions that you can use to practice:

• What piece of technology could you not live without and why?
• Who do you approach when you have a problem for advice and why?
• What accomplishment are you really proud of?
• What's the best piece of advice you have ever received?
• If you were given a chance to meet anyone, current or historical, who would you meet and why?
• What was the most interesting class you took at university? 
• How have you changed in the last five years?
• What risk have you taken, and what did you learn?
• What impact do you have on your co-workers?
• What inspires you?

The  University of Toronto  is not only one of the best  universities of Ontario , but it attracts candidates from all over the world yearly. So it is not surprising that Rotman school of management is an increasingly popular choice for MBA hopefuls. To get into Rotman, you need to ace the MBA video interview/MBA admission essay. 

The university uses the  Kira talent  platform, which uses both video and text. Applicants will answer two different questions on video and one question in writing. For the video portion of this MBA video interview, candidates will hear the question, have 30 seconds to think, and then 90 seconds to answer. The questions used during the interview will vary, but we looked at a few past prompts so that we can share sample answers and questions for you to practice with.

I decided to cut back on my hours at the tutoring center, and I enlisted the help of a different student so that I could delegate some tasks and have more time to study. That experience taught me a lot about time management. ","label":"Sample answer","title":"Sample answer"}]" code="tab5" template="BlogArticle">

I would much rather be good and on time than perfect and late. Nothing is perfect. We can try to get as close to perfect as possible, but there comes the point where chasing perfection becomes a waste of time, and time is far too valuable to be wasted. If something is good and on time, then it will stand out, and you may even have a chance to improve on it and \"perfect\" it while it is already operational. For example, recently, I was assigned to design the logo for a new client, and when the deadline came, I found that the product was not perfect. I wanted to fix it up a little more, but I realized that it would be best to give my clients something good on time and get their feedback so that we can work together to perfect it. ","label":"Sample answer","title":"Sample answer"}]" code="tab6" template="BlogArticle">

Here are a 10 additional MBA video essay questions from Rotman that you can use to practice:

• Who is your mentor outside your family, and why?
• Apart from money, what else would keep you in your current organization?
• What is one good habit, and what is one bad habit of yours?
• If you had to delete all apps but three from my phone, which ones would I keep and why?
• If you got a chance, what subject would you teach?
• Out of the four seasons, which do you like the most and why?
• What is one good habit and one bad habit that you have?
• If you had no financial downsides from quitting your job, what job would you prefer to be doing?
• Which of the following aspects of your life are you most in touch with: emotional, spiritual, or physical?
• If you could have anyone over for dinner, who would it be?

Yale University  is an Ivy League institution with a worldwide reputation and a highly selective admissions process. The video interview component for Yale School of Management uses a set of randomized, previously recorded questions. This means that applicants will likely not have the same set of questions in one interview cycle. The school's website states that the questions asked are similar to typical interview questions. In other words, while the video essay may not have "trick questions," it will have some tricky ones. One tip we can give you is to  prepare for your MBA interview  early. This will not only improve your chances of doing well during your MBA interview, but it will also help you with your performance on this MBA video essay component. 

Yale video essay comprises three questions. Applicants will have 20 seconds to prepare and 60 seconds to answer the first two questions. For the third question, applicants will have 30 seconds of preparation time and 90 seconds to answer. Let's take a look at some of the prompts that have been used for Yale MBA video essays in the past:

I have wanted to pursue a Master's in Business Administration for a few years now, but I needed to accomplish a few things before embarking on this journey. First, I needed to get a few years of practical experience after spending most of my undergraduate years learning business theories. Secondly, I wanted enough savings to cover most of the tuition fees and expenses. I plan on giving my studies my full attention for the next two years, and I find that the best way to do that is to pace yourself and remove as many distractions as possible. Having enough money to ensure that my tuition is paid gives me more choices and allows me to focus on that instead of anything else. ","label":"Sample answer","title":"Sample answer"}]" code="tab7" template="BlogArticle">

As a business owner, I often find myself in a position where I have to make difficult decisions or handle challenging situations. Recently, I had to decide whether it was time to let go of our office building and become a fully remote company or for a hybrid model for my employees. Everyone, from the senior management staff to the part-workers, had a different opinion. In the end, even though I listened to what they had to say, I had to compare what they were saying to what the numbers showed. Our statistics showed that most of the team was actually performing better from home and that we would save considerable money if we kept working online and spent some money on communication networks that would allow us to communicate better as a team. ","label":"Sample answer","title":"Sample answer"}]" code="tab8" template="BlogArticle">

\"Without Arts, an education can not be accomplished.\" I wholeheartedly agree with this statement. People learn in different ways, and many of those ways include various pieces of art. For example, I am a visual learner. So Whenever a presentation, poster, or textbook includes images, I tend to remember it better. Furthermore, because artists and the world of arts, in general, are a big part of our culture, one cannot claim to be educated about the world without at least understanding some of it. ","label":"Sample answer","title":"Sample answer"}]" code="tab9" template="BlogArticle">

Here are a 10 additional Yale SOM MBA video essay questions that you can use to practice:

• What is the biggest challenge facing leaders today?
• Tell us about a creative solution you designed
• Please respond to the following statement: "Imagination is more important than knowledge. For knowledge is limited to all we now know and understand, while imagination embraces the entire world, and all there ever will be to know and understand." Do you agree or disagree? why?
• Do you agree or disagree with the notion that the chief executive's first priority should be a profit for shareholders?
• What accomplishment are you most proud of?
• Tell us about a shortcut you and a team could have taken, but decided not to
• If we asked your colleagues about your weaknesses and strengths, what would they say ?
• How will you resolve a conflict with your future classmates at the program?
• Tell us about a difficult decision and how you handled it?
• "The People who we remember most are the people who break the rules." Do you agree or disagree with this statement?

MBA video essays should not be underestimated. While the questions and format used by the business schools are not designed to trick you, they are definitely intended to challenge you. This means that it gives you a chance to rise to the challenge and the admissions committee a chance to find out which candidates took the time to research and prepare for this application component. If you're reading this blog, then you have already taken a step in the right direction by looking at common video essay prompts and sample answers. To prepare further, we recommend using the questions we listed to practice. Remember that these video essays are timed, so familiarize yourself with the time limits by using a timer while practicing. You should also take the time to set up and test your equipment before your interview, to make sure it is stable and that your background is appropriate. If you truly want to maximize your chances of success, you should consider working with an  MBA essay consultant  or participating in  MBA mock interviews. 

The level of competition will depend on the specific school you're applying to, but MBA programs are generally quite selective.

This is a relatively new application component used by a few business schools. Essentially, they are short videos during which candidates answer essay questions given by the admission committee.

The admission committee typically provides questions or prompts for your video essay. You should verify the admissions information of the school you are applying to, as some schools make the questions to the video essay available in advance.

No, not all of them do. Video essays and Video interviews are still a relatively new practice. They are only used by a few business schools in the world, but the practice is rising in popularity, so it is best to be prepared.

There are a few schools around the globe that require MBA video essays, including Yale, Kellogg, MIT, Rotman, London Business School, INSEAD, etc.

Yes. Most business schools ask for both written essays and video essays. Some schools also include a written essay in their MBA video interview process, like Rotman, for example.

The video essay serves a similar purpose as the  MBA personal statement  or  MBA diversity essay . If you meet the standards set by the admission committee, you may still get called for an in-person or virtual interview.

You can prepare by planning or structuring your answers in advance, timing yourself when you rehearse, participating in mock interviews, and investing in  MBA admissions consulting.

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Lights, Camera, Acceptance: Crafting Compelling Video/Kira Essays for MBA Admissions

By Arvind Kumar

23 September 2023

In recent years, the MBA admissions process has evolved to incorporate various innovative elements, and one such element gaining prominence is the video essay.

While traditional written essays and standardized test scores remain significant factors in the application, many top-tier business schools have started asking applicants to submit video essays.

Video essays allow candidates to showcase their personality, communication skills, and suitability for the MBA program. 

In this article, we will delve into the why and how of video essays for MBA admissions, examining their significance, the qualities admissions committees seek, and tips for acing video essays at some of the top business schools.

We’ve also compiled the list of video essay questions for B-schools that include this component in their application process: Northwestern Kellogg, INSEAD, Rotman, Yale SOM, MIT Sloan, Oxford Saïd, IESE and IE.

Why Business Schools Ask for a Video Essay

What do mba video essays entail, types of video essays, northwestern kellogg, rotman school of management, oxford saïd, iese business school, ie business school, creating video/ kira essays for mba admissions: tips for pre-recorded and impromptu versions, final thoughts.

Business schools request video essays as part of the MBA admissions process for various reasons. These video essays offer a unique opportunity to assess applicants beyond traditional written materials. 

Here’s a list of 10 key qualities that business schools are looking for in applicants and how different aspects of the video essay can help assess these qualities:

Communication Skills

• Quality Demonstrated: Clarity of Expression
• Video Essay Component: The ability to articulate thoughts coherently and persuasively in the video.

Authenticity

• Quality Demonstrated: Genuine Self-Presentation
• Video Essay Component: Authenticity is revealed through unscripted, spontaneous responses that show the real personality of the applicant.

Confidence and Poise

• Quality Demonstrated: Ability to Handle Pressure
• Video Essay Component: Maintaining confidence and composure while responding to unexpected questions or prompts.
• Quality Demonstrated: Ability to Capture Attention
• Video Essay Component: Keeping the viewer engaged by using storytelling techniques and compelling anecdotes.

Cultural Fit

• Quality Demonstrated: Alignment with School Values
• Video Essay Component: Demonstrating enthusiasm for the school and its culture through genuine expressions of interest.

Problem-Solving Skills

• Quality Demonstrated: Analytical Thinking
• Video Essay Component: Responding effectively to complex or challenging questions, showcasing problem-solving abilities.

Leadership Potential

• Quality Demonstrated: Presence and Influence
• Video Essay Component: Portraying oneself as a confident and impactful leader who inspires and motivates others.

Teamwork and Collaboration

• Quality Demonstrated: Ability to Work Well with Others
• Video Essay Component: Sharing experiences highlighting teamwork, cooperation, and the ability to collaborate effectively.

Adaptability

• Quality Demonstrated: Flexibility and Resilience
• Video Essay Component: Adapting to unexpected prompts and situations, demonstrating the ability to think on one’s feet.

Passion and Drive

• Quality Demonstrated: Enthusiasm and Commitment
• Video Essay Component: Conveying genuine passion for one’s goals and showcasing the drive to make a meaningful impact.

These qualities are essential for success in an MBA program and in the business world. The video essay serves as a valuable tool for admissions committees to assess these qualities in applicants, allowing them to make more informed decisions about who would thrive in their academic environment and contribute positively to their MBA community. 

As an applicant, you should use the video essay as an opportunity to showcase your unique strengths and qualities that set you apart from the competition.

MBA video essays involve candidates responding to prompts from the admissions committee through self-recorded videos instead of relying on written responses.

This component has been introduced as an additional element in the application process for select business schools, without replacing traditional written MBA admission essays or the final admission interview.

It’s worth highlighting that due to the relatively recent incorporation of this concept into the MBA application process, different business schools may use varying terminology.

For instance, Kellogg Business School may label it as a video essay, while INSEAD may term it a Video Interview, and MIT may refer to it as a Video Statement. Despite the nomenclature differences, they all essentially entail the same process, with the only potential variation being the video essay’s format.

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There are generally two types of video essays asked in MBA admissions: Live/Impromptu and Pre-recorded. Each type serves a unique purpose and presents its own set of challenges and advantages.

Live/Impromptu Video Essays

Live or impromptu video essays require MBA applicants to respond to questions or prompts in real time.

Candidates are typically given a limited amount of time to prepare their thoughts, often ranging from 30 seconds to a few minutes. Once the preparation time is up, they must begin recording their response immediately. 

This format aims to assess an applicant’s ability to think on their feet, communicate clearly, and maintain composure under pressure. Admissions committees use live video essays to gauge an individual’s spontaneity, poise, and how effectively they can address unexpected topics or situations.

Pre-recorded Video Essays

Pre-recorded video essays, on the other hand, allow MBA applicants more control over the timing of their responses.

In this format, candidates receive a set of questions or prompts in advance and are allotted a specific amount of time to record their answers. This time frame typically ranges from a few hours to several days, depending on the business school’s requirements. 

Pre-recorded video essays allow applicants to carefully craft and rehearse their responses, emphasizing their communication skills, creativity, and thoughtfulness in addressing the given prompts. This format allows for a more polished presentation but still evaluates an applicant’s ability to convey their ideas effectively through video.

Which business schools ask to submit a video essay?

Applicants are required to complete three video essay questions as part of their application.

These questions provide a valuable opportunity for candidates to showcase their personality, communication skills, and alignment with Kellogg’s values. The video essays are due 96 hours after the application deadline, so plan your application timeline accordingly. 

Remember that you have a 20-second preparation period and up to one minute to respond. Use the prep time wisely to outline your answer mentally, and then deliver a clear and concise response within the allotted minute.

Let’s delve into each of the three video essay questions:

Question 1: Please introduce yourself to the admissions committee.

The introduction sets the tone for your application.

Be concise, authentic, and memorable. Start with a brief overview of your background, highlighting key experiences that have shaped your journey.

Mention your name, current profession, and what drives your passion for pursuing an MBA at Kellogg. Use this opportunity to provide a glimpse of your unique personality and values.

Question 2: What path are you interested in pursuing, how will you get there, and why is this program right for you?

Tip: This question demands a strategic approach.

Clearly articulate your career goals, emphasizing both short-term and long-term objectives.

Explain why Kellogg is your ideal platform for achieving these goals. Mention specific resources, courses, or aspects of the Kellogg program that align with your aspirations.

Your response should reflect a deep understanding of Kellogg’s offerings and a strong connection between your goals and the school’s unique advantages.

Question 3: This question will be based on a challenge you’ve faced and what you’ve learned from it.

Tip: Use this question to highlight your resilience and growth. Choose a challenge, either personal or professional, that showcases your ability to overcome adversity and learn from the experience.

Describe the challenge briefly, focusing more on the lessons learned and how it has influenced your character and decision-making.

Conclude by explaining how these lessons will contribute to your success as an MBA candidate at Kellogg.

Compilation of Kellogg Video Essay questions (2023) 

• Introduce yourself outside of your CV.
• Tell us something about yourself that we won’t know from your resume
• There are many MBA schools. What’s so unique about Kellogg?
• How long have you been considering an MBA and what have you learned about your goals in this time?
• Whose leadership style do you admire the most and you wish to adopt?
• Tell us about a time you were uncomfortable. How did you feel?
• What is one misconception coworkers have about you and how do you plan to change that?
• Tell us about the best piece of advice you have received, how you utilized it and how it impacted you?
• Tell us about a time you received harsh feedback. What was your reaction and how did you proceed to act on it?
• Tell us about one time when you received feedback that changed your perspective about something
• Tell us about  time you received feedback that you didn’t agree with
• Tell us about a time when you helped improved a process in your company, organization or community
• When and how did you resolve a conflict?
• Tell us about a time when you faced unforeseen or unexpected challenges
• Tell us about a time you failed and used an unconventional approach the next time. What happened?
• Tell us about a time when a conflict affected the productivity of the team? How did you handle it? What did you learn from it?
• Tell us about a time where an unexpected situation arose? Why did it arise? What did you do to pivot and why?
• Tell us about a time where you used a unique or creative way to solve a problem. What did you do and what was the outcome?
• What is one value or quality that you bring to the Kellogg community and how will it help others?
• Tell us about an experience outside school and outside office that motivated you to pursue a postgraduate education?
• Tell us about a time you leveraged a professional relationship to achieve your goals
• Tell us how you created an environment where differences and diverse ideas are respected. What was the outcome?
• Tell us about a time you added value in a professional capacity 
• Tell us about a time when you had to ask for help. What did you learn?

Note: Please consider this list indicative and not exhaustive

After you’ve successfully submitted your INSEAD MBA online application, an email notification from Kira Talent will swiftly arrive in your inbox, containing a unique link for you to embark on four video interviews. 

These interviews entail answering four distinct questions, and it’s essential to note that the questions presented to you may differ from those posed to other applicants. You’ll have a brief 45 seconds to prepare for each question and a minute to articulate your response.

These video interviews present a distinct opportunity for you to unveil your passions, motivations, and your true essence. The MBA Admissions Committee seeks an authentic portrayal of you as an individual, eager to witness your ability to think on your feet and effectively communicate your thoughts.

It’s important to emphasize that these video interviews do not replace face-to-face/online interviews with Alumni, which will still be a part of the assessment process. The video essay has to be submitted within 48 hours after the deadline of the Round in which you apply to INSEAD.

Tips for INSEAD Video Essay

• To ensure a seamless experience, INSEAD recommends using either Microsoft Edge or Chrome for recording your Kira videos. Preparing extensively by practicing is encouraged, as it allows you to convey authentic and genuine responses, even though the practice questions and your responses won’t be disclosed to the Admissions Committee.
• Before you begin recording, conduct a brief technology check by testing your camera and microphone. Once satisfied with the technical aspects, shift your focus to the camera, envisioning that you are addressing the Admissions Committee directly.
• Wear Business or Business Casual Attire.
• Lastly, consider keeping a notebook handy during the interviews to jot down key ideas. Remember, you’ll have just 45 seconds to prepare for each answer, followed by 60 seconds to deliver your response to the Admissions Committee.

Compilation of INSEAD MBA Video Essay questions (2023) 

• What keeps you engaged and motivated at work?
• How will INSEAD help you achieve your professional objectives?
• Describe a time when you saw someone else doing something differently. How did you react?
• Describe a time when you received negative feedback. How did you feel?
• Do you consider yourself to be creative?
• What do you think is the biggest challenge in leading a global team?
• If you look back 10 years into your life, what would success mean to you?
• Who or what inspires you the most?
• What is the leadership quality you admire? Why?
• How do you handle frustration at work and give constructive criticism?
• How can INSEAD help you to contribute to the community?
• What skills do you think you are missing that you want to work on while at INSEAD?
• Tell us about something that your family or company borrowed from someone else, its advantages and its disadvantages
• Why should we select you?
• Tell us about the most pressing climate concern today and how you will tackle it?
• How do you handle frustration at work? How do you openly communicate to resolve the frustration?
• Are you aware of your biases? How does that affect your thoughts?
• If you were given unlimited resources, which product or services would you offer to community and why?
• What are your guiding principles or involvement in Coporate and Social Responsibility
• How is diversity handled at your organization?

Applying to INSEAD? Learn from Adhiraj’s successful journey to the INSEAD MBA with scholarships

Once you’ve submitted your application, expect an email from Kira Talent, a designated service provider. Within this email, you will discover a link granting access to the video essay platform, a crucial component of Rotman’s application process, which comprises two video questions.

Upon accessing the platform and initiating the session, you will be presented with a total of two spoken questions, delivered sequentially, one after the other.

Once you receive the question, you will be granted a 30-second window for contemplation, followed by a 90-second timeframe for your response. It’s essential to note that there are no opportunities for revisiting or reattempting the question; you have just one opportunity to express your thoughts and provide your answer.

Regardless of when you initially submit your application, remember that the clock starts ticking once you access the video essay platform. You must submit your video essay response within two weeks of submitting your application to complete this vital step in the Rotman admissions process.

Once you’ve successfully submitted your application, expect an email notification from Kira Talent, the designated company for Yale’s video essay component. Inside this email, you’ll find a link that grants access to the video essay platform.

Upon logging in and commencing the session, you’ll encounter a total of three Yale video essay questions, presented one at a time. These questions are randomly generated but fall into distinct categories, each with its own focus.

The Yale video essay questions are thoughtfully categorized into three groups:

• MBA Motivations (Group 1) : The initial question in the Yale SOM video essay will center on your motivations, specifically regarding your interest in Yale or the rationale behind pursuing an MBA.
• Behavioral Questions (Group 2) : Yale values individuals who embody purpose-driven adaptability, teamwork, and strong communication skills. Therefore, they often pose questions aimed at assessing your ability to collaborate effectively and your potential to contribute positively to the Yale community.
• The Thinking Question (Group 3) : In addition to traditional interview queries, you will be tasked with responding to a “thinking question,” akin to a case study, during the Yale video essay. This question serves to evaluate your ability to think on your feet, a crucial aspect tested in Yale’s raw case method.

As you approach these questions, keep in mind that for the first and third, you’ll have 20 seconds to prepare and 60 seconds to provide your response. However, for the second question, you’ll be granted 30 seconds of preparation time and 90 seconds to articulate your answer.

Regardless of when you submit your initial application, remember that it’s imperative to complete and submit your responses to the Yale video essay questions within a maximum of 48 hours following the round’s application deadline. This ensures your application remains complete and on schedule.

Compilation of Yale SOM Video Essay questions (2023) 

• Why are you doing an MBA now?
• What motivates you to get an MBA at this point?
• Tell us about a time when a team member was not doing his share of work and how you handled it
• Tell us about a time you or your team fixed a critical problem at work
• Tell us about a problem that you solved by breaking down into its pieces
• Tell us about a time when there was a potential problem at work and how did you prevent it?
•  Mention a vague problem that was given to you and how did you solve it?
• Tell us about a teacher who has impacted you in life?
•  Yale School of Drama has produced many world renowned artists (e.g. Meryl Streep). Which artist do you admire most and why?
• Which type of art holds significance to you among the various arts across Yale Center for European arts, Yale Center for Natural arts and Yale Center for British arts?
• New Haven has great architectural significance ( something along these lines ). What piece of architecture has the greatest significance to you in your hometown or region? Why? 
• What is a tradition you hold dear to yourself?

Question: “Please take a minute to introduce yourself to your future classmates.”

This is your opportunity to introduce yourself and make a personal connection. Unveil your true self, let your personality sparkle, and have a genuine conversation – this is your moment to shine.

Keep the following criteria in mind when creating your videos for MIT:

• Keep it under 60 seconds, no more!
• Record it all in a single take, no editing allowed.
• Speak directly into the camera.
• Avoid adding background music or subtitles to your video.

In order to learn more about applicants and assess their ability to think quickly, Oxford Saïd’s MBA application process includes an online assessment.

Once the MBA application is submitted, you will find a link in the application status portal. This link allows you to register with Kira Talent, the online assessment platform, and complete the assessment. The assessment can be done anytime before the application deadline for the desired stage, for instance, Round 1 applicants must complete the assessment by the Round 1 deadline.

The online assessment consists of three parts:

• Two motivation-based questions that all candidates must answer. These questions aim to let you explain your reasons for pursuing an MBA and why you believe the Oxford MBA is the best fit for you. Each applicant receives the same two questions.

Example: “Why do you think pursuing an MBA is the next step in your career?”

• One competency-based question chosen randomly from a pool of available questions. This question allows you to demonstrate skills and qualities such as decision-making, problem-solving, leadership, teamwork, influencing, change management, and communication.

Example: “Could you share an experience where you successfully handled a challenging situation, either in your professional or personal life? How did you approach resolving it?”

• A written response (essay), which will be randomized and light-hearted to display how you can think on your feet and write.

Example: “What was your favorite book as a child and why?”

For each motivation-based question, you have 60 seconds to prepare and 90 seconds to respond. For each competency-based question, there is 45 seconds of preparation time followed by 60 seconds to provide an answer.

It’s important to note that there are no opportunities to redo the questions, and you have only one chance to respond and share your answers during the assessment. The entire online assessment should take about 30 minutes to complete, so plan accordingly.

Compilation of Oxford Saïd MBA Video Essay questions (2023) 

• Since how long have you wanted to do your MBA? Why now is the right time and what skills do you hope to gain?
• Students apply to many programmes and B schools. According to you, what makes Oxford unique?
• Tell us about a time you were overloaded with work, how did you handle it?
• Tell us about a time you asked for help and how did it go?
• Tell us about a time you led a diverse team, what specific skill did you use and why?
• Tell us a time when you had an idea and had to convince your project team.
• What is the most significant personal weakness that you have identified, what did you do about it and what was the result?
• Imagine you are proposing a business innovation idea for a class project and the audience is not interested. What would you do?
• How would you convince a team about your idea if you were sure of its positive outcome?
• How do you describe the color red to someone who can only see in black and white? 
• Do you prefer cats or dogs? Explain why.

IESE Business School has introduced Video Essays as part of the application process this year, replacing the previous personal essay requirement.

The purpose of this change is to gain a deeper and more authentic understanding of applicants. It allows the Admissions Committee to get insights into the thought process and communication style of each candidate.

After submitting the written application and paying the required fees, you will receive a Kira Video Essay link within 24 hours, to be completed by the Application Round Deadline. This link will expire 48 hours after receipt. You will receive detailed instructions along with the link. Upon clicking the link, you can create a Kira account and practice before recording your video essay.

Each applicant will need to respond to two video essay questions. For each question, there will be a preparation time before recording the response.

Applicants are encouraged to be concise, as they have a limited time of 1.5 minutes to provide each answer. The Admissions Committee values authenticity and is interested in getting to know the real applicant, rather than hearing what they think the committee wants to hear.

It’s important to note that the application will be considered complete and ready for review only after all components, including the video essays, have been submitted.

Compilation of IESE MBA Video Essay questions (2023) 

• How do we pronounce your name?
• Tell us something about you not in your resume.
• Tell us something that’s unique about you – traits and attributes uniquely you.
• What is the one feedback you received that you didn’t agree with? How did you react and what was the outcome?
• Every team has a certain archetype: architect, analyst etc. Which archetype are you when you play in a team? And why?
•  Tell us one thing you like and one thing you don’t like about your current job.
• Give a background of yourself and what abilities you can bring to the IESE MBA.
• When was the last time you were creative.

Check out our interview with IESE MBA Adcom including insights on the application process, interviews, careers and more here

This year, IE Business School has introduced a video essay to get to know you better. The online assessment is quick and won’t take more than 30 minutes.

IE Business School has added this to its admissions process because they believe in innovation. This part of the process helps them understand your personality and how you respond in real time. 

You’ll need a computer with an internet connection, a microphone, and a webcam. You’ll answer three live questions – two in video format and one in writing. You can practice several times, but remember, once you officially start the assessment, you only have one chance to respond. You have one week from when you submitted your online admissions application to complete this online assessment.

Video essays have become a vital component of the MBA admissions process, offering applicants a unique platform to showcase their personality and communication skills. Whether it’s a pre-recorded or impromptu video essay, here are ten tips to help you excel in this aspect of your application:

Understand the Purpose

• Pre-Recorded: Pre-recorded video essays often have prompts that allow for structured responses. Understand the specific question and ensure your video essay directly addresses it.
• Impromptu: In impromptu video essays, you may not know the questions in advance. Focus on providing insightful, concise answers to the given prompts.
• Pre-Recorded: Use your allotted time efficiently. Be concise in your response while ensuring you provide a complete and well-structured answer.
• Impromptu: Stay on point and avoid rambling. Use the given preparation time to outline your response and make your points concisely during the recording.

Prepare Thoroughly

• Pre-Recorded: Take time to brainstorm ideas, outline your response, and rehearse multiple times. Ensure your message is clear and compelling.
• Impromptu: Since you may have limited time to prepare, practice answering diverse types of questions to build your ability to think on your feet. Doing Mock Interviews can particularly help.

Showcase Your Personality

• Pre-Recorded: Your video should provide a glimpse of your character and values. Let your authenticity shine through by being yourself.
• Impromptu: Be genuine in your responses. Authenticity is highly valued in impromptu video essays.

Maintain Eye Contact

• Pre-Recorded: Look directly into the camera to establish a connection with the viewer. This creates a sense of engagement and sincerity.
• Impromptu: Even when you don’t know the questions in advance, maintain eye contact with the camera during your responses to appear confident and composed.

Have a Strong Opening and Closing

• Pre-Recorded: Begin with a compelling introduction and end with a memorable conclusion that reinforces your main points.
• Impromptu: Use the initial seconds to frame your response and conclude succinctly by summarizing your key message.

Eliminate Distractions

• Pre-Recorded: Choose a quiet, well-lit location with minimal distractions for your recording. Ensure your background is professional.
• Impromptu: Find a quiet spot where you can focus solely on your response without interruptions.

Manage your Time Well

• Pre-Recorded: Allocate sufficient time for recording, reviewing, and editing if necessary. Avoid rushing the process.
• Impromptu: Manage your time wisely during preparation and response. Stick to the given time limits.

Rehearse Video Recording Technology

• Pre-Recorded: Familiarize yourself with the recording equipment and software. Ensure your audio and video quality are top-notch.
• Impromptu: Check your internet connection, camera, and microphone in advance to avoid technical glitches.

Seek Feedback

• Pre-Recorded: Share your video with mentors, advisors or trusted friends to gather constructive feedback and make improvements.
• Impromptu: After practicing impromptu responses, seek feedback on your communication skills and clarity.

In both pre-recorded and impromptu video essays, the key is effectively communicating your message while showcasing your suitability for the MBA program. With preparation, practice, and attention to these tips, you can create impressive video essays that enhance your MBA application.

In an increasingly competitive MBA admissions landscape, video essays offer you a chance to stand out and convey your unique value to the business school of your choice.

Use this opportunity to not only address the questions asked but also to paint a vivid picture of your aspirations, experiences, and character. It’s a tool that, when used effectively, can elevate your application and set you on the path to success in your MBA journey. So, embrace the challenge, be yourself, and make your video essay a compelling testament to your candidacy.

If you would like our support on your B-school applications, feel free to reach out!

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Ace Your Yale MBA Interview in 2024

Quick Facts

Deadlines and decisions, detailed overview, sample questions, quick facts , who does yale som interview.

Yale SOM invites only some applicants to interview after an initial round of eliminations.

Who conducts the Yale SOM MBA interview?

The Yale School of Management interview is conducted by either a member of the Admissions Committee or a trained, second-year MBA student. Which you get is dependent on the interview site. Jump ahead to read more about the Yale interviewer.

How long is the Yale MBA interview?

The interview is 30 minutes and ends with unfailing regularity at that mark. Jump ahead to read more about the consistent length.

Where is the interview held?

Yale SOM applicants who are invited to interview come to campus to be interviewed by a second-year student. If such a trip is impossible, virtual interviews or interviews in major metropolitan hubs are conducted by members of the Admissions Committee. Jump ahead to read more about the Yale MBA interview location.

What is the format?

Yale conducts a blind, one-on-one interview where the interviewer has access only to your resume. Jump ahead to read more on the format.

Deadlines and Decision Schedule 

More information available on Yale’s Application Deadline Page

Video Essays

The Yale SOM admissions team gives every applicant three randomized questions to which they must respond in a recorded video message. No two applicants will have the same set of questions. It should be noted, however, that these video questions are not considered part of the interview process: the video questions are given to every person who submits an application, whereas interviews are only offered to certain applicants after an initial elimination round. Two of the questions will give you a twenty second prep period before giving you one minute to anwer. The final question has a 30 second prep period and a 90 second answer period. You do not need to fill the entirety of the time provided.

Drawing from Menlo Coaching’s extensive client database of first-hand interview reports, this section offers the most up-to-date information on Yale’s MBA interview process.

Interviewer profile

Yale School of Management interviews are conducted by trained, second year students if the interview is held on-campus and by admissions officers if the interview is conducted virtually or at an off-campus location.

As AdCom members or current students in the Yale SOM program, the interviewers have a clear understanding of the ideal applicant. However, due to the extremely regular nature of the interviews (see “Length” section below), there is less room for the personality of the interviewer to come through in the conversation. 

Clients interviewing in 2019, before the pandemic, noted that even though interviews were conducted by current students, Admissions Committee members were present at all stages.

The Yale SOM interview is exactly 30 minutes. The vast majority of Menlo Coaching clients noted the strict time limit and that the interview process was spelled out very clearly by the interviewers. Many clients reported that there were no substantive introductory remarks or resume walk-throughs, which makes sense given that the interview time is so strictly observed. Similarly, interviewers have a standard list of questions from which they do not deviate.

One client reported that follow-up questions are only asked when the interviewee fails to completely answer a question; in this particular case, the client related that, when asked about a time they had failed and what they had learned, they were not clear enough in the second half of their answer, prompting the interviewer to ask for clarification.

Despite the strict time limit, many clients reported that interviewers gave out their school email addresses and encouraged them to reach out with any questions that they did not have time to ask during the interview itself.

In previous years, applicants invited to interview were encouraged to fly to New Haven where the interview was conducted by a current student, trained by the Admissions Committee. 

COVID-19 disruptions led to some changes in some of Yale’s admission policies , and, as a result, interviews are now available both at off-campus locations around the world and virtually. There is currently no need to fly to New Haven for the interview, and Yale SOM have confirmed that online and in-person interviews will be considered equally.

As with any virtual business engagement, applicants should make sure that they have a high-speed wired Internet connection, good lighting, and that they point their computer camera at eye level.

The format of the Yale SOM interview is “blind,” meaning that the interviewer receives only a copy of the candidate’s resume.

Because many Yale interviewers are current students, the 30 minute interview draws from a list of standard questions, with follow-ups only in cases where the question has not been answered completely. These questions, even if there is a slight difference in topic, also follow a very recognizable sequence (which is listed in the Sample Questions section below).

The interview typically ends with a 5-10 minute cushion, during which the applicant can ask questions of the interviewer. This usually leads to the exchange of emails mentioned above.

Interview Prep with Menlo Coaching

If you’re interested in prepping for your MBA interview with the Menlo Coaching team, reach out today! We offer mock interviews and school-specific training for HBS, Wharton, Sloan and more!

Yale SOM MBA Interview Sample Questions

This section follows the Yale MBA interview “question-by-question,” or in rough chronological order. Like the details in the section above, these questions are sourced from Menlo Coaching’s client database of first-hand interview reports.

You can use the questions below to conduct mock interviews that mimic an actual conversation with a Yale interviewer, be they second year student or AdCom member. In this particular case, the first three questions were asked interchangeably while the last three were always present. 

For best results, however, consider seeking expert help via Menlo Coaching’s interview prep service.

The Yale SOM MBA interview, question-by-question

• Proudest Professional Accomplishment and How You Achieved It
• Biggest Professional Failure and what you learned from it
• A time when you listened for other people’s perspective
• Why pursue an MBA? Why now? Why Yale SOM?
• What different perspectives will you bring to the Yale School of Management? (this question is related to a quote from the Dean)
• Questions for the Interviewer

If you’re looking for guidance on how to answer questions like these with confidence, you can  find detailed breakdowns for MBA interview questions here .

Related Articles

• How to Answer Common MBA Interview Questions
• Wharton Interview: Team-Based Discussion
• Guides to the MBA Interviews at Top Business Schools

Yale SOM Announces New Sustainability Action Plan, Steered by Students

Yale SOM’s newly published Sustainability Action Plan 2030 (SAP) will guide the school’s growth and development and its environmental impact goals. Watch for solar panels, reduced waste, and increased awareness of energy use in Evans Hall.

The Yale School of Management’s longstanding commitment to sustainability is now codified, thanks to a student committee working in collaboration with school administrators who have produced the new Sustainability Action Plan 2030 (SAP).

The plan will guide the school’s growth and development and calls for meaningful steps such as installing solar panels on the roof of Edward P. Evans Hall and implementing new energy audits. Drafted by the Yale SOM Student Government’s Sustainability Committee, the plan aligns with the overarching Yale University Sustainability Plan 2025.

“The focus is on Evans Hall and how we can encourage students, staff, and faculty to be more focused on sustainability and the impact that we, as a community, are having,” said Katya Wendt ’25, a joint-degree student at Yale SOM and the Yale School of the Environment (YSE). Wendt and Lauren D’Souza ’26, also a joint-degree student at YSE, are the current co-chairs of the Sustainability Committee. 

The new plan represents the culmination of a student initiative, launched by Jackie Ruggiero ’21, to document Yale SOM’s sustainability practices and goals. The initiative was put on hold during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, but it got a big boost last year when Student Government created two official sustainability chair positions to guide the work of the committee, and Joshua Brown ’23, who served as the initial second-year sustainability chair; Rachel Warne ’23, a member of the committee, and Wendt worked to develop a formal plan. Brown and Warne, Wendt said, “were vital to making sure Jackie’s work was carried forward.”

The Dean’s Office approved the current plan earlier this year.

“The plan now is quite comprehensive, and it complements existing sustainability action plans adopted by Yale’s other graduate and professional schools,” D’Souza said. 

Yale SOM has had a longtime focus on sustainability. Edward P. Evans Hall, which opened in 2014, was designed and built to minimize its environmental impact. The building has received a Gold rating under the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) program.

But efforts to make practices within the building more sustainable have been ongoing. “The new plan builds on previous work and is now basically a legacy document that can carry on through the generations,” said Pete Koerner, managing director of facilities and operations.

The plan identifies nine areas of focus under which the school’s sustainability goals are organized: built environment, climate action, mobility, leadership, empowerment, health and well-being, stewardship, materials, and technologies.

The committee prioritized built environment, climate action, and mobility because they hold the greatest opportunities to make meaningful environmental impacts by 2030. Within these areas, three projects are being fast-tracked: installation of solar panels on Evans Hall; reducing the flow of waste—food and material—that the building produces; and incorporating additional content on sustainability into the MBA core curriculum.

“I’m really proud of the work that has been put into this plan,” Koerner said. “It’s a very good representation of the school’s values and priorities in sustainability.”

Perhaps most importantly, said D’Souza, the plan includes steps to ensure its ongoing impact. “We’ve created a plan that grounds the Sustainability Committee’s efforts and helps us measure impact,” D’Souza said. “And we’re going to be able to hand it off to the student leaders who come after us.”

Read the Sustainability Action Plan 2030.