Getting into a Top Business School like HBS, Stanford, or Wharton Business School requires a flawless application. While strong GMAT scores and compelling MBA essays are crucial, your Letters of Recommendation (LOR) often provide the deciding factor. The AdCom at top business schools like M7s rely on these to confirm your profile and gauge your future potential.

Here are 10 expert MBA application tips to ensure your LORs shine:

  1. Choose the Right Recommender: Select someone who knows your professional work intimately—typically your direct supervisor. Their title matters less than their ability to provide specific, high-quality
  2. Start Early (Avoid Deadline Panic): Great recommendations take time. Give your recommenders at least 4-6 weeks before the application deadlines. This is a key difference between successful and rushed MBA application
  3. Provide a “Recommender Packet”: Don’t just send a link. Give them a packet including your resume, draft MBA essays (even if incomplete), and a bulleted list of the three specific stories/projects you want them to highlight. This aligns their narrative with your overall application story for schools.
  4. Emphasize Specificity and Impact: The best recommendation letters don’t just say you’re good; they describe a situation, the action you took, and the quantifiable impact on the team or organization. Think concrete results, not generic praise.
  5. Address the School’s Values: Research the culture of each school (HBS focuses on leadership; Stanford on impact). Coach your recommender to use language that aligns with those core values.
  6. Cover Your Gaps (Subtly): If you have a low GPA or a weak point in your profile, the LOR can be used to mitigate it. For instance, have your recommender highlight your steep learning curve or resilience in the face of challenge.
  7. Map Out Your Profile: Ensure the LOR covers different aspects of your candidacy than your MBA essays. If your essay focuses on leadership, the recommendation should focus on, say, teamwork or analytical strength.
  8. Be Humble and Grateful: Always write a sincere, personal thank-you note to your recommenders. They are doing you a massive favour that affects your MBA chances.
  9. Complete All Required Forms: Double-check that all required forms and waiver releases are complete for every school. Missing details can delay your file review, especially at highly competitive programs.
  10. Follow Up Gently: Confirm your recommenders submitted the LOR a week before the deadlines. A polite, professional reminder is essential, but never be intrusive. Remember, getting into a Top 10 school requires coordination, and this step is entirely your responsibility.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  1. Should I waive my right to view the LOR? Yes, absolutely. Not waiving your right signals distrust to the AdCom and seriously undermines the credibility of the letter.
  2. What if my direct supervisor is new? It’s usually better to choose a previous supervisor who knows your work well than a current one who doesn’t. You can use the optional essay to explain the choice.
  3. Can I submit more than the required number of LORs? Adhere strictly to the application requirements of the schools. Extra, unsolicited letters can be seen as an inability to follow instructions.
  4. Do my LORs have to be from my current company? The primary recommendation should ideally be professional. If not, a former supervisor or client is a good alternative, especially if you can justify the choice.
  5. What should the recommender’s letter length be? Most schools provide a template or questions. If they ask for a traditional letter, it should be approximately 500–800 words (about one to one-and-a-half pages, single-spaced).

Contact ARINGO MBA Admissions Consulting today for a personalized LOR strategy and a Free Profile Evaluation.