Emory University’s Goizueta Business School offers one of the most highly respected Top MBA programs in the US, known for its small size, strong community focus, and commitment to preparing “principled leaders.” As you navigate the highly competitive MBA rankings and prepare your application to stand alongside candidates targeting schools like Columbia Business School or Wharton Business School, understanding Goizueta’s specific essay prompts is crucial.

Emory: Key 2025–2026 Application Deadlines

  • Round 1: October 1, 2025
  • Round 2: January 7, 2026
  • Round 3: March 18, 2026

Emory MBA Essays and Tips

Short Answer Questions (40-word limit each):

  1. What are your short-term post-MBA career goals?
  2. How will your professional experience and the Goizueta MBA help you to achieve those goals?
  3. What’s a fun fact about you that you would like the committee to know?

Tip: Clearly state the title, function, and industry for your goals. Connect your experience to Goizueta’s specific offerings (e.g., IMPACT) to show fit. Use the fun fact to inject personality and enrich the Emory Class profile or the community.

The short-answer questions demand surgical precision. The 40-word limit is unforgiving. Our advice, even those with high metrics like a 740 GMAT or a 3.8 GPA, to treat these as critical screening points.

Essay 1: Leadership (300-word limit)

Goizueta Business School’s mission is to prepare principled leaders to have a positive influence on business and society. Choose an example of a time you effectively demonstrated your leadership skills. Respond to one of these two prompts: What about this experience made you feel proud of your leadership abilities? OR What did this experience teach you about leadership?

Tip: Do not just narrate the event. Focus 70% of your word count on the chosen reflection—the pride or the lesson. This is where you demonstrate the principles behind your leadership, a core value for Top Business Schools.

Essay 2: Lived Experiences/Impact (300-word limit)

Our lived experiences shape who we are and the aspirations we have. As a values-driven community, we care about what has shaped your life. Please share what or who has had the biggest impact on your life.

Tip: This is your chance to showcase the diverse perspectives you bring. Ensure the impact is profound and directly relates to your current aspirations. This is where your unique story, crucial for success at Emory, shines through.

Optional Essay (500-word limit):

Use this only to address weaknesses, like an employment gap, a low undergraduate GPA, etc. Do not submit a bonus Essay example.

The Required Video Essay and Tips

Prompt: Every candidate will answer a “small talk” question to help the MBA Admissions Committee get to know you.

Consultant Tips for the Video Essay:

  • Be Authentic: This is “small talk.” Be energetic and genuine. AdCom wants to know if they would enjoy sitting next to you. Good Interview Tips apply here: dress professionally, ensure clean lighting, and maintain steady eye contact.
  • Focus on Delivery: Practice your pace, volume, and clarity. Use it to reinforce the positive impression made by your written application and high Average GMAT score.

We know applying to M7 schools and other Top MBA programs is a complex, high-stakes process. ARINGO specializes in delivering highly personalized strategies that help candidates achieve their dream admission. Contact us for a Free 30 Minute Consultation- MBA consultants to review your profile.

Five FAQs for Emory Goizueta Applicants

  1. Is the GMAT or GRE required for the 2025-26 cycle? Emory offers a Full-time MBA Test Waiver process. You can apply for the waiver if you demonstrate preparation for quantitative coursework through your academic background or professional experience. However, submitting a strong GMAT vs GRE score (the Class of 2027 Two-Year MBA had an Average GMAT score of 723) remains an excellent way to boost your application, especially for Scholarship consideration.
  2. Should I apply in Round 3? While Goizueta accepts Round 3 applications, candidates interested in Financial aid and scholarships are strongly encouraged to apply in Round 1 or Round 2 for the best consideration. Furthermore, the number of seats available decreases significantly in the final Admission Cycle.
  3. What kind of Letter of Recommendation (LOR) does Emory prefer? Goizueta prefers two professional Recommendation letters, with at least one from your current direct supervisor or a project manager who knows your work well. They want recommenders who can answer specific questions about your leadership, communication, and areas needing improvement.
  4. How can I address a low undergraduate GPA? If your undergraduate GPA is below the class average, use the optional essay to explain the context (e.g., extenuating circumstances, difficult major). Crucially, offset it with a strong GMAT or GRE score and a stellar professional track record. Use a GPA converter tool to understand your standing.
  5. How important is the Emory culture and mission in the application? Extremely important. Goizueta’s mission to create “principled leaders” is central to its identity. Ensure your MBA essays demonstrate integrity, ethics, and your capacity to have a positive influence on business and society, reflecting why Goizueta is a good fit.