LBS Video Essay & Interview Questions: Complete Guide

What to Expect from the LBS Video Essay & Interview

The LBS (London Business School) video essay and interview is one of the most distinctive parts of the London Business School MBA application process. Unlike many other top-ranked MBA programs, LBS uses a multi-stage evaluation: a Kira Talent video assessment followed by an in-depth, alumni-led interview that may also include a spontaneous mini-case discussion.

The video assessment is fast-paced and intentionally unpredictable. You’ll face short prompts with very limited preparation time. This isn’t a test of how well you can memorize a script; it’s a test of how you think on your feet. The admissions team wants to see how you structure your thoughts in 60 seconds and whether your natural personality comes through when the “rehearsal” ends.

ARINGO Insider Tip: LBS places exceptional emphasis on “cultural fit.” In a classroom where no single nationality dominates, they are actively evaluating your global mindset. They aren’t looking for perfection; they’re looking for candidates who can communicate across cultures and contribute meaningfully to a highly diverse study group environment.

Ultimately, London Business School wants to see the person behind the CV. They need to understand whether you can handle pressure in a high-stakes environment while remaining collaborative, structured, and—most importantly—authentic.

Sign Up For a Free Consultation

Examples of LBS MBA Video Essay & Interview Questions

The LBS video essay and interview questions are designed to test cultural awareness, adaptability, teamwork, and communication skills. Many of them are behavior-based and reflect real situations you may face in a highly international MBA environment.

Motivation & “Why LBS” Questions

  • What will you gain from the London Business School MBA that you won’t gain from another MBA program?
  • Why do you think you are a good fit for London Business School?
  • Why is studying in an international environment important to you?

Culture & Diversity Questions

  • Tell me about a time you had to adapt to a different culture.
  • Describe a time you were introduced to a new culture and what you learned from it.
  • What is the importance of diversity in the workplace?
  • What do you think is most challenging about working in a diverse or international environment?
  • What do you think is most challenging about studying in a diverse study group?

Teamwork & Leadership Questions

  • Describe a time when you demonstrated leadership.
  • Tell us about a time a team member was not contributing equally. How did you handle it?
  • Tell us about a time you were part of a dysfunctional team and how you improved the situation.
  • What is the most important aspect of effective teamwork?
  • Tell us about a difficult decision you had to make and how you brought your team together.

Behavioral & Personal Reflection Questions

  • Tell us about a time you were unfairly judged and how you responded.
  • How do you go about learning a new subject? Please provide examples.
  • Tell us about a situation where you had to adapt quickly and what you learned.

ARINGO Insight: LBS places strong emphasis on cultural intelligence, collaboration, and adaptability. Strong answers are structured, specific, and focused on real experiences rather than theoretical statements.

LBS Video Essay & Interview FAQ

Unlike many other schools, the London Business School MBA video essay happens after you receive an interview invitation. It’s part of the “Interview Stage” package. Once invited, you’ll typically have a two-week window to complete the Kira Talent assessment online.

It’s rarely the reason someone is rejected on its own, but it is a major “validation” tool. The AdCom uses it to ensure the person they met on paper matches the person on screen. If you’re a top-ranked MBA candidate, you need to show that your English fluency and communication style are classroom-ready.

Most candidates find the five-minute mini-presentation the most challenging. During the alumni interview, you’ll be given a topic (anything from “Should AI be regulated?” to a business case) and 5 minutes to prepare a short talk. If this sounds terrifying, our LBS mock interview sessions are specifically designed to help you master this format.

For the actual scored questions? No. You get one shot at the two questions (one fixed “Why LBS” and one random behavioral). However, the platform allows unlimited practice with “dummy” questions—use these to shake off the nerves before you hit the real “Record” button!

Traditionally, LBS asks: “What will you gain from the LBS MBA that you won’t gain from another program?” This is your chance to prove you’ve done your homework on their unique curriculum and community.

LBS looks for an “International DNA”—people who have lived, worked, or traveled extensively. Before you dive into the essays, use our MBA chances calculator to see how your profile stacks up against the latest LBS class stats.

We offer everything from essay editing to full-service MBA admissions consulting. LBS is a unique beast, and having a consultant who knows the “London vibe” can make all the difference in your strategy.