Tepper MBA Application Walkthrough

One thing that stands out about the Tepper application is how much guidance the admissions team provides.

The application portal includes detailed instructions, recorded workshops, and explanations for different sections of the process.

For applicants who feel overwhelmed by MBA applications, this can make the process easier to manage.

Tepper also encourages applicants to reach out directly with questions, which helps create a more approachable experience overall.

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In this walkthrough, Jenifer Turtschanow from ARINGO explains how the Tepper MBA application works and what applicants should pay attention to before submitting.

The session covers the full application process, including the resume, recommendations, essays, video essay, transcripts, test waivers, and optional essay.

Jenifer also shares practical advice around common application questions, including work gaps, LinkedIn profiles, career goals, and recommendation strategy.

Tepper asks applicants to upload a professional resume and complete an employment history section.

Applicants should pay close attention to details such as:

    • Employment date
    • Job titles
    • Compensation
    • Industry information
    • Career progression
    • LinkedIn profile updates

The school may later verify employment details during the background check process, so accuracy is important.

Jen also points out that the optional essay can help explain work gaps, career transitions, or unusual circumstances.

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Tepper prefers professional recommendations rather than academic references.

Strong recommenders are usually supervisors, managers, clients, or colleagues who can speak directly about your work, leadership, and growth.

Applicants should avoid choosing recommenders based only on title or seniority.

A thoughtful recommendation from someone who knows your contributions well is usually more valuable than a generic letter from a senior executive.

Applicants should also prepare recommenders ahead of time by discussing:

  • MBA goals
  • Career plans
  • Why they are applying now
  • Key accomplishments to highlight

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One of the unique parts of the Tepper application is the required video essay.

The goal is not to deliver a perfect scripted performance.

Instead, Tepper wants to see how applicants communicate naturally while discussing their goals.

Strong video essays usually feel:

  • Clear
  • Focused
  • Conversational
  • Confident

Applicants should practice enough to feel comfortable speaking on camera without sounding memorized.

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The optional essay should only be used when there is meaningful context to share.

This may include:

  • Work gaps
  • Academic struggles
  • Career transitions
  • Personal circumstances
  • Additional background information

The goal is not to make excuses.

Applicants should focus on briefly explaining the situation, what they learned, and how they moved forward.

Short, direct explanations are usually more effective than long emotional essays.

Tepper offers test waivers for some applicants, especially those with strong academic or analytical backgrounds.

Applicants requesting a waiver should still demonstrate readiness for the MBA classroom through:

  • Quantitative coursework
  • STEM backgrounds
  • Certifications
  • Strong GPA
  • Analytical work experience

Applicants who do not have a strong quantitative background may still be competitive, but should show evidence that they can handle the academic side of the program.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Tepper includes a short video essay focused on post MBA goals.

Yes. Tepper offers waivers on a case by case basis for applicants with strong academic or professional backgrounds.

Yes. Brief explanations for work gaps or academic issues can help provide context.

For most full time MBA applicants, a one page resume is usually the better option.

In many cases, yes. Applicants can often submit updated scores before a final admissions decision is made.

Professional supervisors or colleagues who know your work well are usually the strongest choices.

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