UNC Kenan-Flagler MBA Video Essay: Questions, Format & Preparation Guide

Master the UNC Kenan-Flagler MBA video essay with real question examples, strategies for the unique two-question format, and practical steps to perform confidently in the 2-minute timed assessment.

What to Expect from the UNC Kenan-Flagler MBA Video Essay

The UNC Kenan-Flagler MBA video essay is a required part of the application. It gives the admissions team a chance to see how you communicate in a natural, unscripted setting. It helps them assess your presence and clarity beyond your written essays.

The format is unique. You will see two questions at the same time and have a total of 120 seconds (2 minutes) to answer both. This means your ability to prioritize, structure your thoughts, and stay calm matters just as much as your actual answers.

The experience is similar to a Kira-style video assessment. UNC uses this step to find candidates who align with their core values: Integrity, Inclusion, Impact, and Excellence. You can compare programs on our MBA rankings page.

The video essay is usually completed shortly after you submit your application. For more on the program itself, see our UNC Kenan-Flagler MBA overview.

Strategy: The UNC 120-Second Blitz

The biggest challenge in the UNC MBA video essay is managing the clock while switching between two different topics.

  • The 5-Second Blueprint: When the questions appear, don’t speak immediately. Take a few seconds to decide which story fits which prompt.
  • The 60/60 Split: Aim to divide your time evenly. If you spend 90 seconds on the first question, your second answer will feel rushed and incomplete.
  • The “Hand-off” Transition: Since there is no break between questions, you must verbally signal the switch. For example: “Moving from my experience with teamwork to my short-term goals…”
  • The Power of the Second Attempt: UNC typically allows a second take. Use the first attempt as a live rehearsal. If you stumble, stay calm, breathe, and use the second attempt to polish your delivery.
  • The “Carolina Way” Tone: Kenan-Flagler values a “no-ego” culture. When discussing successes, use “we” more than “I” to show you are a collaborative leader.

UNC Core Values: Question Mapping

To help you prepare, we have organized common 2026 questions by the school’s core values. Focus on showing these traits in your stories.

Core Value What They Want to See Sample 2026 Prompt
Inclusion Diversity and Belonging “Describe a time you advocated for a perspective different from your own.”
Integrity Ethics and Accountability “Tell us about a time you had to deliver difficult news to a supervisor.”
Impact Results and Community “What is the most significant win you have delivered for a client or team?”
Excellence Growth and Ambition “How will you push your study group to perform at a higher level?”

UNC Kenan-Flagler MBA Video Essay Questions (2026)

UNC uses randomized prompts, but they generally fall into these categories:

Motivation and Career Goals

  • Why is UNC Kenan-Flagler the right MBA for you right now?
  • What are your short-term goals and your backup plan?
  • What specific contribution will you make to your study group?

Personal Reflection

  • Tell us something that is not in your application.
  • Describe a failure that shaped who you are today.
  • How would your current teammates describe your working style?
  • What is one weakness you are actively working to improve?

Recent Examples of Leadership Prompts

  • Tell us about a time you led a team without having formal authority.
  • Describe a difficult decision you made while under pressure.
  • Give an example of a time you received critical feedback and how you reacted.
  • Describe a challenging team dynamic and how you handled it.

The 30-Second Technical Check

Before you hit record, run through this quick mental audit to ensure you look and sound professional:

  • Lighting: Ensure your main light source is in front of you, not behind you.
  • Eye Level: Your camera should be at eye level. Prop your laptop up on books if necessary.
  • Audio: Use a dedicated mic or headset if possible. Built-in laptop mics can often sound echoey.
  • The “Why UNC” Hook: Have one specific club or center (like the STAR Program) ready to mention.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. The video essay is a required step for all applicants. If your application is strong, you will be invited to a formal interview with an admissions member or an alum later in the process.

Yes. The platform usually allows for a second attempt. However, if you choose to retake it, your first recording is deleted, and the second one becomes your final submission.

UNC is focusing more on “realistic dreaming.” They want to see that you have a clear target but also understand the current job market and have a backup plan if your primary industry is hiring slowly.

Admissions is not looking for perfection. They want to see how you recover. If you stumble, simply acknowledge it, take a breath, and keep going. They value authenticity over a robotic, rehearsed script.

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