statement of purpose for mba admission in india

How To Write SOPs For The B-School Interview Process - A Guide From An IIM Alumna

By riddhi kalra.

statement of purpose for mba admission in india

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Introduction Is Everything. It Can Make Or Break Your Statement Of Purpose!

This is the place you provide the initial hook for the reader to read further. It is generally advisable to leave a concise impression in the introduction. It is not uncommon to start with a quote or phrase. However, care needs to be taken to give the due credit, and that it doesn’t take up too many words. Since it is the hook on which the rest of the SOP will flow, keep in mind that you briefly touch on what you stand for as an individual. This would help the selection panel to categorise you better, given the number of applications they are bound to receive. It is not wise to exactly mention a point from your CV, since you will submit that anyway. This should not exceed two sentences.

There's no escaping this question. Despite looking quite innocent and predictable, this is the toughest question you will face in the interview. It also happens to be the most important part of your SOP. Reasons such as seeking the opportunity to network, learn from the best minds, frustration with the current job and quick financial growth are very common reasons. They may be supporting factors, but quite often a story that is narrated and comes from some personal or professional experience is more convincing. This could easily take two to three sentences. Here are a few examples of what you can do to answer this question -

'Why MBA?' As Answered By An IIM Ahmedabad Alumnus

Why MBA - Dare to Think Beyond Grades

Why MBA? - Freshers Vs Working Professionals ( Want More? Checkout: Why MBA by MBA Students & Alumni )

Why did you choose the particular institute?

A conventional part of any Statement Of Purpose, this point needs to be aligned with the core values of the institute (which you can find from the website and social media pages or press releases) and maybe the specialisation it is known for. It is alright if it becomes a little predictable as you conclude this point, since there are comparatively limited responses to this question. It is generally clubbed with other points such as your long and short term goals. Include: How can the b-school help you in your career growth? Why should they select you? What value do you bring to the institution?

Read this to know what makes different institutions special: 10 Things That Make IIM Lucknow, IIM Kozhikode, IIM Indore, IIM Shillong, XLRI, FMS, IIFT, IMT, SCMHRD, & NITIE Special

Your ambition and career goals.

These include a brief description of where you see yourself 5 and 10 years from graduation. These two to three sentences should trace your motivation to achieve the same, and how the institute can help you get there. It would be favourable to mention your existing skill sets from your past experiences to solidify your point, whether that is your academic consistency or professional experience. It would also be advisable to let it be known that you are aware and focussed regarding the specialisation you want to take up. Points to cover: What are your goals? Your 5-year-plan and 10-year plan.

10 Worst Career Goals Essays When Applying To A Business School In India - Updated With Inputs From Deepali Naair

Must-read: why mba 10 worst essays on reasons to do an mba and choice of specialization - deepali naair, adopt a narrative style.

Be careful not to use too many complex words to convey a point, since it only indicates a lack of clarity from your side. The word limit has to be strictly adhered to. While a good Statement of Purpose needs to cover all the above points, each point needs to flow from one to the other naturally. I would reiterate the fact that the SOP needs to reflect that you have a story behind your decision to pursue an MBA for it to be truly effective, hence the narration should be consistent with that idea throughout. For instance, if you are aspiring to make a career in Finance, it would be a good idea to hint at where the passion started from, how you nurtured it and what would help you succeed further. Don't be cliched. Don't be loquacious. Don't be condescending. Don't be repetitive.

Some General Dos And Don'ts

While it's not unusual to start with a quote, don't go overboard with it. Statement of Purpose should reflect you and not someone else entirely.
Don't sound pretentious in your SOP. The point is to make an impression, not a bad one. Don't use unusual words just to sound fancy. The SOP needs to be simple and to the point.
Don't be polarising in your opinion. Any strong negative statements should be avoided.
Consider making a structure for your SOP before you begin!
Don't forget the word limit and get someone to review it once you are done. Also, remember that the first time you write it, it is just a draft - write, edit, re-write till it's worthy of sending it across.

You can also share your SOPs here on our Community Section and experts and b-schools students can help you review it.

In the event that you find it difficult to begin the SOP, you could jot down few top of the mind answers to the above five points and then go from there to build the rest of the SOP. Before submitting, it might be a good idea to have someone review the SOP, to understanding a fresh point of view, test if the narrative works as you intended it and to avoid very basic spelling mistakes that you tend to overlook while reading and re-reading the same passage.

This article has been edited on 15th November 2019 at 10:10 pm

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Yash Bhatia

I do not see the requirements for an SOP in the application process for SPJIMR. Can you please guide me to the link which says so?

15 Nov 2019, 06.28 PM

+Read Replies (1)

Debayan Purkayastha

Hi Yash, Apologies for the confusion. At this stage, there is no SoP requirement from SPJIMR. The intent was to create a comprehensive guide to help you with SoPs for all B-Schools. FMS asks you to write the SoP when you apply and other B-Schools ask you write only after you receive an interview shortlist. We have made changes to the article. All the very best for CAT!

16 Nov 2019, 11.30 AM |

Career Launcher

There is no SOP requirement for SP Jain and MDI. Kindly refrain from spreading unnecessary confusion among students and correct your article. I got to know about this article from a student of mine as I got many calls today from students saying they did not send SOP to SP Jain at the time of submitting the form. This misinformation was propagated from your article.

15 Nov 2019, 09.05 PM

Hi Sir/ Ma'am, Apologies for the confusion. We have made the necessary changes in the article.

16 Nov 2019, 11.31 AM |

Riddhi Kalra

Likes to appreciate the brilliance in mediocrity and the beauty in humility. A banker by the week and writer by the weekend. Alumnus of IIM Trichy (Class of 2019)

Thank you for being this to my notice. My apologies for the unnecessary confusion caused due to this. I have sent in a request for immediate corrective action.

15 Nov 2019, 10.05 PM

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Statement of Purpose (SOP) - Importance, Writing Tips

Statement of Purpose (SOP) - Tips, Format, and Sample

The most important aspect of your application.

The most important aspect of your application, a Statement of Purpose (SOP) is an important requirement to fulfil when applying to study abroad. International universities require you to submit your application with a statement that articulates your career path and goals, known as the Statement Of Purpose. This helps them find the right candidate for the courses offered.

Talk to our education experts

What is a Statement of Purpose (SOP)?

A statement of purpose (SOP) is a letter that explains your intent to study abroad . Once submitted, it is reviewed by the admission panel and usually includes content related to your career path, interest, professional contributions, goals, and the reason that encouraged you to pursue a particular program. In simpler words, the SOP is your first introduction to the university as an applicant and it communicates your personality, intent, and goals to the selection committee of a university. It is usually written in the form of an essay but there are exceptions too, as some universities keep it question-based. It also becomes a deciding factor for admission into your preferred institution. Do remember, that an SOP is different from a personal statement.

Importance of an Statement Of Purpose

An SOP allows you to highlight your overall personality to the university. If you have a weak profile, a good essay compensates for it by highlighting your ambitions and future goals. The university assesses you on your present and plans rather than dwelling on your performance in the past. A well-written SOP also reflects how well you can express your thoughts using your writing skills.

How to write an Statement Of Purpose (SOP)?

Here are the three major steps you need to keep in mind when writing your SOP

Help me write my Statement of Purpose

What is a good Statement Of Purpose structure?

Your content should be structured, well written, and develop a story. Here’s a perfect format for writing the Statement of Purpose.

Introduction: Start with describing your childhood, what most interested you when you were a little kid and how it shaped you as a person.

Part1: Subtly talk about your undergrad achievements, also mention your current subjects that pushed you towards the course

Part2: Explain your projects, internships, training, and the learnings from them.

Part3: Let them know what you like about their university e.g., Research, Faculty, labs, campus, courses etc.

Part4: Tell them about your long-term and short-term goals, like where you see yourself in 5 years.

Conclusion: In the end, add how you will be a valuable asset to the university and your home country.

Create an outline for your SOP and work accordingly. Sharing an anecdote that developed your interest in your subject is a good way to build your introduction. Create pointers and categories, list down your relevant achievements and expertise, and most importantly, your reason for choosing the course and the university.

Work on your draft

Focus on sharing your learnings and knowledge during your education and industry experience. Limit the use of technical terms and use an active voice when writing your SOP. If there is a gap year or an academic issue, optimistically address them. Make sure your SOP has a clear introduction and conclusion. Remember, you should always write your SOP in reverse chronological order.

Must review before you send

It’s important to review what you’ve written. Re-analysing will help correct the flow, vocabulary, sentence construction errors, long sentences, and other grammar issues. Get a second opinion, maybe from your professor, senior, or an IDP counsellor. Make sure you proofread properly and double-check before submission.

What is the word limit for an Statement Of Purpose?

While writing an impactful SOP try not to go overboard, you must keep in mind that the person responsible for evaluating your essay would be responsible for analysing the SOPs of thousands of other students who have applied to the same course and university as you. It is best to stick to the word limit. The word limit of an SOP is ideally between 800-1,500 words unless communicated otherwise by the university. You should choose your words wisely to be precise and write an apt essay that is easy to understand and does not repeat or exceed the word count.

How do academic institutions assess an Statement Of Purpose?

Universities and institutions anticipate your SOP to be unique to your own experiences, they will evaluate the information provided in your SOP by corresponding it to your academic details. Writing an SOP true to your own experiences would make a lasting impression on the admissions committee. If an SOP appears to be plagiarised or copied, it might get lost among other applications. Therefore, be authentic and creative while writing it.

What to include in the Statement Of Purpose?

There are no defined rules on what or what not to include in your SOP. The format may vary with the course you have opted for, your study level, the university for which you are drafting an essay or, the country you want to study in. Remember your essay needs to be original but at the same time, it should answer the basic questions that the admissions committee expects from you.

Checklist of elements essential to writing a powerful Statement Of Purpose

Personal background

Academic Achievements

Financial background

Professional experiences

Immediate and long-term goals

Reasons for choosing a particular institution

Why should you be selected for the applied course/university?

Why are you interested in a chosen study field?

Extra-curricular activities

Projects you’ve worked on

Papers submitted, if any

Awards and Achievements

Interest and hobbies

Mistakes to avoid while writing an Statement Of Purpose

Now that you’ve learned how to write an exceptional SOP, you should also learn about the common mistakes students make while writing yours:

Not writing a focused Statement Of Purpose Instead of detailing your background or history, write a precise SOP that gives a clear idea about your career goal.

Not researching enough Try writing an SOP beforehand as it gives you sufficient time to research. Rather than writing randomly, explain how you will benefit from studying on campus and with faculty and industry exposure from the course you have applied to.

Lying in your SOP or copying it This may lead to rejection or even permanent blacklisting, so ensure that you draft your SOP honestly and include experiences of your own instead of copying from someone else.

Using of jargon or technical terms Writing SOP in a technical language is not suggested as it is possible that the person from the admissions committee reviewing it might not be familiar with the jargon. It is recommended to keep the language of your SOP simple and make limited use of technical terms just to explain your goals.

Also Read- The Do's and Don't of writing a Statement Of Purpose

If you still have any doubts or need help writing your Statement Of Purpose , you can get in touch with our international education experts who will guide you in writing a powerful SOP to help secure admission to the institution of your choice. Visit us for a free counselling session or walk into your nearest IDP office to discuss it in detail.

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Statement of Purpose for Australian Student Visa

Perfect your student visa application with our tips for writing an effective Statement of Purpose for Australian visa.

Statement of Purpose for MBA

Applying to an MBA program? Our tips and guidelines will help you write the most impressive Statement of Purpose for MBA specializations.

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How to Write a Statement of Purpose (SOP) for MBA Courses?

Looking to study abroad as an international student? You will require a Statement of Purpose, commonly referred to as simply the SOP, to secure admission. Let’s find out what is an SOP to study overseas , the kind of SOP that will be expected from you for MBA admission, and other details.

What is a Statement of Purpose?

Put simply, an SOP conveys to the educational institution as to why they should grant you admission over the other applicants. A personal statement from you directly to the admissions department, it is the SOP where you can showcase yourself as the ideal candidate , bringing out your personality and uniqueness.

What is Statement of Purpose for MBA?

Applying for an MBA implies that you have an academic background along with professional experience. As such, international business schools for MBA expect a more sophisticated SOP . The level of maturity expected from an SOP for MBA will naturally be higher.

What is the importance of Statement of Purpose for MBA?

An SOP for MBA is an attempt at convincing the business school that you are indeed forward-looking and possess the required business acumen to be a valued student at their business school.

Both your aptitude as well as lookout for the future will be assessed by the admissions committee. Your MBA SOP should highlight your strengths and offer a valid explanation for your weaknesses, if any. The SOP that you send to a business school should be multifaceted , containing a complete view of you as a prospective student.

How to write an MBA Statement of Purpose?

Sample statement of purpose (sop) for mba.

What are some general tips for Indian students for MBA SOPs?

First and foremost, you should be genuine as well as unique . You should be able to project a positive and wholesome personality without any exaggerations or bragging on your part.

General tips for writing SOPs for MBA include -

Make an impact with your opening paragraph
Use simple and easy to understand language
Be careful with your grammar, punctuation, and spelling
Maintain the same tone throughout
Keep to the specific guidelines (for word count etc.) issued by the university/college applying to
Paragraphs to be well-connected to each other
Be to-the-point
Avoid arrogance or exaggeration
Write a good conclusion

Always have your SOP for MBA reviewed by others to gain perspective. If required, get your SOP for MBA prepared by professional SOP writers that have the required expertise and experience.

The more effective your SOP for MBA is, the better the impression that you make on the admissions committee, standing out from the other applicants. There is, as such, no right or wrong way to go about writing your SOP for MBA. Be yourself and get your point across in a simple language. The bottom line here is that you must be able to convince the admissions committee that you will be an asset to the institution, if selected by them.

So, how exactly should you write your SOP for MBA for the specific courses? Let’s find out and get some pointers.

How to write SOP for MBA for popular specializations?

An SOP, though a simple statement of purpose, must be written keeping in mind the target audience. This will be the admissions committee of the university or college that you are applying to. An SOP for MBA will be more in-depth as compared to a general SOP. An MBA aspirant is generally expected to have a higher level of professionalism as well as maturity.

What’s the difference: SOP for MBA versus SOP for MS?

While it might be referred to by the same name, an SOP for MBA has certain differences when compared to an SOP for Master of Science (MS).

Difference between SOP for MBA and SOP for MS

Generally more mature than an MS applicant, an individual writing an MBA SOP will have an academic standing and professional maturity as a seasoned executive.

What not to miss out in my SOP for MBA?

An SOP for MBA is a document where you put forward your candidature for being considered as a prospective student with much potential. Every SOP tells a story . The more convincing and engaging story that you can tell, the better it will be for your prospects.

When writing an SOP for MBA, you must not miss out on any of the details that can lead to a rejection. For your MBA SOP, you must -

Match your education with the intended course,
Prove you financial ability,
Include English language test results such as IELTS (with overall score and in each ability), and
Give all supporting documents as proof of the claims made by you in the SOP.

Ensuring that you don’t come across as arrogant or bragging, you must state the facts in your favour, without going overboard in the process. Be as genuine as possible. Uniqueness makes you stand out from the rest.

What is the average length for MBA SOP?

If not specifically mentioned by the university or college that you will be applying to, you can aim at a word length of around 1,000 words .

What should be written in my SOP for MBA?

An MBA SOP should find a balance between laying down your technical expertise alongside your managerial skills. You SOP must clearly convey -

Who you are
Where you come from
How qualified you are
Your future plans
How do you intend paying for the course (student loan, parents to source etc.)

Pitching yourself in the correct way can make you stand out. Never underestimate the role of the SOP for study abroad .

What are the important components of SOP for MBA?

Your MBA SOP will contain -

Introduction
Your academic qualification
Professional working experience
Why do you want to pursue an MBA degree?
Why do you wish to study in that particular university/college?
What made you opt for that country to study abroad?
What are your future plans?
English language test results
Financial support (give your source of funds, and how much you have paid as first-year tuition fee etc.)
Conclusion

What to avoid in your MBA Statement of Purpose?

As a general rule, you must avoid -

Making a statement that can’t be backed with documentary proof,
Sounding arrogant,
Using overused and popular SOP templates,
Spelling mistakes,
Grammatical errors, and
Big words that make you look fake.

A personalized and one-of-a-kind SOP for MBA will give you an edge over the other applicants.

1. What is the goal of a Statement of Purpose?

The goal of an SOP is to convince the intended reader that you have a well-thought out plan and are serious about the program, and are not applying randomly.

2. Do I need to rewrite my statement of purpose for each school?

Ideally, your SOP should be written keeping your intended university/college in mind. However, if you are applying to different educational institutions, you can begin with the same SOP, adding a few sentences with the specific admissions committee in perspective. Around 70% of your SOP can remain the same, the remaining 30% can be altered in a more targeted manner.

3. How do I avoid rehashing my resume?

It is always recommended to write a new resume. Rehashing, or using old material or ideas without any significant changes, may not get you the desired impact.

4. What is included in an SOP for study abroad?

Generally, an SOP includes details like -

Who you are,
What has influenced your career path up to that point,
Your professional interests, and
Your plans going ahead.

5. What makes a great SOP?

While an SOP focuses primarily on facts, it need not be bland or read like a research paper. You can tell your own story in your own words in a way that makes an interesting read. The better the story that you can tell, the brighter the chances of your securing an admission.

For an SOP that stands out from the rest, you must ensure that your SOP fulfills the three basic conditions -

Carries a personal touch that establishes a connection,
Clearly states your purpose and aspirations, and
Is written in simple, jargon-free, and easy to understand English.

Being able to convince the admissions team that you do have the spark in you , making you a valuable addition, can indeed take you places as an international student.

6. What do universities search for in an SOP for study abroad?

Admissions committees usually seek an answer to the question - what is the SOP telling us about the person? Your academic records and English proficiency scores in a standardized test - such as IELTS, TOEFL etc. - are among the main deciding factors for admission. Nevertheless, your SOP can sway things in your favour.

Revealing your personality while highlighting your strengths, a well-written SOP can indeed make a mark. Not taking your SOP seriously can cost you your admission.

Generally, the traits that universities look for in an SOP for study abroad are -

The ability to think independently,
Creativity,
Pride in your work,
Being a team player, and
An enthusiasm for learning.

As universities and colleges seek to form a well-balanced class, they usually select a mix of individuals that might include several personality types.

7. Do I write my SOP as per the university?

Depends. While you can study the brochure and other materials to get a feel of the school, tweaking your SOP as per your intended university should be done with caution. An admissions committee goes through many applications in any given year. Fake sounding applicants get weeded out quite easily. Be honest. Be genuine. Show promise of being a valuable addition.

8. What is assessed in an SOP?

Uniqueness is the main attribute that is sought by the admissions committee. Your SOP should ideally be crisp and to-the-point.

Generally, there are few things that will be looked for in your SOP for study abroad.

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The Statement of Purpose for MBA – A Guide

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The Statement of Purpose: why do you want to study in a particular B-school? This is exactly what the Graduate Admissions School is asking you!

This is your chance of showing the selection committee who you are and why you have applied to the particular university. What do we aim to address in this section: How do we write a Statement of Purpose that is appropriate and showcases yourself to the world?

The first question that you need to ask is:

Where does the SoP fit into the application?

An MBA application consists of a number of elements. A brief overview of the components are as follows:

Entrance Examination Scores (GMAT, TOEFL/IELTS)
Letters of Recommendation
General information

These pieces of your application are more formal and are a part of the whole set. The Statement of Purpose is the only way your university can understand WHY you want to study there, and what makes you a good fit. Apart from this, the SoP also addresses your long term vision and your ultimate goal.

Format of the SoP

What an SoP must require is never a hard and fast rule- universities just want you to be honest and have a more free-flowing thought process. There should be a seamless thread and a connection between the paragraphs that are written.

Let us understand what your SoP must have:

Your educational and experiential background
Your vision and goals
An MBA, and how it fits into your plan
The reason the university can help you achieve your goals, and how you can contribute

The ‘word-count’ of the Statement of Purpose is never mentioned by the university, but remember the GMAT rule: brevity and conciseness. Verbosity is never appreciated.

A carefully structured SoP consists of a set of paragraphs that are linked to each other in an understandable and presentable sequence.

Plagiarism is looked at very strictly by universities abroad, to the extent where your application might not even make the cut if you copy-paste someone else’s SoP. While you can use samples of SoPs that you find online to get an idea of how the whole argument must be structured, blindly copy-pasting can have negative consequences. After all, the university wants to know YOUR STORY!

If you are being counselled by an admissions team, make sure that you are not influenced only by their thought process to the extent where it no longer is your SoP.

If you keep these points in mind, and ensure that you review what is written; your SoP should stand out!

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How to Write a Statement of Purpose for an MBA

Your personal statement is an opportunity to formally introduce yourself to an MBA admissions committee. Here's how to make your personality shine.

[Featured image] A student sits at a table in his living room working on his MBA statement of purpose on a tabled and pen and paper.

Your Master of Business Administration (MBA) application should tell the story of who you are as a student and professional teammate. Some materials, such as your GPA and GMAT or GRE score , are intended as data points that demonstrate gained knowledge. Other, more creative components can illuminate your personality and illustrate how you move within the business world.

The MBA statement of purpose (SOP), also called a personal statement, serves the latter purpose. Often guided by broad prompts as determined by each school you’re applying to, these open-ended essays are your opportunity to directly tell the admissions committee why you want to join their program, how you’ll contribute to your cohort, and what you hope to gain from the experience of getting your MBA.

In this article, we’ll offer tips on writing an effective MBA statement of purpose, and provide an example that may help enhance your business school application.

How to write an MBA statement of purpose

With your SOP, you are in complete control of your narrative. This is your chance to tell the aspects of your story that you think the admissions committee needs to know in order to make their most informed decision about your potential admissions offer.

This opportunity comes with a strong element of creative freedom. The only parameters you’re tied to are the ones set by the admissions committee in their essay prompts. Beyond the questions themselves, these often include total word or character count, and sometimes they include formatting preferences, such as double spacing.

How to plan your SOP

SOP prompts tend to be somewhat vague. You can react to questions like, “What matters most to you?” (from Stanford Graduate School of Business) and, “Tell us your story,” (from University of Illinois Gies College of Business) in a lot of different ways. Begin with what you know: the word count limit and the prompt.

Use the word limit to guide the way you tell your story. Some schools will separate prompts into a series of shorter responses, while others will expect one longer narrative. A maximum of 350 words will be a quicker version, whereas a maximum of 1,000 words will offer you space for more in-depth telling.

Next, turn to the prompt itself. Think about what’s at the heart of the question, and let that sink in. Pay attention to your initial reactions: your immediate answer, jogged memories, or any notable emotions that surface.

Continue brainstorming around those initial reactions by asking yourself questions like:

Why did these reactions surface?

What values are behind them?

When have I incorporated those values into my career?

How does my goal of attending business school align with and enhance my expression of those values?

Specifically, how does this MBA program offer the further opportunity to pursue those values?

When you’re ready, begin writing your story at whatever point feels natural to you given the parameters. As long as your story follows a sensible flow and reaches your goal destination, there’s no right or wrong place to start. Remember: this is your narrative.

Tips for writing a successful MBA statement of purpose

As you write your SOP, here are a few things to keep in mind that can help your writing stand out:

Clearly state your goals: Openly communicate your short-term and long-term goals in earning your MBA. Clear statements around this crucial element of your SOP can help you avoid any potential confusion.

Express your interest: Be forthcoming about your interest in this particular MBA program. Show that you’ve researched their offerings and call out the aspects you are most excited about, and how those aspects align with your goals.

Demonstrate mutual fit: The institution plays a huge role in shaping the MBA experience, however it wouldn’t be complete without a student body. Show what you, and you alone, will bring to your MBA community.

Detail your action plan: How will you make your goals a reality? Use details from your past triumphs to show how you can be successful in the future.

Determining your strengths

Everyone has strengths. If you need help figuring out what yours are, the following questions may help:

*What’s something you’ve done that you are proud of, and how did you do it? This question can help you hone in on the skills you already possess and how you implement them in ways that align with your values.

*What do people frequently ask you for? Whether it’s logical, emotional, or physical, this question may reveal the types of problems you’re often prepared to solve.

*How do your friends, family, and colleagues describe you? Sometimes the quickest way to identify your positive attributes is to ask the people you trust. They may reveal an aspect of your personality that you wouldn’t have thought to highlight.

What are admissions officers looking for in an SOP?

Admissions officers use the SOP as a chance to learn about each prospective student from their own perspective. Some ways you can help them get to know you include:

Providing concrete examples: Rather than tell the admissions officer who you are, show them. If you are a problem solver, explain a difficult problem you solved; if you are compassionate, demonstrate a time your compassion led to a success.

Being honest: It can feel a little uncomfortable to tap into your vulnerability as you write, however your openness can have a huge impact on the reader. Honesty can help build connection and demonstrate self-confidence, and it can give you an opportunity to show how you’ve turned a perceived negative into an actionable positive.

Highlighting impact: Take your credentials one step further by expressing their potential impact. Staying impact focused can be particularly useful for applicants with less traditional backgrounds. How is your unique background actually an asset?

Being concise: Say what you need to say—and nothing more. Admissions officers don’t always have time to savor prose. Often, they’ll appreciate a concise essay with proper grammar and an easy flow.

Writing tip: Read out loud

As you begin the editing process, reading your writing out loud may help you determine whether you are writing in a natural tone of voice and if the essay really sounds like you . It can also help you notice areas that might need additional clarification and catch typos that you may have missed during skimming. For added assurance, follow up your independent editing process by asking a trusted friend or advisor to review your SOP.

MBA statement of purpose example analysis

Reading examples of successful MBA SOPs can help you understand how to implement the above tips. However, keep in mind that you are telling your story, and so your final essay should look different from the samples you read.

US News & World Report published two examples of successful personal statements from accepted applicants to Temple University Fox School of Business and Yale School of Management. Read the full essays here .

What the Fox applicant does well: This applicant shares their unique path toward an MBA by recognizing that it’s atypical. Ultimately, they turn the narrative around by detailing how their background will be an asset to their career goals, and how Fox’s MBA program can help them succeed. This applicant remained open and honest about who they are, where they came from, and where they’re going.

What the Yale applicant does well: This applicant shows their proven ability to work toward their goals. They corroborate their vision of success with specific facts and details, and incorporate key business skills in their narrative, such as fundraising, long-term planning, and strategic thinking. This applicant expresses their values through their actions, while still maintaining an informative and authoritative tone.

Getting your MBA degree

Before you can start your MBA application process, you’ll need to narrow down the programs that meet your needs. Work on your degree from anywhere with an internet connection with the iMBA from University of Illinois Gies College of Business . If you’re looking for flexible learning at a breakthrough price, this could be one option for you.

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This content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

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MBA Statement of Purpose

What is a statement of purpose.

The Statement of Purpose (SoP) is a type of essay question that helps put the other pieces of your MBA application into context. It shows why you want to enroll in an MBA program and what role it will play in your business career.

The SoP for an MBA program is typically more in-depth than SoPs for other master’s degrees. That’s because MBA applicants are generally a few years older and have several years of work experience already. There’s more history for them to draw from, so admissions departments expect a more thorough, insightful mission statement.

Also, the SoP is a forward-thinking question. The admissions committee can look at your resume and GMAT scores to get a good sense of your ability and life story. So what does your SoP add to that picture? The key is to put it altogether and show what you want to do with your degree. How does it fit into your overall career plan and why are you pursuing it at this stage in your life?

You’ll have a chance to share some of these ideas in your personal interview, but the first stage would be to communicate that in your SoP. These essays are likely the most important piece of your admissions packet. After all, your school may receive thousands of applicants each year, so you need to find a way to be unique, authentic, and memorable.

Examples of MBA Statement of Purpose Questions

The precise wording of the statement of purpose question varies from school to school. Most schools do not ask for an SoP directly, but may have one or more essay questions that draw out the same basic ideas. Here’s how several business schools in the U.S. and India ask for a statement of purpose in their application:

Harvard Business School MBA SoP essay (2018)

As we review your application, what more would you like us to know as we consider your candidacy for the Harvard Business School MBA program ?

Stanford Graduate School of Business MBA SoP essay (2018)

Why Stanford? Enlighten us on how earning your MBA at Stanford will enable you to realize your ambitions. Explain your decision to pursue graduate education in management. Explain the distinctive opportunities you will pursue at Stanford.

Indian School of Business (ISB) MBA SoP essays (2018)

Essay 1: At ISB we value diversity as it enhances both the in-class and out of class learning experience. Tell us how would you contribute to the same?

Essay 2: Enrolling in a Business School is an important career decision. Critically look at your career to date, the choices you have made, the key influences behind those choices, your goals for the future and how do you think ISB’s PGP can help you in achieving your goals?

As you can see from these examples, the Statement of Purpose question may be asked in several different ways, and may take the form of one or more questions. Now, you’ll need to find a way to take the prompt and turn it into a compelling essay.

What to Include when Writing an MBA Statement of Purpose

Let’s start-off by considering what to include in your essay. While there’s no set formula to adhere to, and you want your essay to feel authentic and unique, there are several points that the admissions committee will be looking for you to address:

Showcase your interest

It’s important to convey why you want to enrol in this program. An MBA isn’t for everyone, and most programs want to avoid admitting students who aren’t likely to succeed. It’s often less of a question of whether or not you can do it, but one of whether or not you’ll thrive in an MBA program.

I’m also guessing you’re not applying to business school on a whim. No doubt you’ve put more thought into it than just “this will be good for my career goals.” Show the committee why you want this.

Not only that, but why now ?

Why is it better to do an MBA this year rather than waiting until you have a few more years of work experience? Are you switching career paths? Are you really committed to two years of business school, or are you just feeling lost and looking for direction? Don’t leave the committee guessing about your motives. Show how this fits your life path at this particular point in time.

Specify your goals

MBA programs want to admit candidates who have thought seriously about where they’ll end up after they complete the course.

Remember: the success of alumni adds to the prestige (not to mention the rankings, admission rates, and tuition prices in subsequent years) of the school.

You know your star is rising; you just need to tell them where it’s going.

More importantly, you’ll want to answer how an MBA will help you achieve those goals. Are you looking to leverage what you learn in an MBA program to springboard into a leadership position at your current job? Or, maybe you’re looking to launch your own company and want to learn about entrepreneurship.

Include both your short- and long-term goals. Show the admissions team what you plan to do immediately after you graduate, as well as where you see yourself decades from now.

When discussing goals, it’s important to balance ambition and realism: starting your own company or growing up the ranks of a large company are great goals, but becoming the CEO of Apple may be a tad far-fetched.

Show your research

Each MBA program is different and will impact your career path in different ways. Even if you’re applying to more than one school, don’t just copy and paste your SoP for every application.

Write an SoP essay that’s unique to each program. More importantly, write a statement of purpose that demonstrates you understand what the school is all about.

What is it about the school that draws you to it? Show that you’ve done the research and know how this specific program is likely to be a good fit.

If you’ve visited the school or spoken with current students or alumni, include that too. Show that you’re already putting in an effort to get involved in the community. Are there any professors or classes that you’re particularly excited about? The more specific details you include about this particular MBA program, the more it will look like you’ve done your homework.

Communicate fit

No one is guaranteed admission to an MBA program, even if you achieved a perfect score on the GMAT. The admissions team wants to know what you specifically can bring to the table. How do you align with the school’s values and culture?

An MBA program that prioritizes social impact, such as the Haas School of Business at U.C. Berkeley might be best for people who want to create socially responsible businesses or work at NGOs, for example.

Your statement of purpose should demonstrate that your personality and career goals are in line with what the school has to offer.

If a school turns you down because your goals aren’t in line with their program, that’s a good thing! Liz Hargrove, an admissions officer at Duke Fuqua , indicated that the school will decline prospective applicants if they failed to communicate “the academic ability as well as overall fit with our culture and community”

Show your plan of action and your track record

Be specific about your game plan. Don’t just assume that you’ll have your career path handed to you. Show the admissions team the steps you’ll take to reach your goals. How will you take an active role in your education and adapt to changes along the way?

Not only that, but think about what will you bring to the school and other students. How will you contribute to the experience of the students in the school? Will you participate in clubs at school, and do you have a track record of doing so during your undergraduate degree?

Will you work as a team and contribute to their education and career goals as well? What mark will you leave on the school when you graduate? Will you be an alumni they can be proud of?

Bruce DelMonico, assistant dean of admissions at Yale, looks for “students whom [he] identifies as unselfish leaders – those who simultaneously strive to improve the circumstances of others and help themselves rather than those who exploit others for personal gain.”

It may seem too early to be thinking about some of these questions. But if you don’t have a clear plan, the admissions team may think that you aren’t ready for an MBA program yet.

Mistakes to Avoid when Writing an MBA Statement of Purpose

Since the SoP is an open-ended question, you have some freedom in how to structure your essay and what to include. There generally isn’t a word limit (or a minimum, for that matter), so you’ll have to use your best judgement in deciding what to cut out and when to wrap it up.

That said, there are some simple mistakes you can avoid by following these guidelines:

Don’t tell, show instead

This is your chance to tell your story. Use real examples and go into some detail. One example in great detail is more effective than many examples with very little substance. Show the admissions team how you’ve applied your skills to your career and how you’ll continue to do so in their MBA program.

Lots of students don’t do this: they just list facts, such as “I studied at university X and then I worked at company Y for Z years.” Don’t make this mistake. Be an active narrator of your own life, and get the admissions committee invested in your story.

Show with examples, rather than telling with facts.

Quick side note: if you’ve been rejected from MBA programs, sign up for a free DING analysis here.

Don’t make it a chronology

Don’t repeat everything that’s on your resume. The admission team has already looked at it, and you don’t need to spend time going over it again.

Along the same lines, don’t treat your SoP as a chronology of events. Your life didn’t just happen to you. You had feelings about things — successes and disappointments. Don’t be afraid to show your personality here. What are you passionate about? What makes you proud or angry?

If you became frustrated with how poorly an NGO was run, and you’re pursuing an MBA so you can learn how to improve that industry, tell that story.

Show how one event led to another. Or tell the story out of order if it makes more sense that way. This is your chance to highlight the key events in your life, and leave out what’s irrelevant.

Don’t exaggerate

Whatever you do, don’t lie or plagiarize in your SoP. The admissions committee will see through it. After all, your work and educational history are verifiable, and any lines that you’ve lifted from someone else’s essay will be obvious.

If you suffered a setback or adversity in your personal life, share it, but don’t embellish it. The goal isn’t to trick or guilt the admissions team into accepting your application. Let your story speak for itself, and if it pulls at their heartstrings, it should do so naturally.

And please, don’t forget to mention what you learnt from the setback and how you wear it as a badge of honor.

Don’t make it all about you

Business schools want team players, and a SoP that is all about you is likely to come across as self-centered or egotistical. Be sure to credit the supporting players in your life: the teachers who inspired you or your co-workers at your company.

Many applicants make the mistake of confusing leadership with authority. Instead of telling a story about a time they worked together, they tell a story of a time they got their way. Be proud of your accomplishments, but be humble too . If you have a history of good teamwork and of honoring others’ contributions, you’ll likely bring that attitude to school with you.

Don’t ramble, be concise

Finally, keep it to the point. Most schools will dictate a word limit. Make sure to stick to it. Even if there isn’t a specific word limit, a general rule is to keep the essay between 500-1000 words. That’s enough to cover the important points and give the team a good sense of your personality. Anything more and you’ll risk rambling.

Don’t be vague, either. A short essay that includes specific details is more persuasive than one that’s all about your hopes and dreams without any concrete examples.

Sample SoP Essays Analyzed

Now that you know what makes a good SoP essay and what mistakes to avoid, let’s take a closer look at a few examples – both good and average – to see what an SoP looks like. (These are just excerpts, so be sure to click the links if you want to read the entire essay.) Also note that, in order to fully examine the strengths and weaknesses of the essay, it’s important to look at the application (and all the essays) in its entirety. The below analysis should serve as a simplistic analysis of what has worked and what can be improved.

“In May 2010, I graduated from ___ with a degree in English and Creative Writing. I had always wanted to be a writer. I was good at it. I liked it. I thought that was all I needed to know to choose a career path. In September 2010, I began working for ___ Publishing Company, thus starting a four year arc managing the production of the monthly magazine…. [essay truncated] I landed my first sale and discovered a hidden talent…. I no longer write for my job — and I love it. Now, when I think of what I want to be in 15 years, it is not a writer. It is the president of media conglomerate Conde Nast.” (Read full essay here: source )

What the author did well : This essay touches on several of the key points we looked at earlier. It explains a career shift (from creative writing to business) by showing how the applicant got from Point A to Point B. They demonstrate adaptability and ambition, and explain why they want to further their skills on this particular career path – because they love it.

What the author of this essay also does well is goes into specifics of how they plan to achieve the goal.

And, they show that they’ve given some thought to where they see themselves in the future by including an ambitious, but specific, long-term goal. Saying you want to be CEO of a particular company is more memorable than saying you just want to be a CEO at any company.

“My career path has led me from the rapidly developing markets of my native country in Asia to the rolling hills of England and back again. Now, I feel that the next logical destination on my path is your MBA program. The curriculum of your MBA program is similar to that which I studied previously, yet it is much more challenging and will allow me to develop my abilities further. I already have a strong background in various aspects of business, from marketing and management to accounting and sales. Because of this, I feel I am uniquely qualified to attend your MBA program. After completion of my studies, I plan to return to Makebest Textile Company and apply what I learn in your program to the benefit of the company.” (Read full essay here: source )

What the author did well : This applicant does a good job of showing how the MBA program fits into their career path. They demonstrate a solid foundation in business management, and they have work experience in an international setting. They’re familiar with the curriculum and know exactly how it will expand on their previous academic experience.

What could have been better : The candidate says they’re “uniquely qualified” but doesn’t really show us what sets them apart from other applicants. After all, many candidates will have studied abroad and have a background in sales or management. What makes them different? Also, saying an MBA is the “next logical step” could make it sound like you can’t think of any other options. Explain why you chose this over, say, a promotion, or a new job elsewhere.

“Ever since I was young, I have been constantly exposed to the business world. Both my parents are in the business industry and as a result, despite my young age, I have found myself having the call for business…. After college, I worked with Kicks, a shoe company, in their marketing department. I failed my colleagues at time, being the novice that I am. Yet, I managed to transform those failures into lessons and inspirations and eventually got my success. I was part of the team that marketed the best-selling athletic shoe of Kicks.” (Read full essay here: source)

What the author did well : This applicant starts off by putting his story into context and showing how his path to business school started in his childhood. Since he references his “young age,” he may be younger than typical MBA applicants, so he makes sure to address this in his essay.

What could have been better: The story from the applicant’s workplace is pretty vague. He “managed to transform those failures into lessons and inspirations” but doesn’t really show how. He doesn’t say what his role was on the team that had success. Was he a leader or a bystander? This isn’t a bad essay, but it could include more detail to flesh out its points.

“As someone who has traveled around the world, I am no stranger to respecting and understanding new aspects of culture. I was born to a military family, and have lived at least four years in almost every continent except Antarctica. I studied abroad in India where I learned about the customs there regarding management seniority…. Such cultural differences play a great part in determining management strategies when expanding globally, and it is a very tricky concept to grasp. An MBA in International Management will give me the knowledge of general management techniques that I need to know for successful management, but will also teach me how to tailor these strategies for different markets.” (Read full essay here: source)

What the author did well : Since this candidate is applying for an International Management MBA, he makes sure to emphasize his experience living in a variety of places. His time traveling and studying abroad suggests he will work well together with a diverse class of students. He uses a specific example – management seniority – to show that he has put some thought into how local customs impact business in specific markets, and he has a clear rationale for this course of study.

What could have been better : This candidate has not customized the essay for the school they are applying to. What’s also missing is the fit with the school, and exactly why the candidate thinks that that particular school is the right school to study an International Management MBA.

“My strong desire to give back to my community coupled with my experience in the telecommunication sector has inspired within me the desire to set up a Telecom company specific to the rural sector in the state of Bihar…. With 85 percent population of the state still in villages and dependent on agriculture, I wish to use the technology to bring innovation to the agricultural sector. In order to achieve this long-term aspiration, I now need to further enhance my understanding of the functional aspects of management. I envision myself joining a Telecom major like Telefonica in order to process the ways and project execution methods before setting up my own Telecom Consultancy in the State of Bihar.” (Read full story here: source )

What the author did well: This candidate gets right to the point. He opens his essay with a focus on his mission, and uses population data to support his reason for pursuing it. He has a very specific long-term goal and a clearly defined path for getting there. Later in the essay, this candidate explains how his education and job history sets him up for success in this field.

One last thing before you go…

If you’ve been rejected by an MBA program, we specialize in helping people reapply. The first thing we do is a DING analysis to help you figure out what you can do better next time. If that’s you, get in touch with me here.

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Avail Unique Statement of Purpose

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SOP for MBA (Statement of Purpose): Writing tips, Samples

Princi Rai ,

Oct 10, 2023

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Statement of Purpose or SOP for MBA is an important essay for students applying for Master's in Business Administration programs. SOP for MBA helps students to work on their management skills and explore job opportunities.

SOP for MBA (Statement of Purpose): Writing tips, Samples

SOP for MBA i.e. Statement of Purpose is an essay that students willing to pursue their Masters in Business Administration write to colleges of their choice to enhance their management skills and to explore future job opportunities.

Students can also check some of the guidelines and sample SOPs along with some do’s and don’ts that should be followed while writing an SOP for MBA.

Table of Contents

What is SOP for MBA?

How to write an effective sop for mba, format of writing an sop for mba, samples of sop for mba, sop for popular mba specializations, do's and dont's for writing an sop for mba.

A Statement of Purpose, SOP for MBA is a letter that students send to a certain foreign university where they want to apply for an MBA (Master of Business Administration) program. It is an opportunity to make a good first impression on the admissions panel members and persuade them that they have a higher chance of being admitted to their university than other applicants.

The MBA Statement of Purpose should be more concise because it highlights both the professional work experience and educational background.

The major objective of an SOP for MBA is to demonstrate to the admissions board at the university that:

Why would you like to pursue an MBA?
What makes you think you're prepared for it?
How does the course fit into your plans for the future?
What will you contribute as a student?

The SOP for MBA can be written more effectively if the following pointers are taken into consideration while a candidate is writing their SOP for any of their chosen institutions.

Perform a thorough research about the institution each department-wise based on the factors such as the faculty knowledge, curriculum, passed-out students and more.
Follow a concise format and be professional while writing the SOP fro MBA. It is important for the candidate to follow the same format throughout the length of the SOP.
Be a strict editor with the SOP once its done. It is important for the candidates to mercilessly cut the pointers that sound too cliche or too generic to read.
Be factual with the details disclosed in the SOP therefore, there are no errors or logical discrepancies while reading the statement.
Proofread the SOP for any grammatical or spelling error which might reflect badly as a candidate who is applying for a business school.

The students can check out the format of writing an SOP from MBA from the steps given below. These steps will give clarity while writing a customized SOP based on their requirements and the specializations to be chosen to pursue their MBA.

Step 1: Introduction

Step 2: academic and professional background, step 3: career aspirations, step 4: why choose this institution, step 5: conclusion.

The introduction part of the SOP must be professional and catchy. The introduction of the SOP should be not more than 7 lines split up in 2 paragraphs with 4 lines and 3 lines respectively. The introduction can describe the student's intention of pursing an MBA after their undergraduate or the personal details can be covered in the introduction part.

The academic and professional background could be the second part of the SOP. Since the introduction has the personal information of the candidates covered, the step is to discuss their

Club participations
Leadership-based activities
Extra-curricular activities
Any unique hobbies that will excite the MBA admission panel members.

The career aspirations after MBA can be disclosed to the MBA admission panel through the statement of purpose for MBA. The specializations that the candidates are planning to pursue, the purpose of choosing the particular specialization, and companies that inspire them with their exciting future plans and more.

The statement of purpose takes a very serious turn here. "Why choose our institution?" is one of the major question that needs to addressed by any candidate while writing their SOP for MBA. The students can cover the institutions,

Legacy of top students who are doing extremely well in their respective positions.
Diversed community of students.
Faculties with rich industry-knowledge.
The courses and elective papers that are offered.
The opportunities and placement companies can be listed.

Finally, the conclusion of the SOP for MBA can be a summarization with a concluding note on how the candidate is a great fit for this program and university or business school they are applying for in the academic year.

Refer to some of the sample SOP for MBA mentioned below for the candidates applying to universities for the admission process.

My name is “Name of the Student”, and I'm originally from “Location, India”. I consider myself to be a goal-oriented person with a strong desire to improve anything I do significantly. I think having a solid grasp of business principles and good managerial abilities would be beneficial in assisting me in achieving this life goal. For this reason, I believe that obtaining an MBA from your prestigious university is my first step toward establishing a solid professional foundation for myself.

Looking back, I can see that even as a young child, I had a keen interest in business. Even as a young child, I would enjoy going with my father to his clothing factory at home and learning the fundamentals of the industry from him.

I decided to pursue a business administration degree when I finished school at that point. My undergraduate studies in “Name of the Degree” at “Name of the College” in “Location” laid the foundation for a future career in management and business. I'm now eager to enrol in an MBA program to further my desire to acquire an MBA degree.

I began my professional career as a “Role” at “Name of the Company”. I gained enough practical experience over my three years with the company, adding value to my resume.

During my stay at the company, I also received the "Employee of the Year" award. Later, I took on the position of Marketing Manager at an export-import organization, where I developed an even greater desire for managerial and business abilities.

After completing the MBA program at your university, I'm eager to go back to Mumbai and look for opportunities where I can apply my knowledge and abilities to benefit the larger society.

I also hope that this education will help in improving my personality as a whole.

My name is “Name of the Student”, and I'm from “State/City, India”. I'm a “Role in the Company” with “Name of the Organization” right now. My ambition to play leadership positions in the field in the future is what motivated you to seek an MBA at your prestigious university.

I completed my “Graduation/Bachelor’s Degree” at “Name of the College/University” in “Location”. After finishing my degree, I was allowed to work for three months as an intern at a marketing firm, where I had a great chance to put what I had learned to use. In addition, the internship helped me acquire the necessary management and business administration abilities.

The company was quite happy with both my three-month performance and my desire to learn new technology. I was also given the "Best Performer Award" for the 2019–20 academic year.

The company then made me an offer for a permanent position, which I gladly accepted. This was the start of improving my management skills further. After two years with the organization, I began my career as a management trainee and am now a senior manager there.

I want to move ahead, and I know that a “Bachelor’s degree” might not be enough on its own. So, I am now eager to pursue higher education by enrolling in an MBA program at your esteemed university. My application for an MBA is a reflection of my desire to gain the necessary business management abilities to further my profession.

As a team leader, I also hope to improve my soft skills in interpersonal and organizational communication as well as my capacity for problem-solving. Your university is the best place for me to move forward in my career.

The statement of purpose for MBA can be customized while writing for different MBA specializations based on the need and requirement of the applying candidate. There is a list of SOP pointers for popular MBA specializations given below for the student's reference.

SOP for MBA: Finance
SOP for MBA: Marketing
SOP for MBA: Operations
SOP for MBA: Human Resources

1. SOP for MBA: Finance

The students can use the pointers given below to be considered as a candidate to pursue MBA Finance in any of the top institutions.

Showing the willingness to learn the financial concepts and ability to manage money in a smart angle.
Understanding the financial theories on Accounting, Business Management, Banking, Stock Market and other Financial tools.
Adding relevant professional experience with budget analysis, financial reports, stock values and more.
Exhibiting high problem solving capabilities, strong critical and analytical thinking.

2. SOP for MBA: Marketing

Apart from including their career aspirations, goals and other important aspects of joining the Marketing course, the students can check the pointers given below to include in the SOP for MBA marketing.

Basic knowledge about the marketing concepts such as branding, retail marketing, sales etc.
Inclucating strong communication and sales pitching skills.
Beginner-level experience in sales and marketing or public relations.
Being empathetic towards the changing culture and norms of marketing.

3. SOP for MBA: Operations

The SOP for MBA of operations and supply chain management are given in the pointers below for the students to customize their statements based on their needs.

Demonstrating real-time examples in their previous internships or employments.
Illustrating theories of operations and supply chain management in top companies.
Basic knowledge in operational theories, project management, and innovation management.

4. SOP for MBA: Human Resources

The students can exhibit knowledge on people skills, analytical skills based on people retaining, company culture and more apart from the hire, exit interview concepts.

Elabourating the candidate's ability on observing the company's or any institutions culture and reflect on the same.
Team handling, understanding of people's character, and knowledge on conflict management.
Sharing human capital management stories from previous internships or employments.

Some of the important points that should be kept in mind while writing an SOP for MBA are listed below.

Points to Keep in Mind:

Students must learn about the school and university that they're applying to and become familiar with its MBA faculty.
Focus on writing an engaging beginning and an effective finish.
Students must include all of their prior successes, ongoing work, and future goals.
When writing a SOP, always use active speech and be enthusiastic and positive.

Mistakes to Avoid:

Be original in the content of the application; avoid plagiarism.
It should be concise but also adequately address the important aspects of a student's life. Try to stay within the word limit.
Avoid speaking or writing the same thing twice.
Before applying, proofread it. Avoid typos, spelling, and grammar mistakes.

What is the prescribed length of the SOP for MBA?

Can I include personal information on my SOP for MBA?

What should be avoided while writing an SOP for MBA?

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Statement of Purpose (SOP) for MBA: Easy Ways to Write SOP

Read Time 18 mins
Updated On August 25, 2023
Published In Courses 📖 , General

Did you know a large percentage of student visa applications get rejected over unclear SOPs?

Table of Contents

Statement of Purpose or SOPs are considered the backbone of university and visa applications and have the power to make or break your acceptance. Statement of Purpose (SOP) for MBA is a crucial part of the application process for one of the most prestigious degrees in the world.

Typically, an SOP is an essay that states why a student wants to join a particular institute and how his/her goals can be achieved by pursuing the chosen degree successfully. For instance, if you’re applying for an MBA degree, you must state how joining a specific institution and studying that particular course can contribute to your success.

Your SOP for MBA application is your first chance to make a lasting impression among university faculties and the admission panel. Remember, MBA is a popular degree and gets a huge number of applications. A good SOP can help you easily stand out from the crowd.

A properly drafted SOP for an MBA also contextualises other key aspects of your application, such as your aspirations for a flourishing business career.

This blog is a comprehensive guide to drafting the best SOP for MBA! You can use our tips and samples to draft the best SOP for MBA for top colleges worldwide, like the London Business School and MIT Sloan School of Management.

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Statement of Purpose (SOP) for MBA: Easy Ways to Write SOP

Best Way to Write an SOP for an MBA

An SOP is, at heart, an essay. To write the best SOP, use essay writing techniques.

Essentially, your SOP for MBA should include a brief overview of your career, goals, interests, and business outlook. Once you know the key points to be included, you can simply break the SOP down into a few parts.

Each paragraph should convey a key point, and you must maintain a logical flow throughout the essay. Here’s how to go about it.

Paragraph 1: Intent & Interest

It’s important to convince the admission panel that an MBA is a crucial stepping stone to your career success. The first paragraph of the SOP should highlight your intent and interest precisely.

For example, “In my quest to become one of the most successful entrepreneurs of my generation, pursuing an MBA degree is vital.”

Paragraphs 2 & 3: Goals & Ambitions

MBA colleges in India and abroad grant admission to those who have an idea of where they are headed in the future.

It is because the success of alumni translates as heightened prestige for the college, leading to a hike in fees, admission rates, and more.

For this reason, it’s important to convince the admission panel that you’re capable of chasing your dreams! In the second and third paragraphs of an SOP for MBA, you must emphasise how the MBA degree can help them achieve their ambitions.

For example, “I have heard that an MBA is not for everyone. I agree. But for me, the skills, the knowledge, the insights and the peer relationships I will build throughout this program are crucial to making an impact in my chosen field of creating cloud-based solutions for everyone.”

Paragraph 4: Tailor-make your SOP for Each University

Your SOP for MBA should be written specifically for each college. Research the college well and state how it is a perfect fit for you.

Customising your SOP for the university shows the admission panel how well you know their institution and conveys your enthusiasm to become a valued member of their academic community.

In the fourth paragraph of your SOP, mention the college-specific factors that make you interested in pursuing an MBA there.

For example, “XXX Institute has a reputation of churning out some of the best entrepreneurs in the world in computer technology. I want to benefit from the same approach to business and step up my career.”

Paragraph 5: Communicate what the Institute will gain from its association with you

Usually, top business schools have a philosophy of producing a particular brand of graduates. For example, UC Berkeley’s Business School focuses on admitting graduates who want to work for NGOs and other socially responsible businesses.

Make time to review the university’s website and mentally note down some things they participate in.

Being in line with the school’s philosophy is a good strategy, and it will also help you have a fulfilling academic experience. Therefore, highlight in your SOP for MBA that you can fit in with their culture and what they expect from you.

For example : “Wharton has been the home of many business leaders who are/were famous community pillars and political leaders in their own right. My aspiration coincides well with the school’s environment and general outlook. Hence, I feel I can contribute profitably to the school’s growth in its desire to create a reputation as a producer of global and national leaders.”

Paragraphs 6 & 7: Detail the steps you will take to achieve your goals

In the Statement of Purpose for MBA , the sixth and seventh paragraphs must detail how you plan on getting closer to your goals. Provide a roadmap. It does not have to be concrete but try to put your ideas on paper.

For example : “After I complete my MBA, I will start setting up my own cloud-based company in my home country. It will take me at least three years to gain a competitive edge, and in five years, I see myself expanding the business to compete with national giants.”

Paragraph 8: Conclusion

The final paragraph of the SOP for the MBA should provide a favourable impression of you and leave a great impression on the admission officers. Try not to boast, but humbly highlight why they should take you in.

For example, “With over four years of experience in the IT sector, I know that to see the change, you must be the change. I believe that a well-earned MBA degree and specialised training can help me overcome several challenges down the line.”

And with that, you can conclude your SOP for an MBA.

SOP for MBA: Specialisation-Specific Guidelines

Every MBA specialisation has its set of unique requirements. Though the Statement of Purpose question is general for all specialisations, students can tailor the answer. Discussed below are some SOP guidelines for popular MBA courses.

MBA in Marketing

In Marketing, applicants must specify their branding, advertising, market research and digital marketing knowledge. Another point to highlight is the ability to manage senior management responsibilities.

Display in-depth knowledge of the current trends in marketing, including digital marketing and e-marketing.
Bring up pain points that you can address in future.
Mention how to spread awareness of a product better.
Include passion for marketing.

MBA in Finance

The Statement of Purpose for an MBA in Finance should be very crisp and give an idea of the subject’s nuanced aspects. Analysis skills and thorough knowledge of financial basics are essential and must be highlighted properly. Other elements include the following.

Ability to analyse financial reports.
Skill in forecasting business trends.
Good ideas to maximise the value of stocks.
In-depth knowledge of banking, acquisitions, accounting and mergers.

MBA in Human Resources

For a Human Resources MBA, the Statement of Purpose should reflect your knack for solving people’s problems and your skillset in handling a variety of personalities.

Here are some necessary skills to include.

Intuition to understand people
Knowledge of Labour rights, which can make the company and employee relationship stronger
Good handling of management and employee conflicts

MBA in Operations

Logistics, planning, creation and management of resources are key points to highlight in an SOP for MBA in Operations. Other pointers include:

Knowledge of Business Statistics
Ability to manage projects
Skilful with information technology and System Management
Knowledge of Innovation Management

MBA in International Business

If you’re applying for International Business courses, a major boost would be if you have prior work experience in any project on a global scale.

You can also highlight how globalisation has helped businesses achieve their goals and why it is vital in today’s world. You can also include the following pointers.

Strong communication and language skills
Sound knowledge of international trade regulations
Potential to manage exports
Ability to analyse the risk associated with international trade.

Sample SOP For MBA 2023

The following is an example of an SOP for an MBA in Marketing. It will help one understand the flow and sense of a well-drafted SOP.

“At the beginning of my adult life, I was undecided over what I wanted to become. I had completed my undergraduate degree in Engineering for Computer Science with no particular goal.

Writing, Data Science and Data Analysis were some of the careers I wanted to try. So, I joined a Content Writing firm to hone my skills as a digital marketer. The decision proved to be the turning point of my life.

Direct hands-on work experience opened up the world for me. I saw first-hand the power of words. I helped tens and hundreds of clients describe their goods or services so that customers could understand the products better. Thus, I began to look forward to a career in digital marketing.

Words are powerful tools. They can hurt, they can heal, and they can make you decide to buy or decide not to buy. I was confronted with a problem that most people in the field face. It was an ethical issue. Should I lie about the quality of products or write negative statements about a client (clearly frowned upon by the company)?

However, I learned that I was contractually obligated to work as per the company’s requirements. It may seem equivocal to say that the matter was out of my hands, but that is true.

I then started to ponder how to be more honest in marketing, which proved counterintuitive to my job’s role. This is a question that puzzles me to this day. Not enjoying the ethical dilemma, I vowed to paint as accurate a picture as possible without fooling the public. I am proud that my work is so impactful, and I enjoy the challenge that it presents.

Around the three-year mark in my career, I hit upon an idea. One advertisement is not appropriate for the general populace. Look at the population of India. 22 official Languages, an incredible spread of dialects and various cultures. How can one national advertisement impact each of them where it counts, translating into sales? I identified that there was a need to bring about customised ads for every person. Customised ads would, in turn, boost niche sales. I wanted to start my digital marketing agency to implement this dream of creating customised ads for everybody.

It may sound impossible at first, but with the development of data science, it is no longer just an idea. I registered for a Master’s course in Data Science, quit my job and began to study in earnest. My job taught me how to submit A-class reports on time, and I learned to navigate a professional life’s often complex waters because of it. That is why finishing my Master’s proved to be a breeze.

After my Master’s course, I saw the need for a firm grounding in running a business. I had never run a business before, nor had I any friend with experience who had done the same. My inspiration was the boss at my first workplace, but his experience was not enough information to start independently. A mentor advised me to apply for an MBA, which would firmly put the foundational bricks beneath my dream.

Wharton was at the top of my list because of its history of producing advertising geniuses.

My future does not look easy, but I took the poet’s advice and chose the road less travelled. While pursuing my MBA, I hope to participate with angel investors at the alma mater and establish a strong network with my peers and teachers.

Everyone should be sold what he desires at the price he can afford. The only way to match a host of sellers in the market with potential buyers is through marketing. I hope to stand in the gap and help the right customers meet the right buyers.”

SOP for MBA: Must have’s.

Every SOP has a few key points that should not be missed! Take note of the following points.

Future goals: While the resume concerns your prior experience, the Statement of Purpose should explain future intentions. You must mention the main pursuit of your life, your goals and ambitions.
You must explain how an MBA degree can add value to your career.
Enthusiasm for the course : Institutes want to see applicants’ excitement and eagerness to join the program.
Skill-set : Every vital skill you have picked up throughout your career and education should be highlighted appropriately in the SOP.
Studying abroad is not going to be easy. You need persistence! A positive outlook and the ability to handle challenges should be demonstrated through examples and life experience in an SOP.

SOP for an MBA: What you shouldn’t do!

Avoid mentioning past mistakes. Do not highlight any negative traits or outlook.
Avoid writing the Statement of Purpose hurriedly on the last day or just before submission.
Do not forget to proofread your SOP. There shouldn’t be any grammatical errors or poor sentence construction.
Never lie about any aspect of the application.
Do not plead for admission.
Do not be vague. You should write to the point and make short, crisp paragraphs and sentences in your application.
Avoid writing weak introductions and poor conclusions. These sections of an SOP for an MBA grab the admission officer’s attention.
Avoid misrepresenting the college or misunderstanding its goals and aims.
Lastly, do not copy anything off the Internet. Avoid plagiarism, as it can lead to rejection if detected.
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Bonus Tips to Draft a Winning SOP for MBA!

Here are some tips to make your Statement of Purpose for MBA stand out. Admissions officers read over thousands of applications, so the one you write needs to be unique and sit well with the panel.

Unique approach

Try to be as unique as possible when writing the SOP. Avoid commonplace experiences you may have had. Instead, discuss a subject you are indeed passionate about.

Proper representation of ideas

Business schools will seek original ideas, organisation of thought processes, and coherence. Hence, one must revise the Statement of Purpose multiple times until it is perfect.

Professors, peers, parents, friends, advisors and teaching assistants can provide valuable feedback.

Be precise & specific

Use specific terms instead of generalisations. Instead of writing, “I learned a lot from my internship at Google” , write, “During my internship at Google, I learned how to meet deadlines, coped with juggling multiple roles, and understood the importance of delivering quality work.”

Do not rush your SOP

Take time to frame the Statement of Purpose for the MBA. Ideally, a week is sufficient to come up with a solid SOP. Get feedback from mentors and make necessary revisions.

SOP for MBA: Common SOP Questions from Universities

Here’s a fun fact: Typically, colleges don’t directly demand an SOP. Instead, they pose the need for SOP in the form of a question. Usually, you must answer this question in 800-1000 words.

Below are some examples of popular business schools that ask SOP for MBA.

While reviewing your application to Harvard Business School, what else would you like us to know about you? (Harvard Business School)
What matters most to you, and why? (Stanford Graduate School of Business)
What do you hope to gain professionally from the Wharton MBA? (Wharton)
What are your goals after your MBA? How will the London Business School programme and your overall experience help? (London Business School)
Enrolling in a Business School is an important career decision. How can ISB’s PGP help you achieve your goals? (Indian School of Business)

Final Thoughts

You will likely submit your academic transcripts and scores in your MBA application. While they provide useful insight into your academic life, they say little about your personality, goals and potential otherwise. To gain this insight, an SOP comes in handy.

This also lets universities check your writing and language skills, presentation of data, facts, and his/her life story in the shortest gist possible.

Remember, SOP is an integral part of your application. It’s best to prepare and practice writing SOPs before you actually submit one for admission purposes. If you’re unsure, take the help of experts.

With that, we wish you good luck!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. what is the average length for an sop for mba.

A. The Statement of Purpose for an MBA should be around 800 to 1000 words, which is approximately two pages. Language for the SOP should be concise and clear and must hit its mark. It should be written in 12-point font with normal margins without using images or colourful text anywhere.

Q. What should be written in an SOP for MBA?

A. In the Statement of Purpose for MBA, a summary of the applicant’s academic and work experience should be well documented. Future career goals and the reasons for applying should also be specified. The language should be to the point without using any flair except where necessary. Preferably, the SOP should follow the correct sequential order as real events.

Q. How do you end a Statement of Purpose (SOP) for MBA?

A. Since getting noticed among thousands of other applicants is the aim, you should end with a definite word on why you think an MBA is necessary for you. There is no need to reiterate anything you have already written in the essay. Make your intentions clear and state the proper reasons why that Institute is the right fit for you.

Q. Should I mention backlogs in SOP for MBA?

A. No, unless the experience taught you a positive life lesson. There is no need to focus on the negative aspects of your learning experience. If the backlog inspired you to study more and get good scores, include it.

Q. What is the goal of a Statement of Purpose?

A. The Statement of Purpose for an MBA should reflect a candidate’s reasons, intention, and desire to gain admission into the University or college. The document is written to give the college an idea of the kind of candidate they are taking on board. Apart from an introduction, it is also a clue into the overlap of candidate and college philosophy and intention.

Q. Is it easy to write SOP?

A. Yes, but with practice. Writing skills are difficult to hone, but since this is a simple essay about your life, you should be able to pull it off. Although, you must include all the key points and make sure there is a logical flow and good grammar in the essay. If you’re in doubt, it’s always best to clear it off with an expert as SOPs can make or break your application.

Q. What is the ideal structure for SOP for MBA?

A. Your SOP should include the following: -Introduction -Goals and ambitions -How your morals coincide with that of the institution -What does the institution stand to gain from you -How does MBA add value to your career -Conclusion

Q. What are some tips for writing an engaging SOP for MBA?

A. Here are some tips. -A compelling introduction -Avoid cliches -Highlight your achievements -Show your interest in the course and university

Q. Is SOP typed or handwritten?

A. Most universities prefer digital formats or types of SOPs. You can write one on Google Docs or Microsoft Word and upload the PDF or doc file based on the university’s requirements. You must meet those requirements if you have been specifically asked for a hand-written format. You can scan the handwritten SOP into a PDF, upload it, or mail it to the admissions office.

Q. Should I mention my CGPA in the SOP?

A. The main intention of the SOP is to highlight your achievements. Your CGPA is already available to the admissions office as you will submit academic records. However, if you want to highlight a positive experience in your life that relates to your CGPA, you may do so. It is not mandatory to mention your CGPA.

Q. Can I exceed the word limit in SOP?

A. We highly recommend sticking to the word limit. The SOP must be a gist about your life and should not overwhelm the admissions panel. Remember, the panel members view hundreds of applications daily, and a lengthy SOP might not interest them as much. Stay within the word limit, but find engaging ways to convey your interests.

Jhansi Rani

Jhansi Rani is an experienced overseas education counsellor and specializes in helping students choose the right academic path in the USA.

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Also, make sure to cram in a few polished, snappy examples from your education, career and personal life to really sell yourself.

First paragraph:

Quick personal background

Quick explanation of why you are looking to do an MBA

What’s so great about XYZ business school? Why does this school in particular appeal to you, given your personality and background

Second paragraph:

Your experience to date and educational background

Flesh out what you’re trying to achieve career wise and why business school, in particular this business school, is the ideal solution

Languages and international experience

Maybe use this as an opportunity to address any weaknesses in your application with a positive spin

Third paragraph:

Personal achievements - try and make these relevant to where you want to be, but also hint at why these attributes would allow you to give back to the school

What clubs/ tracks you...

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SOP For MBA - crafting an impressive Statement of Purpose

An SOP, or statement of purpose, is a crucial part of any MBA application. It provides the admissions committee with a glimpse into your personality, goals, and motivations for pursuing an MBA. We have also shared a sample SOP for MBA and a suggestive structure for applicants here.

Steps to write an SOP for MBA applications :

Start by brainstorming your reasons for pursuing an MBA. What are your career goals, and how do you believe an MBA will help you achieve them? What skills and experiences do you have that make you a strong candidate for the program?

Next, organize your thoughts into a clear, well-structured essay. Begin with an introduction that provides some background information about yourself and your goals. Then, move on to the body of the essay, where you can discuss your qualifications in more detail and explain why you are a good fit for the program.

Be sure to proofread your SOP carefully. Check for grammar and spelling errors, and make sure that your essay flows well and is easy to read.

Finally, submit your SOP along with the rest of your MBA application materials. Be sure to include all required documents and provide any additional information requested by the admissions committee.

Video: MBA admission consultant at GOALisB shares 5 things to make a stand out SOP

To write a strong SOP for an MBA application is to be honest, authentic, and concise. Focus on your strengths, goals, and motivations, and be sure to provide concrete examples to illustrate your points. With a well-written SOP, you can set yourself apart from other applicants and increase your chances of being accepted into your dream MBA program.

What is the purpose of an SOP ( Statement of Purpose) for MBA?

The Statement of purpose is used by the school to adjudge the personality you have acquired over the series of experiences at work, through projects or through out of work interactions which have motivated you to apply to the program.

An SOP helps the school understand your motivations and goals so far.

The SOP also speaks volumes about the character, integrity and work ethics of the applicant.

The Statement of purpose is a unique opportunity to show the school that you have researched and how you relate to the program.

A great SOP shows focus and commitment of the applicant towards his pursuits.

Get assistance from an MBA admission expert at GOALisB for your statement of purpose for MBA.

Three important language related aspects when you write a Statement Of Purpose for MBA:

Always use the active voice while writing an essay or an SOP. Passive voice comes across as very cold and detached, something no reader enjoys.

Write in a natural flow of language and take proper paragraph breaks. It is difficult to follow the story in a long winding sentence.

you must explain events at as many places as required. Writing specific details which connect to the main theme that you want to convey is very important.

Five Don'ts when you are writing an SOP for MBA:

Don’t try to explain the negatives in your profile. Every application has special sections where you can explain any shortfalls in your candidature.

Don’t copy or try to look for samples. Be authentic in your story.

Don’t use difficult words - they don’t impress. Clear succinct writing always wins.

Exaggerating about your role, responsibilities or what you did might result in an interview interaction which might fall flat in the face. Be truthful and honest about your stories, roles and responsibilities.

Don’t write a technical discourse which overrides the story you want to tell.

A well written SOP emphasises on the intrinsic traits that the committee seeks in the admissions process. Strong analytical skills and work ethics are expected in global business environment, your agility, resilience and motivation should be highlighted in the essays. The essays and the SOP are a way to present your whole personality, not just the individual achievements that you assume the school would like to read.

The SOP revolves around the examples and stories of how you have demonstrated these in work and out of work settings.

Structure for a Sample SOP for MBA:

Paragraph 1 - The Introduction. In this section where you tell the admissions office what you want to study.

Paragraph 2: Use this space to summarize what you did as an undergraduate. Enlist or rather walk them through all the important classes you took which stimulated your desire for an MBA education, such as a specific project for a class. Discuss the internships you have done discuss what the responsibilities were, and the outcomes.

Paragraph 3: This is a good place to mention any part time or full time jobs taken up after graduation, succinctly describe the role: company, team, responsibilities, what you learned. You can also indicate here how this shaped your decision to pursue an MBA.

Paragraph 4 : This is a section to discuss what you want to study in MBA in further detail. This is an extrapolation of the introduction paragraph. State your area of interest, explore what you look forward in the course.

Sample SOP for MBA

I am writing to apply for the MBA program at XYZ University. I am confident that this program will provide me with the skills and knowledge I need to pursue a successful career in business and management.

I have always been drawn to the world of business and entrepreneurship. As a child, I would often help my parents run their small business, learning the ins and outs of sales, marketing, and operations. This early exposure sparked my interest in the field, and I decided to pursue a bachelor's degree in business administration.

During my undergraduate studies, I gained a solid foundation in key business concepts, including finance, marketing, and strategy. I also had the opportunity to participate in a number of extracurricular activities, such as internships, business competitions, and clubs. These experiences allowed me to develop a range of skills, including leadership, teamwork, and communication.

After completing my bachelor's degree, I started working as a management consultant for a leading firm. In this role, I have been able to apply my knowledge and skills to a variety of projects, helping clients to improve their operations and achieve their business goals. However, I have also come to realize that there is much more I can learn, and I believe that an MBA program is the next step in my professional development.

I am particularly interested in XYZ University's MBA program because of its focus on innovation and entrepreneurship. I believe that this focus aligns with my own goals and interests, and I am confident that the program will provide me with the knowledge and skills I need to start my own business or take on a leadership role in an existing organization.

In addition to my professional experience and academic background, I believe that I have the personal qualities and characteristics that make me a strong candidate for the program. I am a driven and motivated individual who is not afraid to take on challenges. I am also a good communicator and team player, with a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence.

I am excited about the opportunity to join the MBA program at XYZ University, and I am confident that I will be able to make a valuable contribution to the program and the university community.

Although this is a suggestive structure you might need a more personalised SOP for a top University. Get in touch with our MBA admission consultant at GOALisB to work one on one for winning SOP.

10 Questions to address in a Statement of Purpose for MBA:

What experiences and/or education have made you want to pursue this degree program?

Why do you want to pursue this field of study?

How have you been pursuing your education, social work, internships?

What specifically appeals to you about this program?

What do you contribute to a team?

What do you plan to do with the MBA education in the short term and the long run ?

Why should the MBA Admissions team take you?

How do you think it might relate to the v that you want to opt for?

Describe how your experience, education, goals, and the proposed MBA course bind together.

What is the career track that you wish to pursue?

Addressing the above information distinguishes what makes a successful SOP different feel free to connect with an MBA admission consultant at GOALisB for one on one assistance your application essays and SOP.

How to prepare an MBA application with a low GPA score?

Securing admission to a top MBA college in the world tops the wish list of many aspirants who are enthusiastic about achieving their aspirations. Undoubtedly, admission into top MBA college in the world does depend a lot on the GPA and GMAT scores.

If you are wondering how the GMAT score and GPA will affect your chances, Goalisb MBA admission consultant here discuss the ins and outs of GPA and GMAT score.

What is GPA?

GPA refers to the Grade Point Average. A GPA is the average of the sum total of the accumulated marks obtained by a student at the end of the course. For Indian courses that issue a percentage the applicants should use the tools available to convert their scores to the corresponding GPA.

MBA admissions in the world use two kinds of GPA : unweighted , and weighted .

Unweighted GPA is the system more widely used and it ranges from 1.0 to 4.0.

A weighted GPA scale goes from 1.0 to 5.0.

The former does not take the difficulty level of the class into account, but the latter does, which is the reason why the weighted GPA scale is a better indicator of academic prowess than its counterpart.

What is GMAT?

GMAT refers to the Graduate Management Admission Test. GMAT is the standard and globally accepted test one needs to pass to get into a top MBA college in the world. A GMAT score is a mandatory score for getting admitted to an MBA course. There is an increasing acceptance for the GRE score for MBA admissions as well, however, GMAT score is more prevalent in top MBA college in the world.

GMAT score is devised on the basis of a computer-adaptive test and generates questions automatically based on the correctness of the answers to your previous question. The GMAT score ranges from 200 to 800. The GMAT exam will soon be replaced by the GMAT focus edition, where the score ranges from 205 to 805.

Though the calculation of a GMAT score is algorithm-based, the best way to get a great score is to be fully prepared.

How important is my GPA score for MBA admission?

A common concern among MBA aspirants is their GPA score. Unfortunately, this score cannot be changed. A good GPA can undoubtedly act as a catalyst to achieve your future aspirations.

Then, what about those candidates with a low GPA score?

Let us share a secret for admission to a top MBA college in the world here:

There are many instances where a low GPA score has not stopped aspiring candidates to soar high .

GPA is not the one and only criteria for getting into a business school. GPA is an indication of academic merit through school years, mapping the academic history of the student on paper. The GPA cutoffs can range from 3.0 in mediocre colleges to 3.7 in places like Harvard Business School. GPA is an important component in the entire MBA application criteria especially for a top MBA college in the world.

Provided the applicant has additional aspects to highlight in the MBA application, a mediocre to low GPA score can be surpassed. Especially, when the applicant has a high GMAT score or ranks higher in other criteria like experience and extra curricular activities.

Here are 5 ways to boost your MBA application when you have a low GPA:

● Improve GMAT/GRE Score: The best way to compensate for a low GPA is to have a high GMAT score, which is the main criterion for admission in the top business schools. 650 – 700+ according to the school average GMAT score is an excellent benchmark.

● Gain Sound Work Experience: An experience of two to five years should suffice in boosting your MBA admission application. The quality of work experience adds a lot of value when you apply to a top MBA college in the world. You must obtain a professional experience and, something measurable that can be put on paper. Promotions, certificates, awards, tokens of appreciation are signs that you are well experienced and add bonus points to your MBA application.

● Consider Additional Courses: Earning a high grade in extra courses like Statistics, Microeconomics, Finance, Accounting, Advanced Mathematics can improve your chances faring higher on the MBA application criteria.

● Write That Essay: The next best option is your essay. Writing a good quality essay within the word limit is a crucial part of your MBA application. Sticking to relevant points and giving a comprehensive perspective are some boosters in scoring better in an essay. However, make sure to be able to highlight your strengths when you apply to a top MBA college in the world but not overplay it.

● Talk About Your Bad Grade: No, it would not be crazy.

That's what the optional essay section is for. Use that section. We have successfully used this section and secured admits in India and abroad. The precondition is a sound application strategy which highlights the strengths at the right place.

The University will not miss your bad grades. So, you need to be upfront and write in detail the optional essay where you discuss your mistakes, what you learnt, and your new outlook. This highlights you as a sincere student who can learn in retrospect and has the ability to introspect. This is extremely important especially in International admission to a top MBA college in the world.

Try to improve your GMAT score. Focus and practice with patience to improve efficiency. Manage your time well and do not stress during the exam.

Also, you must identify other areas you need to cover better.

When you prepare an application with a planned strategy under professional guidance, a low GPA score should not be a hurdle in achieving your business school admission to a top MBA college in the world. Get in touch with us to know your chances at the best MBA schools in world or write to us at [email protected] or Whatsapp at +91 7719497187.

IIM Executive MBA

MBA Statement of Purpose Examples for

Featured Expert: Srikanth Raghavan, MBA

MBA statement of purpose examples can be beneficial when you are trying to write one yourself or just wanting to understand exactly what they are. That’s why we’ve provided a couple of them for you in this blog. In addition to that, we’ll be going over everything you need to know about grad school statements of purpose , such as the MBA statement of purpose. You will learn about their importance, content, format, and how to use them to contextualize your other application components, such as your reference letters or MBA personal statement .

>> Want us to help you get accepted? Schedule a free strategy call here . <<

Article Contents 12 min read

What is an mba statement of purpose.

An MBA statement of purpose (SoP) is a short academic essay often required for graduate school applications. It’s an essential part of your application that is supposed to tell the admissions committee why you are interested in their MBA program and why you are the perfect fit for it. Furthermore, it gives you the chance to contextualize the statistics and numbers in your application and present yourself to the graduate program in a more well-rounded way. The admissions committee already knows about your work experience from your MBA resume and your academic performance from your transcripts. The statement of purpose allows them to assess your suitability for their institution, and more importantly, their program.

Every school is different, so you need to check the specific requirements of the program you are interested in. Some schools may require a statement of purpose in addition to other essays. In contrast, other schools like the Wharton School of Business for example, may not ask specifically for a statement of purpose but have a prompt that essentially asks why you are a good fit for the school. Either way, you will need to respond with a strong and compelling essay to improve your chances of getting in.

How to write a strong MBA statement of purpose

The format and content.

You should always check the specific requirements of the program you are applying to, as each school is different. Your chosen program could have an exact word count, a page limit, or a prompting question that you need to answer. If your program has given any instructions, it is imperative that you follow them. Unless otherwise specified, your statement of purpose should:

Follow the general structure of an academic essay
Be between 500 and 1000 words
Be grammatically correct
Be organized and easy to read

Give yourself time : Writing a strong statement of purpose isn’t unlike preparing the rest of your application; the key is preparation. We recommend giving yourself at least six weeks to write your statement. Give yourself enough time to thoroughly research the program or faculty, gather all the information that could be helpful to you, and draft, redraft and finalize your statement.

Research the program : The purpose of your statement is to convince the admissions committee that you are the perfect fit for their program in particular and to do that, you need to know what kind of candidate they are looking for. You should spend time on the institution’s website and talk to alumni if possible. Try to get a sense of the school’s academic culture. Take some time to familiarize yourself with the research specialties of various faculty members, and keep track of those whose research interests align with yours.

The more you know about the school and the MBA program, the better equipped you will be to write a strong letter that showcases the values or qualities that the school is looking for. For instance, if you are preparing an application to Kellogg business school , your research will probably lead you to find out that their MBA program aims to create leaders who are not afraid to challenge the status quo and find creative solutions. In that case, you might want to make sure your statement of purpose showcases your creative problem-solving skills.

Seek expert advice : You may also want to consider investing in a graduate school admissions consultant or MBA admissions consulting . Preparing an MBA application is no easy feat, especially the essay portions. The truth is that admissions consultants have more experience reading and writing these types of essays so they can see things that you can’t. Their constructive feedback might just be what you need to write a statement of purpose that will stand out.

Being too impersonal : Your statement of purpose is supposed to put the rest of your application into context. You should avoid just listing your accomplishments or your reasons for wanting to attend the school. People are more likely to remember a story, so instead, focus on creating a narrative around your experiences and why they make you a perfect fit for the program. Additionally, research-intensive MBA programs may require you to discuss your research interests. In these cases, many students confuse the statement of purpose and research interest statement . Both essays are about the candidate’s relevant past academic & professional experiences, long-term goals in the field, and research interests when applicable. However, while a research interest statement is a formal academic document, a statement of purpose is more of a personal essay meant to describe your journey and overall suitability for a program.

Jargon-heavy statements : Even if you are applying to a business school, you should try to avoid jargon and acronyms that are not well known outside of your field of study. The admissions committee will read your statement, and they might not be experts in your particular field. We understand that you want to come across as knowledgeable, but it is equally important that your statement be easy to follow and read.

Generic statements : We highly recommend that you write multiple statements of purpose and tailor them to the MBA programs you are applying to. A common mistake that applicants make is writing one generic statement of purpose and sending it to all the business schools they are applying to. This usually backfires because each school and each program is different. First, various schools may have different format requirements for the statement of purpose. Secondly, the academic culture and the kind of candidate each school is looking for can be very different.

For example, a student might send the same letter to Harvard business school and Stanford business school , assuming that they have similar requirements because they are both prestigious institutions that aim to form tomorrow’s business leaders. However, Harvard business school makes it clear that they look for candidates with an analytical aptitude and desire to be engaged in the community. If these qualities are not showcased in the letter to Harvard, the candidate might not get called for an interview (so don't forget to review MBA interview questions as well). This is why it's so important to review Harvard MBA personal statement examples - you must understand what the admissions committee of this renowned institution expects.

Ignoring guidelines : This tip is quite self-explanatory, but we feel it is worth mentioning again because it’s a very common pitfall. Many institutions will give clear instructions for the application documents, including the statement of purpose. It is crucial that you follow these instructions. If there is a word count, stick to it. If there is a prompt, answer the question in the prompt and stay on topic. Do not use your essay to address something in your application that is completely unrelated to the question that you were asked. Following the guidelines set by the program will show the admissions committee that you take your application seriously and that you know how to follow instructions.

Need to work on your MBA resume too? Check out this infographic:

Now that you know what is expected from a strong MBA statement of purpose, here are a few examples that can help inspire your own.

MBA statement of purpose sample 1

I often joke that I speak three languages: English, French, and consumer. I have been saying this since I took an introduction to marketing class while completing my undergraduate degree and learned about talking to customers in a language they understand. It resonated with me because I practically grew up in my mother's small dry-cleaning store. I watched her relay the same information to different people from various walks of life in many different ways. It was always in English, but her word choice and tone would change so much that my siblings and I would joke about it. Since then, I have been fascinated by communication. The effect that it has on people and businesses. This fascination led to my dual degree in business management and psychology, and today, it is one of the things that drive me to apply to the X business school MBA program.

Over the past five years, I have used what I learned at university to expand our family business and help grow many others in my community. The experience taught me that no matter how good your product or service is, introducing it to the market is indeed half the battle when it comes to business. My goal is to create a marketing firm that will help small local businesses maximize their reach and full potential. I understand that a big part of this is marketing, and that is why I want to study it further.

The X MBA program is uniquely suited to help me achieve this goal. In today's Business landscape, small businesses need different strategies to survive and compete in the world of big companies that can deliver things overnight. The X MBA program is one of the very few curriculums that offer courses specifically designed for small businesses and the latest marketing strategies, such as social media as a marketing tool.

As a person with ambitions to become an entrepreneur, there are also many other aspects of business management that I wish to understand better, such as accounting Tools, Logistics, and Supply-Chain. My initial assumption was that I would need to find two separate programs to be completely immersed in the two fields that I wish to study. However, your holistic approach to business management would actually allow me to master marketing and communications while learning to be a better business owner.

Beyond the fact that this curriculum is perfect for what I want to learn and eventually use in my career, X business school is also as community-focused as I am. In Undergrad, I spent two years working with other members of the Student Union Association to organize and help with the green initiative that the school was launching. I noticed that the X student union has a branch dedicated to something similar, and I would love to be a part of it if given the opportunity.

My passion for community building and marketing makes me a perfect fit for this program. Furthermore, my academic background and practical experience have given me the tools to succeed in this MBA program and beyond. I am hardworking, dedicated, and eager to learn. I hope you give me a chance to do so at X University.

This statement is particularly strong because it clearly communicates the applicant’s fit for the program. Notice the fact that the applicant gives clear examples of the claims that they make about themselves. For example, they mention that they are very community focused and make it evident by sharing that they volunteered in college and that their long-term goal is to work for the businesses in their local community.

MBA statement of purpose sample 2

X university prompt: Why have you chosen to pursue an MBA program and why have you chosen to do it at X institution? (Max 600 words)

I was a writer before I was a businesswoman, and studying business isn’t a life-long dream that I harbor. Still, it has become a necessity at this juncture of my professional career.

I was born in a liberal and educated family that stressed the importance of following one’s dreams and passions. I can appreciate how amazing that is now that I am an adult, but as a confused teenager who had no dream and didn’t seem to have a hobby, let alone a passion - it was a nightmare. I attempted many different things, from team sports to theatre, but nothing ever really stuck until I discovered my love for the written word in high school. I am grateful for that journey today because it has taught me to be comfortable with change and given me the ability to adapt quickly. These abilities have served me well in my professional career so far, and I hope that they will continue to do so if I am given the opportunity to attend X business school for your MBA program.

I’m sure you’re wondering why a person who seemingly has no interest in business wants to attend a reputable business school such as yours. Most people do not associate a Master of Business Administration degree with the writing profession. When one thinks about an MBA, more often than not, the first thought that comes to mind would be that a person who undertakes an MBA aspires to get a better job in banking, finance, or business consulting. However, business actually affects many different areas of a writer’s profession. I have come to the conclusion that to succeed as a writer, I must gain systematic knowledge about the workings of a business, and your program is the perfect place for me to do so.

Whether you are a freelance writer like I have been in the past or an author like I am now, you are essentially an entrepreneur with a product to sell: your art. The holistic approach of the X MBA program is designed for entrepreneurs like myself who are ready to take their business to the next level. I am particularly interested in learning all about the statistical and programming tools used in the Business Analytics domain. These tools will help me make generalized sense of data and gain valuable insights to help me figure out who my target audience is and how I can better reach them.

I fervently believe that my communication skills, academic background, and entrepreneurial spirit have prepared me for success in this rigorous MBA program. Additionally, as a person who was born and raised in X city, I have seen the significant impact that the school and its alumni have had on our great city and would love to be a part of it. I am particularly passionate about making tertiary education more accessible to the less fortunate and would love to join the group of students and alumni who coordinate the fundraising efforts of your Access Tuition Fund.

In short, I believe that this program is uniquely suited to help me gain a holistic understanding of the functioning of entrepreneurial businesses and mold me into a well-rounded professional. My hope is that you will see that my academic background, work experience, as well as my passion for my craft, and how it interacts with business logistics make me the perfect candidate for your MBA program.

Pay particular attention to the fact that this statement of purpose manages to communicate fit and provide a few details about the applicant’s abilities but it does not stray from the question that was asked by the prompt.

Wondering what kind of courses you should take during your MBA? This video has some helpful advice:

After you write

Before you go, we just want to remind you of a few questions that you should ask yourself before submitting your statement of purpose.

Once you have your final draft, step away from it for a little while and come back to look at it with fresh eyes. You should ask yourself the questions above as you read and make the necessary adjustments. You can also opt to use an application review process where an expert would go over your statement of purpose draft and work with you to get it to the best version possible.

It’s a short essay that tells an admission committee why you are a perfect fit for their MBA program.

An MBA statement of purpose should tell the admissions board why you are interested in an MBA, why you’ve chosen their program in particular, why you’d be a good addition to the program, and how the MBA will help you achieve your career goals.

Unless otherwise specified by the business school you are applying to, you should keep your statement between 500 and 1000 words.

The beginning of your statement needs to be attention-grabbing. We recommend starting with a quote, an anecdote, or an interesting personal fact.

Your statement should be structured like a general academic essay with an introduction, main body, and conclusion.

In short, no! You should always tailor your MBA statement of purpose to the school you are applying to. One generic statement for many different schools will not be enough to make your application stand out.

Your statement of purpose is meant to show the admissions board that you are a good fit for their program and your ambitions are part of who you are. In other words, your plans tell the school a little bit more about who you are.

The best way to make your statement more compelling is to research the school you are applying to thoroughly, find out what kind of candidate they are looking for, and ensure that your statement of purpose reflects the qualities that the school seeks. It is also best to give clear examples for every claim you make about yourself.

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Study Abroad

Statement of Purpose for MBA: Samples, Format & Tips

Updated on 21 september, 2023.

upGrad Abroad Team

Upgrad abroad editorial team.

Aspirants often face difficulties crafting the correct statement of purpose required for an MBA degree in prestigious international institutes. Your SOP should showcase your professional goals, academic background, and interest in the management specialization. It should uphold your motive to take admission in the particular course of the university. The Statement of Purpose is an in-depth analysis of both academic and professional experience. It tells the admission committee why you want to get a management degree and how it will add value to your business management career.

Top institutions of the world expect a comprehensive statement to analyze who you are as a person and what unique characteristics stand out among the rest of the aspirants. You must know that the SOP is a gateway to admission to any international university. Your SOP tells the admission officers how passionate you are about your career and aim.

We understand that writing an SOP could be stressful for many, so we will help you understand the right approach. Going through a sample SOP for MBA is a good way to get an idea of the subject. We have included a couple of samples below.

Sops for mba.

SOP for an MBA with an Engineering Background
SOP for MBA in International Business
SOP for MBA in Marketing
SOP for MBA Finance

Sample SOP for MBA: #1

To succeed today, a professional should have diverse skills ready to meet the demands of the fast-evolving consumer market. I am blessed enough to have had a multicultural background academically and professionally. This has exposed me to different cultures, people, places, languages, and continents. As a working salesperson, I realized that I also need to have a deep understanding of the marketing function to expand my experiences and exposure. I am ready to meet the challenges of the MBA specialization in marketing at your university.

I have been excited about the world of business since a very young age. Therefore, I decided to complete my graduation with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from the XXXXX institute. The BBA program has helped me with an overall learning experience about the dynamic marketplace and modern business. Through my studies, I learned that identifying and defeating the pitfalls of business is crucial to growing and thriving in the market. I developed leadership qualities in my college days that helped me take ownership during multiple events, seminars, and extracurricular functions. I am also confident to adapt to the new learning environment at your institution.

After graduation, I started working as a sales manager in XYZ company, where I learned to make market strategies, product merchandising, building good terms with customers, and customer satisfaction. While working in this profile, I was responsible for providing the best facilities to overseas clients and meeting sales targets for my area. I have been working in the sales domain for more than a year now. I realized that I need to gain marketing and business analytics skills to understand the scenario better and encounter unforeseen challenges. Therefore, I decided to pursue the MBA program at your university. This will help me prepare for opportunities and future goals.

I have checked the curriculum of the MBA program which seems a bit similar to what I studied during my BBA course. Yet, the MBA course seems to be more elaborate and challenging. After completing the MBA program, I will, return to my sales job and start applying the learning for enhancing the performance of the company. My ultimate aim is to create the best experiences for our customers, market our products better, and give new heights to the business. Thank you for your precious time and I request you to consider my application and allow me to study at your university.

Sample SOP for MBA : #2

MBA is the most sought-after degree for anyone who analyzes business activities and is needed to run an enterprise profitably. Driven by the urge of being a successful business leader, I want to take admission in MBA with a specialization in marketing at XYZ college in Canada. I achieved the first milestone when I completed my Bachelor of Business Administration degree (BBA) with the highest marks in ‘my institute’. After that, I applied for 3 months paid internship program at XXXXX company. My skills were much appreciated and the company offered me work, initially for half-day and then as a full-time employee. I started working as a management trainee and now after 6 months, I am working in a managerial profile.

I understand that for building a successful career, only a BBA degree is not sufficient. I discussed my concerns with the seniors at the company. It was one of them who encouraged me to explore institutions for management education in Canada. He also suggested the XABCXX University. Therefore, to get the global perspective and desired business skills, I am applying to your university. It will not only help me transform into a marketing manager but also help me become a leader in handling the concerns of the business. My interpersonal skills, problem-solving expertise, and aspirations to be a leader make me an ideal candidate for being a part of the university.

I am applying to your institute because it is a reputed institute that offers practical learning and project familiarization. This will help me focus on important business practices of the real world in real time. I am also aware of the Canadian culture and have learned about it from close friends and relatives who have been here. I can adjust to it quite easily. After completion of the course, I will be able to materialize my long-term goals of becoming a marketing leader. This is a life-changing opportunity and I hope to get a positive response from your esteemed university.

Thank you, XXXXXXXXX

What is the Importance of SOP for an MBA?

An SOP for MBA creates a favorable impression among the admission selectors. The competition for admission in reputed international institutes is quite high, so your SOP should be well-researched and powerful enough to have the desired impact on admission officers. Besides, your SOP should be goal-oriented, centering more on your professional and academic strengths.

Therefore, understanding the role of SOP in communicating the strengths and abilities of candidates is very important. An MBA SOP should be written in corporate language with a professional tone and expression. With it, an SOP should be focused on long-term goals and building a profile of a promising applicant. In a nutshell, the SOP for MBA will help the individual get admission to the best institutions abroad.

Here are some simple SOP samples for MBA . These samples can be used as a reference to apply to a Master of Business Administration (MBA) specialization at an overseas university.

How to Write an SOP for MBA?

To write an exceptional SOP for MBA, it is crucial to include all the information that can attract the selectors. You need to package all the information in a way that clearly explains your academic and professional background. The SOP must showcase your abilities and justify to the selectors that you are an eligible candidate.

There are three major areas that you need to focus on while writing an SOP for MBA. These are:

Write in an organized manner

Command over English is not important but you should be able to choose the words carefully. You can easily win the attention of the admission panel if you have a clear writing style and you can convey your motive directly to them.

Try to be unique:

The SOP is your only chance to prove yourself to admission officers; thus, be unique and creative. Highlight your career graphs, professional attributes, plans, and story in the SOP. Find the specific attributes that make you unique and different from the crowd.

Answer the question straightforward:

Some global institutions require you to answer questions. You need to answer in a trustworthy and well-structured manner. The correct answer in the right format will make your application strong.

Important Tips for Writing a Statement of Purpose for MBA

Describe the motive for seeking an mba degree.

A striking introduction sets the mood of the admission officers. Thus, in an SOP , applicants need to give a brief overview of the purpose of the MBA program. Try to be innovative, witty, and unique.

Some questions you need to answer in the introductory paragraph:

1. Why do you want to pursue an MBA program?

2. How will you add meaning to the academy?

3. What are the reasons for choosing a specific MBA specialization?

4. What instances have made a positive turning point in your life?

5. Explain the possibilities you will get after completing your MBA specialization?

Present Relevant Information Related to Academic Achievements

You need to discuss your academic life, choice of courses, interests, and aptitude, which will help you in meeting professional goals. You can also write about your internships, important research papers, and other activities outside your academic degree. As most international universities offer MBA programs in various disciplines, you can choose a curriculum according to your interests or academic background. Try to specify skills that you have acquired so far. Do not simply state your opinions. Instead, provide appropriate examples and explain them.

Elaborate your Professional Background

You need to prove to admission officers that you are a meritorious applicant. Thus, you must include the following points to explain your past professional experience:

1. Mention professional accomplishments like appraisals, honors, recognitions, etc.

2. Highlight other soft skills like honesty, discipline, smart working, promptness, etc.

3. Discuss extracurricular opportunities where you have proven your skills of leadership, teaching, teamwork, versatility, etc.

4. Mention any other work related to social issues or common welfare.

Explain How an MBA Degree will Help you Realize your Ambitions

You have only one chance to prove yourself, so be unique while sharing your ambitions and career goals. This way, admission officers will clearly understand your intentions in choosing a particular specialization and what you want to achieve after your studies. If possible, try to add the name of the respective professors under whom you want to study. This will make the application more appealing and will express your seriousness about your decision.

Complete your MBA SOP with an Eye-Catching Conclusion

Lastly, conclude your SOP by compiling your complete document in a short and crisp paragraph. You need to provide a summary of highlights reflecting your strongest points and leaving a positive impact on admission officers.

Some Errors that Should be Avoided:

1. avoid duplication.

You need to write personalized and unique SOP. As application officers have gone through lots of SOPs, they will easily identify if you have copied from somewhere. Avoid including information and details that you have already discussed in your resume.

2. Avoid grammatical errors

One thing you must not forget is the good quality content. You must ensure that your SOP does not have an misleading information, spelling mistakes, and grammatical errors. The chances of admission to international institutions increase if your SOP is error-free and easy to understand.

3. Avoid making false promises

Admission officers are highly qualified and handy in finding a genuine or false SOP. Therefore, whatever information you are writing in your SOP should not be false. So, write down your strengths with suitable examples that sound practical.

4. Final words

It is always a good idea to start fresh and draft an SOP that reflects your personality. Create an engaging SOP with a compelling introduction followed by an exciting summary.

We hope this blog helps you in writing an SOP for MBA that will act as a gateway for your entry to international academies. You can also contact our overseas education experts for further guidance.

SOP vs Personal Statement
SOP for internship

Frequently Asked Questions

What is meant by sop.

The full form of SOP is the Statement of Purpose. It is a type of personal essay for admission officers of an international institution. SOP shows them that you are a deserving candidate and the role this course will play in your business career.

What are the key features that should be incorporated in SOP for MBA?

An SOP for MBA must include your short and long-term professional goals. The admission committee gets impressed by the SOP that highlights the goals of the career.

Should anyone wanting to study abroad write SOP for MBA?

Please note that SOP for MBA should be written by only those applicants who wish to pursue an MBA degree from an international university to refine their business management skills.

Few errors that need to be avoided while writing SOP for MBA?

While there are no fixed guidelines for writing SOP, there are a few common mistakes that need to be avoided:

1) Writing in a hassle 2) Weak starting and ending of SOP 3) Using slang and casual language 4) Using flattery words and false information

We are a dedicated team of study-abroad experts, ensuring intensive research and comprehensive information in each of our blogs. With every piece written, we aim at simplifying the overseas education process for all. Our diverse experience as journalists, content writers, editors, content strategists, and marketers helps create the most relevant and authentic blogs for our readers.

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Sample SOPs Statement of Purpose for studying abroad

How to write a convincing SOP for studying in universities abroad

Sample SOPs (Statement of Purpose) for Indian students to study abroad

Doodle Nandi is a content editor for Hotcourses India- an IDP company, and helps write articles that help students with their study abroad journey.

Doodle Nandi

A Statement of Purpose (SOP) should convince the admission committee that you are an ideal candidate. Get the SOP format, sample SOPs, and dos & don'ts.

What’s covered in this article?

What is an SOP?
Why is an SOP important

What makes a good SOP?

What is the basic format of an SOP
Sample SOPs

The Dos: Tips for writing a good SOP or Statement of Purpose

The don’ts: common mistakes to avoid while writing an sop, faqs on sops.

What is a Statement of Purpose or an SOP?

An SOP or a Statement of Purpose is a letter written by the applicant conveying their intent for choosing a particular course, their interests, goals and career plans. It is addressed to the admission committee. It is also known as a research statement or a letter of intent.

Through the SOP, you should be able to clearly articulate what made you choose a particular course and what you aim to gain through the course. Your passion for the subject should reflect in your SOP. The admission team should also get a glimpse of the positive aspects of your character through the SOP.

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Why is an SOP important?

When applying for your studies abroad , all you are worried about is getting a good offer from a reputable institution, but you may not realise what goes on at the admissions office when they receive your applications. An SOP is crucial because:

It is perhaps the first document that attracts the admissions team to your profile. Hence, drafting a powerful SOP must be on your priority list.
Several candidates might have similar academic qualifications to yours. An SOP is your opportunity to make your application stand out from the rest.
It is also a reflection of how well you can articulate your thoughts, ambitions and plans.
Your SOP will give the admission committee a subjective view.
It Should be original. There are plenty of sample SOPs available on the internet and it is not advisable to copy them verbatim.
Your Statement of Purpose should be free of grammatical errors
Your SOP should have answers to some crucial questions that the admission committee might have about you.
If the institution has requested the SOP in a particular format, make sure you follow it.
A good SOP will demonstrate your passion for the subject, your potential and your purpose for choosing the particular course.

What is the basic format of an SOP?

It is not an easy task to create an SOP or Statement of Purpose from scratch. Getting ready for an incisive SOP is going to take some time, probably weeks or months. But writing an SOP without following any guidelines will not help because most SOP rejections happen when those don’t comply with standard requirements.

Every SOP must have an introduction, body and conclusion. These three parts need to be clearly defined with the necessary information.

It should be written in the form of an essay, with paragraphs.

The first paragraph should introduce yourself, mention your academic qualification and give a gist of your purpose for choosing a particular course. You can talk about your goals and how this course can help fulfil your dreams. You should be able to demonstrate your understanding of what the course comprises.

In your second and third paragraphs, you can talk about your passion for the subject and mention your academic and related activities and achievements that prove this. If you have professional experience, you can mention that too.

In the fourth paragraph , write about why you decided to pursue this course, at this particular university. Justify your choice with relevant points. You can point out your immediate and long-term goals too.

In the fifth paragraph , add points to convince the admission committee that you make an ideal candidate for the course.

In a short paragraph , mention your extra-curricular activities, projects you have undertaken, voluntary work, papers submitted if any, industry visits, workshops attended, dissertations and your interests and hobbies.

In your final paragraph , you should show the admission committee that you have the qualities and qualifications needed for succeeding in the course and that you will be able to make a difference in society with your success.

Please use this as a reference and not as a strict format to follow.

Check out our article for more detailed information on how to write a convincing SOP for studying abroad.

Sample SOP (Statement of Purpose) for studying abroad

Here is a sample SOP or Statement of Purpose to support your college application. Please note that these are just templates to help you gain an idea of how to draft an SOP. Please do not use them directly.

Name of the applicant: [Name]

Course applied: [Course name]

I am set to complete my undergraduate programme in [course name] in a few months’ time and I realised that this is a crucial stage in my career when I should decide the direction for my successful future. I have a great interest in the [subject], and this is the reason I am looking to pursue a graduate degree in the same. In addition, the rapid changes in [subject area] in recent times have made the role of a [Job name] a very indispensable one. In order to reach my goal of being a successful [Job role], it is of utmost necessity that I consider studying at [university name] with its rewarding research programme, excellent research facilities and inspiring environment.

I have always shown a keen interest in [subjects], which has enhanced my [skills]. These are my areas of strength which have helped me acquire [scores in the subject]% in my [last study level]. I scored [scores]% in senior secondary school with [score]% in [relevant subject] and [score]% in [relevant subject]. My overall percentage in [subjects] is [score]%.

Given my love towards [field of interest], pursuing higher studies in [subject] was quite natural. To study the course, I had to prove myself through [Competetive examinations]. I passed the examination with flying colours, being placed among the top X% of all the students who had attempted the test. I took up [course] in [College name] College affiliated with the prestigious [University name] in [Locality]. I chose [course] for my undergraduate major as I believed it has tremendous potential to help me realise my goal and also contribute to society. Throughout my undergraduate programme, I’ve maintained an excellent academic record.

My undergraduate programme has given me a comprehensive exposure to numerous courses that I found interesting – [Topics covered as part of the programme]. I strongly believe in practical learning; it is the hope of finding path-breaking results through experimentation that I find very fascinating. I took my study beyond the walls of my classroom – keeping myself occupied with numerous industrial visits. This helped me get a closer look at the application of various aspects of the subject. I presented [paper presentation numbers/topics] at the national and state levels, and also organised various technical events in college. I was elected the president of my department, taking into consideration my leadership qualities, communication skills and performance. I was also an active participant in [relevant topic] competitions organised by my university.

During the final year of my undergraduate degree, I undertook two projects – [Project names]. I was the [Your role in the project], and I learnt how to overcome numerous practical difficulties – with access to limited resources. I successfully completed both projects on time, with the guidance of technical experts in my college.

My objective in pursuing an MS in [subject] is to acquire in-depth knowledge and hone my intellectual ability. Ten years down the line, I envision myself in the manufacturing sector. I would like to apply what I learn in [The industry name] and contribute towards its development.

I find that your esteemed institution with its world-renowned high-tech facilities will be the ideal place for my graduate studies. I look forward to your acceptance of my application so that I can gain admission to [Programme name] programme.

Here are more samples for you to look at:

Sample SOPs for students looking for graduate studies in engineering abroad

sample SOP for Mechanical Engineering
sample SOP for Computer Engineering
sample SOP for technical studies

Sample SOP for students looking for MBA admissions abroad

sample SOP for the MBA programme

Sample SOPs for applying to medicine courses abroad

sample SOP for Medicine and Surgery
sample SOP for MSc in Cardiovascular and Diabetes Research

Sample SOPs for students looking to study MS courses abroad

sample SOP for MS in Computer Science
sample SOP for MS in Chemical Engineering
Font style and size are vital while drafting an SOP. These are often missed or not followed by students while drafting an SOP.
Write your SOP in the active voice and let it have a positive feel altogether.
The SOP should have a formal tone, but keep it conversational.
It should have continuity.
Follow the instructions, if any, given by the institution. For example, you might be asked to limit your SOP to one page.
Use examples in your SOP to garner the attention of the reader. These will stand out more than generic statements.
Keep editing and rewriting, till the last date you send it across. The more you edit, the better your work becomes. If you are running out of words, let the draft sit in one corner for a few days, and then get back to it with a fresh mind.
Your SOP should be tweaked based on the institution or course that you are applying to.
Avoid using commonly used adjectives while writing an SOP. For example, hard-working and challenging
Do not make vague and generic statements. It should be followed by specific instances from your life.
Do not repeat the information in your SOP. Also if you have mentioned something in your resume, please do not copy-paste or repeat it in your SOP. Let the information in your resume be distinct from that in your SOP.
It is difficult to pull off humour and sarcasm in writing. Hence, it is safe to stay clear of those.
Most importantly, never copy anyone’s SOP and pass it on as your own. There are tools that can catch plagiarism, which is a serious offence.
Though your confident persona should show through the SOP, make sure you won’t be mistaken as an arrogant and self-obsessed person.
Do not draw attention to your drawback or failures, unless you highlight that those were your learning experiences and you did something about it.
Do not include information that is not necessary or relevant to your college education.

You may like: common do’s and don’ts while writing an SOP !

1. What is an SOP or Statement of Purpose meant for?

An SOP or Statement of Purpose should say exactly what it asks for – elaborate on your purpose for selecting the particular course. The letter should highlight your passion for the subject and present yourself as an ideal candidate for the course.

2. Should I write the SOP or Statement of Purpose on my own?

Only you have first-hand knowledge of your skills, passion, academic performance, and other personal details. Hence it is best to write the SOP on your own. You can of course get it edited or proofread by others to ensure that you meet all the SOP requirements and that it is free of errors.

3. What is SOP in overseas education?

SOP stands for Statement of Purpose which is a document that accompanies the university applications. It is a letter written by the candidate to highlight facts about them that are not captured in the resume and academic documents. It is an opportunity for the student to make their application stand out.

4. What should I avoid in an SOP?

Repeating information that is available in other documents that accompany your application, providing vague or generic information, writing in a casual tone and not sticking to the basic SOP requirements should be avoided.

5. Do SOPs have a word limit?

Unless specified by the university, your SOP can range from 800 – 1500 words. It is best to limit it to 1 page as the admission committee will have to go through hundreds of SOPs and will be pressed for time.

Here are related topics you might be interested in:

How to justify your backlogs in an SOP

Other documents required for studying abroad

Editor's note : This article was originally published in January 2018. Our content writer Roshna Mohan has edited it to include up-to-date information and made it comprehensive.

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SOP (Statement of Purpose): Format, Samples, and Tips

Updated on
May 13, 2023

To aesthetically present a movie on the screen, great actors are the requisites. Similar is the case when one is carving their own career path. From choosing the right course to getting into your dream university, you need to take each step carefully. As a crucial part of the eligibility criteria, the universities often demand LOR s, SOPs or entrance test scores to assess the candidates and their suitability for the chosen course. A Statement of Purpose (SOP) is one such element that beholds great value in the admission process of those aspiring to study abroad. Creating an alluring SOP is essential to help the assessment committee understand your willingness for the program you have applied for. This blog aims to provide a comprehensive step-by-step guide on drafting a statement of purpose that can help you sail smoothly through the assessment process and get entry into your dream academic institution.

This Blog Includes:

What is a statement of purpose (sop), why is sop important, sop format, 2. formulate, 3. revise and modify, what do colleges look for in an sop, how to write a perfect statement of purpose (sop / admissions essay), introduction, academic background and professional experience, career goals, why this course, why this university, how long should an sop be, what to include in an sop, what not to include in an sop, 10 tips to write a successful statement of purpose, sop sample for business analytics, sample statement of purpose for mba , sample statement of purpose for masters, sop formats for usa, canada, uk, and australia, top 5 mistakes to avoid while writing an sop, how can you reduce your chances of rejection from your chosen university, can sops help with scholarships, sop vs letter of motivation, sop vs personal statement.

A Statement of Purpose can be referred to as an informative document, containing personal statements, and is essentially required as part of the admission procedure of study abroad programs. Also referred to as an application essay, it comprises the basic details of a candidate along with their professional and personal interests, academic highlights as well as future aspirations. An SOP plays an integral role in the application process of a study abroad program as it provides the admission board with the key information about the candidate and why they want to study a particular course at their institution. It not only describes who you are as an individual but also gives an idea about your writing skills and proficiency in the English language.

A well-written SOP is an extremely significant element during your admission process. While the academic record and other exam scorecards, academic transcripts and backlog certificates are essentially objective in nature, an SOP is the only truly subjective aspect of your application. It is the only document in your application that gives you the opportunity to prove that you have something unique which makes you stand out from the crowd. As such, it is the document of your application docket that can hugely determine your admission.

As such, there is no particular or proper format for writing a statement of purpose or an SOP. Students have to write an SOP just like an elaborative and descriptive English essay dividing the whole context into different paragraphs. Each paragraph must be having distinctive features describing different scenarios, features or characteristics about yourself. You can take the help of the below-provided structure and get started with writing an SOP for the university you want to study in.

How to Write a Statement of Purpose?

As a pivotal document for any study abroad application, an SOP needs to be precisely well-written. To help you understand the different elements of this document, we have curated a step-by-step procedure that you can follow to curate an impressive statement of purpose.

The first step of the process of drafting a statement of purpose is to think about the varied aspects of your candidature that you should mention in it. The mandatory inclusions of an SOP are academic achievements (especially at the undergraduate level), prior work exposure or volunteering experiences. Start with framing an outline for the document and ask yourself the following questions:

Which field of study excites me the most?
Why do I want to pursue this degree?
What are my expectations from this degree?
What outgrowth can this degree offer me?
Where can this degree take me, personally and professionally?
Through my pre-requisites, what values can I add to this program?

Once you have made key pointers for most of the questions mentioned above, you can begin jotting them down in a thorough and comprehensive manner.

Now that you know what you want to mention in your SOP, it’s time to curate a rough outline for the document. Here is a list of some essential tips you need to keep in mind while formulating your statement of purpose:

Since the admission committee strives to understand your candidature through the SOP, you need to be honest in describing your career aspirations and objectives. Focus centrally on maintaining the authenticity of your mentioned details. Duly elaborate on your advantageous perception of the chosen course.
Creatively cite your personal and professional interests. Mention what you are passionate about and what excites you. Then, sensibly connect it with your chosen program and how it will assist you in grooming your skills. For instance, you can state that you are aspiring to gain experiential learning or training in your desired industry through the course.
What brought you here should be a sure-shot mention in your SOP. You can begin with stating those features of your chosen course that convinced you to opt for it. Then, write down the objectives you want to fulfil by studying the program. It can be personal growth or professional upliftment or even both. Try to be unique and precise when listing your reasons.

Once you have jotted down your SOP as per the above-mentioned necessary tips, the final and concluding step is to revise and make changes accordingly. Go through the list that you created in the beginning and ensure that you have added all of them.

The word limit for a statement of purpose is between 500-1000.
Do not miss out the predefined sizes for spacing, margins and font size.
Try getting a second opinion but getting your SOP read from a friend or an experienced professional.

Many foreign and even national universities ask for a Statement of Purpose (SOP) from candidates wanting to enrol in suitable courses that the university has to offer. They ask for the SOP from candidates in order to check and look at the following things:

The writing capabilities of the writer or the candidate
The X factor that makes their writing stand out from the crowd
Choice of thoughts and ideas that has been explained in the SOP
The unique personality of the candidate
Candidate’s talent, previous experiences, interests and potential
How and what can the candidate contribute to the department of the college/university
Candidate’s motivation or inspiration to study a selected course must be evident and justified
The reason behind to choose a particular university/college and a particular course of study
Academic and extracurricular achievements and recognitions (if any)
Originality and clarity of the SOP as a whole.

To know more, read our blog on – How to Write an SOP?

Check out the video on the same below!

How to Write a powerful and convincing SOP?

Whether applying for undergraduate, graduate, or post-graduate programmes, the strategy of writing a powerful statement of purpose should be sound focused throughout. Starting from your academic and professional background to your career aspirations, you need to carefully connect all the dots between reaching your goals through your choice of school and course. The essay should always go in a flow covering your past experience, present involvements, and future plans. An important point to remember while writing your SOP would be to divide it into paragraphs that cover all the pointers. Here is a look at how you may write the SOP presenting your profile strongly:

This paragraph is often confused with self-introduction. It should not introduce you but should discuss what you are about to discuss in your SOP. There are multiple approaches you may adopt to go about this paragraph:

Discuss your long-term goal and connect it with your idea of pursuing the course you are applying to
Present your understanding of the chosen field and write how you want to contribute to that field
Explain your background in 2-3 lines and connect it with your future goals
Write about an anecdote that helped you realise your professional interest in the chosen field

This comprises of your academic background: what you have done so far, what you are currently pursuing, your academic strengths and projects, and the industrial exposure you have attained.

This is the most important paragraph, where you should discuss your short and long-term goals. Your immediate goal would be where you would want to work right after completing this course. You should be able to name some companies within India along with the designation you see yourself working at. This should explain the kind of job profile you would be working on.

Then comes your long-term goal, wherein you should mention where you see yourself from 10-12 or 15 years down the line. This may include your desire of working at the CEO/CFO/CTO level or maybe establish a firm that you own. It may also include your dream of expanding your existing family business overseas. You may also be interested in further studies like a PhD which can be included here.

More in this section may include your desire of becoming a professor or researcher. In any case, it is suggested that you discuss your business aim, principles, and core values or how you would influence the young aspirants of this industry. You should be able to portray ‘how you wish to make a difference in the industry keeping in mind the current industrial scenarios and emerging trends.

In this paragraph, you should discuss why you want to join a course and what modules would you tap during this course. It should also cover the skills you would acquire in this duration along with the exposure that would help in developing the skills desired to realise your goals.

This is a specific paragraph wherein you can convince a university as in how they are suitable for your profile and you are an ideal candidate for their university. You should discuss the course curriculum, research work, faculty names, as well as the university-specific activities that would help you in enhancing your profile.

Ideally, if considering an internationally renowned university, then the statement of purpose should be at least 1-2 pages long. In terms of word count, then the same should be around 1000 words. Having said that, the word limit and the length may also sometimes depend on the university that the candidate is targeting and also on the level of degree. Like for example, a candidate who is writing an SOP for an undergraduate program may not exceed 800 to 1000 words whereas a candidate who is writing an SOP for a PhD or M.Phil degree course has to write it in around 1200 words and sometimes even more. Some universities even have a fixed length and word count which is uniform for all the programs and courses.

There are many elements to an SOP. Universities could ask question-based essays or simply a general statement of purpose. Until and unless categorically asked, an SOP must include your goals and the career path you have taken up so far as well as your academic progress. Other elements that are further important to the SOP are also the personal motivations that lead you to choose the university/course you have applied to as well as how you intend to use that experience to achieve that goal.

Following are a few things that you must do in order to make your SOP application strong:

Your Statement of Purpose should have a unique and engaging beginning as well as an end. It must be original, a reflection of you.
Explain your academic background, present and future aspirations. Through this, you must justify your choice of a particular course for masters or doctorate courses.
Upon reading your SOP, the admission officer should be able to understand how you can contribute to the university in terms of research and further scope in your chosen area.
Always write your SOP in an active voice and ensure you provide information in a manner that is a reflection of your passion and optimism. If you have any statements or references, try quoting them with relevant examples rather than being direct.

Often universities come across a lengthy statement of purpose and yet they reject it. Even when you cannot find one grammatical error, the seemingly excellent SOP would be rejected. And the primary reason is – too much unnecessary information. For instance, just because you might want to talk about your family, does not mean you go on and on to talk about only your family. While your SOP should be a brag sheet, it should be a brag sheet with a substance. You need to pick and choose what to include. Pick a theme and mention the accomplishments that make the most sense to your candidacy.

Weave your career path into a story, not statements.
Do not write what you think should be written. Personalise the SOP and make it your own.
Do not stress over it. Although it is an important part of your application, the SOP should be a direct reflection of you.
Find the deeper meaning behind the events of your life and pen them down.
Give a strong reason as to why you chose the particular school and course.
Be specific in the timeline of events.
Use a formal but conversational tone.
Accept your mistakes and explain how you are willing to act on improving. Use action items.
Give yourself enough time to write the SOP and edit it constantly.
Proofread, edit, re-edit and then edit it again! There is always room for improvement, remember that.

Statement of Purpose Samples

Here are some good examples of well structured SOPs that you can refer to while writing your own.

“ A successful career in Business Management requires adequate knowledge to utilise the strengths and weaknesses of an individual. In my undergraduate degree, I majored in economics and psychology because I believe that understanding these two fields is important for leading a successful business. I want to increase my experiences and knowledge further by pursuing an Executive MBA, which will equip me with advanced skills that are necessary to achieve my career goals.

As I have carried out various leadership positions, I have learned how to efficiently work in teams and pursue the specified goals. In my previous company, ABC, I successfully implemented the strength-cum-weakness finder software which helped us assign projects to the groups based on the mapped data. As employees got allotted tasks as per their efficiency, it resulted in a 30% net gain for the company over the following year. I believe that a successful business leader understands the importance of strategically utilizing a company’s resources to ensure the maximum potential and development of the company. Further, the pivotal thing I learned about myself by taking up leadership roles is that teamwork is a crucial element of successfully achieving an organisation’s objectives. An Executive MBA will help me furnish my leadership skills imparting me with the knowledge of hierarchical structures and how to work with other leaders of different domains in an effective manner.

Studying for an Executive MBA, I plan to take charge of multiple team projects throughout the duration of the degree so that I can polish my teamwork skills. I aspire to work under industry leaders and attain global exposure. Pursuing this degree from your institution, I aim to gain professional as well as personal skills that can help me soar through my career journey. ”

I had a keen interest in Biology since childhood. I was eager to learn about the living organisms around my surroundings and how they function. I took this interest forward and decided to pursue my higher education in biology. When I was first introduced to the field of biotechnology, I was mesmerized by what technology can do to improve the life of any living organism. This inspired me to look at various research programmes in biotechnology and how we are moving towards a phase where technology can alter even the basic fragments of any living organism and change the course of life an organism goes through. I observed the various research patterns that have been taking place in the agricultural industry with the advent of GMO (Genetically Modified Organisms) giving birth to the Green Revolution. This was only one potential achievement in the extensive list of achievements that biotechnology was progressing towards. I worked with a reputed biotech firm which gave me an insight into how fast-paced the research in biotechnology is. The firm gave me the necessary exposure leading me to decide that I want to pursue MS in Biotechnology. My ambition to work in this field lies essentially in bringing changes in the lifestyle of people in a way that I can research and extensively study the required positive steps towards climate change. My goal is to achieve a sustainable lifestyle for every individual. The exposure that your esteemed institution will give me in the field of research will help me achieve this goal by working at a reputed platform

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Here is the basic format for USA, Canada, UK and Australia:

If you are planning to study abroad and want to write a good and outstanding statement of purpose for the university that you are targeting, then here are some of the common mistakes that you can avoid from the very beginning while writing an SOP:

Writing the SOP at the last moment without any plan of action or a roadmap
Writing a weak and vague introduction and conclusion
Using informal language, slangs, short forms in your SOP
Exceeding the word limit and not reaching the correct word limit at all
Making your SOP excessively flashy and flattery

If you are eligible for any college-specific scholarships, then during the application process you will be required to write a separate essay/SOP. Either you will be given an essay prompt/question along with a word limit or they would simply ask for an SOP stating the reasons why you think you deserve this scholarship and/or what makes you unique from the rest of the candidates? Thus, a generic SOP is different from a scholarship SOP.

Must Read: LOR: Types, Format, Sample and Tip s

A Letter of Motivation is a letter directly addressed to the admission committee/department faculty explaining your objectives, motivation and goals related to the course. The SOP is not addressed to any specific person or department, it is drafted in an essay format, whereas, the motivational letter is always addressed to a professor or department under whose guidance you will be studying.

Also Read: How to Write a Motivation Letter?

Very much similar to an SOP, Personal Statements are an on-page essay where you write about your motivation, inspiration, goals, and achievements. Personal Statements usually have a more intimate tone than SOP as it talks about the highlighted incidents of your life. Another crucial difference between an SOP and a Personal Statement is that an SOP is addressed to no one in particular, while a Personal Statement is addressed to a professor or department under who you choose to study.

Only your LORs need to be attested by your college or company. An SOP need not be attested/self-attested until and unless specified by the university. If you take a LOR from your college professor/school teacher or a Principal/Dean, then that LOR needs to be signed by the recommender along with the college/school stamp and letterhead. Similarly, for professional LORs, they need to be signed by their respective recommenders on the company’s letterhead and company stamp.

Once you have finalised your SOP draft, give it a double-check for grammatical and formatting mistakes. Your next step should be to analyse and critique your essay. Look at your SOP through the eyes of the Adcom and see what you find lacking. For more effective inputs, you can show your drafts to your friends and family and see how they react to them. Accordingly, you can make some changes but do not overdo it or deviate from the format. Lastly, check for spacing errors and save the final SOP which you will be using for the application process.

You should avoid mentioning any low marks or shortcomings about yourself in any of the application documents, including SOP. There are very few universities that ask you about your gap year. For them, you can mention the reason for the gap between your studies. Generally, no university asks about low grades during your study period as your selection depends on various criteria like exam scores, student profile, financials, and so on. Thus, it is advised against mentioning any flaws or low marks.

Hence, we hope that now you are geared up with all the quintessential tips to start carving out your SOP. If you still have doubts or need further professional guidance, you can always reach out to our Leverage Edu experts and we’ll assist you throughout the admission process, be it selecting a suitable course and university or drafting impressive SOPs and LORs. Call us immediately at 1800 57 2000 for a free 30-minute counselling session. Further, also follow us on Instagram , Youtube , LinkedIn , Quora and Facebook for more educational content.

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As an aspiring MBA applicant, your SOP for MBA admission must be purposeful, creative, and so well written that it highlights your business and professional strengths in the right manner to the admission panelists to proceed with their program at the institute and thus nailing your chances of admission in your choice of business school.
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The company turned out to be … Analysis of the SOP so far: As one reads through the comments of the underlined parts of the above personal statement, it becomes clear that their is a deliberate and subtle design in every line. The key to writing a winning MBA or Business Masters SOP is to identify the best starting phase.
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