Applications for the IESE MBA September 2027 intake are now open! IESE Admissions Director Patrik Wallén shares five practical tips to help you prepare a strong application and make the most of the admissions process.
Every admissions cycle, we hear many of the same questions from prospective candidates. How can I stand out? What makes a strong application? What is IESE really looking for?
This year, those questions come at a particularly exciting moment for our MBA.
The world of business is changing rapidly, driven by artificial intelligence and new ways of working. As organizations rethink how decisions are made, how teams collaborate, and how leaders create value, business education must evolve alongside them.
That’s why we’ve redesigned the IESE MBA for the age of AI. Beginning with the September 2026 intake, AI is integrated throughout the curriculum—not as a standalone subject, but as a capability that future leaders must develop alongside sound managerial judgment. Our students will learn not only how to use AI effectively, but how to lead teams, redesign organizations and make responsible decisions in environments where humans and AI increasingly work together.
If you’re thinking about applying for the 2027 intake, here are five tips to help you prepare a strong application.
1. AI fluency matters, but judgment matters even more
While the qualities we look for in candidates remain the same, this year we’re adding a new video essay to better understand how applicants think about AI and its role in business.
Today, employers are looking for people who know how to use AI thoughtfully, when to rely on it, when to question it and, ultimately, how to combine it with good judgment.
Don’t worry, this isn’t a technical test. We’re not looking for coding skills or expertise in machine learning. What we’re really interested in is how you think. How do you approach new technologies? How do you evaluate information? How do you balance efficiency with ethics and human judgment?
These are the kinds of questions today’s leaders are grappling with every day, and we believe they’re becoming essential skills for tomorrow’s business leaders too.
2. The strongest applications come from genuine self-reflection
We recognize that many applicants now use AI tools to help brainstorm ideas, organize thoughts or polish their writing. That’s perfectly understandable. However, what ultimately stands out isn’t perfectly written prose.
What we’re really interested in is getting to know you.
The essays, interviews and video responses that leave the strongest impression are those that reveal genuine reflection, honest experiences and personal learning. We want to understand what motivates you, how you’ve grown through challenges, and why now is the right moment for an MBA.
AI can certainly help you communicate your story more clearly, but it shouldn’t tell your story for you. Your personal experiences, reflections and aspirations are what make your application unique.
3. Experience the IESE classroom for yourself
One of the things that makes IESE unique is our case method. It’s one of the main reasons many candidates choose IESE, and I believe it’s becoming even more valuable in the age of AI.
Today, answers are often just a click away. But great leadership isn’t about having the fastest answer. It’s about asking the right questions, thinking critically and making sound decisions. That’s exactly what the case method helps you develop.
Many students choose IESE because of our strength in the case methodology style of teaching.
If you’re considering applying, I encourage you to experience it for yourself. Attend an Open Day, visit one of our campuses or join a class. You’ll get a real feel for how we learn at IESE, meet members of our community and discover whether our collaborative, discussion-based approach is the right fit for you.
Sign up for one of our Open Days, Campus Tours or A Day in the Life here.
4. Learn from the people who have already lived the experience
One of the best ways to understand the IESE MBA is by speaking with those who know it best.
Our students and alumni are incredibly generous in sharing their experiences, from the challenges of the first year to career transitions, international opportunities and life after graduation.
These conversations often provide perspectives that no brochure or website can. More importantly, they help you determine whether IESE aligns with your own ambitions and leadership aspirations.
Many of our students and alumni are happy to connect on LinkedIn and share their experiences with prospective candidates, so don’t hesitate to reach out.
5. Connect early with our Admissions team
Many candidates think they should only contact Admissions if they have a specific question or when their application is almost complete. I would encourage you to do the opposite.
Our regional Associate Directors are here to guide you throughout the process. Whether you’re just starting your research, deciding when to apply, or wondering whether IESE is the right fit, we’re here to help.
Applying for an MBA can sometimes feel complicated, but it doesn’t have to. We invite you to connect with us for an informal one-to-one conversation. We can talk through your background and career goals, answer your questions, assess your profile fit and share practical advice on preparing the strongest application possible.
Ready to start the conversation? Submit your details here to receive personalised guidance from our Admissions Team.
A final thought
Every year, we review many impressive applications.
Strong academics, meaningful professional experience and leadership potential remain important. Alongside these, we value curiosity, resilience and adaptability that will help you lead in an increasingly complex business environment.
The future won’t belong to leaders who simply know how to use AI. It will belong to leaders who know how to ask better questions, make better decisions and bring out the best in both people and technology.
If this sounds like the kind of MBA experience you’re looking for, I strongly encourage you to apply.
We look forward to getting to know you and learning more about your story. Hope to see you on campus soon!
Sincerely,
Patrik Wallén
Admissions Director
IESE Business School
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