Hello and welcome! I’m Patrik Wallén, the new Director of MBA Admissions at IESE Business School. While this is a new chapter for me, I’ve been deeply rooted in the IESE community for years—first as an MBA student (Class of 2007), and later leading our Career Development Center, supporting our students land meaningful roles with top global employers.
Now, I’m excited to help guide you through the next big step in your journey: applying to the IESE MBA Class of 2028. Our application for the September 2026 intake is now live. Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or are deep into test prep and essay drafts, here are some reminders and tips to help you put your best foot forward.
🗓 Application Rounds: Timing Matters (And So Does Readiness)
We typically offer four application rounds:
- Round 1: September
- Round 2: January
- Round 3: March
- Round 4: May (Note: Only for EU passport holders or visa-exempt candidates)
Please refer to our website for specific dates, decision deadlines and payment deadlines.
💡Pro Tip: Apply early if you’re applying for a scholarship—Rounds 1 to 3 offer the best chances. However, never rush just to meet a deadline. A thoughtful, well-prepared application always stands out.
🧠 GMAT or GRE: Required, But Not Everything
A valid GMAT or GRE score is mandatory—no exceptions. We accept both older and newer versions of the tests, as long as your score is valid.
Aim for a GMAT score within our accepted range of 545 – 715 (or an equivalent GRE score). Don’t worry about taking the test more than once—we’ll focus on your highest score.
While a strong score can boost your application, especially for scholarships, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. We evaluate candidates holistically, considering your academic background, work experience, essays, interview, and Assessment Day participation.
📞 Need advice on your score? Reach out to our Admissions team. We’re happy to chat!
🎯 Essays: Let Your Goals and Passion Shine
As part of your MBA application, you’ll be asked to complete two mandatory essays—this is your chance to tell us your story.
Essay 1 dives into your career vision. What are your immediate post-MBA goals? Where do you see yourself in the medium and long term? We want to understand your purpose and impact that you would like to make. Be clear, be ambitious, and most importantly, be you.
Essay 2 asks why IESE is the right place for your MBA journey. Use this space to connect the dots between who you are, where you’re headed, and how IESE can help get you there.
Show us your drive, values, and vision. We want to understand your aspirations and how you see IESE as a launchpad. Don’t hold back—this is your moment to stand out.
🎥 Video Assessment: Show Us the Real You
Once you’ve submitted your written application, you’ll receive a link to our video essay platform (within 24 hours). Once received you have 48 hours to complete it.
What to expect:
- Three video questions
- 1 minute to prepare
- 1.5 minutes to respond to each
We want to see your authentic you, so don’t overthink it. We’re not looking for perfection; we’re looking for your potential, character, and communication skills.
⏳ Reminder: Your application is only considered complete once your video essays are submitted, so make sure you have enough time to submit your video essays too before the round deadline.
👥 Alumni Interviews: A Two-Way Conversation
Interviews may be conducted by an IESE Admissions Committee member or one of our trained alumni volunteers. Most interviews are virtual for flexibility, but in-person meetings are encouraged when feasible.
This is not just an evaluation—it’s a chance for you to learn more about IESE from someone who’s lived it.
🤝 Assessment Day: Experience the IESE Spirit
Assessment Days are an integral part of our admissions process and are held:
- On campus (Barcelona, New York, São Paulo)
- Virtually, for global accessibility
During the day, you’ll take part in group activities that reflect IESE’s collaborative culture. You’ll also meet fellow applicants, alumni, and Admissions staff.
While optional, participation is strongly recommended and may influence admissions and scholarship decisions.
Not invited? Don’t stress. Some applicants move forward based on other touchpoints or are not invited due to space limits.
👥 Research: Talk to current students or alumni from the program
We strongly encourage you to reach out to current MBA students or alumni to ask them about their experience of the application process, the program, and their internship and post-MBA job search. Our Alumni are our best advocates, and can help you determine if IESE is truly the best fit for you.
💬Let’s Connect
If you have questions or want personalized advice, please reach out to your regional Associate Director—we’re happy to help.
You can also submit your CV here for a profile review.
Best of luck on your journey. I look forward to meeting many of you soon!
The MBA Admissions Team look forward to welcoming you in Barcelona!
Sincerely,
Patrik Wallén
MBA Admissions Director
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