UPDATE: This article was originally posted on June 8, 2020. It has been updated with new information and tips below.
With a strong focus on leadership and an idyllic location on the shores of Lake Geneva, the IMD MBA is one of the most popular MBA programs in Europe.
However, with impressive recruiting statistics and the close-knit network built among members of IMD’s small class, competition to join this elite MBA is more difficult than ever.
That’s why we’ve prepared this guide to help you use your IMD admissions essays to stand out. We’ve rounded up our best tips to ensure you give your IMD application your best shot.
1. Who is IMD looking for?
(Photo courtesy of @IMDbusinessschoolmba on Instagram)
“We want to see candidates who understand the magnitude of change and opportunity the business world is facing. You will need to convince us that you have a vision of what lies ahead and of your desire and capacity to play a part in shaping the future of our world.” IMD Admissions
Every year, IMD scours the globe (36 countries are represented in the current class) for the outstanding professionals given the honor of joining its annual class of around 90 students. With a strong emphasis on diversity, there is no “typical” IMD student, yet the average admitted student for the Class of 2023 (the last year for which official data is available) had an average of 6 years of work experience and 36% women. Though IMD doesn’t release official GMAT averages, they “recommend that you aim for above a 630, or 585 in the focus edition and 320 for GRE.”
Beyond the impressive statistics, though, IMD is looking for candidates who want to make a positive impact on the world through their careers. That’s why, in addition to strong academic performance (demonstrated through the GMAT/GRE and university grades), IMD seeks candidates who possess the following qualities:
If this sounds like a community in which you’d be right at home, you’ll first have to prove you’ve got what it takes by successfully answering IMD’s admissions essay questions.
2. How should I answer the IMD essay questions?
As one of the most direct and to-the-point applications in the MBA world, you might be tempted to just jump right into writing your essays. However, since the essays ask about how you have connected with the community, we suggest you make sure to research the IMD program and its advantages for your career in-depth before getting started.
2.1. Short Answer Tips
What other programs are you applying to? (Word limit 100)
The purpose of this essay is to understand how serious you are about applying to IMD. If you are applying to other programs, it’s important to mention them, but use the majority of this space to answer the “what can IMD bring to you as a differentiator” portion of the question.
Finally, prove you really want to attend IMD by devoting a part of your answer to showing how you plan to navigate the school and its many offerings. I always encourage candidates to start answering these types of Why XYZ School questions by considering, “If you do X MBA at this school how will the person you become be different than if you attended Y MBA?”
In general, research into the program’s specifics is essential to support your answer. Thus make sure you prove to your reader that you understand how IMD is uniquely positioned to help you reach your goals and show your passion for their program. If you’ve visited the school, have interacted with any students or alumni, or have otherwise meaningfully interacted with the school, you may also want to include that information in this essay.
Do you already have a network in place? (Text box word limit 50)
You will answer this question after choosing your goals from a dropdown list. Make sure you have a list of 2-3 companies prepared and indicate what you see yourself achieving in this role.
Thinking about the fact that you want to demonstrate your likelihood of success in achieving your goals, in as much detail as possible, mention how you have already worked to build your network in this area. This could include speaking with current employees at your target companies, speaking with relevant headhunters, or even connecting with IMD alumni who have targeted these sorts of industries.
Essentially, you want to use this essay to show IMD that you’re aware of what your target role entails and have already taken steps to ensure you’re successful when you later recruit for these positions.
Which skills & experiences will aid your post-MBA career goals? What are the challenges and road blockers that you may experience and how will you overcome them? (Word limit 200 – 300)
This question is a continuation of the previous question, in a sense, since it asks you to justify the relevant experience you have that will set you up for success when recruiting for your target role. You may want to choose 1-2 short STAR stories that show off that you have relevant experience that will help you succeed in reaching your post-MBA plans.
For the section on challenges you may face, think critically about issues in your industry. For example, if having a strong network in the space is essential to landing a job in PE, mention this. Your answer will also be strengthened if you add how you learned this and what steps you plan to take (or have taken) to overcome this challenge. This can be a great place to show off that you’ve already interacted with IMD students and alums to learn about their experiences with recruitment. You may also want to mention how IMD’s career center can further benefit you!
What is your plan B if you are not able to secure your ideal job post MBA? (Text box word limit 50)
When answering this question, make sure to show that the backup job role(s) you present are realistic, well-defined, and are aligned with your career passions.
For example, if you’re hoping to become a C-level executive in a renewable energy company and planned to join an MBB consulting firm to prepare you for these challenges, an appropriate backup may be working at a smaller consulting firm that specializes in energy. This demonstrates consistency in your goals and your dedication to the passion that’s driving your career.
Need more guidance?
Our MBA Resource Center has dozens of essays that worked to get our clients admitted to help you plan out a winning IMD essay.
Our library also includes guides for all top global MBA programs, detailed essay brainstorms, interview tips and mocks, CV templates, and recommendation letter guides. Click to join! 
2.2. Essay 1 Tips
Tell us your story. (Make sure you include specific examples that would be relevant to the application process). Minimum length 300 words and maximum 400.
On the surface, this prompt seems simple. However, it requires a strategic approach to make a compelling case for why you deserve a spot in IMD’s MBA program. Here’s how to tackle it.
IMD wants to understand who you are beyond your resume and test scores. They are looking for authenticity, self-awareness, and a clear sense of direction. This essay is your opportunity to showcase your individuality and align your personal story with the values and expectations of the IMD MBA program.
Here’s how to do it.
1 – Start with a strong opening
Your opening should grab the reader’s attention and set the tone for the rest of the essay. Consider starting with a compelling anecdote or a pivotal moment in your life that is related to your career goals or overall mission in life. You want to establish a theme here, since this is critical to giving this essay structure and coherence.
For example:
“When I was ten years old, my family moved to a small town in Italy. The experience of adapting to a new culture sparked my interest in global business, which has only grown stronger over the years.”
2 – Be specific and relevant
Specific examples make your essay more engaging and credible. Highlight experiences that have shaped your career aspirations and personal growth. This could include professional achievements, challenges overcome, or unique life experiences. No matter what you choose, make sure you’re using STAR format since this is the best way to get your stories across.
3 – Reflect on your experiences
Don’t just list your achievements; reflect on what you learned and how these experiences have prepared you for an MBA. This shows self-awareness and a willingness to grow, which are qualities valued by IMD.
For example:
“Leading the project was not without its challenges. I faced resistance from team members who were skeptical of new methods. By actively listening and incorporating their feedback, I was able to gain their trust and achieve our project goals. This experience highlighted the importance of adaptability and effective communication—skills I aim to hone further through IMD’s MBA program.”
4 – If relevant, connect with IMD’s values.
When sharing your stories, you may want to end (the R of your STAR) with a brief statement about how this connects to your interest in or passion for IMD. This will not only show that you’re someone who prioritizes self-reflection, it will also show that you have well-thought-out reasons for wanting to pursue your MBA at IMD.
5 – Conclude with a Strong Closing
Your conclusion should reinforce your main points and leave a lasting impression. Summarize why you’re a perfect fit for IMD and how the program will help you achieve your career goals.
For example:
“In summary, my experiences have shaped me into a driven and adaptable leader. I am confident that IMD’s MBA program will provide me with the skills and network needed to make a meaningful impact in the global business arena. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to and grow with the IMD community.”
By focusing on this structure (2-3 well-chosen STAR stories with a clear theme, a brief yet meaningful connection to IMD’s values, and a conclusion that reinforces your drive to attend their school), you’ll be well on your way to an interview.
TOP TIP: This is NOT a “Why IMD” essay prompt. Though you can mention top-level elements of what attracts you to the IMD program, you don’t want to devote essay space to outlining things like courses and professors you’re interested in.
2.2. Optional Essay Tips
Is there any additional information that is critical for the Admissions Committee which has not been covered elsewhere in this application? (i.e. re-application, health, grades, etc.) (Word limit 100)
This is not a place for you to retell your life story (that’s what E1 is for!) or sum up your interest in IMD or need for an MBA. Make sure you focus only on weak spots and also discuss what steps you have taken or took to rectify the weaknesses.
Find additional tips and tricks to help you master the optional essay here.
3. Worried you won’t get into your dream school?
You’ve built an impressive career and worked hard to get to this point, but now you’re facing the daunting task of pulling together a compelling MBA application. The pressure to choose which stories best sell your profile, write essays that reflect your achievements, prepare for interviews, and manage multiple deadlines can feel overwhelming. Are you doing enough to be noticed by admissions committees at top business schools?
At Ellin Lolis Consulting, we understand the stakes. With a 98.9% success rate, we’ve helped countless applicants just like you secure spots at their dream schools. Our expert consultants will work with you to develop a strategy tailored to your goals, ensuring every part of your application—from essays to interviews—tells a cohesive, compelling story that gets you in.
Don’t leave your future to chance. Learn more about working with us and take the first step toward a successful MBA application journey.
4. IMD Deadlines
IMD has multiple deadlines and varying in-person assessment days associated with each, so we recommend you check their deadlines here.
You can access the online application here.
You can access the online application here.
Real MBA Essays That Got People In
School-specific sample essays that got our clients accepted
