Blog
Resources for Black MBA Applicants
October 10, 2025
Black students represent an important talent pipeline for firms across industries. In this blog post, we at Stratus outline several notable pre- and post-MBA programs that will provide a great launching pad for your professional career. (Note: Program details are subject to change. Please consult each organization directly to verify program availability and eligibility requirements.)…
How to Craft a Compelling MBA Personal Narrative
October 6, 2025
While contemplating how to present yourself to MBA admissions teams, are you staring at a blank page and thinking, “I don’t have a unique story”? If so, you’re not alone. When applying to top MBA programs, one of the most daunting tasks can be crafting a compelling personal narrative. In fact, it’s the number-one reason…
LGBTQIA+ Clubs at Top MBA Programs
October 2, 2025
Even though the national conversation around diversity has shifted since last year, business schools continue to value diversity along every dimension and go to great lengths to make their programs welcoming to all, including LGBTQIA+ applicants and students. The top MBA programs in the United States all have LGBTQIA+ student clubs. As you research business…
Should I Consider a Master in Management or Master in Management Studies?
October 2, 2025
Are you a liberal arts or engineering major who is interested in accelerating your career in business? Did you miss out on taking introductory courses that would prepare you for roles in consulting, banking, or general management? Are you an international student who wants to mitigate risk as you look to secure your first job…
Top Business School Clubs and Recruiting Events for Active-Duty Military and Veterans
October 1, 2025
Are you an active military member or a veteran considering applying to business school? MBA programs seek veterans and active military members because, as we discuss in “How to Leverage Your Military Experience in MBA Applications,” traits that lead to success in military service can also lead to success in business school and beyond—in particular,…
October Tips to Get You Ready for Round 2 MBA Application Deadlines
October 1, 2025
As many aspiring MBA students are wrapping up Round 1 applications or anxiously awaiting a coveted interview invite, perhaps you are wondering where to begin! Do not worry. If you use your time wisely, you can complete several applications to submit before Round 2 MBA deadlines this January. Here is what you need to be doing in…
How to Leverage Your Military Experience in MBA Applications
October 1, 2025
Perhaps you are leaving active military service and hoping an MBA can help provide a smooth transition to civilian life. Or maybe you are pausing your active service to get an MBA with the goal of gaining skills to boost your military career. Will schools view your military service in a positive light? YES! The…
Women’s Groups and Events at Top MBA Programs
October 1, 2025
Business schools value the perspectives and experiences that diverse groups bring to their programs, and these institutions go to great lengths to attract and welcome the most qualified and representative set of candidates to enhance learning opportunities for all. The top 25 MBA programs in the United States all have clubs, groups, events, and programs…
Top MBA Programs’ Fall 2025 Diversity Events for Prospective Students
September 30, 2025
One of the best ways for prospective business school students to learn about how well they might fit with an MBA program is by engaging with enrolled students who come from a similar cultural background. To facilitate this research, top business schools are offering diversity events this year to provide aspiring MBAs an opportunity to…
Attention International Applicants: Top US MBA Programs with STEM Designations
September 29, 2025
The top 25 MBA programs have all certified their programs or a specific major, pathway, or concentration as STEM (science, technology, engineering, math). A STEM designation for an MBA program allows international students with F1 visas the eligibility to extend the Optional Practical Training (OPT) period to work in the United States from 12 months…
Applying to MBA Programs When You Have an Untraditional Background
September 25, 2025
Over the past 10–15 years, top MBA programs have accepted more students from untraditional backgrounds, including education (e.g., Teach for America), the Peace Corps, PR/media/communications, and the government/public sector. Having students from a range of different backgrounds adds to the diversity of business school classes. In all types of programs, but especially those that use…
MBA Application Optional Essay: Strategic Tips for Applicants
September 22, 2025
When applying to top MBA programs, you’ll likely encounter an “optional essay” as part of the application process. It can be tempting to skip this section, especially if you feel your application is already strong. But should you? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all; it depends on your circumstances and the specific guidance provided by each school….