Applying to Kellogg: Your step-by-step checklist

Eager to join our community of Kellogg Leaders? Here’s everything you need to know to prepare a strong application to one of our Full-Time MBA Programs.
Written by:
LeeAnn Shelton
5 minute read

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Two Kellogg students smile and engage in conversation during a classroom session. They are seated at a curved table with notebooks and nameplates in front of them, suggesting a collaborative learning environment.

Applying to a Kellogg Full-Time MBA Program is your opportunity to join a vibrant community of future leaders — peers who will become not just classmates but also your friends and supporters for life. 

We know the process can feel overwhelming, so we’ve created this step-by-step checklist to help you prepare your best application and feel confident about becoming part of the Kellogg community.

1. Engage with our community 

Before diving into your application, take time to explore what the Kellogg experience is all about. You’ll see that collaboration and community are at the heart of everything we do, and that we strive to foster a special combination of analytical, creative and social intelligence within each student. 

Get in touch with our admissions team, come to an admissions event, and start to explore what it would be like to live in Evanston. Follow Kellogg on social media to stay inspired and informed. This exploration is a great way to picture yourself at Kellogg and see if it feels like the right place for you both in and out of the classroom. This exploration will help you align your goals with the Kellogg experience and show the admissions committee that you’re a great fit.

2. Choose the right Full-Time MBA Program

Kellogg offers several distinct Full-Time MBA programs, including: One-Year, Two-Year, MBAi, MMM, JD-MBA and MD-MBA. Each is uniquely designed to fit your personal and professional goals. We encourage you to research all program options to find the best fit for your needs.

You can apply to one Full-Time Kellogg program per year. After you submit your application, you may also select an alternate Full-Time program and/or the Kellogg Evening & Weekend MBA program. If you choose an alternate program, be prepared to provide a short paragraph explaining why you are interested in that program.

3. Tell your story authentically

The admissions team wants to understand you beyond your resume. Think about moments that highlight your leadership, resilience and growth. Essays are your chance to share these reflections, as well as highlight your motivations, aspirations and what you bring to the Kellogg community. 

Be genuine and avoid generic responses. Remember: there are no “right” or “wrong” answers, and admissions officers want to hear your real voice. We want to understand the experiences that have shaped you as a person and as a professional.

You will submit two written essays with your application, and some programs may require additional written responses. After you submit your application and payment, you will receive a link with directions to record and upload your video essay. Think of the video as your chance to bring to life the story you’ve told through your resume and written essays.

4. Gather and prepare your application materials

Collect your transcripts from all educational institutions, an updated resume or CV, your test scores and two letters of recommendation. 

Your resume should highlight your impact and leadership; focus on achievements that showcase how you’ve grown and contributed in your roles. For your letters of recommendation, choose people who truly know your work and character. Ideally, they should be able to speak in detail about your leadership, teamwork and potential. Provide them with context about your career goals and why you’re applying to Kellogg.

We recommend you give yourself time to gather these documents to help reduce last-minute stress and ensure your materials are polished.

5. Submit your application with confidence

Before hitting submit, carefully review every part of your application. Check that all materials are complete, clear and polished. Trust in your story and the unique perspective you bring. Remember, the admissions process is holistic, and every applicant brings something special to the table.

You can submit an update to your application after you submit it if your employment changes, or if you receive new test scores or grades for recent classes. Simply sign in to your application and add the new info in the supplemental information page. 

6. Prepare for your interview

This is a chance for you to meet with a member of the Kellogg community one-on-one as we get to know you better. Use storytelling techniques, like the STAR approach, for example: explaining a project or experience by laying out the Situation (S), Task (T), Action (A) and Result (R) you achieved. Think about how to answer questions clearly and compellingly, and practice giving your answer in your chosen format. 

Be ready to discuss your career goals and why Kellogg is the right fit. Most importantly, be yourself: let your personality shine through and demonstrate how you engage as a peer and learner.

Your application is your chance to show us who you truly are and what motivates you. Don’t wait — start your application journey today. We can’t wait to meet you and see how you’ll contribute to the Kellogg community.