MIT Sloan MBA: Cover Letter and Video Essays Tips
The admissions process to MIT Sloan MBA program is quite unique. Unlike most top business schools, Sloan does not require traditional MBA essays. Instead, applicants must submit a 300-word cover letter and two video essays. This distinctive format reflects the school’s emphasis on concise communication, leadership potential, and authenticity. In this post, I am going to give you practical tips on how to ace the MIT Sloan MBA Cover Letter and Video Essays.
Understanding MIT Sloan’s Admissions Philosophy
MIT Sloan looks for candidates who are principled, innovative leaders with a collaborative mindset. The admissions committee values evidence of impact, intellectual curiosity, and a data-driven approach to problem-solving. With no traditional essays to elaborate on your story, you must carefully consider how to approach each part of the application. The cover letter and video essays are your chance to show who you are beyond your resume and scores.
You can find more information on the MIT Sloan MBA application process here.
Cover Letter
Format and Prompt
MIT Sloan asks for a cover letter, which cannot be more than 300 words, addressed to the admissions committee. The prompt usually reads:
“Please submit a cover letter seeking a place in the MIT Sloan MBA program. Your letter should be 300 words or fewer and addressed to the Admissions Committee.”
Objective
Think of the cover letter as a combination of a personal pitch and a value proposition. It should answer two key questions:
- Why do you want to pursue an MBA at MIT Sloan?
- Why should MIT Sloan admit you?
Suggested Structure
1. Opening (1-2 lines):
Start with a confident and respectful salutation. Briefly state your intention to apply and what draws you to Sloan.
2. Body (4-6 lines):
Highlight 2-3 of your strongest accomplishments or experiences that showcase leadership, impact, and analytical thinking. Be specific but concise.
3. Why Sloan? (3-5 lines):
Connect your goals with Sloan’s values, offerings, or unique features such as Action Learning Labs, the Sloan Fellows network, or the emphasis on principled leadership.
4. Closing (1-2 lines):
Reiterate your enthusiasm and thank the committee.
Tips for a Great Cover Letter
- Be succinct: Every word counts in a 300-word limit.
- Avoid repetition: Don’t repeat what is on your resume. Focus on insight and fit.
- Use a confident tone: You are not just requesting admission; you are explaining why you belong.
- Show authenticity: Reflect on your journey and purpose.
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Video Essay 1
Prompt
The first video essay prompt generally asks applicants to introduce themselves to their future classmates. You have 60 seconds to record a single, unedited video.
Objective
MIT Sloan uses this video to assess your communication skills, presence, and personality. It’s their way of getting to know you beyond paper.
How to Prepare
1. Understand the Audience:
Assume that you are not speaking to the admissions committee, but to your future classmates. Think about what they would find interesting about you.
2. Script a Rough Draft:
Write a draft, but do not memorize it. Act natural, and focus on who you are, where you are from, your interests, and something memorable.
3. Practice, Practice, Practice:
Record yourself multiple times to adjust your tone, speed, and comfort level. Ensure your response is under 60 seconds.
4. Choose the Right Setting:
Pick a quiet, well-lit environment. Dress professionally but comfortably. Avoid virtual backgrounds or anything distracting.
Suggested Structure
1. Introduction:
Your name, where you are from, and your professional background.
2. Something Personal:
Share a hobby, passion, or unique fact that makes you relatable.
3. Closing:
End with a warm note or something that shows your enthusiasm about joining Sloan.
Tips for a Great Video Essay
- Be enthusiastic: Energy and positivity go a long way.
- Be yourself: Authenticity is key. Do not try to say things that you feel the adcom prefers to hear.
- Keep it simple: The production values do not matter as much as the content.
- Smile and maintain eye contact: Look into the camera as if you are speaking to a friend.
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Video Essay 2
What to Expect
The second video essay is a randomly generated, open-ended question. You will not know the question in advance. Moreover, you will have just 10 seconds to prepare and 60 seconds to respond.
Objective
The prompts in this section are generally behavioral, and are designed to test your ability to think on your feet, communicate clearly under pressure, and reflect the MIT Sloan values in real-time.
How to Prepare
1. Anticipate Themes:
While you cannot predict the exact question, you can prepare for common themes such as leadership, conflict resolution, teamwork, ethics, or personal growth.
2. Use a Simple Framework:
Rely on structures like STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to answer coherently and concisely.
3. Practice Impromptu Responses:
Have a friend or coach throw random behavioral questions at you and practice answering within a minute.
4. Stay Calm and Centered:
Use the 10-seconds prep time to focus, recall a relevant story, and frame your answer.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Do not treat the cover letter like an essay. The tone for your cover letter should be more formal and structured.
- Both videos need to be single takes, without cuts or edits. Focus on substance, not production quality.
- Do not be vague. Use specifics to make your story stand out.
- Sloan adcom values discipline and clarity. So, stay within the word/time limit.
- For the video essays, do not appear rehearsed or robotic. Keep your tone conversational and let your natural voice come through.
Final Thoughts
MIT Sloan MBA program’s application process is unconventional, but it could be a powerful tool for you to standout. Use the above tips to craft your cover letter or answer your video essays. Focus on the quality of your responses, reflect on your purpose, values, and potential, and communicate with confidence and clarity. Convey your impact, your fit with Sloan, and your drive to make a difference. All these tips can help you send in a stellar application.
Good luck with your MIT Sloan MBA application!
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