LBS MBA Essays: Analysis & Tips for 2025-26
As one of Europe’s most prestigious business schools, London Business School (LBS) attracts applicants from across the globe. With its diverse community, global reputation, and strong ties to the financial and consulting sectors, LBS is a dream school for many MBA aspirants. Every year, the adcom uses its MBA essays to assess how you think, lead, and dream. Let’s deep dive into the LBS MBA essays analysis for the 2025-26 cycle.
In this post, I will break down each essay prompt and offer insights on how to approach them strategically.
Required Essay 1
What are your post-MBA goals and how will your prior experience and the London Business School programme contribute towards these? (500 words)
This prompt essentially boils down to – career goals + why LBS. This is your classic MBA goals essay, and LBS expects a thoughtful, well-structured response.
What is the school really asking?
LBS wants to understand three things:
- Where you are headed post-MBA
- How your past experiences are aligned with your future goals
- Why LBS is the right platform to help you get there
How to approach it?
Start with clear short-term and long-term goals. For short-term goals, provide specifics about target roles, companies, industry, and geography. For example, instead of saying ‘consulting,’ say ‘management consulting with MBB in UK/ME, with a focus on digital transformation in the retail sector.’
Then, reflect on your career so far. Highlight 2-3 key experiences that have shaped your aspirations. Use metrics and impact where possible to show progress.
Finally, make a clear case for LBS. Mention specific electives, the LondonCAP project, Global Experiences, clubs (like the Tech & Media Club or Women in Business), and networking opportunities in London that align with your goals.
Common pitfalls
- Vague or generic goals
- Listing achievements instead of connecting the dots
- Using generic reasons for choosing LBS that could apply to any school
I have discussed how to write a winning career goals essay with examples in this article.
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Required Essay 2
What makes you unique? (200 words)
This is your chance to show what differentiates you as a person.
What is the school really asking?
LBS wants to understand what personal trait, experience, or worldview sets you apart from your peers and how that might contribute to the LBS community.
How to approach it?
Pick one thing. A single story or trait, rather than a list, is more compelling. This could be:
- A unique upbringing
- An unconventional career move
- A passion that defines you
- A personal philosophy or value
Use an anecdote to bring this to life. Then briefly connect it to how you would contribute at LBS – whether in the classroom, student clubs, or global study groups.
Common pitfalls
- Trying to squeeze in too many things
- Repeating resume highlights/achievements
- Making abstract claims without a story
You might find this article on the psychology behind successful MBA essays useful.
Optional Essay
Is there any other information you believe the Admissions Committee should know about you and your application to London Business School? (500 words)
This is not mandatory, but can be valuable if there’s additional context that strengthens your application.
When to use this essay?
- To explain a low GPA/test score or gap in employment
- To share a personal challenge or background
- To highlight experiences not captured elsewhere in the application
Keep the tone factual and reflective. If you are addressing a weakness, take ownership and show how you have grown. Adcoms appreciate vulnerability and honesty. If you are highlighting something new, make sure it is relevant and adds depth.
When to skip this essay?
If you have nothing new or meaningful to add, it’s best to leave it blank. Do not increase the admissions officer’s burden by repeating things that have already been captured elsewhere in the application.
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Re-applicant Essay
How have you strengthened your candidacy since you last applied? Please comment on how you have grown personally and professionally. (300 words)
This essay is only for those who have applied to LBS before. The school wants to see how you have evolved since your last attempt.
What to cover?
- New responsibilities at work
- Leadership experiences
- Additional coursework/certifications
- Improved test scores
- Refined career goals
Be honest and forward-looking. Show that you have used the time since your last application productively and have a better understanding of the LBS MBA program, the school’s culture and values, and why it is the right fit for you.
I have discussed MBA reapplication strategies is detail in this article.
Final Tips for All Essays
- Be authentic: Use your real voice and do not try to sound overly formal
- Be specific: Concrete examples are better than abstract claims
- Tailor your content: Make it clear why LBS is the right fit, not just any MBA
- Show impact: Whether personal or professional, demonstrate how you made a difference
- Edit ruthlessly: Stick to word limits and revise multiple times
Related reads:
INSEAD vs LBS: Which MBA is right for you?
LBS MBA acceptance rate & other insights
Best MBA programs in the UK: LBS vs Oxford vs Cambridge vs Imperial
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