Applicants seeking an MBA with high placement rates throughout Asia may find HKUST the perfect fit for their needs. HKUST offers two options for its MBA: a 16-month option that offers hopeful career switchers the opportunity to hold an internship in their target industry and even an experience in an exchange program abroad, and a 12-month accelerated version for students with more experience and/or who plan to return to their current employer/industry.
The Financial Times ranks HKUST #18 in the world, 74% of the class successfully changes functions following the MBA, and 71% changes industries. Thirty-seven percent of the latest graduating class found roles in the financial industry (20% Investment Banking/M&A Advisory, 5% Private Equity, and 12% Other Finance) upon graduating, with respectable numbers also entering the consulting (12%) and Technology (15%) industries. In terms of job functions, HKUST graduates thrive in finance roles (36%), general management (15%), and sales and marketing (17%).
Once again, the HKUST application essays have stayed the same this year. My tips are below in blue.
HKUST MBA application essays
HKUST MBA essay #1
The HKUST MBA mission is to inspire and transform individuals to be future business leaders for Asia and the world. We embrace diversity, and are looking for ambitious and open-minded candidates with a passion to contribute. It is the first day of orientation. Please introduce yourself to your classmates, highlighting what drives you in your personal and professional life. (500 words)
The small class of around 100 students hails from over 20 countries, with 96% of the class coming from outside of Hong Kong. Since HKUST strives for diversity throughout this small group, each applicant must demonstrate a unique perspective and experiences. If your professional background is in a heavily represented group – IT or finance for example, then I highly recommend highlighting not only your most exceptional professional experience in this essay but also the personal qualities, extracurricular involvement and values that differentiate you. When in your professional or personal life have you demonstrated an open mind and contributed? These will prove your potential at HKUST.
HKUST MBA essay #2
Tell us about your post-MBA goals and based on that, why is the HKUST MBA the ideal program for you and how do you plan to engage and enrich our community? (500 words)
This is a traditional goals essay with a twist of tying those goals to your future engagement and enrichment of the HKUST community. The admissions office is making it clear that they expect to hear how you will enhance the education of your peers. What aspects of the program will you be able to contribute to most and how will your fellow classmates benefit?
For expert guidance with your HKUST application, check out Accepted’s MBA Application Packages, which include comprehensive guidance from an experienced admissions consultant. We’ve helped hundreds of applicants get accepted to top MBA programs and look forward to helping you too!
HKUST MBA 2019-20 remaining application deadlines
| Round 2 | January 15, 2020 |
| Round 3 | March 18, 2020 |
***Disclaimer: Information is subject to change. Please check with individual programs to verify the essay questions, instructions and deadlines.***
By Jennifer Bloom, admissions consultant at Accepted for 20 years and Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW). She is an expert at guiding you to produce application materials that truly differentiate you from the rest of the driven applicant pool. If you would like help with your application, Jennifer can suggest a number of options that work with any budget. Want Jennifer to help you get accepted? Click here to get in touch!
Related Resources:
• Why MBA, a free guide
• Different Dimensions of Diversity, a podcast episode
• What Should You Do If You Belong to an Overrepresented MBA Applicant Group?