Applying to top-tier MBA programs is like aiming for the summit of Everest—you know the climb will be challenging, but with the right preparation, the view from the top is worth it. If Harvard Business School (HBS) and Wharton are on your target list, congratulations! You’re already dreaming big. However, crafting essays that impress these two admissions committees requires more than ambition.
Having guided many applicants through the process (and as an MBA grad myself), I’ve seen firsthand what works and what doesn’t. In this article, we’ll break down the differences between HBS and Wharton’s essay prompts, explore strategies to help you stand out, and share insider tips to avoid common pitfalls.
Understanding the Difference: HBS vs. Wharton Essay Prompts
HBS Essay: Open-Ended, Story-Driven
Harvard’s essay is famously ambiguous. For years, the prompt has remained some version of:
“What more would you like us to know as we consider your candidacy?”
This isn’t just a question—it’s a blank canvas. Admissions officers at HBS want to see how you think, what you prioritize, and how you define yourself beyond a series of bullet points.
Key Traits They Look For:
- Leadership potential.
- Self-awareness and authenticity.
- A compelling personal story that reveals your character.
Wharton Essays: Focused, Goal-Oriented
Wharton’s essay prompts are more specific, with a clear focus on career goals and fit. A typical example:
“How do you plan to use the Wharton MBA to achieve your professional objectives?”
Here, Wharton wants to know not just what you’ve done, but where you’re headed and how their program fits into your master plan.
Key Traits They Look For:
- Clarity and ambition in your career vision.
- A deep understanding of Wharton’s resources.
- Evidence of your commitment to the program.
Strategy 1: Nail the Core Theme of Your MBA Journey
Whether you’re writing for HBS or Wharton, your essay needs a central theme that ties your narrative together. Think of it as the “spine” of your application—everything else (work experience, extracurriculars, recommendations) should connect back to this.
HBS: Crafting a Defining Narrative
For HBS, the key is introspection. Take time to reflect on your experiences and identify the pivotal moments that have shaped you.
For example, Priya worked in healthcare consulting but felt unfulfilled. She shared a story about volunteering at a rural clinic and realizing her passion for policy reform. Her essay wasn’t a list of accolades—it was a heartfelt narrative about the challenges she saw in underserved communities and her vision for creating systemic change.
What made it work? Priya’s essay wasn’t just about her professional achievements; it revealed her values, leadership style, and vision for the future.
Wharton: Connecting Goals to Resources
Wharton loves specificity. When writing your essay, focus on how Wharton’s resources will bridge the gap between your current skill set and future ambitions.
A standout essay could look like this – Daniel, a financial analyst, wanted to transition into venture capital with a focus on fintech startups. In his essay, Daniel highlighted Wharton’s Venture Initiation Program and its strong alumni network in Silicon Valley. He even referenced specific professors whose research aligned with his interests.
This approach works because it is crystal clear how Wharton fit into Daniel’s journey.
Strategy 2: Showcase Emotional Intelligence and Authenticity
For HBS: Be Vulnerable
HBS essays often succeed because they reveal who you are as a person. You don’t have to share your deepest secrets, but admissions committees appreciate vulnerability.
For example, Alex was hesitant to discuss a professional failure. But through coaching, he wrote a moving essay about a failed product launch and the lessons he learned about resilience and collaboration. The result? A narrative that was raw, relatable, and ultimately inspiring.
For Wharton: Balance Ambition with Self-Awareness
Wharton essays should balance confidence with humility. Show you’ve done your homework on Wharton’s strengths but also acknowledge what you need to grow as a leader.
For example, Maya explained how Wharton’s data-driven curriculum would complement her creative marketing background. She wasn’t shy about her achievements, but she also admitted where she needed to improve—and how Wharton could help.
Strategy 3: Customize Your Approach to the Audience
HBS and Wharton may share the same tier in MBA rankings, but their admissions committees are looking for different things.
HBS: Think Big Picture
HBS is drawn to bold thinkers and unconventional leaders. Your essay should reflect the impact you’ve made—or hope to make—on a broader scale.
Wharton: Think Fit and Specificity
Wharton is more pragmatic in its approach. They want evidence that you understand their program’s strengths and that you’re ready to leverage them effectively.
Pro Tip: Use Wharton-specific language. Name-drop clubs, professors, and initiatives that genuinely excite you. The more specific, the better.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
For HBS:
- Rehashing Your Resume: Admissions officers already have this information. Focus on why your experiences matter.
- Generic Storytelling: Your essay should be unique to you. Avoid clichés like “I learned the value of teamwork.”
- Overthinking Perfection: It’s better to be authentic than to try to guess what HBS wants to hear.
For Wharton:
- Vague Goals: Saying you want to “make an impact” isn’t enough. Spell out exactly what you want to do.
- Ignoring Fit: Don’t write a general MBA essay and copy-paste it for Wharton. Show you understand what makes Wharton unique.
- Overemphasizing Prestige: Wharton already knows it’s a top school. Focus on how it fits your needs, not just its brand name.
Examples of Winning Approaches
HBS Example
Sofia wrote about her journey from an immigrant background to leading a nonprofit that empowered young women in STEM. Her essay wasn’t a list of awards—it was a personal story about resilience, leadership, and vision.
Wharton Example
Jake, an engineer transitioning to product management, wrote a Wharton essay that mapped out his future step-by-step. He highlighted how Wharton’s product innovation curriculum and its Technology Club aligned perfectly with his goals.
Final Advice: Start Early, Get Feedback, Be Yourself
Applying to HBS and Wharton is no small feat, but remember: These essays aren’t about perfection; they’re about authenticity. Start early, give yourself time to iterate, and seek feedback from trusted mentors or admissions consultants.
And above all, don’t lose sight of why you’re applying. Your passion and vision for the future are what will ultimately set you apart.
Good luck! You’ve got this.
