Why not continue in your current field to achieve your long term goal or do an online MBA instead?

This question is asked to understand whether you have clarity and conviction about pursuing a full-time MBA. The panel wants to see if you’ve thought through your options and if an MBA is truly the right step, not just something you’re doing because it seems like the next logical move.

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It’s important to show that you have considered alternative paths such as continuing in your current role or pursuing an online MBA, but have strong, reasoned arguments for why a full-time MBA is the best route for you.

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You can mention that you’ve already tried to grow within your current field and have reached a point where future growth requires a broader business understanding, cross-functional exposure, or leadership development that your current trajectory cannot offer.

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When addressing the online MBA angle, don’t dismiss it outright. Instead, explain why the in-person experience, peer learning, collaborative projects, campus immersion, and networking, is critical for your learning style and career goals.

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You can also borrow points from your “Why MBA” answer, such as how the academic rigor, structured curriculum, and in-person interaction with peers and professors will help you bridge specific skill gaps.

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In short, your answer should communicate that you’ve thought critically, explored other routes, and concluded that a full-time MBA is the most effective and transformative step toward achieving your long-term goals.

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Step 1: Reflect on Your Current Field

Think about what you’ve achieved so far and what limitations you’ve encountered in your current path.

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What I’ve achieved so far in my current field
What limitations I’ve faced in pursuing my long-term goals
Why staying in the same field won’t help me bridge the gap

Step 2: Evaluate the Online MBA Option

Acknowledge that online MBAs are valuable, but explain why the full-time format is better suited for your goals.

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What I think about online MBA programs
Why an in-person, full-time MBA is more suited for me
Specific aspects of a full-time MBA that are essential for my goals

Step 3: Reaffirm Why the MBA Is Essential

Show that you’ve considered all routes and still concluded that an MBA is the most effective path.

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How a full-time MBA helps me bridge the gap between my current role and my long-term goal
Specific skills or experiences I’ll gain through the MBA
Why now is the right time for me to do it

Step 4: Final Draft

Combine your points into a 1.5–2 minute response that sounds confident and reflective.

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