IESE, Barcelona - MBA Interview Preparation Guide

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The IESE interview is designed to assess your fit with the school’s values, your motivations for pursuing an MBA, and your ability to contribute to a diverse and collaborative learning environment. It typically covers your academic background, work experience, personal values, goals, and interpersonal skills.

Candidates have reported a wide range of interview experiences—from highly structured, formal interviews with Admissions Directors to relaxed, conversational sessions with alumni or former students. Interviewers typically have access to your full application, so expect personalized follow-up questions on your essays, resume, or application details.

Past interviewers have included:

• Admissions Directors
• Alumni and Former Students
• Regional Admissions Representatives

While some interviews lasted exactly an hour, others extended up to 90 minutes. In most cases, the interviewer helped create a comfortable environment to encourage open sharing. Candidates are advised to stay flexible, as schedules and interviewers can change at the last minute.

Common feedback from past candidates:

• “It felt more like a conversation than a test.”
• “The interviewer asked follow-up questions on almost every detail in my application.”
• “I felt they genuinely wanted to get to know the person behind the application.”

• Walk me through your background (childhood, education, career).
• Why did you choose your undergraduate major?
• What has shaped you as a person (family, mentors, activities)?
• What motivates you personally and professionally?

• Tell me about your career journey to date.
• What are your key achievements and challenges?
• Describe your most interesting project or leadership experience.
• Describe how you’ve handled conflict or delivered bad news.
• How do you work in teams or lead others?

• Why an MBA? Why now?
• Why IESE specifically? What makes it different from other schools you’re applying to?
• How does IESE align with your short-term and long-term career goals?
• Why Europe, and not the U.S. or other regions?

• What are your short-term and long-term career objectives?
• Name 2-3 companies or industries you’re targeting after the MBA.
• What role do you see yourself playing in your learning team at IESE?

• Describe your biggest weakness or a situation where you couldn’t win.
• How do you define success?
• What values or beliefs guide you in life?
• How do you handle pressure or failure?

• Have you visited campus or spoken to alumni/students?
• What IESE courses, clubs, or initiatives excite you?
• What value will you bring to IESE?

• What are your hobbies and interests outside of work?
• What podcasts do you listen to or books you read?
• Describe your cross-cultural or international experiences.
• Share something unique about yourself in 30-60 seconds

• Structure:
  
  • Personal Introduction (2–3 minutes)
  • Group Case Discussion (no “right” answer, focus on collaboration)
  • Group Presentation
• Tips:
  
  • Stay engaged and positive throughout the day.
  • Show openness, teamwork, and leadership when appropriate.
  • Be prepared to ask meaningful questions at the end.

1. Be Yourself – Authenticity stands out.
2. Lead the Conversation – Direct the flow to highlight your strengths.
3. Prepare Stories – Back your claims with real experiences.
4. Know IESE – Speak knowledgeably about why it’s your top choice.
5. Stay Relaxed – The environment is often conversational but evaluative.