UPenn Wharton- MBA Interview Preparation Guide

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Wharton’s interview process is unique because it evaluates not only your personal fit but also your ability to collaborate in a team setting. The two main components are:

1. Team-Based Discussion (TBD):
   A simulated team exercise designed to observe how you communicate, collaborate, and contribute to group problem-solving. This reflects Wharton’s learning team model used throughout the MBA program.
2. One-on-One Personal Interview (PI):
   A short follow-up interview that focuses on your motivations for pursuing an MBA, your interest in Wharton, and reflections on your TBD performance.

Team-Based Discussion (TBD)

• Format: 5-6 candidates discuss a prompt for 35 minutes.
• Structure:
  
  • Each candidate starts with a 1-minute pitch.
  • The group works together to develop a shared proposal or solution.
  • A final 5-minute presentation is made to the observers.
• Observers: Usually two second-year students or admissions staff.

Candidates have reported that successful groups manage time effectively, respect all voices, and build on each other’s ideas. Several interviewees mentioned that their teams performed better when they incorporated ideas from all participants, rather than just pushing one person’s pitch.

“Our group managed time well, stayed organized, and completed a practice presentation before the final one. We were even told we were among the best groups the observer had seen.”

“Although I didn’t contribute as much as others, I noticed that the strongest teams were those where everyone felt heard, and no one dominated.”

One-on-One Personal Interview (PI)

• Format: 10–15 minutes, conducted by one of the TBD observers.
• Common Questions:
  
  • Why MBA? Why now?
  • Why Wharton?
  • How do you reflect on your contribution to the TBD?
  • What are your career goals?
  • Any questions for me?

Candidates describe this as conversational but focused, with interviewers not referencing your full application, making it feel semi-blind.

“The one-on-one felt rushed and short, but the focus was clearly on how I handled the TBD and why I wanted to attend Wharton.”

“The interviewer seemed more interested in understanding my motivations and plans after the MBA than quizzing me.”

• Pre-TBD Nerves Are Normal: Many candidates reported feeling anxious before the TBD but found the experience enjoyable once it started.
• Time Management Is Critical: Successful teams allocate time effectively and ensure everyone gets to contribute.
• Listening Matters: Showing you can build on others’ ideas is often viewed more positively than dominating the conversation.
• One-on-One Feels Brief: Be ready to articulate your core motivations and reflections clearly and concisely.

“Don’t treat other candidates as competitors during the TBD. You succeed together as a team.”

“Make sure you have at least 3-5 thoughtful questions ready for the one-on-one, especially about Wharton’s culture or community.”

• Walk me through your resume.
• Why MBA? Why now?
• Why Wharton?
• What are your short-term and long-term goals?
• What is your Plan B if your primary goal doesn’t happen?

• What are your key strengths and weaknesses?
• How do you work in a team setting?
• What value will you add to Wharton?
• Any reasons why we shouldn’t select you?

• Describe a time when you led a project.
• Describe a time you failed.
• Describe a time you faced conflict in a team.
• Describe a time you didn’t meet expectations and how you handled it.

• How did your team perform?
• What role did you play in the team?
• What would you have done differently?

• What is your greatest strength and weakness?
• How have you grown personally and professionally in the past few years?

• Practice Your One-Minute Pitch
• Engage Actively and Respectfully in the TBD
• Reflect Honestly on Your Performance in the PI
• Prepare Specific Questions About Wharton
• Demonstrate Team Spirit and Leadership Balance