Pursuing an American MBA or business degree is a tremendous move to launch your global business career. But between test scores, essays, fees, and visa hurdles, getting into a U.S. business school as a Chinese applicant can seem overwhelming!
In this step-by-step guide, we’ll demystify the process of applying to study business in America as an international student. You’ll discover:
- Benefits of a US business education for Chinese students
- Costs and timeline to plan for
- GMAT/GRE requirements and tips
- How to choose target business schools
- Components of a strong application
- Visa process to start your studies
Follow our advice to successfully join the ranks of business leaders trained at America’s finest universities. Let’s break it all down!
Why Study Business in the US?
Here are the top reasons for ambitious Chinese students to pursue business education in America:
World-Class Faculty: Learn from leaders shaping global business best practices.
Innovative Curricula: New courses on analytics, technology, operations, and more.
Diverse Perspectives: Study alongside professionals from around the world.
Powerful Alumni Networks: Access lifetime career support and contacts.
Flexibility: One-year programs available at many schools.
Career Services: On-campus recruiting and resume help.
Immigration Options: 1-3 years for practical training post-graduation.
From expertise to job prospects, American business schools offer long-term value.
Advantages of Studying Business in the United States
In addition to the reasons above, studying for an MBA or business degree in America offers Chinese students many unique advantages:
Cutting-Edge Business Education: U.S. schools pioneer the latest theories and best practices in fields like marketing, finance, technology, entrepreneurship and more. The curriculum keeps pace with global innovation.
Smaller Class Sizes: Enjoy close mentorship from professors in interactive classes averaging 20-50 students.
Builds Global Perspective: Living, studying and working with peers worldwide expands your business worldview.
Enhances English Fluency: Interacting daily in English develops business communication abilities.
Flexible Learning Models: Customize your degree choosing from thousands of electives at most U.S. schools.
Powerful Campus Recruiting: Meet 100+ global companies during on-campus career fairs and company presentations. Gain access to U.S. job markets.
Immigration Advantages: Optional 1-3 year OPT work visa after graduation to gain American business experience.
The business knowledge, cross-cultural exposure, language skills and professional network gained from an American MBA or business degree deliver value throughout one’s career.
Costs and Timeline for US Business Programs
Full-time MBA programs generally take 2 years, with 1-year accelerated options also available. Here are the average costs:
Tuition: $60,000-$110,000 total
Fees: $2,000-$5,000
Living Expenses: $30,000-$50,000
GMAT Prep: $1,000-$5,000
Application Costs: $200-$600 per school
So in total, expect to invest around $200,000 for a 2-year MBA. High costs, but career earnings also rise dramatically.
Application deadlines are usually 4-6 months before enrollment. Plan 12-18 months in advance for test prep, document collection, essays, and more.
Meeting MBA Admissions Requirements
To get into America’s top business schools, Chinese applicants must meet high standards:
GPA: Typically 3.0 or higher undergraduate GPA.
GMAT/GRE: Competitive GMAT scores average around 700. Can submit GRE instead.
English Proficiency: TOEFL 90+ or IELTS 7.0+. Waived if studied in English.
Work Experience: Average 4-6 years relevant full-time work for MBA applicants.
Letters of Recommendation: 2-3 from managers or professors.
Essays/Interviews: Show your fit through writing and interviews.
With proper preparation, these requirements are very achievable for qualified Chinese candidates.
Choosing Target Business Schools
With over 700 MBA programs in America, where do you start? Here are tips for Chinese students:
Check rankings: Focus on top 100 schools for reputation.
Compare profiles: Find schools matching your GPA, test scores, work experience.
Review specializations: Apply to schools offering your desired major like finance, marketing.
Consider geography: Big cities offer more recruiting options. Evaluate cost of living.
Research scholarships: Many top schools offer grants for international students.
Talk to alumni: Ask about their experience and outcomes from each program.
Finalize 8-12 reach, match, and safety schools to maximize options.
Crafting A Competitive Application
To get into your target business schools, perfect every part of your application:
GMAT/GRE Scores: Aim for 80th percentile or better. Consider a prep course.
Transcripts and GPA: Highlight upward grades trends. Explain any issues.
Letters of Recommendation: Choose writers who can highlight your skills and potential.
Essays: Showcase uniqueness through stories. Tie to school values and goals.
Resume: Tailor to leadership, teamwork, analytical skills gained through work. Quantify achievements.
Interviews: Practice common questions. Convey passion for their program.
Extracurriculars: Demonstrate well-rounded interests, community service, and drive.
With our expert guidance, you can craft an MBA application that makes the cut for your dream school!
Securing Your Student Visa
Once accepted to U.S. business schools, international students must obtain an F-1 study visa:
- Complete the I-20 form issued by your university to apply at your local U.S. embassy.
- Pay the $160 SEVIS fee and schedule a visa interview.
- Prove sufficient funding for tuition and living costs during studies.
- Obtain passport, documents, and photos meeting visa criteria.
The visa process takes 1-3 months. As an 留学中介 helping Chinese students, we’ll ensure you have great support from your school and guide you through every step.
Start Your Graduate Business Journey
Pursuing graduate business education in the United States offers tremendous value for Chinese students looking to expand their global perspectives and career opportunities. The experience allows you to learn from top faculty, interact with a diverse student body, master the latest business theories and practices, and build a strong professional network.
While the application process may seem daunting at first, taking the time to prepare for standardized tests, research target schools, perfect your essays and resume, and complete visa formalities pays off greatly. An MBA or business master’s degree from an American university can unlock doors throughout your career and equip you with knowledge to drive innovation.
With focus and perseverance, Chinese applicants can absolutely thrive during their US business school education and beyond. Embark on this journey to reach your full leadership potential within the global business landscape.