Could You Join London Business School's Global MBA?

How to Apply to London Business School (LBS) MBA

The London Business School MBA is designed for professionals who want to accelerate their careers and become global business leaders. Applications for the August 2026 intake are now open, and a strong GMAT or GRE score is a central component of a competitive application.

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Why the GMAT or GRE Matters

LBS evaluates your academic preparedness and analytical skills through your GMAT or GRE score. While the admissions process is holistic, your test score is a key metric for demonstrating readiness for our rigorous MBA curriculum.

Key benchmarks:

• Average GMAT for admitted students: ~700 (range: 600-800)
• GMAT Focus Edition: equivalent scores expected (aim for 645+)
• GRE: 160+ in both verbal and quantitative sections
• Minimum GMAT typically accepted: 600
• Work experience and leadership can offset slightly lower scores

Submitting a competitive score not only strengthens your application but also signals to the Admissions Committee that you are ready for LBS' intensive learning environment.

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Candidate Requirements

To be considered for the LBS MBA, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Undergraduate degree from an accredited institution
• Work experience: Average is 5.5 years, but candidates with less than 3 years may be considered if they demonstrate exceptional leadership and achievements
• GMAT/GRE score (valid at the time of application)
• English proficiency: IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge CPE/CAE, PTE Academic, or Duolingo (TOEFL code: 0898)
• Visa requirements if you are a non-UK or non-EEA national

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Application Requirements Checklist

Your application will need the following:

• Completed online application form (save and return to complete as needed)
• Application essays:
  1. Post-MBA goals and how LBS will help (500 words)
  2. What makes you unique? (200 words)
  3. Optional additional information (500 words)
• One-page CV
• Referee details: current/former employer or colleague; referee will receive login instructions for the online reference system
• Application fee: £200 (credit card payment)
• University transcripts: certified translations required if not in English
• Proof of English language ability (if applicable)

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Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Prepare Your Application

• Take the GMAT or GRE and aim for a competitive score
• Notify your professional referee(s)
• Draft your essays carefully to showcase your vision and uniqueness

2. Submit the Online Application

• Complete the online form, upload CV, ID/passport, and essays
• Enter referee information
• Pay the application fee

3. Interview Stage

• Selected applicants are invited to an interview conducted by LBS alumni or senior admissions staff
• Interviews take place in your region, or online if necessary
• Feedback from the interview is combined with your application for final evaluation

4. Decision

The Admissions Committee considers all aspects of your application—test scores, work experience, essays, CV, recommendations, and interview performance—to issue a decision:

• Offer: Invitation to join LBS MBA
• Waitlist: Opportunity to provide additional information for consideration
• Reject: Option to reapply in the next cycle

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Additional Tips

• Military experience is valued and counts as work experience
• LBS allows applications with less than 3 years' work experience if candidates show exceptional academic credentials or leadership
• Applications are free for LBS alumni and active military candidates

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Take Your First Step with a Strong GMAT

The GMAT or GRE is not just a requirement—it's your chance to demonstrate your ability to excel in one of the world's top MBA programs. A strong score complements your professional achievements and essays, positioning you to join a global cohort of high-impact leaders.

Start your LBS MBA application today and take the leap toward international business leadership.