Harvard Business School MBA Essays 2026-2027: Prompts and Word Limits
The three HBS essay prompts for the MBA Class of 2029, quoted from the school, with word limits and the joint degree essays.
Essay overview
Applicants to the MBA Class of 2029 (matriculating fall 2027) respond to three essay prompts. HBS publishes them on its Application Process page; the prompts below are quoted verbatim.
2026-2027 essay prompts
| Essay | Prompt | Word limit |
|---|---|---|
| Business-Minded Essay | Please reflect on how your choices have influenced your career path and aspirations. | 300 words |
| Leadership-Focused Essay | What experiences have shaped how you invest in others and how you lead? | 250 words |
| Growth-Oriented Essay | Curiosity can be seen in many ways. Please share an example of how you have demonstrated curiosity and how that has influenced your growth. | 250 words |
Joint degree essays
- Applicants to joint degrees with Harvard Medical School, Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Harvard Law School, Harvard Kennedy School, and the MS/MBA Biotechnology: Life Sciences Program: "How do you expect the joint degree experience to benefit you on both a professional and a personal level?" (up to 400 words)
- Applicants to the MS/MBA Engineering Sciences program with the Harvard Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences: "The MS/MBA Engineering Sciences program is focused on entrepreneurship, design, and innovation. Describe your past experiences in these areas and your reasons for pursuing a program with this focus." (recommended length: 500 words). These applicants can also respond to an optional essay.
Post-interview reflection
Candidates who interview must submit a written reflection through the online application within 24 hours of the interview. HBS emails the instructions to candidates invited to interview.
Sources
- 1. Harvard Business School, Application Process (2026-2027 cycle)
- 2. Harvard Business School, MBA Admissions Frequently Asked Questions