All AnswersHow can I prepare for Wharton’s team-based Discussion Interview?
Asked by Kritika Oberoi 3 months ago
Master in Management Student at Georgetown University | Aspiring Business Leader with a Passion for Innovation and Strategy
Wharton’s Team-Based Discussion is designed to test how you collaborate, not just what you say. You get a prompt in advance, join a 4–6 person group for a 35-minute discussion, and then do a short 10-minute one-on-one with an Adcom.
Here’s how to prepare smartly:
- Know the structure. Practice a 60-second pitch for the given prompt. Make it clear, realistic, and team-oriented.
- Use a simple format: 1) Problem or opportunity, 2) Your solution, 3) Its impact. Avoid complex ideas.
- Practice mock TBDs on MBA forums like GMAT Club or ClearAdmit — live practice matters more than reading tips.
- Don’t dominate. Aim to speak 3–4 times, each time building on the group’s progress. Language like “Building on that…” works well.
- One-on-one tips: Be honest when asked how the discussion went. Talk about group outcomes and your role — not just your pitch.
The focus is teamwork under time pressure. Show leadership without being the loudest voice in the room.
Want detailed strategies + sample prompts? Check this blog: Wharton MBA Interview Questions
Digital Marketer
Wharton’s Team-Based Discussion (TBD) is not a regular interview. You’ll be in a small group with 4–5 other applicants. Together, you will talk about a business problem that Wharton gives you before the interview.
To get ready, start by planning your one-minute idea. In the beginning, everyone shares their own idea. Make sure your idea is easy to understand and helpful and you don’t need to say the best idea — just something others can talk about or improve.
During the group talk, don’t try to lead everything. Wharton likes people who listen, build on others' thoughts, and keep the talk moving. Try to ask good questions, be respectful, and stay calm. The goal is to work well as a team.
After the group talk, there’s a short one-on-one chat. They’ll ask you how the discussion went and why you want to go to Wharton. Just be honest and clear — they care about what you learned, not just what you said.
Student of Presidium College
Wharton isn’t looking for the “best” idea in its TBD — they’re looking for applicants who make the group better. Strong preparation means knowing what to expect and practicing how to think, not just what to say.
Here’s a quick breakdown to keep your prep focused:
Mock practice, time control, and collaborative tone make the biggest difference
Senior Assistant Manager in Operations Management
To prepare for Wharton’s team-based discussion (TBD), focus on structuring your idea with a clear hook, context, and call to action — all within one minute. Instead of memorizing lines, practice adapting your pitch based on how others respond. Pay attention to your body language and tone — Wharton values calm, thoughtful communicators over aggressive speakers. Reviewing previous TBD prompts and observing how ideas evolve in successful discussions can give you an edge. A few well-run mock sessions can help, but reflecting on your natural group behavior is just as important — knowing when to lead and when to step back.
For Wharton’s TBD, preparation isn’t just about practicing your pitch — it’s about understanding the group dynamic. Start by reviewing past prompts and think through structured, relevant ideas you could present. Then shift focus to how you interact: are you someone who builds momentum, clarifies direction, or connects ideas? That’s what Wharton is watching for. Practice with 2–3 peers under timed conditions, not just to speak but to learn when to listen, steer, or support. It’s less about pushing your idea and more about helping the team land on a clear outcome together.