How do I write good Stanford MBA essays?

Just finished researching this myself. Here's what helped:

For Essay A, talk about what truly matters to you. Not what sounds good but what’s real. Think of a story or moment that changed how you see things. Be clear about the “why.”

For Essay B, make sure it’s all about you + Stanford. What do you want to do, and how can Stanford help? Mention actual classes, professors, or experiences there. Keep it focused.

Common mistakes you should avoid include turning your essay into a list of achievements—they’ve already seen your resume. Avoid vague answers or using fancy words to sound smart. And most importantly, don’t write something just because it sounds like what they’d want to read. Keep it real.

You can read more about  How to write good Stanford MBA essays here. 

The Stanford MBA essays ask two things:

1. What matters most to you, and why?
2. Why Stanford?

For the first one, don’t try to impress—just be honest. Pick something personal and explain how it shaped you. It could be family, a lesson, a failure—anything that shows what drives you.

The second one should connect your goals with Stanford’s offerings. Mention real things—like a course, a club, or a program—that match your plan.

Common mistakes to avoid: Many applicants make the essay sound like a resume, but Stanford already has that. Another issue is being too vague or using big words to sound impressive. Also, avoid writing what you think they want to hear—it ends up sounding fake.

Want to get into Stanford? Read the blog to craft standout  Stanford MBA essays!

Writing a strong Stanford MBA essay means going deeper than just listing goals or achievements. For the “What matters most to you and why?” prompt, focus on personal stories that reflect your core values and turning points in life. The tone should be honest and introspective—Stanford wants to understand what drives you, not just what you’ve done.

In the second essay (“Why Stanford?”), Connect your goals with specific resources like the Arbuckle Leadership Fellows program, Startup Garage, or LeadLabs. Show how Stanford’s unique environment fits who you are and where you want to go. The most effective essays feel personal, clear, and grounded in real self-reflection.

Stanford looks for authenticity, reflection, and purpose—here’s what strong essays typically include:

•  Be brutally honest – Stanford’s “What matters most to you and why?” isn’t about sounding impressive. It’s about being real.
• Show self-awareness – Talk about how key experiences shaped your values and choices.
• Connect values to goals – Make sure there's a link between what matters to you and how you plan to create impact through the MBA.
• Avoid generic goals – “I want to be a leader” isn’t enough. Be specific and personal.
• Keep the tone reflective, not promotional – It’s not a pitch—it’s a window into how you think and what drives you.

📌 Stanford values purpose-driven people. The best essays reveal character, not just achievements.