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Darden School of Business applications can seem a daunting prospect, particularly the infamous Darden essay. A variety of MBAs are offered at Darden with placements across the USA and even the world is a possibility. This, though, and worldwide Darden’s reputation means places are highly competitive so your MBA motivation letter has to be top notch. Each year of applications brings a new challenge and we’re here to make that challenge seem a little less daunting!


But what is the Darden essay? This essay aims to act a little like a personal statement but requires you to consider a particular element in detail. There is always a word limit, usually of 500 words, to force you to write concisely while still providing examples to support your statements. The ability to write concisely and clearly is a sought after skill, one which is attractive to any school you apply to. It is particularly important to focus on the title of your Darden essay to avoid wandering from the topic at hand. MBA essay editing is essential in double checking for grammar mistakes as well as ensuring you have covered the topic thoroughly.

Darden Essay Topics

Every year brings a new challenge from your MBA motivation letter and it pays to be prepared. We have compiled a list of previous essay questions for you to consider; at least planned, if not actually written, practice essays will give you a good base to begin your actual Darden essay.


  • Why is an MBA a critical next step toward your short and long-term career goals? (500 words maximum)

  • Describe a significant maturing experience. (250 words maximum)

  • Each of our applicants is unique. Describe how your background, values, education, activities and/or leadership skills will enhance the experience of other Darden students. (500 words maximum)

  • How have the changes in the global economy over the last 18 months affected you and you plan for the future? (400 words maximum)

  • Please discuss how a global event that has taken place in the past two years has impacted the way you think about leadership broadly and personally. (500 words maximum)

  • When preparing for class at Darden, students formulate an opinion on each case before meeting with their learning teams and class sections. When encountering different views and perspectives from their own, opinions frequently shift. Tell us about a time when your opinion evolved through discussions with others. (500 words maximum)


It is really important here to consider the primary imperatives and what the question is actually asking you. Highlight key words such as “why” and “describe”, this will help you stay focused on the aim of the question. If the question gives a time period make sure you stay within it! It’s no good writing 500 words on how 911 affected the way you consider leadership because it was over two years ago. The best Darden essay in the world will mean nothing if you don’t adhere to the question.

Past Experiences of MBA Motivation Letters

Top in the world for student satisfaction, Darden school of business has a lot to live up to in expectation. According to current and previous students, though, it seems to achieve year after year. Current students and alumni have plenty to say about the school and the infamous Darden essay.

  • The Darden essay itself is crucial in weeding out those with little dedication or understanding of what it takes to survive in the world of business.

  • Upward of 500 case studies are looked at each year and students are expected to be thoroughly prepared for lectures so organization and time management are essential.

  • Points are ruthlessly pulled apart and investigated so students must not be easily put off; a thick skin is essential.

  • The school and teachers prepare you for interviews within the industry where your ideas must be pitched fluently and confidently, prepared for questioning.

  • The school focuses on interaction with people, a skill absolutely essential for work in business. Without building relationships you will never achieve success.

  • Emphasis on the ability to lead a team and be an effective manager of people is at the forefront of the school’s teaching.


Overall the Darden essay has received good publicity, it is deemed an effective way of vetting applicants. Many students enjoyed writing it, viewing it as a way to consider their pasts and futures and really get to the bottom of their goals. They found the short length of the essay to be an asset, forcing them to be concise but detailed in their recollections and investigations.


Use our guide to get the best out of your MBA motivation essay. With our handy tips, recommendations and previous essay titles you will be on your way to studying for an MBA in no time at all!



Get to the bottom of your opinions with the Darden essay and ensure the success of your application!