MBA internships are full-time summer internships between the first year and second years of an MBA program. Most MBA programs at top business schools require these internship programs to be completed by MBA students in order to graduate. Other programs do not require it, but they are highly encouraged to develop hands-on experiences during advanced education.
What are MBA Internships
Most full-time MBA programs require these internship programs to be completed by MBA students in order to graduate. Other programs do not require it, but they are highly encouraged to develop hands-on experiences during advanced education. Many MBA internship opportunities do end with full-time job offers.
Companies that Offer MBA Intern Programs
These top companies offer MBA internships. At these companies, they give exceptional work experience, mentorship, and networking opportunities. These companies are more likely to offer full-time positions if MBA interns perform well.
- Apple
- Xfinity
- Genetech
- Amazon
- Boston Consulting Group (BCG)
- McKinsey & Company
- JPMorgan Chase
- Goldman Sachs
- Deloitte
- HubSpot
While these MBA internship programs are notable, interning with smaller companies and startups is great as well. When decided upon MBA internships, the main priority is the interest you, the person getting the MBA, and the experience they want to direct them in their career.
Types of MBA Interns
While some internships are generally open to only MBA students, some internships are open to all students, with MBA students included. For MBA students, this can be a great way to gain work experience directly in an area of their specific interest. Some of those interests can be:
- Advertising
- Business administration
- Business consulting
- Business development
- Business management
- Finance
- Entrepreneurship
- Information systems
- Marketing
- Sales
- Supply chain
- Product management
- Product marketing
- Operations management
MBA Internship Resume Tips
By the time a student is in their MBA, they have a solid resume. MBA students understand proper formatting, keywords, and ATS. The elements to brush up on are integrating MBA-specific skills.
In general MBA students should have skills like management, creativity, integrity, flexibility the ability to lead, and manage a team.
But, the most important part of an MBA students’ resume is the right skills for the job type they are searching for. For example, if they are applying for MBA marketing internships, share your previous work with clients. But, if they are applying to investment banking organizations, they want to highlight your ability to consult and prior experiences with consulting.
Common Interview Questions Asked in MBA Internship Interviews
- Where are you headed in the next 5 years? 10 years?
- Have you done your SWOT Analysis? (Remember: Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats)
- Tell us about your teamwork experiences.
- What contributions do you make to a team?
Finance specific:
- What is working capital?
- Explain cash flow and what is important about it.
- What is your favorite financial statement?
Marketing specific:
- Analyze this advertisement. What went right? What went wrong?
Many MBA students will be asked to go through a case study. Each role will require different skills therefore will be given different types of case studies. Prepare according to the role.
For a vast array of knowledge on internships, resumes, and interviews, check out the Scholars blog and The Internship Show podcast!
