Cornell Johnson

 

Application Deadlines for 2025-2026 / Class of 2028

Round 1

Application Deadline: September 17, 2025

Decision Notification: December 5, 2025

Round 2

Application Deadline: January 8, 2026

Decision Notification: March 27, 2026

Round 3

Application Deadline: April 7, 2026

Decision Notification: May 22, 2026

Applications are due no later than 11:59 p.m. CST the day of the deadline. 

The following are the main essay questions on the 2025-2026 / Class of 2028 Cornell Johnson MBA application:

Short Answer

A statement of your goals will begin a conversation that will last throughout the admissions process and guide your steps during the MBA program and experience. To the best of your understanding today, please share your short and long term goals by completing the following sentences and answering the enclosed short answer question (350 words maximum):

Immediately post-MBA, my goal is to work as a(n) ____[Role]____ at ___[Company]___within___[Industry]___.
Targeted Job Role:
Target Job Company:
Industry:

In 5 – 10 years post-MBA, my goal is to work as a(n) ____[Role]____ at ___[Company]___within___[Industry]___.
Targeted Job Role:
Target Job Company:
Industry:

Please share how you plan to utilize the resources available to you at Johnson as well as any existing resources you bring to the program to help you secure your post-MBA career goal. (350 words)

 

Essay 1: Choose One

Impact Essay Option: At Cornell, our students and alumni share a desire to positively impact the organizations and communities they serve. How do you intend to make a meaningful impact on the Johnson community?  (350 words maximum)

Unique Trait That Defines Me Option: What is something unique about you that others will remember you by, and how will this trait help you contribute and engage with the Cornell MBA community? (350 words maximum)
 

Optional Essay (Required for Reapplicants):

You may use this essay to call attention to items needing clarification and to add additional details to any aspects of your application that do not accurately reflect your potential for success at Johnson (350 words maximum). 

If you are reapplying for admission, please use this essay to indicate how you have strengthened your application and candidacy since the last time you applied for admission. Please also review our Application Guide for additional information about reapplying (350 words maximum).

Visit the Cornell Johnson admissions website for more application information.

Disclaimer: the information provided on this page is for reference only. Applicants are strongly advised to visit the admissions website link provided above to confirm essay prompts, deadlines, and other application information.