You’ve polished your resume and perfected your essays, but have you made real connections with your target MBA programs? While many candidates focus on their application materials, building relationships with students, alumni, and faculty should not be neglected. Strategic networking not only strengthens your candidacy but also lays the foundation for your future career.

MBA networking is essential for exploring school fit, refining your goals, and gaining support from people who can guide you through the MBA journey. The strongest MBA applicants begin building relationships well before they apply.

That’s why it’s critical to view networking not as a post-admissions activity, but as a strategic tool you can use from the very beginning of your MBA journey.

Why MBA Networking Starts Before You Apply

We often advise clients to begin networking early. Why? Because networking for your MBA goes beyond who you know — it’s about learning what makes each school unique and where you will thrive.

Early networking allows you to:

• Uncover insider perspectives on a school’s culture and curriculum
• Personalise your application essays with depth and relevance
• Build relationships with future classmates, mentors, and collaborators
• Stand out by going beyond surface-level research
  

One of the most effective ways to initiate meaningful connections is by visiting the campus — if you have the opportunity.

 

 

Make the Most of a Campus Visit

Visiting a school campus is one of the most insightful ways to experience an MBA program firsthand. From sitting in on a class to chatting with a student ambassador, these moments offer a deeper look into the school’s culture — and can significantly strengthen your application.

To get the most value out of your visit:

• Attend a class – Pay close attention to how professors teach and how students contribute. Do the classroom dynamics align with your learning style?
• Take thoughtful notes – Write down names, roles, and key takeaways from your conversations. These details can help personalise your essays and interviews.
• Explore student clubs – Ask about leadership roles, programming, and how the clubs support different career tracks. Imagine how you’d contribute.
• Observe the ecosystem – Notice how the business school interacts with other parts of the university, with alumni, and the business community — especially if you’re targeting programs with strong industry ties.
  

A well-planned visit not only informs your decision-making but also helps you stand out as a more engaged and informed applicant.

Can’t Visit in Person? Here’s How to Network Remotely

If travel isn’t possible, don’t worry — top MBA programs offer many ways to connect virtually. In fact, many of our clients build deep connections from halfway across the world.

Remote networking ideas:

• Attend virtual MBA networking events and school-hosted info sessions
• Join mock classes, online panels, or small-group coffee chats
• Reach out to student ambassadors or alumni on LinkedIn; with ‘cold-call’ outreach, you are more likely to get a response if you have a common interest that you can reference in your introductory message
• Ask alumni in your own network — friends, colleagues, mentors — about their experience
  

For long-term value, prioritize programs that offer robust post-graduate support and access to the best MBA alumni networks. These networks can be a powerful asset for mentorship, recruiting, and career advancement long after graduation.

 

How to Network Without Connections (And Still Do It Well)

Even if you don’t have someone to make a warm introduction, you can still build connections that make a meaningful impact. Start by reaching out to current students or school alumni who share something in common with you — whether that’s your industry, geography, undergraduate institution, or post-MBA goals.

Here’s a simple outreach message to get started:

Sample LinkedIn Message:
Hi [Name], I’m exploring MBA programs and noticed you’re a [School] alum. I’d love to hear a few quick insights about your experience, especially around [career goals or topic]. Would you be open to a brief 15-minute chat? I’d really appreciate your time — thank you!

You can find potential contacts through:

• LinkedIn alumni search – Most official alumni directories are restricted, but LinkedIn is a powerful tool for finding graduates from your target MBA programs. Use the “Alumni” tab on a school’s LinkedIn page to filter by graduation year, location, industry, or company — then reach out to individuals whose paths resonate with your own.
• Student ambassador pages – Schools often list current students who are happy to speak with prospective MBA graduates
• Industry-specific MBA events – Hosted by groups like Forté Foundation or The Consortium, these are excellent for connecting with future peers and business leaders
  

The best networking happens when it feels natural and mutually beneficial. Many alumni enjoy giving back and offering guidance to the next generation of MBA graduates — especially when you approach them with sincerity, preparation, and purpose.

 

Common MBA Networking Questions

Should I mention specific networking conversations in my essays?
Yes — if the interaction was meaningful, highlight what you learned. Referencing personal insights shows genuine engagement and motivation, and helps the AdCom see how you’ll contribute to the community.

What if I’m an introvert or new to professional networking?
Start small. Focus on one conversation at a time. Listen more than you speak, follow up with a thank you note, and remember: successful networking is about building meaningful connections, it’s not about the volume. Introverts can be some of the most effective networkers — especially when they approach it with organization, intentionality, and a thoughtful, systematic strategy. 

How can I find people to talk to?
Search LinkedIn for alumni, check your target school’s student ambassador pages, and ask around in your own network. Even one strong connection can unlock further networking opportunities.

Is it okay to network with multiple schools at once?
Absolutely. Just be honest and respectful in your outreach. Schools know that prospective students are comparing programs, and thoughtful engagement with several institutions is part of the process when pursuing an MBA.

 

Client Story: How Networking Transformed One Application

One Fortuna client targeting Wharton initially struggled to articulate why the school was her top choice. After speaking with four current students, including one who had pivoted from the same pre-MBA industry, she sharpened her essays and completely reframed her goals. “Those conversations were my secret weapon,” she told us. “They gave me clarity and helped me tell a much more compelling story.” The result? She was accepted in Round 1 with a scholarship.

 

Don’t Overlook Equity in Access to Networks

Not all applicants begin with the same level of access. That’s why many top schools now offer student ambassadors, regional webinars, and inclusive events for underrepresented applicants.

Programs such as The Consortium and Forté Foundation are valuable resources for women and minority candidates seeking to expand their network before applying.

 

Final Thoughts

No matter where you’re starting from, Fortuna can help you build a tailored networking strategy that supports both your candidacy and your long-term goals. At Fortuna, we encourage clients to be proactive, no matter their starting point. Sign up for your free consultation today.