Does Freelancing Count As Work Experience for an MBA?

We all know that when you’re looking to get your MBA, your resume is key. But what about if your work experience is a little… eclectic? Can you put freelancing in the work experience section of your MBA resume?

The answer is no, but there’s no need to worry. You can still highlight your freelance work in other ways that will leave a lasting impression on the admissions committee. Typically when applying for an MBA you want to have years worth of full-time work experience. The amount varies with each program, but it is typically a minimum of two to three years.

Take a look at the requirements for Wharton, for example:

The average student has worked for five or six years between graduating from college and entering the MBA program. The Wharton MBA program does accept early career candidates with limited or no experience who exhibit strong managerial and professional potential.
Wharton Business School Website

Do You Need an MBA To Be More Successful?

While an MBA is not a requirement for success, it can give you the tools and knowledge you need to take your career to the next level. With an MBA, you will learn how to think strategically, manage people and resources effectively, and make sound business decisions. You will also develop a network of contacts that can help you in your career.

While you may not need an MBA to be successful, it can give you the edge you need to stand out in a competitive job market. If you are considering applying to business school, be sure to check out our list of the best MBA programs in the country.

Why Should Freelancing Be Considered More When It Comes To Applying For An MBA?

There are a few reasons. First, freelancing shows that you are comfortable with ambiguity and can handle not having everything laid out for you. This is an important skill for any business professional.

Second, freelancing demonstrates that you are resourceful and can get the job done even when you don’t have all the resources you need. This is another important skill for any business professional.

Finally, freelancing shows that you are motivated and can work independently.

Should You Get an MBA to Be a Freelancer

Most potential clients on sites like Upwork don’t care much about an MBA, they just want to know if you could get the job done. If you’re plan is to get an MBA you should put it to use by pursuing a career with larger companies and a high salary.

The best thing you could do as a freelancer is learn more skills online and increase the quality of work you do for your clients. This will lead to more opportunities down the road.

Our Prediction

Freelancing is getting bigger every single year.

With the rise of the gig economy, we predict that more and more MBA programs will start to view freelancing in a positive light and consider it as work experience.

So if you’re thinking of applying to business school, don’t be afraid to list your freelance work on your resume. It just might give you the edge you need to stand out from the competition.

In Summary

While you can’t list your freelance work as part of your MBA resume’s work experience section, there are other places you can highlight this information.

Be sure to include it in the activities section and make sure to mention any relevant skills you’ve gained through freelancing in your essays. Remember, the admissions committee is looking for well-rounded candidates, so don’t be afraid to show off your unique experience.

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Does Freelancing Count As Work Experience for an MBA?