ISB Essays 2025-26: Expert Tips
- Goalisb
- Jan 7
- 14 min read
Updated: Feb 23
ISB Essays are a window for the admissions committee to know you as a professional and as an individual. With so many well qualified applicants aiming for their seat at ISB PGP, the ISB essays are your opportunity to stand out and show what you are made of.
Based on the insights shared by Mr. Amit Tyagi, ISB Associate Director in the Q&A session, here's a more detailed section on tips and strategies for ISB essays:
Tips and Strategies for ISB Essays
Introspection is Key:
Amit strongly emphasizes the importance of introspection. Take time to deeply reflect on your experiences, skills, and career goals.
Understand your strengths, weaknesses, and what truly motivates you.
Start Early and Iterate:
Don't attempt to complete your essays in just a day or two.
Begin the process well in advance of the deadline.
Plan for multiple drafts and revisions.
Initial Brainstorming:
Start with an unconstrained draft, ignoring word limits initially.
Let your thoughts flow freely to capture all potential content.
Ruthless Editing:
After the initial draft, be prepared to cut ruthlessly.
Focus on the most impactful experiences and insights that align with your overall narrative.
Seek Feedback:
Share your drafts with trusted mentors, colleagues, or seniors who know you well.
Gather input from 3-4 people to get diverse perspectives.
However, ensure the final essay remains authentically your voice.
Align with Your Application Narrative:
Ensure your essays complement and reinforce the story told by other parts of your application.
Create a coherent narrative across all application components.
Showcase Self-Awareness:
Demonstrate clear understanding of your skills, experiences, and how they've shaped you.
Articulate your career goals and how an MBA, specifically from ISB, fits into your plan.
Address the Prompts Directly:
For the mandatory essays, clearly address your professional strengths and weaknesses, and your reasons for pursuing an MBA.
In the optional essay, focus on how ISB specifically aligns with your career goals.
Be Authentic:
Don't try to write what you think the admissions committee wants to hear.
Be genuine about your experiences and aspirations.
Show, Don't Just Tell:
Use specific examples to illustrate your points.
Highlight concrete achievements and lessons learned.
Consider the Reader:
Remember that actual people will be reviewing your essays.
Make your essays engaging and easy to follow.
Prepare for the ISB Interview:
Your essays will likely be a starting point for interview questions.
Be prepared to expand on and discuss any point you make in your essays.
For Reapplicants:
In the additional ISB essay, focus on how you've grown or improved since your last application. Highlight new achievements or insights.
Sleep On It:
Amit mentions that insights often come after you've slept on your ideas.
Allow time between drafts for reflection and new perspectives.
Word Limit Discipline:
While starting without constraints is good, ensure your final drafts adhere to the given word limits. Concise, impactful writing is a skill the ISB admissions committee values.
Remember, the ISB essay writing process is not just about producing a document, but about engaging in deep self-reflection. The ISB application process is multi-faceted, covering everything from essays to profile building. For those starting out, understanding each phase in detail can provide a strategic edge. Explore the step-by-step breakdown to maximize your application success.
We believe that this process should help you articulate your journey and vision clearly, which will be valuable not just for your application, but for your future career discussions as well. If you need help with your ISB essays, contact GOALisB ISB admission consultants.
ISB Essay Samples
ISB Essay Analysis Series: Pitfalls to avoid
Welcome to our weekly analysis of ISB essay structures and common mistakes. This series helps applicants understand what approaches to avoid in their ISB application essays, using real-world examples and detailed breakdowns.
The "Forrest Gump" ISB Essay Structure:
Here is a sample ISB essay for the essay topic for the 2025 intake - Contemplate situations that have shaped your personal journey. Present what these situations have taught you about your strengths and weaknesses, and how they have shaped your personal and professional journey. 400 words
Sample ISB Essay:
My journey in technology has been shaped by a series of pivotal moments that seemed insignificant at the time but profoundly influenced my career path. Each experience has taught me something about myself, though looking back, I'm still trying to figure out exactly what that something is.
During my final year of engineering, I was deeply moved by a guest lecture on cloud computing. The speaker's enthusiasm was contagious, and I found myself drawn to the possibilities of cloud technology. This led me to pursue a role at Microsoft, where I've spent the last four years learning and growing. Although I had no prior experience in cloud computing, something just told me this was the right path.
One of my most significant projects at Microsoft involved leading an Azure migration initiative. I was chosen for this role because I showed genuine interest. Despite my initial struggles, I managed to complete the project through sheer determination and late-night study sessions. This experience taught me that I have a natural ability to learn quickly, even if my approach isn't always structured.
I've also discovered my weaknesses along the way. I tend to get excited about new technologies without fully evaluating their practical implications. For instance, last year, I convinced my team to adopt a new development framework mid-project because I believed it would improve our efficiency. While the transition eventually worked out, it created unnecessary challenges for the team.
Working with cross-functional teams has been eye-opening. During our recent AI implementation project, I realized I'm more comfortable with code than with people. Sometimes, I find myself lost in technical discussions when I should be focusing on business objectives. However, I believe this makes me unique – I'm a dreamer who sees possibilities where others see constraints.
Looking ahead, I'm applying to ISB because I feel it's time for the next step in my career as I need to broaden my horizons. Maybe I'll start my own tech company, or perhaps I'll discover a completely different passion during the program. My journey so far has been about following my intuition and embracing new challenges as they come.
The past four years have shown me that success in technology isn't just about technical skills – it's about being open to possibilities. I believe my adaptability and enthusiasm for learning will help me succeed in whatever path I choose after ISB.
ISB essay analysis:
The Forrest Gump Essay Syndrome: When Your Career Runs Without Direction
ISB Essay Analysis
What Not To Do. What is a "Forrest Gump Essay"?
Just as Forrest Gump stumbles into historical moments and success, this essay presents a career journey where the applicant:
Stumbles into opportunities ("I was deeply moved by a guest lecture...")
Follows without planning ("something just told me this was the right path")
Succeeds through pure enthusiasm ("because I showed genuine interest")
Lacks clear direction ("Maybe I'll start my own tech company, or perhaps...")
Creating a strong application profile is key to standing out. Learn more about profile building for ISB admission to highlight your unique skills and experiences that align with ISB's core values and admissions criteria.
Breaking Down The Forrest Gump Elements
1. The "I Just Felt Like Running" Career Choices
"During my final year of engineering, I was deeply moved by a guest lecture on cloud computing... This led me to pursue a role at Microsoft"
Like Forrest running across America without a plan, the applicant makes life-changing career decisions based on momentary inspiration.
2. The "Box of Chocolates" Approach to Leadership
"I was chosen for this role not because of my technical expertise (I had none at the time), but because I showed genuine interest"
Just as Forrest becomes a shrimping boat captain without experience, the applicant celebrates taking on roles without proper qualification.
3. The "Lieutenant Dan" Team Management
"I convinced my team to adopt a new development framework mid-project... it created unnecessary challenges for the team"
Similar to Forrest's innocent but impactful decisions affecting Lieutenant Dan, the applicant makes team-impacting choices without strategic consideration.
4. The "Life is Like a Box of Chocolates" Future Planning
"Maybe I'll start my own tech company, or perhaps I'll discover a completely different passion during the program"
Embracing complete uncertainty about the future, just as Forrest accepts whatever life brings his way.
Why This ISB Essay Structure Fails
Lacks Professional Maturity
Shows reactive rather than proactive career management
Presents naivety as a virtue
Lacks Leadership Potential
Lacks strategic decision-making
No demonstration of calculated risk-taking
Random Career Progression
Random movement between opportunities
Missing professional growth strategy
The GOALisB Solution
Don't let your ISB application run directionless like Forrest Gump. Transform your story from serendipitous encounters to strategic success with GOALisB's expert guidance.
Our ISB admission consultants will help you:
Convert random opportunities into strategic decisions
Transform enthusiasm into leadership potential
Develop clear, compelling career goals
Create a narrative that shows purpose and direction
Contact GOALisB for ISB application assistance:
Website: www.goalisb.com
Email: contact@goalisb.com
Phone: +91 7719497187
Remember: Life might be like a box of chocolates, but your ISB application shouldn't be!
ISB Essay 1: Your Journey, Your Story
The first essay in the ISB application is your chance to showcase your self-awareness, authenticity, and growth journey. ISB wants to know what makes you you. It’s not just about listing achievements—it’s about reflecting on the moments that shaped your character, taught you valuable lessons, and prepared you for the challenges ahead.
When writing ISB Essay 1, the biggest challenge isn’t writing—it’s deciding which stories to share. This essay is your opportunity to show who you are beyond your resume, and choosing the right anecdotes can make or break your application.
1. What is the ISB Essay 1 Prompt?
The ISB Essay 1 prompt asks: ‘Contemplate situations that have shaped your personal journey. Present what these situations have taught you about your strengths and weaknesses, and how they have shaped your personal and professional journey.’ (400 words)
2. How Do I Write a Strong ISB Essay 1?
Writing ISB Essay 1 requires reflection, authenticity, and clarity. Here’s a step-by-step approach to crafting a compelling response:
Reflect on your journey.
Choose 1-2 impactful stories.
Highlight strengths and acknowledge weaknesses.
Use the STAR framework (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for structure.
What ISB Is Looking For in The Essays?
ISB Essay 1 is designed to evaluate three key traits:
Self-Awareness
Can you reflect on your experiences honestly?
Do you recognize your strengths and areas for improvement?
Growth and Maturity
How have your experiences shaped you as a person and a professional?
Have you demonstrated resilience, adaptability, or leadership?
Authenticity
Are you presenting a genuine story about yourself, or are you simply trying to impress the admissions committee?
This essay is less about what you’ve achieved and more about how your experiences influenced your mindset, actions, and growth.
What Stories Should I Include in ISB Essay 1?
The best stories for ISB Essay 1 are those that showcase personal growth and professional achievements. Here are some examples:
A challenge you overcame in your personal life (e.g., moving to a new city and adapting to a different culture).
A professional milestone that tested your skills (e.g., leading a team through a high-pressure project).
How to Approach ISB Essay 1?
Step 1: Reflect on Your Journey
Start by brainstorming significant moments in your life. These can be:
Personal Experiences:
A challenge you overcame, a pivotal decision, or a life-changing event.
Example: Moving to a new city and adapting to a different culture taught you resilience and adaptability.
Professional Milestones:
A key project, leadership opportunity, or failure that taught you valuable lessons.
Example: Leading a high-stakes project at work that succeeded despite tight deadlines, highlighting your strategic thinking and teamwork.
Step 2: Identify Strengths and Weaknesses
Choose experiences that highlight both your strengths and areas of growth.
Strength Example:
“I discovered my ability to lead under pressure when managing a team through an unexpected crisis.”
Weakness Example:
“However, I realized I needed to work on delegating effectively, as I initially tried to manage everything myself.”
Step 3: Show Impact
For each situation, explain:
What happened?
What did you do?
What was the outcome?
How did it shape your journey?
Focus on how the experience changed you rather than just narrating events.
Structuring Your ISB Essay 1
Use the STAR Framework to organize your thoughts:
Situation: Describe the context.
Example: “During my second year as a financial analyst, our team faced a critical client deadline that required restructuring a $50M portfolio within three weeks.”
Task: Define your role and responsibilities.
Example: “As the lead analyst, I was tasked with developing a risk mitigation strategy while ensuring alignment with the client’s objectives.”
Action: Explain the steps you took, the challenges you faced, and how you addressed them.
Example: “I collaborated with my team to build a predictive risk model, communicated regularly with stakeholders, and streamlined processes to save time.”
Result: Highlight the outcome and your learnings.
Example: “The project was completed on time, reducing client risk exposure by 15%. This experience reinforced my analytical skills but also taught me the importance of proactive communication.”
Dos and Don’ts for ISB Essay 1:
Dos:
Be Honest: Reflect on real experiences, even if they involve challenges or failures. Authenticity resonates more than perfection.
Show Growth: Highlight how your strengths helped you succeed and how you’ve worked on your weaknesses.
Balance Personal and Professional Stories: Use one personal and one professional anecdote to showcase a well-rounded journey.
Connect the Dots: Show how these experiences have prepared you for future challenges, including the rigors of ISB.
Don’ts:
Don’t Be Generic: Avoid vague statements like “I am hardworking and a team player.” Use anecdotes to back up your claims.
Don’t Ignore Weaknesses: Avoid presenting yourself as perfect. Growth is key.
Don’t Overload the Essay: Focus on 1-2 impactful experiences rather than listing multiple events.
What Sets Our Guidance Apart
Crafting a strong ISB Essay 1 begins with uncovering the moments that truly matter in your journey. Our approach includes:
Personalized Story Mapping: Identifying defining moments in your personal and professional life.
Strategic Alignment: Evaluating which experiences align best with ISB’s values and the essay’s objectives.
Balancing Strengths and Weaknesses: Presenting growth with authenticity.
Bringing Out the “Wow” Factor: Creating emotionally resonant, standout narratives.
FAQs About ISB Essay 1
Q1. Is Essay 1 mandatory for ISB?
Yes, Essay 1 is mandatory. It is your chance to showcase your growth journey and stand out from other applicants.
Q2: What is the purpose of ISB Essay 1?
ISB Essay 1 evaluates your self-awareness, authenticity, and ability to reflect on your growth journey.
Q3. Should I include both personal and professional stories?
Yes, a balance of personal and professional stories provides a well-rounded view of your personality and growth. However, choose stories that are impactful and align with ISB’s values.
Q4. How many stories should I include?
Stick to 1-2 impactful stories. Focusing on quality over quantity helps you dive deeper into your narrative.
Q5. How do I address weaknesses in the essay?
Acknowledging weaknesses shows maturity and self-awareness. Pair each weakness with an example of how you’re working to improve.
Q6. Can I write about a failure in my essay?
Absolutely. Failure stories can be powerful if they highlight resilience, learning, and growth.
Q7. What if my professional journey isn’t very impressive?
Your essay isn’t about being impressive—it’s about being authentic. Focus on how your experiences shaped your mindset and skills.
Q8. How does the STAR framework help in essay writing?
The STAR framework (Situation, Task, Action, Result) ensures clarity and flow in your storytelling, helping you present a complete narrative.
Q9. How can I tie my experiences to ISB’s program?
Mention specific aspects of ISB (like electives, clubs, or initiatives) that align with your strengths and goals. Show how ISB will help you grow further.
Q10: How long should my ISB essay be?
Stick to the 400-word limit. Conciseness is key.
Ready to Make Your ISB Essay 1 Stand Out?
Your journey is unique, and your essay should reflect that. If you need personalized guidance, reach out to our experts. Together, we’ll craft an essay that highlights your growth, authenticity, and readiness for ISB.
Contact us today to get started!
Book a consultation with GOALisB today to uncover the stories that will set your application apart. Together, we’ll craft an essay that makes the admissions committee sit up and take notice.
Crafting a reflective and impactful essay can be challenging. At GOALisB, our ISB admission consultant specializes in helping applicants like you tell their stories authentically and powerfully. Reach out for personalized guidance and take the first step toward your ISB dream!
Mistakes in Writing ISB Essays:
There are five mistakes that we have seen applicants make when they are approaching their ISB essays:
Following someone else's footsteps. Using templates and sample essays.
Rewriting your resume and achievements.
Using too much of jargon and buzzwords that they have identified from their research about what ISB looks for.
Start at the last moment.
Submitting generic and too good to be true essays in language and content.
When you are competing with a fiercely competitive applicant pool, how do you make your application stand out? The answer lies in your essays.
What does ISB look for in the essays?
Academic prowess or
Impressive work experience.
Your unique blend of skills, experiences, and perspectives.
They want to see the person behind the resume, the leader, the innovator, the changemaker.
Your essays are your chance to tell your unique story.
This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and tools you need to craft compelling ISB essays that capture your authentic self and resonate with the admissions committee. We'll delve into the latest essay prompts, share actionable tips, and even provide a sample essay for inspiration.
But remember, while this guide is a valuable starting point, personalized guidance from an experienced ISB admissions consultant can be the game-changer that elevates your application from good to exceptional.
Ready to unlock the secrets of ISB's essays? Let's dive in!
Crafting Your ISB Application Process Timeline: A Tailored Approach
Understanding when to start working on your ISB essays is crucial for maximizing your chances of success. The optimal timeline depends on your individual circumstances and preparation level. Here are three scenarios and corresponding timelines to guide you:
Scenario 1: Reapplicants or Those Building Their Profile
Timeline: Start 4-5 months before the deadline.
Rationale: Reapplicants or those who need to enhance their profile (e.g., gain additional work experience, improve test scores) need ample time. This timeline allows for:
Ding Analysis: Analyze your previous application and identify areas for improvement. You can even request feedback from ISB admissions.
Profile Enhancement: Strategically work on addressing weaknesses, such as taking additional courses, seeking leadership roles, or volunteering.
Brainstorming & Strategy: Reflect on your experiences and develop a compelling narrative that showcases your growth and potential.
Example: If the deadline is September 1st, start brainstorming and outlining your essays in January or February. Use April-June to strengthen your profile, and dedicate May-August to writing, refining, and perfecting your essays.
Scenario 2: Applicants with GMAT/GRE Scores Ready or Preparing for GMAT/ GRE
Timeline: Start 3-4 months before the deadline.
Rationale: While you have your test scores ready, crafting compelling essays still requires thoughtful introspection and planning. This timeline allows for:
Application Strategy: Develop a comprehensive strategy that aligns your entire application with your career goals and ISB's program offerings.
Brainstorming & Outlining: Deeply reflect on your experiences, strengths, and weaknesses to generate impactful essay ideas.
Writing & Revision: Write multiple drafts, seek feedback, and refine your essays to perfection.
Example: With a September 1st deadline, start brainstorming and outlining in May, draft your essays in June-July, and finalize them in August.
Important Note: These are general guidelines. The ideal timeline for you may vary depending on your individual circumstances, writing style, and comfort level.
Remember, the key is to start early and allocate sufficient time for each stage of the essay writing process.
ISB admission consultants can help guide you through the application process. With expertise in ISB-specific admissions, consultants can offer tailored advice to enhance your chances.
Decoding the ISB Essays for 2024
The ISB MBA essays are your canvas to paint a vivid picture of yourself, your experiences, and your aspirations. They are not mere formalities; they are a crucial component of your application, revealing your unique character and potential beyond your GMAT scores and resume.
Here's a breakdown of the 2024 ISB essay prompts:
ISB Essay 1: Self-Reflection and Growth
Prompt: Provide an honest portrayal of yourself, emphasizing your strengths and weaknesses. Highlight the key elements that have shaped your personal journey. Give relevant illustrations as needed. (400 words)
ISB Essay Analysis: This essay invites you to introspect and share a candid self-assessment. ISB seeks authentic voices, so don't shy away from discussing your areas for growth. Focus on the experiences that have shaped your values, skills, and aspirations.
ISB Essay 2: Success and Failure
Prompt: Contemplate two distinct situations—one where you experienced success and another where you faced failure. Delve into the personal and interpersonal lessons you learned from these instances. (400 words)
ISB Essay Analysis: This essay delves into your resilience and self-awareness. ISB wants to understand how you learn from both triumphs and setbacks. Choose stories that highlight your growth mindset and ability to navigate challenges.
ISB Optional Essay: Leveraging the PGP
Prompt: Given your previous experience and future aspirations, how do you plan to use the PGP at ISB to fulfill your professional goals? (250 words)
ISB Essay Analysis: This is your opportunity to showcase your research into the ISB MBA program. Demonstrate a clear understanding of how specific aspects of the PGP (courses, faculty, clubs, etc.) align with your career trajectory and aspirations.
Tips for writing a strong ISB Essay:
The ISB essays require introspection, honesty, and a clear vision for your future.
Each essay serves a distinct purpose, so tailor your responses accordingly.
Your essays should complement your resume and academic record, not simply restate them.
Crafting compelling ISB essays requires a deeper understanding of the underlying goals of each question.
Stay tuned for the next section of our guide, or consider booking a free consultation with our experienced ISB admissions consultants.
Craft Compelling ISB Essays: Your Action Plan
Now that you understand the essay prompts, let's dive into the nitty-gritty of crafting responses that will captivate the ISB admissions committee.
Unearth Your Unique Narrative: Don't just rehash your resume. Dig deeper into the experiences that have shaped you. What challenges have you overcome? What unique perspectives do you bring? Your ISB essays should reveal the person behind the achievements.
Need More Personalized Guidance?
While these tips are a great starting point, the ISB essay writing process can be nuanced and challenging. If you're looking for expert feedback and personalized strategies to make your essays truly shine, consider booking a free consultation with our experienced ISB admissions consultants. We can help you craft compelling narratives that showcase your unique strengths and potential.
