Applying to IE University is an exciting step toward your academic and professional future. Known for its innovative programs, global approach, and strong focus on entrepreneurship, IE University attracts students from all over the world. But with a competitive admissions process, how can you make your IE University application stand out?
If you’re a high school student looking to apply, you’re in the right place. We’ve got 5 essential IE University application tips to help you craft a strong and memorable application that increases your chances of getting accepted.
1. Apply early!
Applying early to a university with rolling admissions, like IE University, can give you a significant advantage. Since applications are reviewed as they are received, early applicants have a better chance of securing a spot before spaces start filling up. Waiting until later in the admissions cycle means competing for fewer available seats, which can make acceptance more challenging.
Another key benefit of applying early is having more time to plan. If you get accepted early, you can focus on preparing for your transition to university—whether that means arranging housing, securing scholarships, or improving necessary skills before start. Plus, an early acceptance can reduce stress, allowing you to enjoy your final months of high school without worrying about last-minute applications.
Since IE University applications are considered on a rolling basis, it’s smart to submit yours as soon as possible. Not only does this increase your chances of getting in, but it also allows you to receive your decision sooner, giving you more flexibility in making future academic and financial plans. If IE University is your top choice, don’t wait! Apply early and take control of your admissions journey.
2. Demonstrate that you “fit” IE throughout the IE University application.
Before you start your application, take some time to research IE University’s values, programs, and culture. Unlike traditional universities, IE is known for its emphasis on innovation, entrepreneurship, and global perspectives. Admissions officers are looking for students who align with these values.
How can you show this in your IE University application?
- Choose a program that truly excites you. IE offers degrees in business, law, international relations, design, and more. Make sure your choice aligns with your passions and career goals.
- Highlight your entrepreneurial mindset. Have you started a project, a business, or led an initiative? Put it on your student resume’. Even if it was small, showing that you take initiative and think outside the box is a big plus.
- Emphasize your international outlook. If you’ve traveled, studied abroad, or speak multiple languages, highlight these experiences to demonstrate your global perspective.
- Don’t just copy and paste generic statements about why you want to go to IE. Be specific! Mention professors, courses, or opportunities that excite you and explain why they align with your goals.
- Ask your recommender for help. If possible, choose a recommender who can highlight qualities that align with IE University’s values, such as innovation, leadership, or international perspective.
Your personal statement is one of the most important parts of your application. This is where you get to tell your story, showcase your personality, and explain why you’re a great fit for IE University.
How to Write a Standout Personal Statement
- Start with a compelling hook. Admissions officers read hundreds of applications, so grab their attention from the first sentence.
- Show, don’t tell. Instead of saying, “I am passionate about business,” tell a story about how you started your first project or internship.
- Be authentic. Write in your own voice and avoid exaggeration. IE University values genuine students with unique perspectives.
- Explain why IE is the right fit for you. Connect your interests and experiences to specific aspects of IE’s programs.
- Find an editor. Once you finish writing, ask a teacher, mentor, or friend to review your essay. Sometimes, a fresh pair of eyes can help identify areas for improvement.
3. Polish up your student resume’ for the IE University application.
IE University values well-rounded students who have interests and accomplishments beyond academics. Whether you’re involved in sports, music, leadership roles, volunteering, or personal projects, these experiences can strengthen your application.
How to Highlight Your Extracurriculars
- Focus on leadership and impact. Instead of just listing activities, explain your role and how you contributed.
- Demonstrate consistency. IE values dedication, so highlight activities you’ve been involved in for a long time rather than briefly mentioning many. Quality is better than quantity.
- Tie your experiences to your future goals. If you’re applying for business, list your business-related courses and offer short explanations about how your leadership role in a club helped you develop business problem-solving skills.
- Don’t forget the portfolio. If you have an online portfolio, blog, or social media project, include it in your application to showcase your creativity and initiative. You can also paste the link onto your student resume’.
4. Actually prepare for the Kira interview.
Once you submit your application, you likely be invited to complete an online Kira Talent interview. This is an automated video interview where you’ll answer pre-recorded questions to assess your communication skills and critical thinking.
Many students don’t prepare for the Kira interview. They think they will just wing it. Not preparing is a BIG mistake. The questions are not easy. We’ve got a big list of the types of questions that you could be asked to answer. Many of them require more than 30 seconds to come up with answers if you haven’t thought about them or practiced beforehand.
Since most people don’t prepare, actually preparing for the Kira interview will give you a clear advantage in the application process.
How to Ace the Kira Talent Interview
- Practice speaking clearly and confidently. You’ll have limited time to respond, so practice structuring your answers in a concise and organized way.
- Prepare for common questions. Expect to answer questions about your motivation for applying, your strengths, and challenges you’ve overcome.
- Use the STAR method. For behavioral questions, structure your answers using Situation, Task, Action, and Result to provide clear and effective responses.
- Test your technology. Ensure your microphone, camera, and internet connection are working well before the interview.
- Practice with the camera. Since the interview is automated, practice speaking naturally and confidently to a camera. Record yourself answering sample questions and review your responses to improve. Here’s our recommended process.
5. Don’t apply with the SAT if you have less than 1300.
IE’s minimum SAT score is 1200, but many students apply with well over that. We have been told by parents that their students were offered interviews with less than a 1200, so the score doesn’t matter.
However…
These students didn’t get in later.
You want to ensure that your standardized test score actually helps you in the holistic IE University application process. If you have an SAT score less than 1300, we really recommend that you take the IE Admissions Test. You can prepare for it within a week. IE uses an admissions scoring system so submitting a strong IE Admissions Test can earn you more points than submitting a weak SAT score.
Want to know more about the IE Admissions Test? Check out the answers to 20 common questions.
Apply to IE University with Expert Help!
Applying to IE University can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone! Our expert tutors provide private coaching for the IE Admissions Test to help you maximize your score. Plus, our comprehensive application package includes:
- Personalized Resume Editing – Highlight your achievements and stand out.
- Essay Review & Editing – Craft a compelling personal statement.
- Kira Talent Interview Prep – Practice real interview questions with expert feedback.
Don’t leave your future to chance—let’s build a winning application together! WhatsApp Us for a FREE consultation.
