09-26-2025
Applying to college doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. If the Mitch Daniels School of Business at Purdue is on your radar, relax, you only need one tool to get there: the Common Application (Common App). That’s right, no extra portals, no business-major-only application and no hidden surprises. Just one application, and you’re in the game.
Think of the Common App as the master key for college admissions. Fill out basic information once, and then send it to as many schools as you want. For Purdue and the business school, every application is the same for each student.
With over 80,000 applications received by Purdue every year, the Common App helps keep the process smooth and organized. For you, that means fewer hoops to jump through and more time to focus on making your application stand out.
The Common App is the only way to apply to Purdue and the Mitch Daniels School of Business. Bonus: At Purdue, business majors are admitted directly into the business school, so no weed-out process later on.
For students applying to the business school, there are no additional essays or supplemental forms beyond what Purdue requires of all applicants.
Once you're in the system, search for Purdue University and add it to your list. Then, pick your primary major and an alternative major. If you are admitted to Purdue, you are also admitted directly to the business school right away. You won't need to reapply later down the road.
Exploratory Studies can work as an alternative major if you’re not 100% sure about what major to choose, but do not pick it hoping to transfer into the business school later. That switch isn’t guaranteed.
When it comes to recommendation letters, go with people who really know you: a teacher who’s seen your growth, a coach who’s watched you lead or a boss who knows your work ethic. Those voices carry way more weight than a “big name” who doesn’t know you well.
A recommendation from a business-related supervisor can add value, but it is not required. What matters more than the recommender’s title is their ability to provide meaningful insight into your contributions, potential and your character.
Your essays are where you get to shine. The main essay doesn’t have to be about business. It could be about playing soccer, helping a sibling with homework or a challenge that shaped you. What matters is that it’s your story. Your personal essay is sent to every school you apply to, so make it about you, not a specific college.
On top of your personal essay, Purdue has two short questions for everyone:
You want this to be a detailed and authentic essay that is connected to you and why you want Purdue to be your home away from home.
Admissions committees like reading between the lines of essays to seek evidence of the student’s research. There are a variety of ways for students to imply this research — including specific details of Purdue, favorite parts of the campus or a desired class or professor — these are all great ways to get started. Mentioning unique programs, student organizations or even campus traditions demonstrates to them that the student understands what it means to become a Boilermaker.
The Common App makes applying to Purdue and the Mitch Daniels School of Business simple. Fill out one form, share your story, highlight your strengths and submit by Early Action to ensure the widest range of opportunities for admission, scholarships and honors consideration.
Remember, this isn’t just about whether Purdue says yes; it’s also about whether Purdue feels like the right fit for you. Does it feel like the right environment for you to grow and succeed academically, socially and financially? If so, put in the work, stay authentic and trust the process.
