How late is too late to start an MBA? I'm 45, and I feel like I'm going to be the only one my age trying do this. Would love to get some inspiration from others who have started late, and would also be super nice to hear about how your life changed (or didn't) after the MBA.

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I earned my MBA at 41 while raising young children (1 in college) and managing a demanding job, wanting to prove to myself and my kids that nothing is impossible. After a few years in a toxic work environment, I left to protect my health, but since then I’ve struggled with job stability. Despite strong experience and education, I've faced ageism, pay‑equity bias, and interviewers who seem unprepared or intimidated by my background.
I started a consulting business in 2023, but it went on hold while I cared for my father and my mother, both of whom have since passed. Since graduating in 2017, job opportunities have been scarce despite many applications. I believe that at this stage, an MBA is most valuable for entrepreneurship rather than climbing corporate ladders - unless you've secured a position/job beforehand - nowadays there is no loyalty, all employees are just a number. Now, with my parents as inspiration, I focus on building my business and moving forward with hopes I do find a flexible job, preferably part-time to ensure secure income until my business picks up. My skills and drive speak for themselves. I'm excited for the place that recognizes that, I will persevere as so will everyone going through job hunting struggles...With all this said, ABSOLUTELY NOT, nothing is ever too late, only regret is - BEST OF LUCK:-)

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I know many who got an executive mba at 45. All said worth it.

Never too late! I know someone who did their MBA at 47 and said it completely renewed their career confidence. You’d fit right in.

My experience was different. Started at 44, worked fulltime, took PT MBA. Also had long commute. Since I wasn't changing careers I don't really think it was worth it, other than for personal satisfaction and to keep my resume relevant. I was treated like an outsider because everyone else was younger. I guess they felt they know it all! Be prepared for almost EVERY class to be "study groups", which can be good for dividing up work, but I did have one group where a guy did NOTHING but nobody said anything. If it had been me, I would've been kicked out. Go figure. Just go in there with a thick skin, and don't expect anyone to be interested in your experience/knowledge..because you're "old".

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