B-school question from private equity firms

I've had a few interviews where I'm always asked this question: Do you plan to get your MBA? Why do they ask that?

I'm from an undergrad b-school, so for me it makes less sense to go get an MBA if I can go into the industry I want without it (though I will if I need to).

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Best Response

They ask because most PE analysts/associates eventually go back to get their MBA as part of the typical private equity career path. I reckon the best way to answer this question is by reframing it, and saying something to the following effect: "I recognize that going back to business school is a common career path for people that get into private equity at a pre-MBA level, and I definitely see its benefits. If the MBA eventually fits into my career plans, that would be great, but for the time being, my primary goal is to build a career in PE and learn as much as I can at the pre-MBA level."

That was the answer I usually gave and it was well-received.

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