MBA admissions in the U.S.

Students have been advised to do extensive research on B-Schools before they apply.

The MBA Tour, a consortium of some of the reputed B-Schools of North America, Asia and Europe, recently conducted its information dissemination workshop in Hyderabad. Two workshops were conducted on admission decisions of B-schools and managing career in the U.S. after MBA. The panellists provided some important insights on GMAT, admission process and job dynamics.

On the GMAT exam, the panellists emphasised sound command over the English language. Aspirants were asked to write the analytical essay in clear English. “Often, candidates use abbreviations, but it is important to articulate the case in clear and lucid language,” said a panellist. Cultural training, that is, training in American accent and their choice of vocabulary was another important suggestion.

According to panellists, it is imperative to apply in the first cycle as students can have a faster decision on admission and stand a better chance of getting funding. Students were suggested to do extensive research and proper homework on B-Schools before they apply. Brijender Marweh, representative of College of William and Mary, said that the seriousness of the candidate reflects in the application. “You should be able to give the reason why you have opted for a particular programme and a particular school, otherwise you cannot be taken seriously,” he said. Having campus visits, talking to alumni and reading available literature could be few best methods that work, he said.

Franccsca Roveda of Bocconi University, Italy, stated that GMAT score doesn’t determine the admission process completely, although it is one of the prime pre-requisites. The application form, academic record, recommendation letters, GMAT score, work experience and the sector of work have their own importance.

Students were also asked to maintain consistency in application form and interviews since most of the questions would be asked on the information furnished in the application form. The candidates who were managing their family business were suggested to get the recommendation letters from third parties such vendors and customers.