Although there are many components to an application, the following are common concerns for applicants and admissions committee members.
· Essay. Tell your story honestly and with humanity while always answering the question. Describe your teamwork successes and work both in and out of the workplace.
· GMAT Score. Take a practice test and assess your scores against the ranges of your target schools. If your score is not up to par, consider a professional GMAT test preparation course. Give yourself adequate time to practice and successfully reach your target score.
· Interview. Interviews are generally relaxed, but it’s recommended that you practice prior to your interview. Review your application and the school’s website. Come ready to have a good conversation with your interviewer. To avoid seeming ill prepared for your interview be clear and concise, maintain eye contact, and don’t let yourself shy away from the conversation.
· Consider attending the weekend events for admitted students, which will give you a chance to meet some of the students who have been accepted to your prospective schools and may help you determine if a certain school is a good fit for you.
· You also may consider getting in touch with current students, faculty members and admissions staff that can answer your questions and help you decide which school may be the best fit.
· Re-assess location benefits, the school’s reputation and your MBA goals.
Take advantage of the opportunity to get to know members of your class at local events or online forums. In addition, if you’re in need of additional preparation consider taking refresher courses. Some students also take this opportunity to travel or visit friends and family, as school and work may not allow for extended trips or visits in the near future.
The process varies according to the school and your interests. Generally, if you are interested in a field that is typical of students in your program, you will find that the business school has its own process you can follow as soon as 1-3 months after you begin your studying there. If you are interested in an atypical path, you might have to do additional legwork on your own to make contacts and get interviews. Each school will help you perfect cover letters and resumes and tailor them to the jobs you want.