In Part I of our Guide to MBA Admissions series, we reviewed the admissions process overview and academic profile. Today we’ll move on to a discussion about the infamous GMAT and the role of work experience.
What about the GMAT?
No discussion about business school would be complete without a discussion about the GMAT. *Sigh* In fact, the first question posed by MBA applicants is usually, “How important is the GMAT?” Answer: It’s important but it isn’t the only factor. A good score may keep you in the running but that data point alone will not get you in.
You need to do your best on the GMAT so don’t wing. Learn as much as you can about the exam before sitting for it. There are a variety of ways to do this and there’s a methodology out there that will work for you including: self-study, tutoring and prep classes. No matter which one you choose, build in enough time so your scores will be available when you submit your application.
Incorporate studying for the exam into your admissions timeline so you don’t find yourself juggling a job, the GMAT and an admissions application. You’ll also want to prepare for the possibility that you may want to take the exam again. Note that schools will be looking for a balance between your verbal and quantitative scores. In short, the GMAT is important. Don’t blow it off. Study.
The Role of Work Experience
Work experience is important because it’s an indicator of what you’ve been doing in your professional life. Your work journey will help the Adcom understand what you will contribute to the community as well as your potential. Let’s face it, business schools are in the business of developing leaders and visionaries. They need to know that you have the stuff.
Don’t be discouraged if you don’t have tons of work experience. It’s temping to define experience as merely your title. What’s more important is what you’ve accomplished and how you have demonstrated leadership. What impact have you made in your world? If you’ve only worked for a few years it may be reflected via your initiatives or outside activities. Be confident that your aptitude for leadership can be shown in a variety of ways.
I suspect you have enough to digest for now. In Part III of this series, we’ll discuss MBA admissions essays and the role of recommendations.
Geanine Thompson is CEO of MBA Goddess, an MBA admissions consulting firm for over-achieving chicks, gutsy girls and non-traditional, non-business career applicants. For more must-have MBA admissions tips, visit http://www.MBAGoddess.com
