Things you need to know before applying to a top MBA program
Applying to an MBA program could possibly be one of the biggest and most important decisions you will ever make. Extensive research must go into making sure the programs that you apply to are most suited to you. Here at ARINGO MBA Admissions Consulting, we have gathered the following tips that will hopefully offer some assistance whilst making your decision:
Evaluate where you are in your career path, and where you want to be. An MBA program is different from an undergraduate degree. Would a top MBA program help you to get from A to B?
Spend time researching which program is best for you. You must make sure that it is a program that you are willing to invest time, money and lots of hard work into. The programs vary between full time and part time, different geographies, lengths and learning methods.
Take time to research specializations. Whilst most programs offer the basics such as accounting, finance, management, economics, marketing and strategy. Others offer a variety of options such as entrepreneurship and human resources. Some universities even provide specializations based on an industry such as law, health or media.
Visiting several business schools or checking out MBA information sessions, open days and MBA fairs will help decide if an MBA program is right for your career path, in addition to helping you find a program suited to you and your needs. Whilst on your visit try to be as immersed as possible. Ask your tour guide and other students any questions you may have. Some schools even host organized Q&A evenings, campus visits and information sessions. These will not only benefit you, but can show the admissions board that you are serious and dedicated.
Take the GMAT/GRE exams. These exam scores are valid for 5 years. If you have time, prepare and take it.
Consider hiring an MBA admissions consultant, even for an initial strategy conversation. These highly trained consultants can help over a wide range of areas. Whether you are concerned that your GMAT score is not adequate, you think that your writing skills are not up to par, you need help with your CV and many other areas. MBA admission consultants are an investment, whilst they cannot guarantee an acceptance, they can absolutely give you and your application a boost. Today almost 40% of MBA applicants acquire help from an MBA admissions consultant, so you might want to consider hiring one to ensure your application is up to par.
There are many business books that can not only help you decide on a program and career path, but will also give you a leg up during your time in business school. Some highly recommended ones include: Scaling Up Excellence by Robert I Sutton and Huggy Rao. First Break All The Rules: What The Worlds Greatest Managers Do Differently by Marcus Buckingham, and The Lean Start Up by Eric Reis. Additionally, there are lists online that show most popular books based on universities.
Hopefully these tips offer assistance and will establish guidance through your application process.
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