Rahulmba2 wrote:
Please think twice (in fact thrice) before joining either of IESE or IE Business School. I had made the mistake of applying to both and really regret having done that.
Very unlike US schools, for these two schools, it seems money matters more than anything else. More than your grades, interviews, GMAT, TOEFL scores, workex, anything.
In fact the admissions decision is based on how you intend to finance your MBA. For US schools, the admissions decision is independent of the scholarship/ financing decision, but for these two schools they are absolutely and directly correlated.
I'll give the example of IESE. I had applied - Got selected for the interview and AD and had a telephonic interview. I mentioned 6to them that I would not be able to attend the AD, as I had to travel to the US for some office work. In the admissions form, I had mentioned that I would be paying the full tuition fees. The interview went quite well. When the interviewer asked me if I had any questions, I asked whats the way forward. he said that I find no reason why you should not be selected, etc. He again confirmed if I am paying the fees fully. I said yes. I then asked him if I could apply for scholarships. He said that I could....
I then applied for scholarships (just to lessen the burden).... and guess what..... they put me on waiting list and said that they would like to interview me again (a second interview). This interview was almost absolutely about scholarships and how I would finance, etc. When I said that I was looking for at least a 40% scholarship, they were taken aback and decided not to select me. HAD I SAID THAT I WOULD PAY THE FULL AMOUNT, THEY WOULD HAVE FOR SURE SELECTED ME.
Trust me, in my view, these schools are just about money. Whoever is reading, take my advice - apply to US schools, as they have far better placements, a better curriculum and most importantly do not base their admission decision on whether and how much you intend to finance.
I understand you should be very embarrassed and upset for the situation. However as one of scholarship recipients, i think your conclusion that saying 'dont go IESE as they are just about money' is not agreeable.
Maybe unfortunately, they would have found another unsatisfactory aspect from you even after the interview, as your admission was not yet confirmed and still to be reviewed with all things incorporated. That happens pretty often..
I feel sorry for your story but please dont blame or harm the entire reputation of IESE..