I would like to share with you my bad experience applying to INSEAD Jan 2011 intake, not to complain, but just to know your opinion and if I made the right decision.
I live in a country where is impossible to take GMAT and TOEFL, so in January I traveled to another country and did both tests in 3 days. GMAT score was not outstanding, however I think it was ok (+600). My problem was with TOEFL. I scored 101 but the minimum required in INSEAD is 105.
Before applying I sent a mail to adcom asking about my situation and they encouraged me to apply, saying that I could retake the test later. And so I did. I sent my application, and few days later (after having already paid the application fee), I got a mail from INSEAD saying that my application would not be considered until I repeat the TOEFL!!
I sent an email explaining again my situation and the fact that I would have to pay around 1,500 euros to travel and take the examination again. Therefore, I asked them to continue evaluating my application, and based on other elements (essays, GMAT, CV, etc) they could possibly make a conditional offer (or refuse me, obviously). At that time, I would be willing to retake the test, if that was the only condition remaining to be admitted.
However, INSEAD again replied in a short and simple mail: "We will only consider your application when you have the minimum TOEFL score."
After this I replied asking only to withdraw my application. I was very upset with INSEAD!!!
At this moment I have unconditional offers from IE, ESADE and Imperial College and I'm sure that in any one of these schools I'll spend a fantastic year.
Just one last note: I had the same problem with Oxford Said but, unlike INSEAD, they understood my situation and analyzed the remaining elements of my application. In the end I was rejected, but by factors other than the TOEFL. I consider that Oxford was much more worthy, since it prevented me to spend 1500 euro on an unnecessary trip.
What do you think about that? Did I behaved in the right way and made the best decision? I must also say that INSEAD has always been my dream school and the first option...
Cheers