jdrizzo89 I recently addressed this in the IMD forum; my response below
Q: MBA Prep Coach, do you have any expert advice on how to handle this essay?
What other programs are you considering? Of the programs you are considering, what can IMD bring to you as a differentiator? (Word limit 100)
If we mention highly ranked programs such as INSEAD, will it send a signal to adcom that I am treating IMD as a safety school and unlikely to attend if I get admits from my top choices?
A: In this question, you want to pick adjacent programs to some degree: similar ranking and like IMD, leadership development oriented. So maybe another school that has a well-developed personal deep dive course(s.) Or has an industry focus more so than consulting or finance.
This speaks to the core of what differentiates IMD. I do think it might be a mistake to put down INSEAD here because if you have the right stats, they know they will probably not “win” you if they choose you. Also, INSEAD is really quite a different program from IMD and so this will undermine the sincerity of your application.
They want to know: if I invite you to my party will you come, or will you make an excuse last minute and I will have to scramble to invite more guests? IMD wants to pick the “best” applicants but also the applicant that think IMD is the best as well; their first choice.
I recommend everyone do a fair bit of research on IMD to get clear on what IMDs value proposition is specifically for them and their career; probably should be some aspect of personal development, introspection, and leadership. And how industry focus. How they would benefit from a simulation-type learning environment.
A good place to start would be the interview with the Dean by Touch MBA.
https://touchmba.com/tag/imd/jdrizzo89 wrote:
Application quick question. They ask "What other schools are you applying for and what selection criteria are you using?" I am a little confused on the wording. What do they mean by selection criteria? Do they mean which school is 2nd 3rd 4th or do they actually want a reason these are your other application choices?
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