Welcome 2023-2024 ISB Applicants Welcome, all ISB class of 2025 hopefuls. Let's use this platform to know each other, exchange ideas, and discuss app strategies? Who all are applying? Let us know by commenting below. Follow the thread and bookmark this post. https://gmatclub.com/forum/download/file.php?id=71511 https://gmatclub.com/forum/download/file.php?id=71421 https://gmatclub.com/forum/schools/photo/ISB.jpg ISB MBA Deadlines 2023-24 Round Application Due Decisions Released Round 1 Sep 10, 2023 TBA Round 2 TBA TBA Round 3 TBA TBA ISB MBA Essays 2023-24 Essay 1 https://gmatclub.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/transparent100-1.gif Provide an honest portrayal of yourself, emphasizing your strengths and weaknesses. Highlight the key elements that have shaped your personal journey. Give relevant illustrations as needed. (400 words) Essay 2 Contemplate two distinct situations—one where you experienced success and another where you faced failure. Delve into the personal and interpersonal lessons you learned from these instances. (400 words max) Essay 3 Given your previous experience and future aspirations, how do you plan to use the PGP at ISB to fulfil your professional goals? Note: It is not necessary for you to write this essay. Please use this space only if there is something really significant that you would like us to know.(250 words max) View the full ISB Class Profile --> https://www.isb.edu/en/study-isb/post-graduate-programmes/pgp-management.html View the full ISB Employment Report --> https://www.isb.edu/en/study-isb/post-graduate-programmes/pgp-management/career-services.html

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Calling all ISB PGP Applicants: 2024 Intake Class of 2025

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Akkiiii

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Schools: Wharton '25 HBS '25 ISB '27

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15 Aug 2023, 23:46

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thanks

SignUp

Joined: 09 Jun 2022

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Location: India

Schools: HEC Sep'24 Intake INSEAD Aug'24 intake Oxford Said'25 CEIBS'26 ISB '25 IE Sep'24 intake IESE '26 SDA Bocconi'25

GMAT 1: 720 Q49 V40 Verified score

GPA: 3.0

Schools: HEC Sep'24 Intake INSEAD Aug'24 intake Oxford Said'25 CEIBS'26 ISB '25 IE Sep'24 intake IESE '26 SDA Bocconi'25

GMAT 1: 720 Q49 V40 Verified score

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16 Aug 2023, 00:22

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Kindly evaluate this profile , looking for only 1 year MBA considering the age !

Also may Kindly suggest Realistic European programs (Is Oxbridge possible ? ) , US - 1 year options.

Male Indian 34 - 10 years of work Experience till now.

Class 10th - 85% CBSE
Class 12th - 79% - CBSE
Under-graduation - BTech IT first division (Tier 2 College)
Masters - International Business Delhi school of Economics
Certifications - PMP , IBM - ML , other small ones from IIFT
GMAT score - 720 Q49 V 40 IR 8
EC’s - Not many except college fests and organising the brand event of the college

Work Ex- PSU/ GOVT India (10 years)
Manager -

• Managed and guided multiyear Projects for various Government & Private customers through their project lifecycles incorporating Strategic Procurement, International Trade, Logistics Management etc.
• Managed cross functional teams for delivery of projects within scope, schedule and cost constraints.
• Initiated, Planned and Executed implementation Solar projects worth USD 10 Million revenue.
• Managed and Executed multiple highly sensitive projects worth USD 15 Million over a period of 3 years for procurement and supply of defence equipments.
• Successfully executed multiple projects importing over 1% of all pulses consumed in India in a calendar
year continuously for 4 years - total revenue of over USD 100 million over a 4 year period.
• Collaborated with various authorities to identify and fulfil regulatory requirements and ensured
compliance with the domestic and international laws for concerned imports/exports.

Short term goals -
Change my domain from project management to consulting and gain some international experience

Long term goal -
Transfer to strategy and drive policy and projects instead of managing them .

CONS
Lack of EC’s
Lack of promotions (but that is mostly government rules driven )

Valm1994

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16 Aug 2023, 01:18

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Hi,
Please evaluate my profile for ISB - Male engineer with 10 years of experience in Europe.
10th - 76.8%
12th - 69%
Undergrad - 66.7% - First division (india tier 3 college)
Postgrad- European government university. Rank holder

Post MBA Goal:- get into strategy consulting domain.

Working in automotive semiconductor domain.

MBAGuide

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16 Aug 2023, 02:15

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Valm1994

Valm1994 Having international experience is in very high demand at Indian B-Schools. Adcoms work hard to maintain diversity in the cohort, including the industry, distribution of work experience, geography, and diverse perspectives. You would be a great addition to any business school you apply to.

Your academic arc falls short of being impressive. Attaining a solid GMAT score would certainly help corroborate your quest for excellence in all spheres.

Your goals strategy would also benefit from deeper research. Why pursue consulting (beyond its cool factor and widespread appeal)? The idea behind the goals essays is to gauge how deeply you have considered your career aspirations. MBA adcoms at top B-Schools value seeing your passion and your readiness to seize transformative opportunities or tackle problems you've observed. Your answer must showcase your enthusiasm through the chosen career path.

Think along these lines: What excites you in the long term? What substantial impact do you aim for in the world, your community, or an industry? How do you plan to orchestrate these changes? What propels your vision forward?

And yes, not everyone needs to be a world savior. Your enthusiasm could also center on a business opportunity you're interested in for the long term. Reflect on how personal experiences with challenges or opportunities have shaped your career aspirations. What immediate actions are necessary to manifest your overarching vision (perhaps consulting)?

Your long-term goals should be something you genuinely look forward to achieving, whatever they may be (and your short-term career plan should be a step in that direction).

Do not hesitate to reach out to us if you need help navigating your unique circumstances in the B School admissions process.

Aanchal Sahni (INSEAD alum, ex INSEAD MBA admissions interviewer)
MBAGuideConsulting
LinkedIn |WEBSITE: https://mbaguideconsulting.com/ | Message(WA): +91 9971200927| email- [email protected]

shivangijaiswal

Joined: 09 May 2023

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16 Aug 2023, 02:26

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MBAGuide

shivangijaiswal hope you are doing well How a non-engineer becomes an IT consultant would need some background. To be honest, I would have preferred a second professional transition to a well-known tech company/startup that serves as a springboard for your career and shows steep learning. I’m not sure what goals you’d present to ISB, but having an industry focus or function focus(such as Business Analyst) can help, and a couple of stints focused on gaining more expertise would improve your profile. Needless to say, your goals strategy would be very critical to your candidacy. Perhaps it is a bit early for ISB, but a great GMAT score and outstanding application and interview could change that. If you want further guidance, I am happy to speak with you one on one. Do not hesitate to reach out to us if you need help navigating your unique circumstances in the B School admissions process. Aanchal Sahni (INSEAD alum, ex INSEAD MBA admissions interviewer) MBAGuideConsulting LinkedIn |WEBSITE: https://mbaguideconsulting.com/ | Message(WA): +91 9971200927| email- [email protected]

Basically I am a consultant at an IT firm - which basically involves - business analyst + project management roles depending on the project/program I am involved in. It does not require any IT expertise as such. I have a deep learning curve at the current job itself as I have to deal with different client and the projects keeps changing. I have been a transformation manager for one of the top Retailer company - where I was involved with the Australia and New Zealand team. The company is well established US MNC (1997, headquarters in New York) ((You’d know the name of the company as well)). I love the consulting role I am currently at and I do see myself working as a consultant even in future. Can you help me in understanding further what exactly is that my profile is lacking - since I missed a few things previously.

MBAGuide

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16 Aug 2023, 02:29

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Hi SignUp

your profile looks good on the surface, from within the PSU/govt sector applicant pool.

Many applicants have a negative view of government or public sector jobs because they often lack autonomy, diverse responsibilities, and opportunities for rapid growth. Admissions committees may also hold this view (who can tell!). However, it is your responsibility to break through these stereotypes and demonstrate your unique qualities. It is not possible to give a complete answer by simply reading your profile description. Instead, show what makes you special and how you go above and beyond the expected. Emphasize your initiative, adaptability, and exceptional results. Highlight your eagerness to learn and grow by continuing your education, acquiring new skills, and tackling challenging projects. Remember that adcoms can only fully understand your profile by reviewing your application materials, such as resume, essays, and letters of recommendation. Make the most of these documents.

I can tell you that this bias is not unique to PSU folks. I, too, worked in R&D for a private company for five years straight, and the first question I was asked in my MBA interview at a Top global school was, "You may have worked in many countries, but your responsibilities have remained the same. How would you say you have evolved in your career? To be honest, I did not expect this question at the time and I felt underprepared. But now, with my experience, I can tell you that this should be the first question you need to prepare for, regardless of your background (government or private). For you this s even more important as your work experience is about 10 years in the same domain.

Oxbridge is not off limits, but you must do everything possible in your capacity to leave a great impression on the adcom. Network and get internal referrals if possible. The same is true for the US schools. Age is no bar if an MBA makes sense to your professional journey. I have had applicants above 35 years of age who got admits from US Top 20 schools, so age should not be a limiting factor. Every applicant is different.

Some of the programs that you could look into (based on your industry focus)- Specialized masters in the US (Product, supply chain or operations), USC Marshal IBEAR, McCombs (MBA), Rice (MBA), Kenan Flagler (MBA), Ross (MBA or masters)

Do not hesitate to reach out to us if you need help navigating your unique circumstances in the B School admissions process.

Aanchal Sahni (INSEAD alum, ex INSEAD MBA admissions interviewer)
MBAGuideConsulting
LinkedIn |WEBSITE: https://mbaguideconsulting.com/ | Message(WA): +91 9971200927| email- [email protected]

admitStreet

Joined: 14 Mar 2023

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Concentration: Strategy, Finance

Schools: HEC Jan 2018 Intake (A$) ISB '19 (A)

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Schools: HEC Jan 2018 Intake (A$) ISB '19 (A)

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16 Aug 2023, 02:38

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ravigupta000

admitStreet

ravigupta000 - Quick q before providing some feedback: what are your goals/ target roles post MBA? Regards, Arvind HEC Paris MBA alum, Admissions interviewer W:https://admitstreet.com| E: [email protected]

Post MBA target roles - I don’t want to switch industries, so targeting leadership roles with large startups/ corporates in the fashion business. As India is expected to grow fastest among the large economies, a lot of international fashion and luxury brands are targeting India, given growth is slowing down in the west. This fact opens up a lot of opportunities.

ravigupta000 - thanks for the update, I agree that opportunities within the fashion/ luxury and e-commerce space can be interesting.

A good GMAT score (ISB's average is 710) can further help strengthen your case. For experienced candidates such as yourself, having strong responses to why MBA, why now, why "our school" is important, and aim to have strong anecdotes showcasing the challenges you faced in your roles, achievements, key learnings and transferable skills. Speaking with the AdCom to establish a connection can be helpful.

Your profile can also be interesting for some of the 1-year and Leadership-focused MBA programs (in US/ UK) in addition to ISB and IIM A/ C here. Based on your geo preference and short/ long term goals, I would suggest applying to these accordingly.

Feel free to reach out for a deeper chat.

Regards,
Arvind
HEC Paris MBA alum, Admissions interviewer
W:https://admitstreet.com | E: [email protected]

MBAGuide

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16 Aug 2023, 03:15

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shivangijaiswal

MBAGuide

shivangijaiswal this really helps to understand your profile better than your first post. See how nudging applicants in the right direction can uncover more of their potential. If you'd like to delve deeper into your case with a comprehensive discussion, please feel free to connect for a one-on-one conversation.

Aanchal Sahni (INSEAD alum, ex INSEAD MBA admissions interviewer)
MBAGuideConsulting
LinkedIn |WEBSITE: https://mbaguideconsulting.com/ | Message(WA): +91 9971200927| email- [email protected]

admitStreet

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Schools: HEC Jan 2018 Intake (A$) ISB '19 (A)

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Schools: HEC Jan 2018 Intake (A$) ISB '19 (A)

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16 Aug 2023, 04:32

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SignUp

SignUp - some points from an initial review:

1. Acads (GPA missing though) and GMAT are fine. Based on the strength of your professional experience (point 2), clarity of post MBA goals (point 3), your case can be strong. While I don't recommend schools based on an initial review and limited context, broadly speaking targeting T15-25 programs with a focus on consulting and your domain(s) of interest would be ideal.

2. The professional arc is interesting and your impact on the role(s) is tangible. Lack of promotion(s) can be a concern, however, if you have strong answers to the the following questions, it could be alleviated: why MBA, why now, why "our school", why you (i.e. compared to other PSU candidates, as that would be your close competitive pool). The optional essay can also be used to justify the lack of promotions.

3. If consulting is your goal, highlighting the transferable skills from your past to the future role would be key. Consulting firms typically hire MBA grads for generalist and specialist roles. For generalist roles, (relatively) younger candidates with some prior work-ex are preferred as they can be rotated across sectors and cases. For specialist roles however, expertise in a specific sector is highly valued. Such roles are for practice areas that serve clients in specific domain(s). This applies to MBB's, big-4s, tier-2, boutique firms. In your case, looking at a specialist role, one most aligned to your past experience can be interesting. Internal consulting roles can be interesting too. Within Europe, consulting roles can require knowledge of local-language, so targeting English friendly countries e.g. Netherlands, UK, Scandinavian countries, some parts of Germany, etc. would be ideal.

4. ECs doesn't necessarily have to be "non-profit" or something formal. It can be any area of interest or passion where you have shown consistent activity. The important part is what you have learned from these activities and how these can be applied in/ post the MBA program.

Hope this helps a bit. Feel free to reach out for a deeper chat.

Regards,
Arvind
HEC Paris MBA alum, Admissions interviewer
W:https://admitstreet.com | E: [email protected]

admitStreet

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16 Aug 2023, 04:36

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Valm1994

Valm1994 - Some quick q's: What is your work experience like i.e. company (sector/ size if name can't be disclosed), roles, any promotions? And why strategy consulting at this juncture?

Regards,
Arvind
HEC Paris MBA alum, Admissions interviewer
W:https://admitstreet.com| E: [email protected]

Valm1994

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16 Aug 2023, 05:47

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admitStreet

Valm1994 - Some quick q’s: What is your work experience like i.e. company (sector/ size if name can’t be disclosed), roles, any promotions? And why strategy consulting at this juncture? Regards, Arvind HEC Paris MBA alum, Admissions interviewer W:https://admitstreet.com| E: [email protected]

Hi Arvind,

In a nutshell:-

1. Sector :- semiconductor

2. Company size:- 150k employees

3. Promotion:- once in same company, got senior roles by switching company

4 current role:- product quality and operations.

4. Why consulting:-

1. Developed interest after working in global operation strategy team.

2. Have experience of different industries as working in Tier 2 firm.

3. Would love to work on business problems.

Not sure about other positions.

yaygmat

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16 Aug 2023, 07:52

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Hi All, does SDE-1 and SDE-2 count as two separate job titles for ISB’s application?

nikhilvsh

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16 Aug 2023, 07:52

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Hey,

Kindly evaluate my profile -

1. Class 10 - 89%

yaygmat

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16 Aug 2023, 07:53

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yaygmat

Hi All, does SDE-1 and SDE-2 count as two separate job titles for ISB’s application?

how to show promotions in the same role, which change of grades/level?

MananS4G

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Schools: ISB (A)

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16 Aug 2023, 07:56

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If the responsibilities change, then add another job role. If they remain the same and it’s just a rank change, just mention in achievements/initiatives

yaygmat

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16 Aug 2023, 07:58

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MananS4G

If the responsibilities change, then add another job role. If they remain the same and it’s just a rank change, just mention in achievements/initiatives

Okay thanks, additional responsibilities were given, so I guess it can be added in a new role?

nikhilvsh

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16 Aug 2023, 08:00

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Kindly evaluate my profile -

1. Class 10 - 89%
2. Class 12 - 80%
3. B.Tech - 3.34/4 (83%)
4. MBA in Construction Management - 7.7/10
5. Total experience - 5 years
a. Account Manager at an marketing agency - 8 months
b. CEO/Co-founder of a Creative and Martech agency - 4 years
c. Lead Content Strategy at a research company- 2 month (current)
d. Consultant to NTPC School of Business - 3 months (contractual)

Held various positions of leadership during college.
Led a team of 6 members in my venture.
Manage a team of 4 now.

I am a re-applicant. Thinking of pursuing a second masters because the first MBA was done with 0 years of experience was a techno-managerial degree.

MananS4G

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Schools: ISB (A)

Posts: 1,293

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16 Aug 2023, 08:26

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yaygmat

Okay thanks, additional responsibilities were given, so I guess it can be added in a new role?

Yes

admitStreet

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Schools: HEC Jan 2018 Intake (A$) ISB '19 (A)

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16 Aug 2023, 11:41

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Valm1994

admitStreet

Valm1994 - thanks for the update. Having worked in strategy consulting in the ME post my MBA, happy to share some thoughts/ feedback.

1. International experience is a plus when applying to ISB, specifically highlighting your key learnings/ skills and how your global perspective can add value to the cohort. Working in a sector of criticality/ importance, along with the promotions, make the profile interesting. Aim to highlight the achievements in your role(s), key learnings, and also transferable skills (to your post MBA role) to have a strong narrative in the application.

2. Consulting firms typically hire MBA grads for generalist and specialist roles. Given your experience, looking at a specialist role (in MBB/ Tier-2/ Big-4), one most aligned to your domain areas (e.g. semiconductor/ tech) can be interesting. Internal consulting roles can be interesting too, or roles at boutique firms. It would be a bit tricky to get into a generalist role (younger candidates are typically preferred), although not impossible. Speaking to (ex or current) consultants can help you understand the landscape, how recruitment works, niche practice areas in their firms, etc.

3. You haven't mentioned the GMAT score. ISB's average is ~710, so targeting close to that would be ideal.

Hope this helps a bit. Reach out for a deeper chat.

Regards,
Arvind
HEC Paris MBA alum, Admissions interviewer
W:https://admitstreet.com | E: [email protected]

abhikap14

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16 Aug 2023, 11:50

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Hello everyone
Need a small help regarding the option to select 5 schools to send scores for free

I will be applying to ISB and other deferred programs that have April and beyond as deadlines.

1. Should I choose few of my target schools and use the option ??

2. Is there any downside of choosing this option?