If you applied to Business School, you might wonder what happens with the information you submitted; how is the information cross-checked? Who conducts the background check? And what if there is a minor discrepancy in my application?
Do business schools conduct background checks?The short answer is yes; most reputable schools will conduct some type of research on your background to ensure the information provided is accurate. However, the focus will be on your professional and academic background. For example, some schools will simply conduct a google search and review your LinkedIn profile to catch any red flags (and we did catch A LOT simply looking at candidates' profiles on social media, so make sure you update your LinkedIn while working on your application!). Other schools will undergo a much more systematic background check process by subcontracting companies such as Kroll to contact former employees and check academic credentials.
When is the background check conducted?In most cases, these checks are conducted after an admission offer has been extended to the candidate; either before or after they've proceeded with their deposit payment. Since most admissions offers are contingent on verification of your background, you may or may not recoup your deposit if, for some reason, a school decides to rescind your admission offer (it's a rare occurrence, but it does happen, unfortunately.)
What happens if there is a discrepancy in my application?Minor discrepancies such as slight differences in employment dates are not an issue, but if something substantial comes up, such as job titles or graduation dates, the school will contact the candidate and give them first an opportunity to explain. If there is a logical explanation, the offer will stand; otherwise, it will be rescinded.
How to avoid these issues?Honesty is the best policy, always. But avoid finding yourself in this predicament by being very thorough in compiling professional and academic information. Before starting your application, pull your transcripts for all the institutions you attended. Get your W-2 (or other tax documents if you are an international applicant) to ensure accurate employment dates. Pull your previous job descriptions to cross-check your titles and scope of responsibilities. Don't hesitate to contact HR if needed.
Best of luck to you as you continue your application journey! The Admissions Concierge is a boutique MBA consulting firm specialized in North American and European MBAs founded by former AdCom. Need help with your app? Sign up for a free initial consultation:
www.admissionconcierge.com