https://gmatclub.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/differentiation-thing1-thing2-150x150.jpg By Adam Hoff, Amerasia Consulting Group Time to break out an annual PSA here. I'm talking all alarms ringing, sirens, whatever it takes to get your attention. By "you" I mean: anyone applying to business school. You need to stop doing something immediately. Here it is: STOP TRYING TO "DIFFERENTIATE" YOURSELF. Or at least, stop doing it without a professional by your side. Let's dive into the 4 Rules of Differentiation before someone gets hurt. Rule #1 - Do not "differentiate yourself" with a panicked career change. Throwing a Hail Mary at the last second is not a good idea. Trying to scramble to a cooler or sexier or "more noble" company is not going to make you stand out as a candidate - it's going to make you look directionless or (worse) fake. Now, some people change jobs (even right before applying) and that is fine, as long as there is a logical reason for it - ranging from "I hate my current job and may walk into traffic unless I leave it" to "this is a unique opportunity that I have to take." However, don't change just to change under some faulty logic that they are going to see "Adam Hoff, SpaceX" rather than "Adam Hoff, J.P. Morgan" and start doing backflips. If there is no logical reason to go work at SpaceX, then don't go work there. They look at your whole resume - and mainly to see what skills you have, not what brands you racked up - so it's not like changing the "current employer" line is going to change the formula for who you are. This is all risk, no reward. Would you do anything else in your life that is "all risk, no reward"? I am guessing not. Rule #2 - Listing a hard job to get as your short-term goal is not "differentiating." If you only read one rule, read this one. Please! Read it again. Done? Read it again. Okay, you get the point. I have heard many, many times the past two years the idea from candidates that they want to pick post-MBA job X or Y because it will help "differentiate" them. In basically every case, the job in question is somewhere between "insanely hard" and "impossible" to get after graduating from business school. I'm talking hedge funds, VC, luxury retail, etc. I've even heard the quote, "What I really want to do is work in management consulting so I can really see what works and what doesn't and build towards my dream of starting company Z - but I feel like everyone puts management consulting so I want to find something else." Well, yeah, everyone puts it because management consulting firms hire lots of MBA grads. And they do that because they need talent and energy to feed an "up or out" machine - and the reason that grads take those jobs is because they can indeed learn what works and what doesn't as they make some good money and build towards the next step. It's a win for both parties ... so if that is what you want to do and it makes sense, why fight it? Either way, the worst thing to do is list a job you pretty much can't get, all in some misguided attempt to stand out. You will stand out all right -for your cratering effect on their employment stats. Insta-ding. Rule #3 - The "quick and easy" place to differentiate is in the WHY of your long-term career goal. I have probably written more about MBA career goals than any subject on earth, so I won't belabor the point now, except to say that you can use your long-term goal to share parts of yourself that are deeply held, introspective, and unique. That's how you differentiate yourself. Not "hey, look at how I left Goldman to go work at an oil company for no reason" and not "all these other guys may want to take the slam dunk of management consulting, but I want a c-suite job at Prada!" - no, it's "what I want to do for the rest of my life is X, and the reason is That is how you do it. If you need a mental shifting device, try this: most admissions officers would much rather read a great novel or watch a great TV show than hear a business pitch or dial up a TED Talk. Don't try to stand out ("differentiate") with your ambition, win them with your humanity. Rule #4 - The real, pure way to differentiate yourself is to do the app right. Do you know how many people submit truly great apps? No joke, my guess from what I've seen is about 1% of the applicant pool. I'm talking about: 1) a strong baseline profile (3.3 and above, 700 and above, solid impact in the workplace), 2) a really good resume (a sales document that advertises that impact in different contexts), 3) essays that are easy to read, 4) essays that are structured correctly, 5) essays with thesis statements, 6) essays that are introspective (see Rule #3), and 7) essays that nail the DNA of the school in question. If you check all seven boxes, you just differentiated yourself. Rather than searching for some magic bullet, just do a really good job. If you had to read dozens of files each day and only a few were really good, you'd be pumped when you read the handful that were. I know it's boring and self-serving to lay this out for you, but that doesn't make the advice any less true, so there you have it. If you need help differentiating yourself in a way that does good rather than harm to your app, email us at mba@amerasiaconsulting.com or visit us at https://www.amerasiaconsulting.com/contact . You aren't going to hear buzz words or lame gimmicks, just a breakdown of the hard, steady work required for a great app.

https://mbablogs.anderson.ucla.edu/.a/6a00e5538644e2883401bb09aa60c3970d-800wi During the months of December and January, UCLA Anderson students will be holding coffee chats around the globe. As our students are all around the world during their winter holiday break, enjoy coffee and casual conversation as you learn more about the UCLA Anderson MBA program, recruiting, and student life! https://mbablogs.anderson.ucla.edu/.a/6a00e5538644e2883401b7c90730b9970b-250wi Our students will be hosting coffee chats in the following cities -- United States Alexandria, VA Anaheim, CA Arlington, VA Atlanta, GA Baltimore, MD Berkeley, CA Boston, MA Charleston, SC Chicago, IL Houston, TX Los Angeles, CA Menlo Park, CA Miami, FL New York City / Brooklyn, NY Philadelphia, PA Richmond, VA San Diego / La Jolla, CA San Francisco, CA Santa Barbara, CA Washington, DC International Bengaluru, India Bogota, Colombia Calgary, Canada Guangzhou, China Mumbai, India New Delhi, India Seoul, South Korea Shanghai, China Taipei, Taiwan Tel Aviv, Israel Toronto, Canada Find out how the UCLA Anderson MBA can enhance your career and register now as space is limited! --- Stay in Touch: Introduce Yourself Follow the Admissions Team @uclaMBA: Twitter and Instagram https://bit.ly/uclaMBAIntroduceYourself Questions? Contact us at: mba.admissions@anderson.ucla.edu

This post is part of our "Application Insider" blog post series that provides insider information, tips, and advice about applying to the UCLA Anderson MBA program. https://mbablogs.anderson.ucla.edu/.a/6a00e5538644e2883401b8d295d556970c-800wi APPLICATION INSIDER TOPIC: WAITLIST GUIDELINES Getting onto UCLA Anderson’s waitlist is an exceptional accomplishment; waitlisted candidates are recognized as potentially being a strong fit, but we cannot offer everyone a seat at this time due to size limitations. Nevertheless, we encourage you to read the following guidelines to learn more about the waitlist and ways to potentially enhance your candidacy. You will remain on the waitlist until a final decision is made on your application or until you request that your application be withdrawn. Waitlisted candidates (except those who withdraw) will be reconsidered for admission in subsequent rounds. Round 1 applicants will receive an update on their application status on or before the Round 2 decision deadline which is March 26, 2019. Some candidates may be offered the option of remaining on the waitlist for consideration in Round 3. Remaining waitlisted candidates from Round 1 and Round 2 will receive an update on their application status by the Round 3 decision deadline which is May 21, 2019. We cannot give individual feedback to waitlisted applicants. The likelihood of being admitted off the waitlist is difficult to predict since the number of students admitted from the waitlist varies from year to year depending on the size/strength of the admit pool, the number of admits who enroll, and several other factors. OPTIONAL : Waitlisted candidates may send updates to wlmgr@anderson.ucla.edu . We ask that you use your personal judgment and discretion in submitting additional information that is relevant to your application. Examples include (but are not limited to): promotions at work, updated test scores, and recent extracurricular accomplishments. Prior to submitting additional information to the waitlist manager, please consider: Each interaction we have with you moving forward can be a data point on your file, so be your updates add value. The quality of information and communication is more important than the quantity. If you are on the waitlist and have any additional questions, please e-mail wlmgr@anderson.ucla.edu . We appreciate your continued interest in UCLA Anderson and look forward to being in touch in the coming months! --- Stay in Touch: Introduce Yourself Follow the Admissions Team: Twitter and Instagram https://bit.ly/uclaMBAIntroduceYourself Questions? Contact us at: mba.admissions@anderson.ucla.edu

This post is part of our "Application Insider" blog post series that provides insider information, tips, and advice about applying to the UCLA Anderson MBA program. https://mbablogs.anderson.ucla.edu/.a/6a00e5538644e2883401b8d295d556970c-800wi APPLICATION INSIDER TOPIC: INTERVIEW TIPS Interviews are a crucial part of the application process. While interviews serve as an opportunity to meet you in person, learn more about your goals, and potentially, clear up any questions that we may have about your application, they are one of the best ways for you to demonstrate that you have a clear vision for your MBA and how you will enhance our community. The first step to ensuring that you are prepared for your MBA interview is to understand the interview process. For UCLA Anderson specifically, our interviews are invitation-only interviews, which means that we first evaluate your application before deciding whether or not to extend an interview invitation. Staying true to our collaborative spirit, the majority of our interviews are conducted by second year student ambassadors. Our student ambassadors are our partners in the admissions process and we value the insight they provide in helping to select the next class of Anderson students. Here are a few tips to make sure that you make a positive impression during your interview: Be professional. Treat the interview as you would an employment interview. Be on time, dress professionally, and make sure that your resume is up-to-date. Remember to treat everyone that you meet with respect. Be confident. Don’t forget that you can exhibit confidence through your body language. Sit tall with your shoulders back and remember to maintain good eye contact with your interviewer. Engage. Remember that the interview is not one-sided, it is meant to be a conversation. Be prepared to share about yourself, engage in the conversation, and ask thoughtful questions. The interview is also an opportunity to learn from your interviewer. Be clear. Be prepared to speak to why you are pursuing an MBA, your goals, and why UCLA Anderson is a good choice for you. Understand how your experience to date can help support your goals and how an Anderson MBA can help you fill any gaps or help you develop further. You should also be prepared to speak to how you can contribute to our community. Be genuine. Be yourself and enjoy the conversation. The interview is an opportunity for you to showcase your personality, enhance your candidacy, and learn more about UCLA Anderson. To learn more about our interview or the admissions process in general, I encourage you to review our Requirements and FAQ webpages. --- Stay in Touch: Introduce Yourself Follow the Admissions Team: Twitter and Instagram https://bit.ly/uclaMBAIntroduceYourself Questions? Contact us at: mba.admissions@anderson.ucla.edu

This post is part of our "Application Insider" blog post series that provides insider information, tips, and advice about applying to the UCLA Anderson MBA program. https://mbablogs.anderson.ucla.edu/.a/6a00e5538644e2883401b8d295d556970c-800wi APPLICATION INSIDER TOPIC: WAITLIST GUIDELINES Getting onto UCLA Anderson’s waitlist is an exceptional accomplishment; waitlisted candidates are recognized as potentially being a strong fit, but we cannot offer everyone a seat at this time due to size limitations. Nevertheless, we encourage you to read the following guidelines to learn more about the waitlist and ways to potentially enhance your candidacy. You will remain on the waitlist until a final decision is made on your application or until you request that your application be withdrawn. Waitlisted candidates (except those who withdraw) will be reconsidered for admission in subsequent rounds. Round 1 applicants will receive an update on their application status on or before the Round 2 decision deadline which is March 26, 2019. Some candidates may be offered the option of remaining on the waitlist for consideration in Round 3. Remaining waitlisted candidates from Round 1 and Round 2 will receive an update on their application status by the Round 3 decision deadline which is May 21, 2019. We cannot give individual feedback to waitlisted applicants. The likelihood of being admitted off the waitlist is difficult to predict since the number of students admitted from the waitlist varies from year to year depending on the size/strength of the admit pool, the number of admits who enroll, and several other factors. OPTIONAL : Waitlisted candidates may send updates to wlmgr@anderson.ucla.edu . We ask that you use your personal judgment and discretion in submitting additional information that is relevant to your application. Examples include (but are not limited to): promotions at work, updated test scores, and recent extracurricular accomplishments. Prior to submitting additional information to the waitlist manager, please consider: Each interaction we have with you moving forward can be a data point on your file, so be your updates add value. The quality of information and communication is more important than the quantity. If you are on the waitlist and have any additional questions, please e-mail wlmgr@anderson.ucla.edu . We appreciate your continued interest in UCLA Anderson and look forward to being in touch in the coming months! --- Stay in Touch: Introduce Yourself Follow the Admissions Team: Twitter and Instagram https://bit.ly/uclaMBAIntroduceYourself Questions? Contact us at: mba.admissions@anderson.ucla.edu

This post is part of our "Application Insider" blog post series that provides insider information, tips, and advice about applying to the UCLA Anderson MBA program. https://mbablogs.anderson.ucla.edu/.a/6a00e5538644e2883401b8d295d556970c-800wi APPLICATION INSIDER TOPIC: INTERVIEW TIPS Interviews are a crucial part of the application process. While interviews serve as an opportunity to meet you in person, learn more about your goals, and potentially, clear up any questions that we may have about your application, they are one of the best ways for you to demonstrate that you have a clear vision for your MBA and how you will enhance our community. The first step to ensuring that you are prepared for your MBA interview is to understand the interview process. For UCLA Anderson specifically, our interviews are invitation-only interviews, which means that we first evaluate your application before deciding whether or not to extend an interview invitation. Staying true to our collaborative spirit, the majority of our interviews are conducted by second year student ambassadors. Our student ambassadors are our partners in the admissions process and we value the insight they provide in helping to select the next class of Anderson students. Here are a few tips to make sure that you make a positive impression during your interview: Be professional. Treat the interview as you would an employment interview. Be on time, dress professionally, and make sure that your resume is up-to-date. Remember to treat everyone that you meet with respect. Be confident. Don’t forget that you can exhibit confidence through your body language. Sit tall with your shoulders back and remember to maintain good eye contact with your interviewer. Engage. Remember that the interview is not one-sided, it is meant to be a conversation. Be prepared to share about yourself, engage in the conversation, and ask thoughtful questions. The interview is also an opportunity to learn from your interviewer. Be clear. Be prepared to speak to why you are pursuing an MBA, your goals, and why UCLA Anderson is a good choice for you. Understand how your experience to date can help support your goals and how an Anderson MBA can help you fill any gaps or help you develop further. You should also be prepared to speak to how you can contribute to our community. Be genuine. Be yourself and enjoy the conversation. The interview is an opportunity for you to showcase your personality, enhance your candidacy, and learn more about UCLA Anderson. To learn more about our interview or the admissions process in general, I encourage you to review our Requirements and FAQ webpages. --- Stay in Touch: Introduce Yourself Follow the Admissions Team: Twitter and Instagram https://bit.ly/uclaMBAIntroduceYourself Questions? Contact us at: mba.admissions@anderson.ucla.edu

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Nov 19
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FROM NewsUCLA: UCLA Anderson Application Insider: Top 10 FAQs from Applicants

his post is part of our "Application Insider" blog post series that provides insider information, tips, and advice about applying to the UCLA Anderson MBA program.

APPLICATION INSIDER TOPIC:

TOP 10 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

We have compiled the top Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) we have received from prospective applicants via e-mail, phone calls, and in person. We hope the tips below help you on your MBA information gathering and your application journey.

Q1. What events are available at UCLA Anderson for prospective students interested in learning more about the MBA program and where can I sign up for them?

A1. UCLA Anderson offers group information sessions, school tours, class visits, coffee chats, lunch chats, and webinars as opportunities for prospective students to get to know us. To sign up, you can visit our Events calendar to register for a day that works for your schedule. Please note that some of these events have capacity limits. More events will be added at the start of the new year.

Q2. How do I get in touch with current students and alumni?

A2. You can reach out to our current students through our Connect with a Student interest form. Here, you can select your specific career interests and get linked up to current students pursuing similar career goals.

Q3. Do I need to submit my official transcripts and/or official test (GMAT, GRE, TOEFL, IELTS) scores when I apply to UCLA Anderson?

A3. No, you do not need to submit your official transcript documents or official test scores when applying. With your application you upload scanned unofficial copies of your transcripts and documents, and self-reported test scores are perfectly sufficient for the admissions committee to evaluate. If invited for an interview, you will be asked to provide hard copies of your transcripts and official test scores (more specific details will be provided).

Q4. Do I need to take the TOEFL/IELTS?

A4. We require all international applicants to provide TOEFL or IELTS scores (with exception of some countries -- please contact the MBA Admissions office to check), regardless of the language of instruction during your undergraduate studies. This is a requirement from UCLA Graduate Division, which is the authority that oversees all graduate admissions.

Q5. Do you offer a GMAT/GRE waiver?

A5. We do not offer GMAT/GRE waivers for any reason. All applicants must submit either GMAT or GRE scores and we recommend you take the test you feel most comfortable with, as there is currently no preference for either exam in the admissions review process.

Q6. Can I submit updates to my application after I have submitted it?

A6. Unfortunately, we do not accept updates to the application once it has been submitted. If you do wish to add information after your application has been submitted, then your application will be moved to a later round for consideration.

Q7. Do you accept transfer students or credits from other MBA programs?

A7. No, we do not accept transfer students or credits from other MBA programs. We believe that part of the Anderson experience is developing relationships with classmates during the two years of attendance in the MBA program. You may still apply, but you would be required to begin as a first-year student. It may be possible to test out of some core courses to be replaced by MBA elective courses of your choice.

Q8. Is there a minimum GMAT/GRE score or GPA required for admission?

A8. No. Many factors are considered in the decision process. Admissions decisions are not made solely on the basis of grades and test scores. However, you may want to note our average and range of scores in our most recent class profile and ensure that your GMAT or GRE score (including Writing Assessment) represents your ability. If your score doesn't reflect your ability, we recommend that you consider retaking the test.

Q9. If I earned a three-year undergraduate degree, am I still eligible to apply?

A9. Yes, you are still welcome to apply. We do admit students with 3-year degrees but the rest of your application needs to be exceptionally strong to compete against other applicants. If you would like your academic records to equate to a 4-year degree, you would need to either complete a Master’s degree or other Post Graduate Degree/Diploma.

Q10. Can I begin the MBA program in the winter or spring?

A10. Unfortunately, we do not offer spring or winter admission. All students in the Full-Time MBA program start at the same time (end of summer).

---

Stay in Touch: Introduce YourselfFollow the Admissions Team @uclaMBA: Twitter and Instagram https://bit.ly/uclaMBAIntroduceYourselfQuestions? Contact us at: mba.admissions@anderson.ucla.edu

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FROM NewsUCLA: Coffee Chats with UCLA Anderson Students this Winter Break!

During the months of December and January, UCLA Anderson students will be holding coffee chats around the globe. As our students are all around the world during their winter holiday break, enjoy coffee and casual conversation as you learn more about the UCLA Anderson MBA program, recruiting, and student life!

Our students will be hosting coffee chats in the following cities --

United States

Alexandria, VA
Anaheim, CA
Arlington, VA
Atlanta, GA
Baltimore, MD
Berkeley, CA
Boston, MA
Charleston, SC
Chicago, IL
Houston, TX
Los Angeles, CA
Menlo Park, CA
Miami, FL
New York City / Brooklyn, NY
Philadelphia, PA
Richmond, VA
San Diego / La Jolla, CA
San Francisco, CA
Santa Barbara, CA
Washington, DC

International

Bengaluru, India
Bogota, Colombia
Calgary, Canada
Guangzhou, China
Mumbai, India
New Delhi, India
Seoul, South Korea
Shanghai, China
Taipei, Taiwan
Tel Aviv, Israel
Toronto, Canada

Find out how the UCLA Anderson MBA can enhance your career and register now as space is limited!

---

Stay in Touch: Introduce YourselfFollow the Admissions Team @uclaMBA: Twitter and Instagram https://bit.ly/uclaMBAIntroduceYourselfQuestions? Contact us at: mba.admissions@anderson.ucla.edu

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FROM NewsUCLA: UCLA Anderson Application Insider: Top Questions from International Applicants

his post is part of our "Application Insider" blog post series that provides insider information, tips, and advice about applying to the UCLA Anderson MBA program.

APPLICATION INSIDER TOPIC:

TOP QUESTIONS FROM INTERNATIONAL APPLICANTS

As we get closer to our Round 2 deadline (January 8, 2019), we thought it would be helpful to share some of the common questions that we receive from international applicants. Below are the top 12 FAQs we receive from international candidates:

Q1. Is the application for international applicants the same as the application for domestic applicants?
A1. Yes, we use the same application for both international and domestic applicants.

Q2. If I have dual citizenship (i.e., Italy and U.S.), am I considered an international applicant or a U.S. applicant?
A2. We use the primary citizenship listed on your application -- if you list your U.S. citizenship as your primary citizenship, you are considered a U.S. applicant. However, if you list your U.S. citizenship as your secondary citizenship, you are considered an international applicant.

Q3. What academic records do I need to submit with my application? What if they are not in English?
A3. In order to submit a completed application, you will need to upload a complete transcript and degree certificate or diploma in the native language of the country in which your degree was earned, as well as a certified translation in English. Please make sure that your degree certificate or diploma shows the exact degree received and date awarded. If invited to interview, you will be required to send us official hard-copy documents.

Q4. My undergraduate university does not use the 4.0 scale for my grades. Do I need to convert my grades?
A4. No, please do not convert your grades to a 4.0 scale. We will evaluate your transcripts using the grading scale used by your institution. It is helpful if the grading scale is visible on your transcripts or degree certificate/diploma.

Q5. If I earned a three-year undergraduate degree, am I still eligible to apply?
A5. Yes, you are still welcome to apply. We do admit students with 3-year degrees, but the rest of your application needs to be exceptionally strong to compete against other applicants with 4-year degrees. If you would like your academic records to equate to a 4-year degree, you would need to either complete a master's degree or other post-graduate degree/diploma.

Q6. Is the TOEFL or IELTS required for all international applicants?
A6. TOEFL or IELTS scores are required of all international applicants EXCEPT those from a select list of countries. For more information please refer to UCLA Graduate Division Office English Requirements.

Q7. Is the TOEFL preferred over the IELTS?
A7. No, both exams are accepted equally. It is up to you to decide which test you prefer.

Q8. If I completed my bachelors or masters degree in the United States, do I need to submit a TOEFL or IELTS score?
A8. No, if you have a bachelors or masters degree from a university in the United States, you do not need to submit a TOEFL or IELTS score. The same applies if your bachelors or masters degree is from a university located in another country in which English is both the primary spoken language of daily life and the medium of instruction (e.g., Australia, Barbados, Canada, Ireland, Jamaica, New Zealand, United Kingdom).

Q9. How does the interview process work?
A9. Interviews are conducted on an invitation basis only after submitted applications are reviewed. Interviews last approximately 30 minutes and are intended to be an interactive conversation. We are interested in getting to know you as an individual and understanding how you'll fit into the next class. A large portion of our interviews are conducted by student ambassadors.

Q10. If invited to interview, do I have to interview on the UCLA Anderson campus?
A10. No. We offer two interview options: on-campus or online via Skype. If invited to interview, you will be able to choose which option is best for you. If you would like to visit campus to interview in person, you are welcome to, but we do not expect all applicants to do so. There is no difference or preference between interviews.

Q11. If I am visiting campus and have not received an interview invitation, can I request one?
A11. While we encourage applicants to visit a class or attend on-campus events, it is not possible to request a formal application interview if you have not received an invitation. Since our interviews are conducted on an invitation basis, we need to respect our process in order to be fair to all applicants.

Q12. If I need more time to submit my application, can I apply in Round 3 as an international student?
A12. Yes. While Round 3 is generally more competitive because fewer seats are usually available in the class, it is still a very viable round.

---

Stay in Touch: Introduce YourselfFollow the Admissions Team @uclaMBA: Twitter and Instagram https://bit.ly/uclaMBAIntroduceYourselfQuestions? Contact us at: mba.admissions@anderson.ucla.edu

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FROM NewsUCLA: From The Dean's Desk: Round 1 Decisions Released Today

This post is part of our “From the Dean’s Desk” series, where we hear directly from our UCLA Anderson leaders across the school.

Just after midnight today, we released all of our decisions to our full-time MBA Round 1 applicants for our Class of 2021! Admissions officers also called each admit yesterday, so we had the chance to break the news to a lot of surprised candidates. It was so wonderful to hear the joy and excitement on the other end of the phone line!

All Round 1 applicants received an email to check their Status Page for their decision letter, as we use that secure site to display letters rather than actually sending them by email. If you applied but did not see the notification email, please check your spam folder, or just go directly to your Status Page to view your admissions decision.

We are already receiving Round 2 applications and we know, as always, it will be our biggest round of the year. We look forward to seeing many more excellent candidates in the new year by the Round 2 deadline of January 8 (or Round 3 deadline of April 16).

Thank you to everyone who took the time to complete our application for Round 1, good luck to those working on applications for Rounds 2 and 3, and congratulations to all of our new admits!

Cheers!

Alex

-- Alex Lawrence

Assistant Dean and Director - MBA Admissions and Financial Aid

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07 Jan 2019, 02:01

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FROM NewsUCLA: UCLA Anderson Application Insider: Round 2 Deadline Tomorrow!

This post is part of our "Application Insider" blog post series that provides insider information, tips, and advice about applying to the UCLA Anderson MBA program.

APPLICATION INSIDER TOPIC:

ROUND 2 DEADLINE

It's hard to believe that 2019 is already here and that our Round 2 deadline is only a day away -- January 8, 2019 at 11:59 PM (Los Angeles time)! For us on the Admissions Committee, we're gearing up for the busiest time of the admissions cycle, as this is typically the round in which we receive the greatest number of applications. We will definitely keep everyone in the loop with any admissions updates on this blog, so keep checking in!

Not sure if you should apply in Round 2 or wait? For those who are not ready to submit by the Round 2 deadline, our Round 3 deadline is April 16, 2019 so you have a few more months to work on your application. Here's some more information about the pros and cons of applying in each round.

If you are able to visit us on campus, we highly encourage joining us for a Campus Experience program that includes class visits, campus tours, and more. Our programming for Winter quarter will begin on Tuesday, January 8th and registration is now open -- click here to learn more and RSVP (spots are limited!). Additional campus experience spots will be added over the next few weeks so keep checking back.

As always, if you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at [email=%20mba.admissions@anderson.ucla.edu]mba.admissions@anderson.ucla.edu[/email] or call our office at (310) 825-6944

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11 Jan 2019, 16:01

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FROM NewsUCLA: Visit UCLA Anderson! Sign up for a Campus Experience

After a few weeks off for relaxation and travel, our students returned this week for the Winter Quarter. Our Admissions Ambassador Corps (AAC) is back to work with our Campus Experience offerings, including General Information Sessions (GIS), school tours, class visits, webinars, coffee chats and lunches. These events are all great opportunities to learn more about the MBA program, our culture, and individual experiences at UCLA Anderson.

General Information Session (GIS)
Learn about what distinguishes our leading MBA program and how to successfully navigate the admissions process. This quarter, sessions are generally held on Mondays and Tuesdays (at 5:00 PM) and are hosted by a second-year student ambassador or an admissions officer.

School Tour
Stroll through our beautiful campus and surrounding grounds with a student ambassador to see how our students make the most of our world class facilities. This quarter, tours are generally offered on Mondays and Tuesdays (at 4:00 PM) during the academic year.

Class Visit
Join an actual full-time MBA class and experience the collaborative environment among our students and faculty. Classes are generally held Monday through Thursday during the academic year (beginning the 2nd week of the quarter).

Webinars
Join our student ambassadors and admissions officers as we discuss the UCLA Anderson MBA experience, the admissions process and answer your questions. These interactive sessions are offered on most Thursdays from 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM.

Coffee Chat or Lunch
Hear from a current student all about our culture and the wonderful opportunities at UCLA Anderson. Grab your own favorite food or beverage and join the casual conversation.

We hope you will join us to learn more about the UCLA Anderson difference!

-- Stephanie Palencia, Associate Director of MBA Admissions

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FROM NewsUCLA: UCLA Anderson Application Insider: Waitlist Guidlelines

This post is part of our "Application Insider" blog post series that provides insider information, tips, and advice about applying to the UCLA Anderson MBA program.

APPLICATION INSIDER TOPIC:

WAITLIST GUIDELINES

Getting onto UCLA Anderson’s waitlist is an exceptional accomplishment; waitlisted candidates are recognized as potentially being a strong fit, but we cannot offer everyone a seat at this time due to size limitations. Nevertheless, we encourage you to read the following guidelines to learn more about the waitlist and ways to potentially enhance your candidacy.

You will remain on the waitlist until a final decision is made on your application or until you request that your application be withdrawn.

Waitlisted candidates (except those who withdraw) will be reconsidered for admission in subsequent rounds.

Round 1 applicants will receive an update on their application status on or before the Round 2 decision deadline which is March 26, 2019. Some candidates may be offered the option of remaining on the waitlist for consideration in Round 3.

Remaining waitlisted candidates from Round 1 and Round 2 will receive an update on their application status by the Round 3 decision deadline which is May 21, 2019.

We cannot give individual feedback to waitlisted applicants.

The likelihood of being admitted off the waitlist is difficult to predict since the number of students admitted from the waitlist varies from year to year depending on the size/strength of the admit pool, the number of admits who enroll, and several other factors.

OPTIONAL: Waitlisted candidates may send updates to wlmgr@anderson.ucla.edu.
- We ask that you use your personal judgment and discretion in submitting additional information that is relevant to your application. Examples include (but are not limited to): promotions at work, updated test scores, and recent extracurricular accomplishments.
- Prior to submitting additional information to the waitlist manager, please consider:
  - Each interaction we have with you moving forward can be a data point on your file, so be your updates add value.
  - The quality of information and communication is more important than the quantity.

If you are on the waitlist and have any additional questions, please e-mail wlmgr@anderson.ucla.edu.

We appreciate your continued interest in UCLA Anderson and look forward to being in touch in the coming months!

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FROM NewsUCLA: UCLA Anderson Application Insider: Interview Tips

This post is part of our "Application Insider" blog post series that provides insider information, tips, and advice about applying to the UCLA Anderson MBA program.

APPLICATION INSIDER TOPIC:

INTERVIEW TIPS

Interviews are a crucial part of the application process. While interviews serve as an opportunity to meet you in person, learn more about your goals, and potentially, clear up any questions that we may have about your application, they are one of the best ways for you to demonstrate that you have a clear vision for your MBA and how you will enhance our community.

The first step to ensuring that you are prepared for your MBA interview is to understand the interview process. For UCLA Anderson specifically, our interviews are invitation-only interviews, which means that we first evaluate your application before deciding whether or not to extend an interview invitation. Staying true to our collaborative spirit, the majority of our interviews are conducted by second year student ambassadors. Our student ambassadors are our partners in the admissions process and we value the insight they provide in helping to select the next class of Anderson students.

Here are a few tips to make sure that you make a positive impression during your interview:

Be professional. Treat the interview as you would an employment interview. Be on time, dress professionally, and make sure that your resume is up-to-date. Remember to treat everyone that you meet with respect.
Be confident. Don’t forget that you can exhibit confidence through your body language. Sit tall with your shoulders back and remember to maintain good eye contact with your interviewer.
Engage. Remember that the interview is not one-sided, it is meant to be a conversation. Be prepared to share about yourself, engage in the conversation, and ask thoughtful questions. The interview is also an opportunity to learn from your interviewer.
Be clear. Be prepared to speak to why you are pursuing an MBA, your goals, and why UCLA Anderson is a good choice for you. Understand how your experience to date can help support your goals and how an Anderson MBA can help you fill any gaps or help you develop further. You should also be prepared to speak to how you can contribute to our community.
Be genuine. Be yourself and enjoy the conversation. The interview is an opportunity for you to showcase your personality, enhance your candidacy, and learn more about UCLA Anderson.

To learn more about our interview or the admissions process in general, I encourage you to review our Requirements and FAQ webpages.

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FROM NewsUCLA: UCLA Anderson Application Insider: Waitlist Guidlelines

This post is part of our "Application Insider" blog post series that provides insider information, tips, and advice about applying to the UCLA Anderson MBA program.

You will remain on the waitlist until a final decision is made on your application or until you request that your application be withdrawn.

Waitlisted candidates (except those who withdraw) will be reconsidered for admission in subsequent rounds.

Round 1 applicants will receive an update on their application status on or before the Round 2 decision deadline which is March 26, 2019. Some candidates may be offered the option of remaining on the waitlist for consideration in Round 3.

Remaining waitlisted candidates from Round 1 and Round 2 will receive an update on their application status by the Round 3 decision deadline which is May 21, 2019.

We cannot give individual feedback to waitlisted applicants.

The likelihood of being admitted off the waitlist is difficult to predict since the number of students admitted from the waitlist varies from year to year depending on the size/strength of the admit pool, the number of admits who enroll, and several other factors.

OPTIONAL: Waitlisted candidates may send updates to wlmgr@anderson.ucla.edu.
- We ask that you use your personal judgment and discretion in submitting additional information that is relevant to your application. Examples include (but are not limited to): promotions at work, updated test scores, and recent extracurricular accomplishments.
- Prior to submitting additional information to the waitlist manager, please consider:
  - Each interaction we have with you moving forward can be a data point on your file, so be your updates add value.
  - The quality of information and communication is more important than the quantity.

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FROM NewsUCLA: UCLA Anderson Application Insider: Interview Tips

This post is part of our "Application Insider" blog post series that provides insider information, tips, and advice about applying to the UCLA Anderson MBA program.

Be professional. Treat the interview as you would an employment interview. Be on time, dress professionally, and make sure that your resume is up-to-date. Remember to treat everyone that you meet with respect.
Be confident. Don’t forget that you can exhibit confidence through your body language. Sit tall with your shoulders back and remember to maintain good eye contact with your interviewer.
Engage. Remember that the interview is not one-sided, it is meant to be a conversation. Be prepared to share about yourself, engage in the conversation, and ask thoughtful questions. The interview is also an opportunity to learn from your interviewer.
Be clear. Be prepared to speak to why you are pursuing an MBA, your goals, and why UCLA Anderson is a good choice for you. Understand how your experience to date can help support your goals and how an Anderson MBA can help you fill any gaps or help you develop further. You should also be prepared to speak to how you can contribute to our community.
Be genuine. Be yourself and enjoy the conversation. The interview is an opportunity for you to showcase your personality, enhance your candidacy, and learn more about UCLA Anderson.

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FROM NewsUCLA: UCLA Anderson Application Insider: Essay Questions for the 2019-2020 Application

This blog post is part of our "Application Insider" blog post series that provides insider information, tips, and advice about applying to the UCLA Anderson MBA program.

APPLICATION INSIDER TOPIC:

2019-2020 ESSAY QUESTIONS RELEASED
(FOR CLASS OF 2022)

When our new MBA application goes live on August 1st, you will find we have made some changes to our essay questions for this application year (for the full-time MBA Class of 2022) -- here are our newly released questions!

NEW APPLICANTS

a) Tell us about your MBA goals AND why you are applying to UCLA Anderson now:

Describe your short term and long term goals. (150 words max)
Why is UCLA Anderson a good school for you? (150 words max)

b) At Anderson, we believe our students are engaged, courageous, humble, and open. Describe a time when you demonstrated one of these traits in your personal life. (250 words max)

REAPPLICANTS

Reapplicants are those who submitted a completed MBA application within the previous two application years. If you applied three years or more prior, then please answer the "New Applicant" questions.

a) Please describe your career progress since you last applied and how you have enhanced your candidacy. Include information on short-term and long-term career goals, as well as your continued interest in UCLA Anderson. (500 words max)

OPTIONAL

We also have an optional question for those who need some additional space to explain extenuating circumstances that are not evident in the application. No preference is given in the evaluation process to applicants who submit a response to the optional question. The optional question can be answered by either new applicants or reapplicants.

a) Are there any extenuating circumstances in your profile about which the Admissions Committee should be aware? (250 words max)

It's never too early to begin thinking about your answers to these questions. As you begin to brainstorm and write your essays, remember that your responses are the primary way for you to share your perspectives and plans with the admissions committee. The best essays are introspective, genuine and succinct in directly answering our questions and responding to our topics -- craft an essay that truly represents YOU. Whatever your target goals may be, your essay is the platform to distinguish yourself with your passion, clarity, planning and eloquence. Refining your career plans once you get here is fine, but first your application should make a compelling case for how you would use the UCLA Anderson MBA to build on your transferable skills to reach a distinctive future.

View our Admissions Requirements webpage for more information about the essay requirements, as well as the other elements of our application.

Check back for more "Application Insider" blog posts that will cover information and tips on the many aspects of applying to the UCLA Anderson MBA program!

-- Ilana Van Allen '13
Associate Director of MBA Admissions

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FROM NewsUCLA: From the Dean’s Desk: Welcome to our International Students from the Class of 2021!

This post is part of our “From the Dean’s Desk” series, where we hear directly from our UCLA Anderson leaders across the school.

Hello Class of 2021 International Students and welcome to UCLA Anderson!

On behalf of the MBA Admissions office, I am happy to welcome all of you to International Welcome Week. We are all proud of what you have accomplished to date, joining the best graduate business school in the world. Personally, I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know many of you at our recruiting sessions, the on-campus interview appointments, the admit events, and reading your applications. Your class is definitely a extraordinary collection of talented and diverse individuals.... but in the end, we are all one Anderson family.

Over the course of the next several days and weeks, you will be provided with countless advice on how to make the most of your two-year experience at UCLA Anderson. The UCLA Anderson experience is truly unique. You may find yourself in situations that will challenge you in a variety of different ways. Fortunately, you have enough classmates, faculty, staff, and alumni who are there to help. I encourage you to embrace these opportunities to challenge yourself and find out how much you can truly accomplish. Some ideas to consider include exploring the city of Los Angeles and later travel around the United States, if possible.

And at the same time, don’t forget that your relationship with the MBA Admissions team has not ended. We are always looking for the best talent to join future classes at UCLA Anderson. There are a number of ways to stay involved – you can join the Admissions Ambassador Corps (AAC), volunteer at a recruiting event, or simply refer a friend or colleague who you believe would be an outstanding addition to the UCLA Anderson community. And of course, feel free to connect with me by email, LinkedIn, or even better – stop by my office and share your experience since arriving in the City of Angeles.

-- Alex Lawrence

Assistant Dean and Director - MBA Admissions and Financial Aid
UCLA Anderson School of Management
310.825.6944

Today’s post is from Alex Lawrence, Assistant Dean & Director of Admissions for the Full-Time MBA Program. Alex is a UCLA Anderson MBA alum (Class of 1999), spending his post-MBA career working in Management Consulting prior to returning to UCLA Anderson, where he served as the Executive Director of The Riordan Program prior to joining the Admissions team.

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31 Jul 2019, 16:01

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FROM NewsUCLA: Live Student Webinar: Entertainment anderson (August 6 @ 7pm PT)

Tune in this upcoming Tuesday, August 6 at 7:00PM PT for a LIVE webinar with current UCLA Anderson MBA students! You will have the opportunity to connect with full-time MBA students Sarah Duncan and Todd Duboff as they tell their stories of how the Anderson helped them launch into a career in the entertainment industry!

Register and view webinar here:

[img]https://mbablogs.anderson.ucla.edu/.a/6a00e5538644e288340240a471f8bd200c-120wi[/img]

Learn more about our student hosts:

[img]https://mbablogs.anderson.ucla.edu/.a/6a00e5538644e288340240a49af78e200d-800wi[/img]
[img]https://mbablogs.anderson.ucla.edu/.a/6a00e5538644e288340240a49af780200d-800wi[/img]

[img]https://mbablogs.anderson.ucla.edu/.a/6a00e5538644e288340240a471c3f7200c-800wi[/img]
[img]https://mbablogs.anderson.ucla.edu/.a/6a00e5538644e288340240a4bf9c35200b-800wi[/img]

[img]https://mbablogs.anderson.ucla.edu/.a/6a00e5538644e288340240a4bfd0c4200b-800wi[/img]

Tom Duboff '20 hanging out with Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse during his internship

[img]https://mbablogs.anderson.ucla.edu/.a/6a00e5538644e288340240a49b2cd2200d-800wi[/img]

Sarah Duncan '20 hanging out with fellow Ted "interns" at MRC Studios

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01 Aug 2019, 09:01

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FROM NewsUCLA: UCLA Anderson Application Insider: MBA Application is LIVE (Class of 2022)

This blog post is part of our "Application Insider" blog post series that provides insider information, tips, and advice about applying to the UCLA Anderson MBA program.

APPLICATION INSIDER TOPIC:
MBA APPLICATION IS NOW LIVE

The online application for our Full-Time UCLA Anderson MBA Class of 2022 is now live -- Click here to get started on your application

We strongly recommend that you read through our website, as it is filled with detailed information about our application requirements, round deadlines, decision release dates, and other very important information that will help you successfully navigate the entire application process.

For regular updates, helpful tips on the application process, program information, and student insights, we also recommend the following:

Continue visiting this MBA Insider Blog for regularly-scheduled blog posts
Follow the UCLA Anderson MBA Admissions Team on our social media accounts on Twitter (@uclaMBA)
Check out our Events Calendar for a list of events around the world where you can meet Admissions staff and student/alumni representatives.
If you're in the Los Angeles area, experience UCLA Anderson on-campus: attend an information session, take a school tour, observe a class, and schedule a coffee chat with current students

Below are the application deadlines by round for our Full-time MBA program:

Round 1: October 2, 2019
Round 2: January 8, 2020
Round 3: April 16, 2020

Wishing you all good luck and please stay in touch with the MBA Admissions Office with any you may have throughout the application process!

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FROM NewsUCLA: Which Round To Apply In?

This blog post is part of our "Application Insider" blog post series that provides insider information, tips, and advice about applying to the UCLA Anderson MBA program.

APPLICATION INSIDER TOPIC:

WHICH ROUND TO APPLY IN?

The UCLA Anderson application is already live and with our Round 1 deadline a little over a month away (October 2nd), it's time to start thinking about what round you're planning on submitting your application. Although the application process can be daunting, it is also a time to embrace the excitement of what may very well be one of the most transformational opportunities of your career.

There are pros and cons to each of UCLA Anderson’s three rounds, but if you ask me, the best time to apply is when you feel your application is at its strongest. The biggest disservice you can do for yourself is submit a hastily put together application to meet an earlier round deadline. UCLA Anderson accepts top-quality applicants across all three rounds!

The pros and cons of each round below may help you determine which is the best round for you. With that said, please remember that the relative competitiveness of each round varies, as the applicant pool changes from year to year.

APPLYING ROUND 1

Pros: All seats are available in Round 1 (for UCLA Anderson, that's about 360 in our full-time MBA class), so we have room to admit all of the qualified candidates that we come across. Round 1 is generally for the program(s) that happen to be one of your top choices because due to the early deadline dates, you really only have time to focus heavily on a few applications. This round is ideal because if you get admitted to UCLA Anderson and we’re your first choice (which we hope we are!), you can sit tight until August when school starts. If you do not get admitted (which hopefully you will), you will have ample time to apply to other programs in later rounds. Further, in Round 1 we have the full amount of merit-based fellowship funds left to distribute. Applying early can also show the Admissions Committee that you're serious about attending our business school.

Cons: Due to the earlier deadline dates, applicants may feel rushed to complete their application by a Round 1 deadline. All programs are different and will have different requirements for their application process. You will need to have sufficient time to reflect on your short- and long-term goals as well as answer essay prompts that need a great deal of attention. Rushing though essays will be very evident to an Admissions Committee, especially when we're looking for students who will fit in with Anderson culture. Further, if you have not given sufficient time for your recommenders to complete their letters of recommendation, the quality of those crucial elements of the application may also be compromised. You also will have the least amount of time to complete your entrance exams, and without proper planning, will likely not have time to re-take the exams if you're not satisfied with your first score.

APPLYING ROUND 2

Pros: Round 2 is the most popular round for applicants here at UCLA Anderson because you have additional time to complete your application and write your essay; plus your recommenders also have more time to finish their recommendations. We only evaluate your top score so if you were not satisfied with your GMAT/GRE and/or TOEFL/IELTS score the first time around, you will likely have time to re-take the exams. One of the greatest advantages of applying in Round 2 is that you have more time to learn about our program by attending Admissions events. Perhaps you can even schedule a campus visit or stop by our fall open house, "Access Anderson" to meet with current students and observe a class! By having this time to get first-hand experience on our program, you may gain a better understanding of your own school preferences and MBA goals, all which will reflect in your application.

Cons: Although we do not see a difference when it comes to the chances of a student being admitted in Round 1 vs. Round 2, we do receive the largest number of applications during Round 2. Therefore, competition is high (especially since we also have Round 1 waitlisted candidates still under consideration). If you do not get accepted (which hopefully won't be the case!) you may not have sufficient time to apply to another program within the same academic year.

APPLYING ROUND 3

Pros: Perhaps the biggest benefit in applying in Round 3 is not just having the most time to put together the strongest application possible, but you also have additional time to enhance your application profile -- the additional time may allow you to get a promotion at work, take on a new project, and/or get involved in more leadership activities, for example. If you applied to other programs in earlier rounds, you will likely also be equipped with acceptance information from those schools. You will also have ample time to take (and potentially re-take) the GMAT/GRE and/or TOEFL/IELTS exams.

Cons: Unlike Round 2 where it’s competitive due to the sheer number of application received, this last round is the most competitive because our class size is capped. Fewer applicants are historically admitted in the last round simply due to the limited spots we have remaining to round out the in-coming class. While you can still be placed on our waitlist, there are still likely many other individuals from earlier Rounds on our waitlist that you'll be still compared against.

Now that you have a clearer picture of the advantages and disadvantages of each round, below is a reminder of our application deadlines by round for this academic year:

ROUND

APPLICATION
DEADLINE DAY

DECISION
RELEASE DAY

1
October 2, 2019
December 18, 2019

2
January 8, 2020
March 26, 2020

3
April 16, 2020
May 21, 2020

Check back for more "Application Insider" blog posts that will cover information and tips on the many aspects of applying to the UCLA Anderson MBA program!

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FROM NewsUCLA: UCLA Anderson Application Insider: Which Round To Apply In?

This blog post is part of our "Application Insider" blog post series that provides insider information, tips, and advice about applying to the UCLA Anderson MBA program.

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FROM NewsUCLA: UCLA Anderson Application Insider: Essay Tips

This blog post is part of our "Application Insider" blog post series that provides insider information, tips, and advice about applying to the UCLA Anderson MBA program.

APPLICATION INSIDER TOPIC:

ESSAY TIPS

Here are the UCLA Anderson full-time MBA essay requirements for the 2019-2020 application cycle.

NEW APPLICANTS

- Short Answer Questions: Tell us about your MBA goals AND why you are applying to UCLA Anderson now:

Describe your short term and long term goals (150 words maximum)
Why is UCLA Anderson a good school for you? (150 words maximum)

- Essay Question: At Anderson, we believe our students are engaged, courageous, humble, and open. Describe a time when you demonstrated one of these traits in your personal life. (250 words maximum)

REAPPLICANTS

Reapplicants are those who submitted a completed MBA application within the previous two years (those who applied for the MBA program starting in 2018 or 2019). If you applied three years or more prior, then please answer the "New Applicant" questions.

- Reapplicant Essay Question: Please describe your career progress since you last applied and how you have enhanced your candidacy. Include information on short-term and long-term career goals, as well as your continued interest in UCLA Anderson. (500 words maximum)

OPTIONAL

Similar to previous years, we also have an optional question for those who need some additional space to explain extenuating circumstances that are not evident in the application. No preference is given in the evaluation process to applicants who submit a response to the optional question. The optional question can be answered by either new applicants or reapplicants.

- Optional Question: Are there any extenuating circumstances in your profile about which the Admissions Committee should be aware? Please use your best judgment. (250 words maximum)

Tips for Approaching the Short Answer Questions:
The short answer questions are meant to be short and simple. They give you the opportunity to clearly articulate your career ambitions and touch on the various UCLA Anderson resources that will help you achieve your goals.

For your short-term goals, think about what you want to do in the few years after your MBA. Be sure to include both functional- and industry-interest and consider including a few examples of companies you’d like to work for (if relevant). For your long-term goals, make sure that they connect with your short-term goals. Long-term goals do not need to be as specific, but the focus should be on the impact you hope to make in your career. Keep in mind that we will evaluate your goals in relation to the other elements of your application so be sure that they make sense given your background.

Next, be specific when describing why Anderson is a good fit for you. This question requires a little bit of homework. Focus on the elements at Anderson that are unique and will help you realize your career aspirations. In order to demonstrate that you have done your research, be specific when discussing things like courses, clubs, conferences, professors, specific programming, career and academic resources, etc. Given the limited space you have to respond, be sure to include the things that are most important to you.

Strategies for Tackling the Essay Question:
This is a new question this year. We are seeking to understand who are you on a deeper, more personal level. Therefore, we are asking you to be introspective and tell us about a time when you demonstrated that you were engaged, courageous, humble or open in your personal life. This essay is meant to align more closely with our culture and values and it will help us determine if you will fit in with our student-driven community.

To begin, think about the quality that resonates with you most. When choosing a story to write about, remember that the story itself is only one part of the question. The other part is the outcome of the experience. What did you learn about yourself from this experience? Consider what your story reveals about you. Is it meaningful and insightful about who you are? Given the limited amount of space you have to respond, be sure that you are genuine, clear, and concise.

The Purpose of the Optional Essay:
This essay is truly optional and should only be used to describe any extenuating circumstances in your application or profile. Examples include an extended gap in your resume, poor grades due to a circumstance otherwise not explained, a personal matter or family situation, and the like.

Use your best judgment and know that no preference is given in the evaluation process to applicants who submit an optional essay.

Quick Tips on the Reapplication Essay:
Be sure you are highlighting what you have done since your previous application to enhance your candidacy. List the specific steps you took as well as share any new achievements in and outside of work.

Additionally, make sure you continue to articulate your short-term and long-term goals. We want to understand if your goals have stayed the same or if they have changed (and if so, why).

In most cases, the entire application does not need to be revolutionized. There were likely strengths to your application the first time you applied, so don’t be concerned that not every single part of your reapplication is different from the first. Thus, be sure to include your continued strengths, and highlight new and improved differences.

Parting Words (Read Before You Hit Submit!)
Have at least a few people review your work. Ask someone who knows you well to read your short answer responses and essay to ensure that they represent you, your values, and your goals. Then, ask someone else to give you an objective perspective of how you may come across to the admissions committee. Last but not least, make sure you are clear, concise, and free of any spelling and/or grammatical errors.

Best of luck!

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FROM NewsUCLA: Meet UCLA Anderson Around The World: September 2019

https://www.anderson.ucla.edu/degrees/full-time-mba/admissions/events

The UCLA Anderson MBA Admissions Team is on the road this Summer and Fall, hopefully in a city near you! Take a look below at our September 2019 travel schedule* to find out where you can find us and make sure to visit us and say hi!

NORTH AMERICA

Seattle - September 3: Consortium MAPS
Chicago - September 3: Information Event
San Francisco
- September 4: Consortium MAPS
- September 25: Information Event
Los Angeles - September 5: Consortium MAPS
Washington, D.C. - September 10: Consortium MAPS
Chapel Hill - September 24: Consortium MAPS
Silicon Valley - September 26: Information Event

ASIA PACIFIC

Tokyo
- September 1 - Information Event
- September 3 - MBA Tour
Taipei - September 5: MBA Tour
Seoul - September 7: MBA Tour
Delhi
- September 14: Information Event
- September 16: MBA Tour
Bangalore - September 18: MBA Tour
Mumbai - September 21: MBA Tour
Hyderabad - September 23: MBA Tour

As always, there are still other ways to connect with us! You are welcome to visit us on campus for our Group Information Sessions, School Tours, and MBA Class Visits (when classes are back in session), join us online for our online webinars and MBA Liveguide Sessions. We are looking forward to meeting you soon on campus, on the road, and online!

To make sure you you hear about all upcoming events and important information, please fill out this short form to stay in touch.

We are looking forward to meeting you soon on campus, on the road, and online!

*Dates and attendance subject to change. Check our UCLA Anderson Events webpage for the most up-to-date information

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FROM NewsUCLA: UCLA Application Insider: Test Scores

This blog post is part of our "Application Insider" blog post series that provides insider information, tips, and advice about applying to the UCLA Anderson MBA program.

APPLICATION INSIDER TOPIC:

TEST SCORES (GMAT & GRE / TOEFL & IELTS)

Having traveled around the world this summer talking to prospective students for the Class of 2022, the common concern was that dreaded aspect of having to take the standardized tests (GMAT or GRE) for admissions. However, as more business schools accept either the GMAT or GRE, you now have options to prepare and take the test that you will not only do the best in, but feel the most comfortable with. Before you even decide which test to take, make sure you research the schools you will eventually want to apply to in order to see if there’s a required or preferred test. Here at UCLA Anderson, applicants have the option to submit the GMAT or GRE with their application. Both tests are evaluated equally in the admissions process, so we encourage potential candidates to submit the test they feel most comfortable with. To further guide you in the decision of which test to take, reference this US News and World Report article on the key differences between the two tests.

Since test preparation can be a full-time job in itself, we recommend that you take a practice GMAT and practice GRE test to see which one you are more comfortable with. Once you decide, there are many forms of test preparation including prep classes, online practice exams, test books, and one-on-one tutoring. Given your learning style, you will want to select a method that works best for you -- no one method is right for everyone! Each test assesses your verbal, quantitative, analytical writing and integrated reasoning ability. It is important to dedicate review sessions to each component of the test as the admissions team will evaluate your performance in each area. We recommend you should give yourself at least six months of preparation time before taking it and then guide the test date by the round deadline date in which you intend to apply. Keep in mind that it’ll usually take up to 2 weeks for the school to get your results, as well. Test scores are valid for five years, so if you are currently in an undergraduate or graduate program, it might be in your best interest to take the test now since you are already in an academic mode and mindset. At UCLA Anderson, we only evaluate your highest overall score, both the GMAT and GRE provide you with the option to select which test score you prefer to submit to the institution(s) to which you’re seeking admission. Regardless, we do not penalize applicants for taking a test multiple times.

Test scores are one way we evaluate your academic ability in addition to your undergraduate performance to determine your ability to handle the rigors of the Anderson MBA program. UCLA Anderson does not have a minimum score that you must reach. This is just one of many data points we use to evaluate applicants in a very holistic process (others include: work experience, essay, undergraduate transcripts, letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities, etc.). So if you did not do as well as you liked, there are many ways to enhance your profile. Our class profile will show you the average scores and the ranges that our most recent in-coming class is coming in with. There is no minimum score an applicant must achieve. However, doing well on the GMAT or GRE is also one of the ways to strengthen your academic profile, and to potentially help to combat a lower GPA or lack of quantitative courses during your undergraduate years.

For any international applicants who completed their education outside of the United States, you will also be required to submit the TOEFL or IELTS exam with your application, unless your education was solely taught in English in an English-speaking country (please contact the MBA Admissions office to confirm whether or not you are required to take the TOEFL/IELTS). The purpose of this exam is to assess your English proficiency. Given the collaborative and interactive structure of the MBA program, we want to ensure that you will be able to contribute to classroom discussions from the very first day, and these exams help us evaluate this important fluency factor. You can learn more about the TOEFL/IELTS requirement on the UCLA Graduate Division webpage.

Hopefully these insights will help guide you as you prepare for GMAT, GRE, TOEFL and/or IELTS as a part of the application process. If you have any follow-up questions about our requirements or admission process, please see our admissions webpage, our FAQs, or email us directly at mba.admissions@anderson.ucla.edu.

Check back for more "Application Insider" blog posts that will cover information and tips on the many aspects of applying to the UCLA Anderson MBA program!

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FROM NewsUCLA: Meet UCLA Anderson Director of MBA Admissions in the Bay Area!

https://www.anderson.ucla.edu/degrees/full-time-mba/admissions/events

We invite you to join Assistant Dean & Director of MBA Admissions Alex Lawrence ('99) of the full-time MBA program, along with local alumni, at our upcoming information events in San Francisco and Silicon Valley. This will be a great opportunity for you to learn more about our program, its culture and the resources available to help you succeed. The presentation by Dean Alex Lawrence will be followed by an engaging Q&A session with alumni.

San Francisco Information Evening - September 25 (7-9pm)
Salesforce East (350 Mission Street)

https://mbablogs.anderson.ucla.edu/.a/6a00e5538644e288340240a4c0f053200b-pi
Silicon Valley (Mountain View) Information Evening - September 26 (7-9pm)
Google (2375 Garcia Avenue)

https://mbablogs.anderson.ucla.edu/.a/6a00e5538644e288340240a4c0f053200b-pi

UCLA Anderson will be hosting additional events around the world -- please visit our admissions events page for our full schedule. You are also welcome to visit us on campus for our General Information Sessions, School Tours, Coffee Chats, and MBA Class Visits, join us online for our online webinars and MBA Liveguide Sessions.

To make sure you you hear about all upcoming events and important information, please fill out this short form to stay in touch.

We are looking forward to meeting you soon on campus, on the road, and online!

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Stay in Touch: Introduce YourselfFollow the Admissions Team @uclaMBA: Twitter https://bit.ly/uclaMBAIntroduceYourselfQuestions? Contact us at: mba.admissions@anderson.ucla.edu