Expert advice for Sloan (MIT) from Admissions Consultant blogs

The MIT Sloan School of Management has made only the mildest of changes to its application essay prompts for this season, so candidates will still need to contend with the school’s interesting “cover letter” essay and its self-introduction video. However, the school has slipped an important qualification into its directions for the video portion that was not there last year—one that asks applicants to include some information about their background and about their fit with the Sloan program. We suspect that many previous candidates had skipped these topics, especially considering the brevity of the video, and the admissions committee wanted to ensure that the next wave of applicants would fill in these important blanks. As we have noted in the past, while unorthodox, the school’s prompts allow candidates to offer the school a balanced view of their professional and personal profiles, with a good amount of leeway for creativity. Read on for our full MBA essay analysis for MIT Sloan. 

Cover Letter: MIT Sloan seeks students whose personal characteristics demonstrate that they will make the most of the incredible opportunities at MIT, both academic and non-academic. We are on a quest to find those whose presence will enhance the experience of other students. We seek thoughtful leaders with exceptional intellectual abilities and the drive and determination to put their stamp on the world. We welcome people who are independent, authentic, and fearlessly creative—true doers. We want people who can redefine solutions to conventional problems, and strive to preempt unconventional dilemmas with cutting-edge ideas. We demand integrity and respect passion.

Taking the above into consideration, please submit a cover letter seeking a place in the MIT Sloan MBA Program. Your letter should conform to a standard business correspondence, include one or more examples that illustrate why you meet the desired criteria above, and be addressed to the Assistant Deans of Admissions, Rod Garcia and Dawna Levenson (300 words or fewer, excluding address and salutation).

We strongly advise that you avoid starting your letter with a rote opening like “My name is Bob, and I am seeking a place in the MIT Sloan Class of 2022.” Your admissions reader will likely be asleep before they even finish the sentence! Such information is obvious—we can assure you that the admissions reader is well aware of your desire to be admitted to the MIT Sloan program—and is therefore a waste of precious word count, not to mention that it is hardly the kind of gripping opening that will grab and hold someone’s attention.

The broad scope of this essay prompt allows you a great amount of freedom to choose and share the information you believe is most important for your candidacy. The 300-word maximum is equal to roughly three short paragraphs with which you can make an impression. Informal guidance provided by MIT Sloan’s admissions committee after the release of this essay question in 2017 indicated that applicants should focus on sharing their personal experiences, accomplishments, values, viewpoints, and/or skills to demonstrate (1) what they can contribute to the school’s greater community as a result and (2) why Sloan’s MBA program in particular is the best one for them. The school does not ask you to outline your post-MBA goals, but if doing so allows you to better substantiate your need or desire for a Sloan MBA specifically, a (very) brief explanation of your aspirations could be appropriate and useful.

After discussing your accomplishments—being careful not to brag!—along with any other elements of your profile that you feel make you a great fit with the school, strive to relate these achievements and qualities to the MIT Sloan experience. Citing specific courses, experiential opportunities, or other relevant resources can help you make a compelling case for your spot in the next incoming class.

VIDEO STATEMENT: Please take a minute to introduce yourself to your future classmates via video. Include a bit on your past experience and why MIT Sloan is the best place for you to pursue your MBA. Videos should be a single take (no editing) lasting no more than one minute and consisting of you speaking directly to the camera. We recommend using an application such as QuickTime or iMovie to record yourself.

Upload the video file according to the detailed instructions within the application. We support the following file formats: .avi, .flv, .m1v, .m2v, .m4v, .mkv, .mov, .mpeg, .mpg, .mp4, .webm, .wmv

Should you experience difficulties uploading your file, please ensure that you’re using a modern web browser (Chrome, Firefox, or Safari) on the fastest wired Internet connection available. An intermittent or slow Internet connection can cause uploads to timeout.

Before you do anything else, stop and take a deep, cleansing breath. We know video essays can be scary, but MIT Sloan is not trying to stress you out. The admissions committee simply wants a more dynamic representation of your personality than a written essay can provide, so your primary goal is simply to be as authentic and natural as possible. This is not a job interview, and you are instructed to consider your fellow students your intended audience, which certainly implies that a less rigid and traditionally “professional” demeanor is okay, though you should never be inappropriate or offensive. Do not concern yourself with trying to say the “right” things in your video. The topic here is one you know very well—you! A good brainstorming tactic is to imagine meeting someone for the first time at a party or other event and to think about the kinds of questions you might ask one another in the process of getting acquainted. What kind of information would you want to know about this person, and what facts about yourself would you be most eager to share, as a way of conveying who you are and making a connection? (You can even Google “icebreaker questions” to find examples of these sorts of questions.) Take some time to delve into your personality in this way.

Keep in mind that even though in the scenario the school presents, you are supposed to be addressing your fellow students, your actual audience will be the admissions committee, so put some thought into what the school will already have learned about you from your cover letter essay and the other portions of your application. Because the admissions committee has added the proviso this year that you include “a bit” about your past and your reasons for choosing MIT Sloan for your MBA, you will naturally need to repeat some of this information, but focus on the overarching and most significant themes to create context and a foundation, rather than going into too much detail. Likewise, avoid pandering to the school or expressing your generic admiration for the program and instead discuss the primary reason(s) MIT Sloan fits your specific needs and personality. You have only one minute in which to make an impression, and even without knowing you personally, we are confident that you have more to your character than can be conveyed in a mere 60 seconds—so do not waste any of them!

Given that this is a video, you will want to pay some extra attention to the clothing you will wear, your tone of voice, your language style, and other such details. In the end, your message is what is most important, so no fancy bells or whistles are needed, but if you are a more creative type, you might consider ways of nonverbally communicating some of your strongest attributes and key aspects of your life to help permeate your submission with as much information as possible. For example, if you are an avid cook, consider filming your video while standing in a kitchen, perhaps wearing an apron (if you typically do so) and surrounded by the ingredients and tools you need to create one of your favorite recipes. If you are a dedicated guitar player, perhaps strum your guitar as you speak. If you are especially confident, you could even sing about yourself! Think about what makes you who you are today, decide what you most want to share with your future classmates, and then let your creativity flow.

On a practical note, be sure to speak clearly. You naturally do not want any part of your message to be lost or misunderstood, and the admissions committee may view your communication skills and style as indicators of how you might interact with your classmates and/or speak in the classroom. Although we recommend spending some time practicing in front of a mirror or a friend, do not over rehearse. You still want to come across as genuine and natural.

For a thorough exploration of the MIT Sloan academic program, unique offerings, social life, and other key characteristics, be sure to download your complimentary copy of the mbaMission Insider’s Guide to the MIT Sloan School of Management.

Those invited to interview will be asked to answer the following question: The mission of the MIT Sloan School of Management is to develop principled, innovative leaders who improve the world and to generate ideas that advance management practice. We believe that a commitment to diversity, inclusion, equity, and well-being is a key component of both principled leadership and sound management practice. In 250 words or less, please describe how you, as a member of the MIT Sloan community, would work to create a campus that is welcoming, inclusive and increasingly diverse. Details for submitting your essay will be included in the interview invitation.

In business school—as in life in general—you will encounter people who think differently from you, operate according to different values, and react differently to the same stimuli. And success in an endeavor often involves evaluating and incorporating the views of others in one’s efforts. Via this essay, MIT Sloan hopes to learn how you view and approach such differences. Once enrolled in the school’s MBA program, you will be surrounded every day by individuals who are unlike you in a multitude of ways, and you will need to work in tandem with and alongside these individuals when analyzing case studies, completing group projects, and participating in other activities both inside and outside the classroom. Note that the school’s prompt does not ask about simply being part of a “welcoming, inclusive and increasingly diverse” community but about actually helping to cultivate one. The admissions committee wants to know that you are comfortable within such a dynamic, of course, but in this case, it is especially interested in hearing what skills and mind-set you have that could be beneficial in bringing various people together in a harmonious and productive way.

We assume that you have already researched the school well by now in the process of deciding to apply to MIT Sloan in the first place and also in crafting your application. We therefore hope that along the way, you have been able to identify certain areas and opportunities at the school that speak to or connect with you personally, places where you can bring your enthusiasm or know-how to the table for the benefit of others. We realize you have limited space with which to work for this essay, but you must go beyond simply listing the campus organizations/events/resources through which you would engage and make your contribution and clearly communicate the why and how behind your intentions. For example, perhaps you plan to join the Sloan Jewish Students Organization and have always really enjoyed your family’s annual Seder. You might then state that you aspire to organize and lead the first Passover Seder on the MIT Sloan campus, thereby introducing others to an important element of your religion and creating an opportunity to experience this traditional custom alongside your Jewish classmates. Or, if you expect to join the MIT Sloan Entrepreneurship & Innovation Club, perhaps you would discuss how daunting entrepreneurial lingo can be. Then you could explain how you would establish and run a workshop to help those with limited exposure to the field understand and develop a familiarity with the vernacular, which could serve as an important part of their foundational knowledge base. Of course, these are just examples, and the contributions you make need not be exclusive to clubs but must simply be personal to you.

To add a level of credibility to your claim and increase the admissions committee’s confidence that you will actually follow through on your stated intentions, include a brief reference to a time in the past when you did something similar. You want to assure the school that you are not simply offering a nice-sounding idea but one you truly aim to—and can—fulfill. So, for example, if you were to suggest the campus-wide Seder idea, you might describe the time you invited your entire community-league soccer team to your family’s celebration and how you walked your fellow players through the various stages of the tradition. This kind of reference to a related past situation will illustrate that you have some firsthand understanding of how to facilitate such an endeavor and that you must have seen some benefit from the undertaking, given your interest in revisiting the idea.

Be assured that like all other application essay questions, this one has no “right” answer, so do not try to guess and deliver what you think the school wants to hear. Authenticity and enthusiasm are the keys to your success here.

Many MBA candidates find admissions interviews stressful and intimidating, but mastering this important element of the application process is definitely possible—the key is informed preparation. We therefore offer our free Interview Primers to spur you along! Download your free copy of the MIT Sloan School of Management Interview Primer today.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION (OPTIONAL)

Please provide any additional information you would like the Admissions Committee to know that may be helpful in evaluating your candidacy (i.e. choice of recommenders, areas of concern in your academic record, other extenuating circumstances, etc.). This information should be provided in a written format (200 words or less).

Ultimately, this is your opportunity to address any lingering questions that an admissions officer might have about your profile—if you feel you need to. We caution you against simply trying to fill this space because you fear that not doing so would somehow count against you. And of course, however tempted you might be, this is not the place to reuse a strong essay you wrote for another school or to offer a few anecdotes you were unable to use in your other submissions. But if you are inclined to use this essay to emphasize or explain something that if omitted would render your application incomplete, write a very brief piece on this key aspect of your profile. For more guidance, download our free mbaMission Optional Essays Guide, in which we offer detailed advice on when and how to take advantage of the optional essay, with multiple examples, to help you mitigate any problem areas in your application.

An increasing number of top business schools are offering deferral MBA programs where current undergraduate students apply during their senior year. In most cases, students will work for a couple years after graduating from school before beginning their MBA studies. These programs give ambitious students the chance to lock in a top MBA program before entering the workforce.

Harvard Business School’s 2+2, where students work for two years before starting on campus, is one of the best-known programs. Stanford has a similar two-year deferral while Yale SOM has Silver Scholars, which allows students to study in an MBA program immediately upon finishing college. After one year, students enter the workforce for a year and then return to SOM for the third year to finish their MBA.

Over the past few years we have seen these programs rise in popularity. Kellogg became the latest top school to add a deferral program with the launch of Kellogg Future Leaders. Wharton launched the Advance Access Program, which now includes students outside of the University of Pennsylvania community. Berkeley Haas also added a new program this year for Berkeley undergraduate students, with plans to expand the program in the future.

Other programs include Columbia Business School Deferred Enrollment Program, Chicago Booth Scholars Program, UVA Darden’s Future Year Scholars Program and MIT Sloan MBA Early Admission.

With later spring deadlines, candidates finish the undergraduate recruiting process and secure full-time job placement (hopefully) before applying. Successful applicants have already demonstrated considerable leadership through internships and extracurricular activities, either on or off campus. They also have a strong sense of their career goals (though this often comes only after working together with a consultant on the applications, and keep in mind that the goals can definitely change over time). While these programs are competitive, they are a good option for high achievers looking to get a jump on the MBA application process.

Most applicants are required to submit either the GMAT or the GRE, though there are cases where this requirement can be waived. Northwestern undergraduates applying to Kellogg Future Leaders and MIT undergraduates with a cumulative GPA of 4.2 or higher applying to Sloan Early Admission are not required to submit test scores. In addition, University of Virginia undergraduates can submit either the SAT or the ACT in lieu of the GMAT or the GRE. Those submitting GMAT or GRE scores should aim for the same range as applicants admitted through the regular admissions pool, as the average scores are often very similar. To help applicants reach their test score goals, Personal MBA Coach offers customized GMAT or GRE tutoring.

Though deferral MBA programs admit college seniors from a variety of academic backgrounds, it is important to note that certain programs give some preference to underrepresented career paths or backgrounds. For example, HBS’ 2+2 program gives some preference to STEM majors, applicants from a lower socio-economic background, applicants going into a technically demanding role, and applicants pursuing entrepreneurship. No matter what industry or function admitted students enter prior to matriculation, they must have at least two years of continuous work experience (with the exception of Yale Silver Scholars). Applicants often have the opportunity to defer past two years, though the maximum deferment period is around four years.

To find out more about the programs available and the application requirements, download our latest eBook: https://www.personalmbacoach.com/deferralmbasignup

Need help? Personal MBA Coach is willing to be your guide. Founded by a Wharton and MIT graduate, we regularly help applicants navigate their applications each year. We also conduct mock interviews with former M7 interviewers on our team.

Personal MBA Coach has been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for 13 years with a 96% success rate. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email scott@personalmbacoach.com for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality!

The leaders in the MBA admissions space—mbaMission and Manhattan Prep—are coming together to make sure you will be ready for the 2020–2021 business school admissions season. Join us for a free, six-part webinar series called “Your Dream MBA.” Senior Consultants from mbaMission will address and explain different significant admissions issues, while experts from Manhattan Prep will help you tackle some of the toughest challenges GMAT and GRE test takers face, offering valuable insight and advice.

Business school is a big goal. We will help you see it through!

No matter where you are in your journey, these free online events will offer you expert insights and guidance as you work toward your goals. From nailing the GMAT Quant section to speaking with admissions officers, you will get a well-rounded view of the MBA admissions process.

These live webinars will run on a weekly basis from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. (EDT). Please sign up for each session separately via the links below—space is limited.

• Thursday, April 23, 2020: How to Pick the Right B-School and GMAT vs. GRENot all MBAs are created equal, and getting into the right program can make all the difference. During this event, Jessica Shklar, managing director at mbaMission, will help you narrow in on the right b-schools for you given your unique profile and goals. Whitney Garner, an expert GMAT and GRE instructor at Manhattan Prep, will explain key differences between the GMAT and the GRE, plus show you how to tackle real problems on those tests, so you make an informed decision on which exam to take.
• Thursday, April 30, 2020: How to Maximize Results from Your MBA Profile and GMAT ScoreEvery year, thousands of strong applicants apply to business school. To get noticed, you will need an impressive GMAT or GRE score and an unforgettable application. In this free event, Manhattan Prep instructor Whitney Garner discusses the GMAT’s scoring system and how you can approach the test with the right mindset to get your best return on investment. Then, mbaMission Senior Consultant Rachel Beck will tell you what admissions officers look for and advise you on how to make your application stand out.
• Wednesday, May 6, 2020: Writing Standout MBA Application EssaysTo grab the attention of a top business school, you will need to write an essay that is well crafted and memorable. Learn to do just that in this free event led by mbaMission’s president and founder, Jeremy Shinewald, who will help you start to uncover your personal story, craft a strong opening statement, develop your goals, and connect those goals to your target school.
• Thursday, May 14, 2020: Advanced GMAT: 700+ Level Quant and Sentence Correction StrategyThe GMAT has four subscores, but your Quant score will likely be the most important. Get ready to tackle the most difficult Quant problems with this free event led by Manhattan Prep instructor Jamie Nelson. Jamie will also walk you through an equally tough section: Sentence Correction. Learn how to nail the most challenging problems, no matter how long or confusing each passage may seem.
• Thursday, May 14, 2020: GRE for B-School – Tackling the Toughest TopicsTaking the GRE for b-school? Have a top MBA program in mind? We have got you covered with this free event. You will learn how to approach the toughest topics—from Quant to Verbal. This is a great event for students at any stage in their prep. Even if you have already started your studies, we will help set you to reach your highest potential.
• Thursday, May 21, 2020: Top MBA Admissions Directors Answer Your Questions!Getting into a top MBA program can be a challenging goal, but we are here to help you do it. In this event, we are bringing you direct access to some of the world’s best business schools so that you can ask them all of your questions, learn what makes each one unique, and get advice on how to put your best foot forward in your application. mbaMission Founder/President Jeremy Shinewald will host this free Q&A session with a panel of admissions officers from leading business schools including the MIT Sloan School of Management, Columbia Business School, the Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management, the University of Virginia Darden School of Business, and the Yale School of Management.

Feeling unsure during these uncertain times? We understand. And we hope that these sessions will be a source of connection, motivation, and maybe a welcome distraction for you. Even if you ultimately cannot attend a live event, we will send registrants a recording so you can learn from this series even six, ten, or twelve months down the line.

Get started putting your best foot forward by registering for these free webinars today. We look forward to helping you on your business school journey! 

On Thursday, May 21, mbaMission joined forces with Manhattan Prep to host an online Q&A session with admissions directors from five leading business schools: Columbia Business School (CBS), the University of Virginia Darden School of Business, the Yale School of Management, the MIT Sloan School of Management, and the Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management. During the discussion, each of the directors announced that application deadlines and essay questions will remain virtually unchanged for the coming (2020–2021) admissions season. Yale, Darden, MIT, and Kellogg leadership explained that they are content with the essay prompts from the past year and anticipate no major changes, encouraging applicants to get started. However, the assistant dean of admissions at CBS stated that she expected her school’s essays to be similar but noted that she may change the school’s third essay, encouraging applicants to get started on the first two. 

We recommend that you watch the full recording of the webinar below or on our YouTube channel to get the inside scoop on everything the admissions directors shared.

Although essays and deadlines dominated the early part of the session, the admissions officers inevitably discussed hot topics including deferrals, fall 2020 matriculation, and the expectations for online GMAT GRE testing. Here are a few highlights and revelations:

• In response to the question, “What will the fall term look like?,” there was a consensus among the admissions directors that both in-person and hybrid options will be offered in an effort to provide flexibility to those who will not be able to attend classes in person.
• Accepted candidates who may wish to defer their matriculation to the following year (2021–2022) were reminded that each institution will make deferral decisions on a case-by-case basis and were encouraged to contact the Admissions Office for more information on the various options in place for them.
• A popular question from the event’s participants addressed the waiving of GMAT/GRE testing requirements during the current Round 3 Extended cycle and whether next year’s applicants can expect this waiver to remain in place. In short, the directors explained that though each institution will offer flexible options for test takers (such as taking the exam from home), there are no definite plans to continue waiving the testing requirements, as test centers are expected to reopen with time.

Each and every one of our panelists sounded an optimistic tone, encouraging strong candidates to continue to apply. Our thanks go out to these experienced officers who led a very exciting and insightful discussion! 

If you have any questions about your MBA candidacy in Round 3 or the upcoming application season, be sure to sign up for a free 30-minute consultation to get personalized advice from one of mbaMission’s admissions experts!

We came up with 5 important reminders for your application process. A few of them may seem a little obvious, but we think you should still keep them all in mind when applying to your dream school.

• Open the school applications – The first step you should take is creating accounts and opening the online applications for all schools you are interested in applying to. Review the whole application process and all the components needed. This may take longer than you expect if you have to ask for letters of recommendation and request official transcripts.
• Fill out the recommenders in the online applications – When you start your application on the account, your recommenders will be emailed with instructions. At this stage, be in touch with them and let them know the deadline. Make sure your recommendations are not submitted from your computer or IP as this could look suspicious…

For the remainder of the reminders, click here.

To learn more about admission requirements, click here. Or get in touch with us today for a FREE consultation.

Since March, the GMAC have been searching for the best possible solution to combat the closure of testing centers. From virtual proctors to the infamous online whiteboards, the online GMAT test went through some trial and error. We asked one of our clients about his experience with the online GMAT test.

Click here to read about what it was like.

Or click here for a FREE consultation today.

This year, the MIT Sloan School of Management MBA application remains the same as the previous cycle. Again, the school requests that applicants submit a cover letter, organizational chart and 60-second video statement as part of their application.

Below, please find this year’s 2020-2021 application deadlines along with Personal MBA Coach’s advice on how to tackle the MIT Sloan application.

MIT Sloan’s 2020-2021 MBA Application Deadlines:

Round 1: October 1, 2020

Round 2: January 19, 2021

Round 3: April 12, 2021

MIT Sloan Cover Letter:

MIT Sloan seeks students whose personal characteristics demonstrate that they will make the most of the incredible opportunities at MIT, both academic and non-academic. We are on a quest to find those whose presence will enhance the experience of other students. We seek thoughtful leaders with exceptional intellectual abilities and the drive and determination to put their stamp on the world. We welcome people who are independent, authentic, and fearlessly creative — true doers. We want people who can redefine solutions to conventional problems, and strive to preempt unconventional dilemmas with cutting-edge ideas. We demand integrity and respect passion.

Taking the above into consideration, please submit a cover letter seeking a place in the MIT Sloan MBA Program. Your letter should conform to a standard business correspondence, include one or more examples that illustrate why you meet the desired criteria above, and be addressed to the Assistant Deans of Admissions, Rod Garcia and Dawna Levenson (300 words or fewer, excluding address and salutation).

Those applicants wondering how to get into MIT Sloan should keep in mind that the MIT cover letter requires quite a different approach from other MBA application essays. Candidates really need to reflect on their most significant accomplishments here and make it clear what they will bring to the table once they arrive at Sloan.

We actually advise Sloan MBA candidates to approach this cover letter as they would any professional cover letter. Ask for a place in the MIT Sloan class and tell the reader who you are. This is not the time to repeat your resume but, as with any cover letter, provide greater depth to your character and accomplishments. With such a short length, you will need to choose each word carefully and select the most compelling stories to tell. Think about MIT’s values as you write this letter and consider instances where you exhibited innovative thinking and leadership.

Finally, note SPECIFICALLY how you will bring this experience to the MIT Sloan MBA program and how you will use it to create meaningful contributions within the community.

MIT Sloan Video Statement:

In addition to the cover letter, Sloan asks candidates to complete a video statement: Applicants are required to upload a 1 minute (60 second) video as part of their application. In your video, you should introduce yourself to your future classmates, tell us about your past experiences, and touch on why MIT Sloan is the best place for you to pursue your degree.

Videos should adhere to the following guidelines:

• No more than 1 minute (60 seconds) in length
• Single take (no editing)
• You should be speaking directly to the camera
• Do not include background music or subtitles

For the video component of your MIT Sloan MBA application, it is most important to be yourself. This is a chance for admissions committee members to evaluate applicants’ physical presence and delivery. Additionally, it provides an opportunity to learn more about you both personally and professionally.

Keep in mind the direct request to address why MIT Sloan is a good fit. For this section of the video, candidates should be specific, thinking about particular aspects of the MBA program that appeal to them. With a lot to cover in one minute, be sure you strike a careful balance between talking about yourself and explaining your desire to attend MIT Sloan.

While you do not want to memorize the video statement and sound overly rehearsed, we do advise candidates to write out a rough script in advance of filming and to practice multiple times!

Consider factors such as audio quality, demeanor, and fluency in addition to the content itself. Personal MBA Coach includes analyses of sample videos in its comprehensive packages.

Organizational Chart:

Please upload an organizational chart which outlines the internal structure of your department and company. Limit to two pages.

Note: You may choose to create your own document or redact individuals' names. However, please provide as much information as possible.

We should be able to see your line of reporting to the top of your organization, and to easily find you, your peers, your supervisor, their peers, and your direct reports (should you have any), as well as any recommender or references from your current organization. For those in consulting, please submit an organizational chart of a current or previous project you were staffed on.

Click here to view a sample organizational chart.

There is no right or wrong format for the organizational chart. The key is that is it easy to follow and understand and shows your direct reports (if any) and who you report to. Most companies should have a chart that you can work from.

Are you looking for help with your MBA Applications? Personal MBA Coach is willing to be your guide. Founded by a Wharton and MIT graduate, we regularly help applicants navigate their applications each year. We also conduct mock interviews with former M7 interviewers on our team.

Personal MBA Coach has been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for 13 years with a 96% success rate. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email scott@personalmbacoach.com for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality!

You may also like these other blog posts:

How to Write Winning MBA Application Essays

How to Maximize Your Chance for an MBA Scholarship

How To Ensure Your MBA Letters of Recommendation Shine

Applicants can sometimes be nervous when applying to MBA programs when a large majority of their work experience is from their family's business. They may feel that their title or promotions may look undeserving. They may also feel that it looks like they relied heavily on family connections instead of applying to a typical job.

However, this is not the case. When admission officers receive an application whereby the applicant's experience was in a family business, they understand the responsibilities and the characteristics that come with that.

To learn more about why having experience in a family business can be beneficial, and which programs may be best, click here

Or, get in contact with us today for a free consultation.

We interviewed people on admission boards at the top schools, do you don't have to! We found out everything you need to know and combined it into one article for each school.

MIT Sloan boasts one of the best MBA programs, not only in the US but in the world. To find out insider information that will boost your application, carry on reading.

We spoke to with Tommaso Canetta, Associate Director at MIT Sloan Admissions to find out everything you need to know about the program. What makes the school so special, how Covid-19 has affected the program and what they are looking for in a candidate.

To read the full interview, click here.

To read our previous Insider Information, click here.

If you still need some more help with your application, click here to contact us for a FREE consultation personalized to you.

Back in March, Personal MBA Coach discussed a number of ways that COVID-19 would affect the MBA application process. Now more than six months later, the virus is still impacting MBA hopefuls. From canceled campus visits and remote interviews to online GMAT/GRE testing, coronavirus has reshaped the traditional MBA application process.

However, this is still a great time to apply for your MBA and business schools throughout the world have responded quickly, many extending MBA application deadlines and implementing hybrid learning plans. Some schools, including Harvard Business School, even offered all MBA candidates planning to attend this fall the option to defer for one or two years.

A new major modification we’ve seen in response to coronavirus is MIT Sloan School of Management’s decision to go test-optional.

Taking into account the complications that the pandemic has presented regarding testing, MIT Sloan has now announced the following:

“The GMAT and GRE are components of the application process and play an important role in our holistic evaluation process. However, in view of challenges brought about by the coronavirus pandemic, we will allow candidates for the 2020-21 admission cycle to submit their application without the test and review their submitted material as is and without negative inferences. If admitted, candidates will not be required to take a test.

Additionally, applicants are welcome to submit other pieces of evidence, such as expired test scores (GMAT, GRE, EA, etc.); MITx MicroMasters, CORe, edX, MBAMath, or any other non-degree coursework completed; or certifications earned such as CPA, ACCA, CFA, etc; all of which may assist the Admissions Committee in its evaluation process.”

These changes recognize the difficulties that MBA hopefuls may have faced accessing viable testing options. From technical difficulties to household distractions, online testing can pose a handful of challenges. In other instances, test centers were operating at lower capacities, making it difficult to secure a spot for in-person testing.

MIT Sloan is the first M7 to go test-optional since Harvard Business School did so for a duration of 11 years, beginning in 1985.

While MIT Sloan’s announcement means that 2020-2021 applicants DO NOT have to submit a GMAT or GRE score as a part of their application, the school still encourages those who with test scores to share them (even if they are expired):

“If you have a valid or expired test score, please include that as part of your application. We will consider both expired and valid test scores for the 2020-21 admission cycle.”

MIT Sloan’s decision to go test-optional is a reflection of the many ways that MBA programs are working to make accommodations for current and prospective students.

However, despite this flexibility, in most cases, if you are in a position to take the GMAT or GRE, Personal MBA Coach recommends that you do! In most circumstances, submitting a test score will work in your favor. This is especially true if you have a lower GPA or weaker quantitative background. In such scenarios, a strong GMAT or GRE school will be crucial to prove you can handle the analytical rigor of the MIT Sloan MBA Program.

If, however, you have a strong academic record and/or quantitative background and taking the GMAT/GRE is not feasible, the test-optional policy is likely welcome news and something candidates could consider taking advantage of. With the round 1 MBA application deadline approaching quickly, MIT Sloan’s policy change should make it easier for some candidates to submit in time for the October 1 MBA Application Deadline.

If you DO want to submit a test score and are still looking to improve it, Personal MBA Coach offers customized tutoring to help you! Our tutors will set up a customized schedule, create a study plan, and schedule regular meetings to help you reach your goals.

Are you looking for help with your MBA Applications? Personal MBA Coach is willing to be your guide. Founded by a Wharton and MIT graduate, we regularly help applicants navigate their applications each year. We also conduct mock interviews with former M7 interviewers on our team.

Personal MBA Coach has been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for 13 years with a 96% success rate. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email scott@personalmbacoach.com for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality!

Check out these blog posts for additional MBA application help:

How to Get into MIT Sloan

How to Write a Great MBA Essay

How to Maximize Your Chance for an MBA Scholarship

Kudos to all of you who successfully got your Round 1 MBA applications in on time!

For some of you, that may have meant some late nights polishing your essays, fumbling through the online applications, and bugging your recommenders. For others, it may have been more of a leisurely stroll to the finish line. In any case, you certainly deserve a high-five and a weekend off—but now it is time to get back to work!

This “work” generally falls into two categories: preparing for your hoped-for MBA interviews and starting Round 2 applications. Today, we will talk about the interviews; next time, we will discuss strategies for Round 2 MBA applications.

There are a few things you should make note of as you start your MBA interview preparation. Interviews are almost always required to gain admission to a top MBA program. The chance of acceptance to a program rises from single digits and teens to about 40%–50% for those who are invited to interview. So, it is now time to sharpen your interview skills. Here are some tips.

1. Know your resume.

At many schools, the only information an interviewer may have about you is your resume, so it likely will be the focus of your discussion. Therefore, you must know your resume inside out and upside down.

In real terms, this means remembering all those small points, random numbers, and overly general descriptions that populate most resumes. Remember how you wrote on your resume that you “cut costs by 30 percent”? Well, guess what? The MBA interview is exactly the place where you will be called upon to answer questions like “How did you calculate that number?”; “Did you do it by yourself?”; and “What role did you play as a leader?” Get ready to talk to even the smallest bullet point on your resume, because that is where most people get tripped up.

2. Get ready to be interesting.

I frequently tell my clients that interesting applicants are those who have a unique story to tell—a story that no one else is telling. Avoid talking about how you ran a marathon, love to travel, or are a “foodie.” The people interviewing before you and after you are probably saying the same things. Instead, focus on a unique piece of your story that may not have come out in other parts of your application. What is your story? Get ready to tell it.

3. Know the school.

An interview is frequently a test to see how you will fit into the business school community, how you will get involved, and how excited you will be to attend. (Note: Admissions committees pass up plenty of well-qualified candidates whom they suspect will not attend if admitted.) In order to properly communicate all of this, you really have to know the MBA program intimately.

Now is the time (and likely your last chance!) to talk to students and alumni, connect with club leaders, and—if you have not done so yet—visit the school. Nothing will impress an interviewer more than you knowing exactly why you want to attend their school; explain how you will contribute and why you are dying to go there. Remember, specificity equals credibility.

4. Know the interview.

As noted above, many MBA programs will have resume-focused interviews, but not all will. Know what kind of interview to expect before you arrive. The Wharton “interview,” for example, is a “Team Based Discussion.” Candidates are asked to prepare a one-minute pitch, which they share with four or five other prospective students. The group then must work together to blend all of the ideas into a single pitch to the admissions committee facilitator—in just 35 minutes. During the 2020–2021 application season, the whole process is taking place online.

The MIT Sloan MBA interview requires an additional essay before the interview. For the Harvard Business School interview, you must submit an additional essay within 24 hours of the interview. So, be prepared for each of these different animals.

Of course, preparing for your MBA interview is only one thing you need to do after hitting the “Submit” button on your application. The other is figuring out what you are going to do for Round 2, which we will discuss next time.

This week has been a busy one for Personal MBA Coach and for the Association of International Graduate Admissions Consultants (AIGAC). As a member of the AIGAC Board of Directors, I had the pleasure of meeting with and facilitating sessions with admissions directors from top MBA programs including HBS, MIT Sloan, Chicago Booth, Columbia Business School, UVA Darden, Berkeley Haas, Michigan Ross, Yale SOM, London Business School and others at our annual conference.

Though virtual this year, the conference gave Personal MBA Coach a great opportunity to catch up with top schools, find out what is on their minds, discuss top MBA application trends, learn about upcoming MBA essays and gain a sneak peek into the 2021-2022 MBA application season.

Personal MBA Coach is excited to share the top emerging trends below:

Trend #1: MBA Application Rates Increased Last Year, But Not All Schools Agree That This Will Continue

It came as no surprise to hear from many top business schools that MBA application numbers increased last season (and during R3 in 2020), and conversely, that MBA acceptance rates fell. The economic uncertainty generated by COVID-19 led many to further their education to increase their competitiveness or look to business schools as a great place to ride out the economic storm.

Kellogg shared details of a double-digit application increase over the past two years. Similarly, Duke Fuqua and Dartmouth Tuck saw applications increase 20% year-over-year.

It is important to note that increased QUANTITY of applications does not necessarily correspond to increased QUALITY. Fee waivers, GMAT/GRE/EA score waivers, increased unemployment rates and (possibly) more free time at home led many candidates to apply to more schools, and in some cases more reach schools last year.

Not all schools think that this increased application rate will continue. As the economy strengthens, some top schools predict MBA application rates will show less growth in the upcoming season. Of course, nobody can predict the impact of COVID-19 in regions like India on applications, deferral requests and interest from new applicants this year.

Trend #2: Some MBA Class Sizes Have Increased

A combination of fewer than expected deferrals, higher MBA application levels and the use of virtual classes led a few top programs to increase their class sizes.

For example, Kellogg shared how this year’s incoming MBA class grew to 559 students vs. 475 students during the previous year.

Trend #3: Diversity and Inclusion Remains Top of Mind

This third trend also comes as no surprise in light of the global climate. Nearly all top business schools discussed the importance of recruiting diverse MBA classes. Happily, the diversity within MBA applicants is on the rise, increasing most schools’ ability to enroll diverse classes.

For MBA hopefuls, the implications of this trend are two-fold:

• Applicants from non-traditional backgrounds should be encouraged to continue to apply to top MBA programs.
• For applicants from over-represented industries and demographics the pressure to differentiate themselves is high. Helping candidates stand out in the crowded landscape is an area in which Personal MBA Coach specializes!

Trend #4: MBA Deferral Requests Are Once Again Expected

With regional COVID-19 rates unfortunately surging and resulting continued travel bans, deferral requests will likely be a reality for MBA candidates matriculating during fall 2021. Fortunately, many top MBA programs plan to remain flexible.

In fact, Stanford GSB, Dartmouth Tuck and Duke Fuqua are among the programs who shared their plans to consider deferral requests, as needed.

While this may be good news for candidates currently sitting on waitlists, it is important to note that Personal MBA Coach expects these deferrals to have a trickle-down effect on 2021-2022 MBA applicants as once again a decent number of (already limited) seats may already be filled. That said, we expect the deferral requests to be significantly lower than last year. Gauging from our own clients, we see deferral requests coming from specific markets as opposed to the much wider array that we saw last year.

Trend #5: Virtual MBA Admissions Events and Interviews Are Here to Stay

While virtual campus tours, admissions director presentations and application interviews were a necessity during the global pandemic, many MBA admissions directors found advantages to this new format. Not only do virtual events save time for MBA admissions directors who are already stretched thin during the application season, but they also level the playing field for applicants who are geographically or economically challenged.

Given this emphasis on diversity and inclusion throughout the MBA application process, this increased equity in accessing information about applicants is crucial for admissions directors, who expect to continue to hold virtual events.

While in-person events are expected to resume to some extent (when it is safe to do so), these events will complement online offerings and minimize the need for candidates to travel during these continually challenging times.

Additionally, some top schools including Chicago Booth discussed plans for virtual interviews to continue, even in the post-COVID-19 era.

Trend #6: Candidates Are Applying to a Larger Number of MBA Programs

As competition increases and acceptance rates fall, it came as no surprise to learn from our MBA Admissions Consulting peers that candidates across the board are applying to an increasing number of programs. On average, candidates are applying to 5-8 schools, and we heard that many are in the 6+ range.

All business schools look to fill their classes with diverse candidates (particularly now!), and you cannot always predict which school might need someone who fits your profile. Adding a broad range of schools helps to balance this. Make sure that you have some “reach” schools, some “more likely” schools and some “safer” schools, especially if you want to secure an acceptance this year.

About Personal MBA Coach:

Founded by a Wharton MBA and MIT Sloan graduate who sits on the Association of International Graduate Admissions Consultants Board of Directors, Personal MBA Coach has been guiding clients for 14 years and is consistently ranked #1 or #2, currently holding the #1 ranking in the US on Poets&Quants.

We help clients with all aspects of the MBA application process including early planning, GMAT/GRE/EA tutoring, application strategy, school selection, essay editing and mock interviews. Our team includes a former M7 admissions director and former M7 admissions interviewers.

Last year, our clients earned more than $6M in scholarships!

You also may like these other MBA application tips and updates:

Top MBA Application Tips

MBA Admissions Roadmap

Personal MBA Coach's Take on the 2021 FT Global MBA Rankings

[url=https://gmatclub.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/2022-Shared-Series-Large-Image.png][img]https://gmatclub.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/2022-Shared-Series-Large-Image-1024x307.png[/img][/url]

So, you have your sights set on applying to business school. What comes next?

Whether you are just starting to prepare for the GMAT, GRE, or Executive Assessment (EA) or are working on crafting a compelling MBA application, the leaders in the MBA admissions space—[url=https://mbamission.com]mbaMission[/url] and [url=https://www.kaptest.com/gmat]Manhattan Prep, Powered by Kaplan[/url]—are coming together to make sure you will be ready for the 2022–2023 business school admissions season.

Join us for a free eight-part webinar series, running weekly from April 7 through May 26, to learn what you need to be doing now to create a compelling MBA application.

Admissions consultants from mbaMission will explain different MBA admissions processes, while experts from Manhattan Prep will help you tackle some of the toughest test-taking challenges by providing valuable insight and advice.

This free online series will offer you helpful guidance as you work toward your goals. From figuring out which test is best to take (the GMAT or GRE, or even the EA) to speaking with admissions officers, you will get a well-rounded, step-by-step overview of the MBA admissions process.

Click here to enroll (for free) in our “[url=https://www.kaptest.com/study/gmat/mba-mission-series/]Building Your Best MBA Application[/url]” webinar series, and continue reading to preview the series schedule!  

"Building Your Best MBA Application" Series Schedule:

[list][*][b]Part 1: Your 2022 MBA Action Plan[/b][/*][/list]

Thursday, April 7, 2022
8:00–9:30 p.m. ET
Applying to business school in 2022–2023? It is not too early to start planning! Join mbaMission Founder/President [url=https://www.mbamission.com/who-we-are/team/jeremy-shinewald/]Jeremy Shinewald[/url] as he discusses such topics as creating your ten-month (and beyond) timeline; getting “stats ready,” including accelerating personal goals; attaining your target GMAT/GRE/EA score; and taking additional coursework.

[list][*][b]Part 2: Which Business School Is Right for Me?[/b][/*][/list]

Thursday, April 14, 2022
8:00–9:30 p.m. ET
Which MBA program is right for you? How can you find the best fit? During this free webinar, mbaMission Managing Director [url=https://www.mbamission.com/who-we-are/team/rachel-beck/]Rachel Beck[/url] will help prospective MBAs understand the differences among top MBA programs.

[list][*][b]Part 3: Should I Take a Test? If So, Which One: GMAT, GRE, or EA?[/b][/*][/list]

Thursday, April 21, 2022
8:00–9:30 p.m. ET
Join Manhattan Prep instructor [url=https://www.manhattanprep.com/instructors/jamie-nelson/]Jamie Nelson[/url] and mbaMission Founder/President [url=https://www.mbamission.com/who-we-are/team/jeremy-shinewald/]Jeremy Shinewald[/url] as they explain the key differences among the exams and how business schools view each test—and help you determine which one may be best for you.

[list][*][b]Part 4: Are My MBA Profile and Test Score Strong Enough?[/b][/*][/list]

Thursday, April 28, 2022
8:00–9:30 p.m. ET
Every year, thousands of strong candidates apply to business school. To get noticed, you will need an impressive GMAT, GRE, or EA score and an unforgettable application. Join Manhattan Prep instructor [url=https://www.manhattanprep.com/instructors/chris-gentry/]Chris Gentry[/url] as he discusses the GMAT’s scoring system and how you can approach the test with the right mindset to get your best return on investment. Then, mbaMission Managing Director [url=https://www.mbamission.com/who-we-are/team/krista-nannery/]Krista Nannery[/url] will share what admissions officers look for and how to build a noteworthy application.

[list][*][b]Part 5: How Can I Make My MBA Application Essays Stand Out?[/b][/*][/list]

Thursday, May 5, 2022
8:00–9:30 p.m. ET[b]
[/b]To grab the attention of a top business school, you will need to write an essay that is well crafted and memorable. Learn to do just that in this session led by mbaMission Managing Director [url=https://www.mbamission.com/who-we-are/team/john-sisk/]John Sisk[/url], who will help you start to uncover your personal story, craft a strong opening statement, develop your goals, and connect those goals to your target school.

[list][*][b]Part 6: [/b][b]How Can I Nail My MBA Application Material[/b][b]s? (Everything But the Essay)[/b][/*][/list]

Thursday, May 12, 2022
8:00–9:30 p.m. ET
So, you have mastered how to write a compelling MBA application essay, but what comes next? Join mbaMission Managing Director [url=https://www.mbamission.com/who-we-are/team/jessica-shklar/]Jessica Shklar[/url] as she details how to tackle “everything but the essay”—an in-depth examination of short answers, recommendation letters, and other components of an MBA application that need to stand out to the admissions committee.  

[list][*][b]Part 7a: GRE for MBA: How Do I Handle the Toughest Topics?[/b][/*][/list]

Thursday, May 19, 2022
7:00-8:15 p.m. ET

Taking the GRE for b-school? Have a top MBA program in mind? We have you covered with this free event. Manhattan Prep instructor [url=https://www.manhattanprep.com/instructors/ryan-starr/]Ryan Starr[/url] will teach you how to approach the toughest topics—from Quant to Verbal. This is a great event for applicants at any stage in their prep. Even if you have already started your preparation, we will help position you to reach your highest potential.

[list][*][b]Part 7b: Advanced GMAT: How Can I Master 700+ Level Quant and Sentence Correction?[/b][/*][/list]

Thursday, May 19, 2022
8:30–9:45 p.m. ET
The GMAT has four subscores, but your Quant score will likely be the most important. Get ready to tackle the most difficult Quant problems with this free event led by Manhattan Prep instructor [url=https://www.manhattanprep.com/instructors/jamie-nelson/]Jamie Nelson[/url]. Jamie will also walk you through an equally tough section: Sentence Correction. Learn how to nail the most challenging problems, no matter how long or confusing each passage may seem.

[list][*][b]Part 8: Top Admissions Directors Answer Your Questions[/b][/*][/list]

Thursday, May 26, 2022
8:00–9:30 p.m. ET
In this event, we are bringing you direct access to some of the world’s best business schools so you can ask them all your questions, learn what makes each one unique, and get advice on how to put your best foot forward in your application. mbaMission Founder/President [url=https://www.mbamission.com/who-we-are/team/jeremy-shinewald/]Jeremy Shinewald[/url] will host an interactive Q&A session with a panel of admissions officers from leading business schools, including the [b]MIT Sloan School of Management[/b], [b]Columbia Business School[/b], the [b]University of Chicago Booth School of Business[/b], the [b]University of Virginia Darden School of Business[/b], and the[b] Yale School of Management[/b].

Panelists include the following: 

[list][*][url=https://www8.gsb.columbia.edu/cbs-directory/detail/abc101][b]Amanda Carlson[/b][/url], Assistant Dean of Admissions at Columbia Business School[/*][*][url=https://som.yale.edu/programs/mba/admissions/contact-us][b]Bruce DelMonico[/b][/url], Assistant Dean for Admissions at the Yale School of Management[/*][*][url=https://www.darden.virginia.edu/about/leadership/administrative-leadership/dawna-clarke#:~:text=Senior%20Assistant%20Dean%20of%20Admissions,Dartmouth%20College%20for%2011%20years.][b]Dawna Clarke[/b][/url], Senior Assistant Dean of Admissions at the University of Virginia Darden School of Business[/*][*][url=https://mitsloan.mit.edu/staff/directory/dawna-sherri-levenson][b]Dawna Levenson[/b][/url], Assistant Dean of Admissions at the MIT Sloan School of Management[/*][*][url=https://www.chicagobooth.edu/about/deans-and-administrators][b]Donna Swinford[/b][/url], Associate Dean for Student Recruitment and Admissions at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business[/*][/list]

Are you ready to put your best foot forward for the upcoming MBA application season? [url=https://www.kaptest.com/study/gmat/mba-mission-series/]Click here to enroll (for free) in “Building Your Best MBA Application.”[/url]

If you cannot attend one of the sessions, no problem! Be sure to register; we will email you a recording link after each session.