Dear Candidate,
Securing a spot in a top-tier MBA program is a challenging feat, and while being placed on a waitlist may feel disheartening, it is not the end of the road. The MBA waitlist is an opportunity for prospective students to showcase their continued interest and commitment to the business school.
In this write-up, we will cover some steps which you can take when on an MBA waitlist, provide insights on increasing your chances of getting off the waitlist and highlight things to avoid.
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original article published here]
How to get off the business school’s MBA waitlistTo increase your chances of moving off the business school waitlist and securing admission, consider taking the following strategic actions:
1. Acknowledge the Decision PromptlyRespond to the waitlist notification promptly, expressing your appreciation for the opportunity and confirming your continued interest in the program. This initial step signals your commitment and professionalism.
2. Request FeedbackPolitely request feedback on your application. While not all schools provide detailed feedback, some may offer insights into areas that could be strengthened. Use this information to tailor your strategy during the waitlist period.
3. Submit a Letter of Continued InterestCraft a compelling letter expressing your ongoing interest in the program. Highlight any relevant updates, restate your commitment, and share specific reasons why the school remains your top choice. This letter is an opportunity to demonstrate your enthusiasm and commitment.
4. Provide Substantive UpdatesUse the waitlist period to submit substantial updates to your application. This can include achievements at work, retaking the GMAT/ GRE or taking IELTS/ TOEFL (if you feel necessary), additional certifications, promotions, or any noteworthy personal or professional developments. Ensure that these updates align with the values of the business school.
5. Submit Additional RecommendationsIf the school allows, consider submitting additional letters of recommendation ideally from alumni who know you or have worked with you. Choose recommenders who can provide new insights into your qualifications, emphasizing your fit for the program and your potential contributions to the academic community.
6. Maintain a Positive Tone in CommunicationsEnsure that all your communications with the admissions office exude positivity. Avoid expressing frustration or impatience, as this can create a negative impression. Keep your messages optimistic and focused on your commitment to the program.
7. Be Mindful of Communication FrequencyAvoid excessive communication that may come across as pushy or desperate. Adhere to any guidelines provided by the admissions office regarding updates and inquiries. Quality and relevance of communication are more important than quantity.
8. Prepare for Possible InterviewsSome schools may conduct interviews with waitlisted candidates. Be prepared for such an opportunity by reviewing your application, understanding the school’s culture, and being ready to discuss your fit for the program.
Things NOT to do while on an MBA waitlistWhile navigating the MBA waitlist, it’s crucial to avoid certain actions that could potentially harm your chances or create a negative impression. Here are things NOT to do when you find yourself on an MBA waitlist:
1. Do Not Be Pushy or AggressiveAvoid being overly assertive or aggressive in your communications with the admissions office. Respect the school’s process and timelines. Bombarding them with excessive emails or phone calls can be perceived as impatience and may reflect poorly on your professionalism.
2. Do Not Submit Excessive MaterialsWhile submitting updates to your application is encouraged, refrain from inundating the admissions committee with excessive or irrelevant materials. Quality matters more than quantity. Focus on meaningful updates that enhance your candidacy.
3. Avoid Negative BehaviorRefrain from expressing frustration, disappointment, or negativity on public forums, social media, or in direct communications with the school. Maintaining a positive and professional demeanor is essential, even if you feel discouraged.
4. Do Not Contact Admissions Too FrequentlyWhile it’s important to stay engaged, avoid contacting the admissions office too frequently. Adhere to any guidelines provided by the school regarding updates and communications. Being overly persistent may create a negative impression.
5. Do Not Lobby for Special ConsiderationResist the temptation to lobby for special consideration or exceptions. Admissions decisions are typically based on a comprehensive evaluation process, and attempting to negotiate or request preferential treatment is unlikely to be well-received.
6. Avoid Sending Generic CommunicationsTailor your communications to the specific school rather than using generic templates. Avoid sending the same letter of continued interest to multiple schools. Personalized and thoughtful messages are more effective in conveying your genuine interest.
7. Do Not Disregard School PoliciesAdhere to the waitlist policies and guidelines provided by the school. Ignoring or disregarding these instructions may create unnecessary complications and may even result in a negative evaluation of your application.
Final ThoughtsNavigating the MBA waitlist is a unique challenge that requires a blend of proactivity, patience, and positivity. By understanding the reasons behind waitlist placements and following a strategic approach, applicants can maximize their chances of moving from the waitlist to accepted students.
Remember to stay engaged, showcase ongoing achievements, and maintain a positive and professional demeanor throughout the process. Regardless of the outcome, view this period as an opportunity for personal and professional growth, and refining your goals.
Regards,
Arvind
Founder, admitStreet
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