Hello,
MP21. I will respond to your queries in-line below.
MP21 wrote:
I'd like to know a few details about the application for doctoral programmes (PhD, FPM or Equivalent):
Who should write the recommendation letters, any sample formats that I can refer to?
Typically, your former professors will write letters of recommendation to speak to your academic ability. Perhaps one recommendation can come from a professional source, but you should check each program website to confirm, since different schools may have different preferences or requirements. An academic reference will almost assuredly be aware of how to write a letter of recommendation. Some schools have specific forms they like recommenders to use, though.
MP21 wrote:
My profile is 29y.o MBA from a decent University (IBS hyd), CGPA 7.5. Work ex 6 years all in the market research industry
What GMAT score should I target for top tier institutions? (IVY or equivalent)
Why would you need to take the GMAT™ for a PhD program? I have never heard of such a requirement. The GRE® is much more widely accepted for such a purpose, but again, you will have to check with the specific schools you plan to apply to. Regarding the GMAT™ score, though, if you come from an overrepresented applicant pool, then a higher-than-average 740+ will help your chances. Many top-tier programs have average scores in the 720s and 730s (for business school).
MP21 wrote:
Is previous experience in academic research mandatory?
Not really. Many students pivot into PhD programs directly from undergrad, where their research may have been limited to term papers and a senior thesis. Of course, if you have published any research, that is always a plus.
MP21 wrote:
Would Market research experience add any additional value to my profile? I'm planning to do my research on consumer behaviour
Are there any other details I need to be aware of?
Yes, research experience in the field you intend to pursue should be looked on favorably. As someone who has helped clients with their applications, I would advise you to write your essays more from a perspective of personal interest than from one of trying to hype yourself or your accomplishments. Trust me, these schools receive hundreds of applications each cycle from the most qualified candidates in the world, so waving your hand in the air to grab attention, as many other applicants do in their essays, will do you no favors. If you are interested in consumer behavior, then write something specific that
shows your fascination with and commitment to the topic. Simply telling an admissions committee you are obsessed with something is dull. Finally, many PhD programs conduct interviews for applicants, so that is a separate component of the application you will want to be prepared for, should your programs of choice require one.
Best of luck to you.
- Andrew