Last visit was: 28 Apr 2026, 11:21 It is currently 28 Apr 2026, 11:21
Home
Messages
Tests
Schools
Events
Close
GMAT Club Daily Prep
Thank you for using the timer - this advanced tool can estimate your performance and suggest more practice questions. We have subscribed you to Daily Prep Questions via email.

Customized
for You

we will pick new questions that match your level based on your Timer History

Track
Your Progress

every week, we’ll send you an estimated GMAT score based on your performance

Practice
Pays

we will pick new questions that match your level based on your Timer History
Not interested in getting valuable practice questions and articles delivered to your email? No problem, unsubscribe here.
Go to My Error Log Learn more
Close
Request Expert Reply
Confirm Cancel
User avatar
jlgdr
User avatar
Joined: 06 Sep 2013
Last visit: 24 Jul 2015
Posts: 1,302
Own Kudos:
2,979
Given Kudos: 355
Concentration: Finance
Schools: Wharton '17 (A) HBS '17 (WA$)
Schools: Wharton '17 (A) HBS '17 (WA$)
Posts: 1,302
Kudos: 2,979
Stanford GSB: Class of 2017 - Calling All Applicants! 17 Nov 2014, 07:45
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
LOL good ones. Fortunately, I didn't apply to MIT although I still get their emails trying to drag me into their programs.
Now question for all of you, I've been pretty busy with other school so I'm chiming back in, is there any pattern in relation to the hours/time of the day, they are releasing the invites?

Cheers
J :)
avatar
gotti
avatar
Joined: 12 Jun 2014
Last visit: 19 Feb 2015
Posts: 91
Own Kudos:
24
Given Kudos: 26
Concentration: Strategy
Schools: HBS '17 (M)
GMAT 1: 750 Q49 V41
GPA: 3.5
WE:Consulting (Transportation)
Products:
My Reviews
Schools: HBS '17 (M)
GMAT 1: 750 Q49 V41
Posts: 91
Kudos: 24
Stanford GSB: Class of 2017 - Calling All Applicants! 17 Nov 2014, 10:49
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
Stanford is certainly appealing today... Woke up to a completely snow-covered city this morning.
User avatar
jlgdr
User avatar
Joined: 06 Sep 2013
Last visit: 24 Jul 2015
Posts: 1,302
Own Kudos:
2,979
Given Kudos: 355
Concentration: Finance
Schools: Wharton '17 (A) HBS '17 (WA$)
Schools: Wharton '17 (A) HBS '17 (WA$)
Posts: 1,302
Kudos: 2,979
Stanford GSB: Class of 2017 - Calling All Applicants! 17 Nov 2014, 11:22
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
gotti
Stanford is certainly appealing today... Woke up to a completely snow-covered city this morning.
Show more

That dream of reading the invite email is still fresh in my mind. Go Stanford Go!
User avatar
cowabungaman7
User avatar
Joined: 24 Apr 2014
Last visit: 09 Jun 2015
Posts: 64
Own Kudos:
47
 [1]
Given Kudos: 5
WE:Other (Media/Entertainment)
Posts: 64
Kudos: 47
 [1]
Stanford GSB: Class of 2017 - Calling All Applicants! 17 Nov 2014, 16:04
1
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
jlgdr
gotti
Stanford is certainly appealing today... Woke up to a completely snow-covered city this morning.

That dream of reading the invite email is still fresh in my mind. Go Stanford Go!
Show more

Glad to see the optimistic you is back. Now stay that way dammit :twisted:
avatar
bschoolbandit
avatar
Joined: 13 Oct 2014
Last visit: 22 Mar 2017
Posts: 10
Own Kudos:
11
Given Kudos: 1
Concentration: Finance, Entrepreneurship
Schools: Kellogg '17 (A) Booth '17 (WL) Wharton '17 (D) Stanford '17 (D) HBS '17 (D)
Schools: Kellogg '17 (A) Booth '17 (WL) Wharton '17 (D) Stanford '17 (D) HBS '17 (D)
Posts: 10
Kudos: 11
Stanford GSB: Class of 2017 - Calling All Applicants! 17 Nov 2014, 16:34
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
For those with a morbid curiosity about what happens when you're "denied" -- read on. This was from last cycle -- I'm hoping for better luck this year! I firmly believe we all should maintain optimism, but since the odds are most certainly not in our favor, preparing yourself for a similar message to this by November 24 might soften the blow... slightly.

:|

1. The Notification E-mail:

Dear [redacted],

Thank you again for your application to the Stanford Graduate School of Business. As promised in our previous emails, we have posted an update to your application status today.

As a reminder, when you log in to your application, you will find one of three notifications:
You have already been invited to interview, and will receive a final decision on 26 March. On 26 March you will find out if you will be admitted, denied, or offered a spot in the waitpool.
You were not selected for an interview, and your application is denied. This decision is final.
You are being offered a spot in the waitpool with the possibility of being invited to interview at a future date.
If you have forgotten your password, please click the link below to reset your password:

Click here to reset your password

If you were not selected for an interview or are being offered a spot in the waitpool, your decision letter is available now and for the next 30 days. Click the link titled, "Your application decision is now available online," and please print your letter for future reference.

We enjoyed reading your application.

Sincerely,

MBA Admissions Office
Stanford Graduate School of Business

2. The Decision:

3/4/2014

Dear [redacted]:

Thank you for applying to the Stanford Graduate School of Business. We have completed the review of applications, and I am sorry that we cannot offer you admission to the Stanford MBA Program.

We evaluated your application along three dimensions: (1) intellectual vitality; (2) demonstrated leadership potential; and (3) personal qualities and contributions. We assessed the overall quality of your written application, including the essays and letters of reference.

As we explain in our application materials, the admission process is not one in which we merely separate out those candidates with weaknesses and admit all the rest. Were we to do that, we would have a class several times its intended size. We carefully evaluate each individual file, and then review it in the context of the entire applicant pool. In an effort to create an engaging student community, we select those applicants who, collectively, represent a breadth of background, talent, and experience.

Please be assured that our deliberations are neither quick nor effortless, and many involve difficult choices. We typically receive well over 6,000 applications for our class of 408 students. Because there are many more qualified and deserving candidates than places available in the class, there is necessarily a subjective element to the selection process. This is why there rarely are precise reasons for an applicant's denial. The final results simply reflect our best efforts.

I am sorry that I could not bring you better news, especially since we know that you have invested considerable time and effort in your application. We appreciate your interest in the Stanford Graduate School of Business, and thank you for the privilege of reading your application.

Sincerely,


Derrick Bolton
Derrick Bolton
Assistant Dean for MBA Admissions


**********************************************************************
Frequently Asked Questions

Thank you for taking the time to read this letter. We hope that this supplemental information will provide you with context for better understanding the admission process. We appreciate your interest in the Stanford MBA Program, and we wish you the best in your academic and professional pursuits.

Can I receive feedback on my application?

As we mention in our application materials, we do not offer feedback opportunities on your written application. Candidates who are not offered admission often assume that there must be deficiencies or faults in their applications. The reality of highly selective admission is that there are more qualified and deserving applicants than spaces available. Because most applicants are well-qualified for the Stanford MBA Program, there rarely is a clear-cut or “fixable” reason for a candidate’s denial. Similarly, the reasons why some applicants stand out more than others are not easily categorized, since excellence itself does not come in uniform dimensions.

Participating in a selection process with a very low admission rate means that there are factors affecting the ultimate decision on your candidacy over which you have no control (e.g., the nature of all other applications). Please do not feel responsible for factors you cannot affect.

Can you explain how you reached your decision?

We realize that, from your perspective, the admission process may seem arbitrary as many qualified candidates are not admitted. Please remember that we evaluate each file in the context of the entire applicant pool. The only way to understand why we make all the decisions we do, would be to read the thousands of other applications we receive; this alone would provide you with the perspective required to understand the rationale behind each admission decision.

Please be assured that we understand the limitations of our application process. We acknowledge that it may not always capture, to the fullest extent, the character and potential of each candidate. We strive to do the best job possible given these limitations.

We are guided in our actions by our knowledge that there is a person behind each application, and we recognize the duty of care that we owe to each applicant. The final results reflect our best efforts.

How close was I? Is there an appeal process?

We do not rank candidates for admission. Since our decisions are based both on the strength of an individual application and on its merits relative to the rest of the applicant pool, each decision is final.

May I be added to the waitpool?

We already have selected a limited group of candidates for the waitpool, and we will not add names to it. Each admission decision is final.

I was not invited to interview. Did that impact your evaluation of my application?

We do not use the interview as a separate hurdle for applications. After a thorough review of the application by the Committee on Admissions, we identify candidates as most competitive for admission. Those individuals are selected for the final step in the admission process — the interview. The interview alone, however, is rarely the decisive factor in evaluating a candidate.

If I improve my standardized test scores and/or get more work experience, will this compensate for my undergraduate academic performance?

Although strength in one area can sometimes compensate for weaknesses in others, we tend to favor candidates with strengths in as many areas as possible. For every candidate with an uneven profile, there are many others with a balanced profile of excellence in all areas that we consider in evaluating the application.

Do you have any advice for my re-application?

If you wish to submit another application to the Stanford Graduate School of Business, we recommend that you visit the Admission section of the MBA Program website (https://www.gsb.stanford.edu/mba) for more information on admission criteria. These criteria are the lens through which we evaluate all applications and, when thoughtfully considered, may offer you some insight on how to improve your re-application.

At the same time, it is important to understand that you cannot control the outcome of your application. While we would welcome your re-application to the Stanford Graduate School of Business, you may wish to accept an offer of admission at another school, since there is no guarantee of admission as a re-applicant. Enrolling in another program would allow you to begin working immediately toward your life and career goals.

I expressed interest in the Stanford Master of Science in Management for Experienced Leaders (MSx). What happens now?

If you expressed interest in the Stanford MSx Program and if you meet the expectations for that program (e.g., at least eight years of work experience), the MSx Office will contact you directly. Otherwise, there is no need for further steps. If you have additional questions, you may contact the MSx Office directly at [email protected] or +1.650.723.2149. As noted in the MBA application materials, an expression of interest in the Stanford Master of Science in Management for Experienced Leaders Program does not affect the decision on a candidate's MBA application.
User avatar
jlgdr
User avatar
Joined: 06 Sep 2013
Last visit: 24 Jul 2015
Posts: 1,302
Own Kudos:
2,979
Given Kudos: 355
Concentration: Finance
Schools: Wharton '17 (A) HBS '17 (WA$)
Schools: Wharton '17 (A) HBS '17 (WA$)
Posts: 1,302
Kudos: 2,979
Stanford GSB: Class of 2017 - Calling All Applicants! 17 Nov 2014, 16:40
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
bschoolbandit
For those with a morbid curiosity about what happens when you're "denied" -- read on. This was from last cycle -- I'm hoping for better luck this year! I firmly believe we all should maintain optimism, but since the odds are most certainly not in our favor, preparing yourself for a similar message to this by November 24 might soften the blow... slightly.

:|

1. The Notification E-mail:

Dear [redacted],

Thank you again for your application to the Stanford Graduate School of Business. As promised in our previous emails, we have posted an update to your application status today.

As a reminder, when you log in to your application, you will find one of three notifications:
You have already been invited to interview, and will receive a final decision on 26 March. On 26 March you will find out if you will be admitted, denied, or offered a spot in the waitpool.
You were not selected for an interview, and your application is denied. This decision is final.
You are being offered a spot in the waitpool with the possibility of being invited to interview at a future date.
If you have forgotten your password, please click the link below to reset your password:

Click here to reset your password

If you were not selected for an interview or are being offered a spot in the waitpool, your decision letter is available now and for the next 30 days. Click the link titled, "Your application decision is now available online," and please print your letter for future reference.

We enjoyed reading your application.

Sincerely,

MBA Admissions Office
Stanford Graduate School of Business

2. The Decision:

3/4/2014

Dear [redacted]:

Thank you for applying to the Stanford Graduate School of Business. We have completed the review of applications, and I am sorry that we cannot offer you admission to the Stanford MBA Program.

We evaluated your application along three dimensions: (1) intellectual vitality; (2) demonstrated leadership potential; and (3) personal qualities and contributions. We assessed the overall quality of your written application, including the essays and letters of reference.

As we explain in our application materials, the admission process is not one in which we merely separate out those candidates with weaknesses and admit all the rest. Were we to do that, we would have a class several times its intended size. We carefully evaluate each individual file, and then review it in the context of the entire applicant pool. In an effort to create an engaging student community, we select those applicants who, collectively, represent a breadth of background, talent, and experience.

Please be assured that our deliberations are neither quick nor effortless, and many involve difficult choices. We typically receive well over 6,000 applications for our class of 408 students. Because there are many more qualified and deserving candidates than places available in the class, there is necessarily a subjective element to the selection process. This is why there rarely are precise reasons for an applicant's denial. The final results simply reflect our best efforts.

I am sorry that I could not bring you better news, especially since we know that you have invested considerable time and effort in your application. We appreciate your interest in the Stanford Graduate School of Business, and thank you for the privilege of reading your application.

Sincerely,


Derrick Bolton
Derrick Bolton
Assistant Dean for MBA Admissions


**********************************************************************
Frequently Asked Questions

Thank you for taking the time to read this letter. We hope that this supplemental information will provide you with context for better understanding the admission process. We appreciate your interest in the Stanford MBA Program, and we wish you the best in your academic and professional pursuits.

Can I receive feedback on my application?

As we mention in our application materials, we do not offer feedback opportunities on your written application. Candidates who are not offered admission often assume that there must be deficiencies or faults in their applications. The reality of highly selective admission is that there are more qualified and deserving applicants than spaces available. Because most applicants are well-qualified for the Stanford MBA Program, there rarely is a clear-cut or “fixable” reason for a candidate’s denial. Similarly, the reasons why some applicants stand out more than others are not easily categorized, since excellence itself does not come in uniform dimensions.

Participating in a selection process with a very low admission rate means that there are factors affecting the ultimate decision on your candidacy over which you have no control (e.g., the nature of all other applications). Please do not feel responsible for factors you cannot affect.

Can you explain how you reached your decision?

We realize that, from your perspective, the admission process may seem arbitrary as many qualified candidates are not admitted. Please remember that we evaluate each file in the context of the entire applicant pool. The only way to understand why we make all the decisions we do, would be to read the thousands of other applications we receive; this alone would provide you with the perspective required to understand the rationale behind each admission decision.

Please be assured that we understand the limitations of our application process. We acknowledge that it may not always capture, to the fullest extent, the character and potential of each candidate. We strive to do the best job possible given these limitations.

We are guided in our actions by our knowledge that there is a person behind each application, and we recognize the duty of care that we owe to each applicant. The final results reflect our best efforts.

How close was I? Is there an appeal process?

We do not rank candidates for admission. Since our decisions are based both on the strength of an individual application and on its merits relative to the rest of the applicant pool, each decision is final.

May I be added to the waitpool?

We already have selected a limited group of candidates for the waitpool, and we will not add names to it. Each admission decision is final.

I was not invited to interview. Did that impact your evaluation of my application?

We do not use the interview as a separate hurdle for applications. After a thorough review of the application by the Committee on Admissions, we identify candidates as most competitive for admission. Those individuals are selected for the final step in the admission process — the interview. The interview alone, however, is rarely the decisive factor in evaluating a candidate.

If I improve my standardized test scores and/or get more work experience, will this compensate for my undergraduate academic performance?

Although strength in one area can sometimes compensate for weaknesses in others, we tend to favor candidates with strengths in as many areas as possible. For every candidate with an uneven profile, there are many others with a balanced profile of excellence in all areas that we consider in evaluating the application.

Do you have any advice for my re-application?

If you wish to submit another application to the Stanford Graduate School of Business, we recommend that you visit the Admission section of the MBA Program website (https://www.gsb.stanford.edu/mba) for more information on admission criteria. These criteria are the lens through which we evaluate all applications and, when thoughtfully considered, may offer you some insight on how to improve your re-application.

At the same time, it is important to understand that you cannot control the outcome of your application. While we would welcome your re-application to the Stanford Graduate School of Business, you may wish to accept an offer of admission at another school, since there is no guarantee of admission as a re-applicant. Enrolling in another program would allow you to begin working immediately toward your life and career goals.

I expressed interest in the Stanford Master of Science in Management for Experienced Leaders (MSx). What happens now?

If you expressed interest in the Stanford MSx Program and if you meet the expectations for that program (e.g., at least eight years of work experience), the MSx Office will contact you directly. Otherwise, there is no need for further steps. If you have additional questions, you may contact the MSx Office directly at [email protected] or +1.650.723.2149. As noted in the MBA application materials, an expression of interest in the Stanford Master of Science in Management for Experienced Leaders Program does not affect the decision on a candidate's MBA application.
Show more

Well I guess trying to be optimistic is less useful after this post!
avatar
HealthcareMBAGuy
avatar
Joined: 26 Oct 2014
Last visit: 20 Apr 2015
Posts: 36
Own Kudos:
19
Given Kudos: 3
Posts: 36
Kudos: 19
Stanford GSB: Class of 2017 - Calling All Applicants! 17 Nov 2014, 17:10
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
Not gonna lie... I'd be ecstatic if they waitlisted me at this point haha
User avatar
jlgdr
User avatar
Joined: 06 Sep 2013
Last visit: 24 Jul 2015
Posts: 1,302
Own Kudos:
2,979
Given Kudos: 355
Concentration: Finance
Schools: Wharton '17 (A) HBS '17 (WA$)
Schools: Wharton '17 (A) HBS '17 (WA$)
Posts: 1,302
Kudos: 2,979
Stanford GSB: Class of 2017 - Calling All Applicants! 17 Nov 2014, 17:16
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
HealthcareMBAGuy
Not gonna lie... I'd be ecstatic if they waitlisted me at this point haha
Show more

To be quite honest, I was more excited about the HBS waitlist than the Stanford waitlist.

Stanford waitlist is REALLY tough man, the class is so small. I know a couple of friends that got waitlisted both at HBS / Stanford, and the success rate with this in mind at HBS was DRAMATICALLY higher. Also consider that they already interview far more candidates that they need so you are essentially the backup of the backup. You really need some sort of connection / contact close to Bolton or something like that otherwise you're pretty much screwed I would say. But hell, well better than a DING for sure if you still get wet everyday thinking about attending the GSB!

Cheers
J :)
avatar
HealthcareMBAGuy
avatar
Joined: 26 Oct 2014
Last visit: 20 Apr 2015
Posts: 36
Own Kudos:
19
Given Kudos: 3
Posts: 36
Kudos: 19
Stanford GSB: Class of 2017 - Calling All Applicants! 17 Nov 2014, 17:37
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
jlgdr
HealthcareMBAGuy
Not gonna lie... I'd be ecstatic if they waitlisted me at this point haha

To be quite honest, I was more excited about the HBS waitlist than the Stanford waitlist.

Stanford waitlist is REALLY tough man, the class is so small. I know a couple of friends that got waitlisted both at HBS / Stanford, and the success rate with this in mind at HBS was DRAMATICALLY higher. Also consider that they already interview far more candidates that they need so you are essentially the backup of the backup. You really need some sort of connection / contact close to Bolton or something like that otherwise you're pretty much screwed I would say. But hell, well better than a DING for sure if you still get wet everyday thinking about attending the GSB!

Cheers
J :)
Show more

Well considering that I don't think my profile stacks up with those who get into GSB, a waitlist would be much more than I expected.
User avatar
jlgdr
User avatar
Joined: 06 Sep 2013
Last visit: 24 Jul 2015
Posts: 1,302
Own Kudos:
2,979
Given Kudos: 355
Concentration: Finance
Schools: Wharton '17 (A) HBS '17 (WA$)
Schools: Wharton '17 (A) HBS '17 (WA$)
Posts: 1,302
Kudos: 2,979
Stanford GSB: Class of 2017 - Calling All Applicants! 17 Nov 2014, 17:40
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
HealthcareMBAGuy
jlgdr
HealthcareMBAGuy
Not gonna lie... I'd be ecstatic if they waitlisted me at this point haha

To be quite honest, I was more excited about the HBS waitlist than the Stanford waitlist.

Stanford waitlist is REALLY tough man, the class is so small. I know a couple of friends that got waitlisted both at HBS / Stanford, and the success rate with this in mind at HBS was DRAMATICALLY higher. Also consider that they already interview far more candidates that they need so you are essentially the backup of the backup. You really need some sort of connection / contact close to Bolton or something like that otherwise you're pretty much screwed I would say. But hell, well better than a DING for sure if you still get wet everyday thinking about attending the GSB!

Cheers
J :)

Well considering that I don't think my profile stacks up with those who get into GSB, a waitlist would be much more than I expected.
Show more

So if you get a waitlist and get admitted at other schools in Round 1, you still have to pay the deposit for the other school before even interviewing with GSB right? Is that how it works? How much is the deposit? Do people to this or they only choose to go with the waitlist and wish for the best without any sort of 'backup' school?
User avatar
bml1105
User avatar
Retired Moderator
Joined: 18 Jan 2014
Last visit: 27 Apr 2018
Posts: 448
Own Kudos:
163
Given Kudos: 49
Location: United States
Concentration: Marketing
Schools: Cnsrtm-Haas '17 (D) Cnsrtm-Stern '17 (A) Cnsrtm-Tuck '17 (A) Cnsrtm-Anderson '17 (WD) Kellogg '17 (M)
GMAT 1: 680 Q44 V40
GMAT 2: 710 Q49 V37
WE:Sales (Other)
Products:
My Reviews
Schools: Cnsrtm-Haas '17 (D) Cnsrtm-Stern '17 (A) Cnsrtm-Tuck '17 (A) Cnsrtm-Anderson '17 (WD) Kellogg '17 (M)
GMAT 2: 710 Q49 V37
Posts: 448
Kudos: 163
Stanford GSB: Class of 2017 - Calling All Applicants! 17 Nov 2014, 18:53
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
jlgdr


So if you get a waitlist and get admitted at other schools in Round 1, you still have to pay the deposit for the other school before even interviewing with GSB right? Is that how it works? How much is the deposit? Do people to this or they only choose to go with the waitlist and wish for the best without any sort of 'backup' school?
Show more

I would guess that applicants would put a deposit down on their 1st choice school after Stanford (technically 2nd choice). I think it's a couple thousand dollars, but if I got off the waitlist into my dream school I think that couple thousand would be a cost associated with my dream. Unless GSB is the only school you will ever do an MBA at, in which you probably have bigger problems and are much more willing to wait without any backups, because you never had any to start with.

Let's try and keep it semi-positive in here. There may be a slimmer chance to get off the waitlist compared to some other schools, but that still means there is a chance. Also interview invites could still be trickling out this week. No need to be negative yet!! Plus Stanford isn't the end all be all. There are plenty of other schools that will give us similar opportunities and similar experiences. We'll all end up where we are supposed to be. :-D
User avatar
Narenn
User avatar
Major Poster
Joined: 22 Feb 2012
Last visit: 28 Apr 2026
Posts: 9,296
Own Kudos:
11,308
Given Kudos: 4,712
Affiliations: GMAT Club
Test: Test
Products:
GMAT Club Tests
Posts: 9,296
Kudos: 11,308
Stanford GSB: Class of 2017 - Calling All Applicants! 17 Nov 2014, 18:57
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
Dear Members,

We like you to know about our new initiative - Chat Sessions with Admission Consultants. This is crucial time of the application season this year - Many schools have already sent out interview invites to R1 applicants; few are in the process. We thought this is right time to invite our top admission consultants in to our chat room where you can discuss your questions/queries in detail with them in an informal chat and get helpful tips.

We had the first session of this series with MBA PREP SCHOOL Co-Founders - Tyler Cormney and Chris Aitken - couple of days back. I am posting here excerpts from this discussion. Hope you will find this helpful. The next session in this series is with Critical Square Admission Consulting on Tuesday, 18 Nov. The details of this session can be find at the bottom of this post. Those who can't attend this event can PM their questions to me. I shall try to get answers to those questions from Consultants. Good Luck!!


klklk: Any Tips for Wharton Team Based Discussion?
MBAPrepSchool Chris: Congrats on being invited to the Wharton team interview. Couple of thoughts.
Your individual presentation needs to be prepared but not over rehearsed. This is your first chance to make an impression.
The second thought would be to remember that in the team based discussion, they are looking for examples of your ability to help lead and work within a team. That means not trying to dominate the discussion but also making sure that you're not too passive -- need to find a balance of participation that helps the team achieve its ultimate goal -- of coming up with a strong combined response to the prompt.
Final thought: if there are team members obviously struggling, try to help bring them into the discussion. In a real job environment you wouldn't let someone "drown", so don't do that in the Wharton Team interview either. That's a few thoughts; hope they're helpful and best wishes for success!

Pottsmi1: Do you think schools track visits by applicants? Any idea what impact they may have? Good/bad impression made on campus?
MBAPrepSchool Tyler: I'm a huge advocate of campus visits. You sign-up and these are tracked formally and informally. Our coach Esther who is a former Booth adcom told us these do make a difference. Primarily though because she'd remember someone she met and pull their file or keep an eye out for it.

fede7flores: Hello, I will be interviewing with MIT tomorrow, any tips for a BEI interview? Should I stick to the experiences mentioned on the essays, use only events not mentioned there or balance it?
MBAPrepSchool Chris: Congrats on the MIT interview! The MIT interviewers tend to prefer new examples, since they will have (generally) read you complete application. In any event, even if you were to lead with an example from your application, don't be surprised if the interviewer asks for another example. So I recommend having at least two strong answers ready.
When responding to behavioral interviews, make sure that you focus the answer around what you thought, felt, said, and did. This provides a full dimension of an answer ... Also you might find the STAR framework helpful to organize your response. S = Situation/background, T= task or objective you and your team were trying to address, A = Action (what do thought, felt, said and did), and R = result/outcome ... Also can include what you learned from the experience
Within the STAR framework, you want to focus ~70% of your response time on the "action" piece!
MBAPrepSchool Tyler: Here's a link to our free resources page with interview tips: https://mbaprepschool.com/category/ace-the-interviews/

piku9290dgp: What is admission team view about taking help from consultants? I was asked about it, and I told yes
MBAPrepSchool Chris: AdCom teams have varied views on the use of consultants. Some are OK with it; others less so. The key is to be able to demonstrate in your writing and interview answers that the stories, examples, etc. are authentically yours!
MBAPrepSchool Tyler: They take a dim view of essay ghost writing services of course. But working with a coach who helps you identify and communicate your strengths makes good sense and doesn't violate the integrity of the process.

Narenn: Hello Chris/Tyler, Many applicants have been waitlisted without interview in R1. Could you please advise how can one increase his/her chances of getting an interview?
MBAPrepSchool Tyler: Great question. First off, you MUST follow the instructions given by each school. Some will allow additional info and others won't. Don't ignore their rules. I think the Update Letter can be a powerful tool. Write to summarize things that have made your candidacy stronger since applying. A promotion, new accomplishment outside of work, higher GMAT Score, etc. If a campus visit is allowed and you haven't been then visit campus.
One of the most powerful things you can do is raise your GMAT score, assuming it's at or below median. Applicants with great profiles but weak GMATs often hit the waitlist
In a non-pushy way see if you could spend a few minutes meeting with an adcom. They might say no but if you are friendly they won't blame you for asking. I had a client waitlisted at Booth last year who ran one of the most comprehensive campaigns I've ever seen -- a video, 2 extra rec letters, letters from students, another campus visit. Frankly, I worried we were going overboard. Happy ending though she got in!

Ergen: What is attitude of adcoms to mandatory military service?
MBAPrepSchool Tyler: Regarding military service, I generally think it can be viewed positively -- especially if you gained leadership experience during military service.
MBAPrepSchool Chris: @ergen: Tyler comes from a military family, so he'll likely have more depth in a response but generally military experience provides some amazing experiences and opportunities to demonstrate your leadership in action, under significantly stressful and difficult circumstances. Don't shy away from it -- embrace the opportunity to show your leadership skills

RuchaMegha2083: Can you list some good universities who accept GMAT score range from 580 to 650?
MBAPrepSchool Chris: The question of a "good" university really depends on your career goals and reasons for pursing an MBA. I often recommend that if you're GMAT is in that range that you worry less about the rankings and spend more time understanding the strengths and unique resources offered by the schools you are considering.
Said differently, understand how that school will help you achieve your career goals - and then apply to those that will demonstrably help you!
RuchaMegha2083: I am looking for MBA in Accountancy. I’ve heard that Zicklin school is good in regard of this.
MBAPrepSchool Chris: When you have specialized goals (e.g., Accountancy) then the program focus is even more important. Depending on the type of firm/role you want post-MBA, Baruch College/CUNY could be a fine choice for you

Ergen: I work as a marketing manager in a pharmaceutical company. As an after mba goal I want to show a job in pharmaceutical divison of a consulting company. But I think when I apply to wharton they can ask me why don;t I apply to their healthcare management program. What are your thoughts on it? As you understood I do not want to apply to healthcare management program.
MBAPrepSchoolChris: Regarding Wharton's h'care mgmt program ... as the name suggests, it's more focused on healthcare *management* and your career goals are more oriented around marketing in the pharma industry.
You might find it helpful to "map out" exactly the courses, clubs, research centers, etc that you would participate in if accepted to Wharton. Pretend you've received that offer letter ... How would you spend the two years? Then you can figure out whether the h'care mgmt program is the right focus for your career goals or not. If there are only a few classes within the HC Mgmt discipline that you need to achieve your goals, then you can show that. If, on the other hand, most of your classes would come from their program, then you have to think more about this.

Pottsmi1: How would you rank the portions of an app in order of importance? Gmat, resume, interview, essays, etc.
MBAPrepSchool Chris: All the pieces are important, especially at different stages -- for top schools you can't really have a "weak" section. However to answer your Q directly, Interview, recs, essays, app form, GMAT, GPA

nitz19arg: For an applicant, which current job position is seen as more beneficial: technical role or techno-functional(eg. business analyst) role? I currently work in IT and hold a purely technical role. Will this be a drawback/advantage for me? A techno-functional role sounds better for MBA but—One theory says that a purely technical role would strengthen my skills in that technology and later be beneficial to me when I will play a managerial role in same technology. Your thoughts please.
MBAPrepSchool Tyler: nitz19arg MBA programs want to see how you've done in a role that has aspects of management and business decision making; therefore, purely technical roles are not as competitive, I'm afraid.

dlmm: When will be a good time to let the adcom know that I will be changing jobs? after the interview or before? i have good reasons for this... but my apps are all finished and i am already invited to interview
MBAPrepSchool Chris: Many schools ask you about any significant "updates" during the interview ... You should be prepared to explain the change and show how it fits/demonstrates that you're already making progress towards your stated career goals.

Important Tips from Tyler and Chris

  • If there are red flags in you academic history the sooner you know about them the better. Once you’ve identified them, you can take steps to counterbalance poor performance with additional coursework or by tackling professional or personal projects that require the skills in question.
  • A word on timing for tests in light of that questions. Get GMATs, TOEFLS, etc. out of the way at least 6 months before you apply. That way you can focus on your written application.
  • I’m often asked what score is necessary to be competitive for a top tier school. The easiest way to remember the answer is our “Three 80s” Rule. First, you want your score to be well above the low-end of the range of scores made by the middle 80% of the school’s accepted applicants. Next, you want to have percentile scores on the quant and verbal sections above 80%. Third, ideally, you want a cumulative score above 680. In fact, the median scores for top 10 schools has recently climbed above the 700 mark, so the bar is even higher than 680 for a top 10
  • Another excerpt from our free video on building and outstanding application: ‘The topic resumes’ - There are important differences between an MBA application resume and an employment resume. Your objective and your audience is different. For example, an employer might be interested in your technical skills whereas an MBA admissions officer will be more interested in significant achievements and the moments in your career that distinguish you.
  • Start drafting application forms weeks in advance so you have time to perfect any short answer questions

Chat Transcript


Attachment:
MBA Prep School Session Transcript 11 Nov 2014.pdf [759.71 KiB]
Downloaded 95 times


Here are the details of Next Session



Here are the details of Next Session


live-q-a-sessions-with-admission-consultants-188123.html
User avatar
jlgdr
User avatar
Joined: 06 Sep 2013
Last visit: 24 Jul 2015
Posts: 1,302
Own Kudos:
2,979
Given Kudos: 355
Concentration: Finance
Schools: Wharton '17 (A) HBS '17 (WA$)
Schools: Wharton '17 (A) HBS '17 (WA$)
Posts: 1,302
Kudos: 2,979
Stanford GSB: Class of 2017 - Calling All Applicants! 17 Nov 2014, 19:00
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
Dont mean to be an ass but Narenn dude is it really necessary to post this huge-ad on every single b-school forum?

Posted from my mobile device
User avatar
Narenn
User avatar
Major Poster
Joined: 22 Feb 2012
Last visit: 28 Apr 2026
Posts: 9,296
Own Kudos:
11,308
Given Kudos: 4,712
Affiliations: GMAT Club
Test: Test
Products:
GMAT Club Tests
Posts: 9,296
Kudos: 11,308
Stanford GSB: Class of 2017 - Calling All Applicants! 17 Nov 2014, 19:10
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
jlgdr
Dont mean to be an ass but Narenn dude is it really necessary to post this huge-ad on every single b-school forum?

Posted from my mobile device
Show more

We are not going to post this in every single school forum, but only in handful of top ones.
avatar
wdm
avatar
Joined: 02 May 2013
Last visit: 25 Feb 2015
Posts: 31
Own Kudos:
4
Given Kudos: 1
Schools: HBS '17 (A) Stanford '17 (D) Wharton '17 (I)
GMAT 1: 220 Q1 V2
Products:
My Reviews
Schools: HBS '17 (A) Stanford '17 (D) Wharton '17 (I)
GMAT 1: 220 Q1 V2
Posts: 31
Kudos: 4
Stanford GSB: Class of 2017 - Calling All Applicants! 17 Nov 2014, 19:17
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
Stop spamming. So annoying.
User avatar
Narenn
User avatar
Major Poster
Joined: 22 Feb 2012
Last visit: 28 Apr 2026
Posts: 9,296
Own Kudos:
11,308
Given Kudos: 4,712
Affiliations: GMAT Club
Test: Test
Products:
GMAT Club Tests
Posts: 9,296
Kudos: 11,308
Stanford GSB: Class of 2017 - Calling All Applicants! 17 Nov 2014, 20:04
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
Here is Interview Invitations Summary. (based on Profile updates)

User avatar
bml1105
User avatar
Retired Moderator
Joined: 18 Jan 2014
Last visit: 27 Apr 2018
Posts: 448
Own Kudos:
163
 [1]
Given Kudos: 49
Location: United States
Concentration: Marketing
Schools: Cnsrtm-Haas '17 (D) Cnsrtm-Stern '17 (A) Cnsrtm-Tuck '17 (A) Cnsrtm-Anderson '17 (WD) Kellogg '17 (M)
GMAT 1: 680 Q44 V40
GMAT 2: 710 Q49 V37
WE:Sales (Other)
Products:
My Reviews
Schools: Cnsrtm-Haas '17 (D) Cnsrtm-Stern '17 (A) Cnsrtm-Tuck '17 (A) Cnsrtm-Anderson '17 (WD) Kellogg '17 (M)
GMAT 2: 710 Q49 V37
Posts: 448
Kudos: 163
 [1]
Stanford GSB: Class of 2017 - Calling All Applicants! 17 Nov 2014, 20:44
1
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
19218698
Stop spamming. So annoying.
Show more

jlgdr
Dont mean to be an ass but Narenn dude is it really necessary to post this huge-ad on every single b-school forum?

Posted from my mobile device
Show more

Let's try to not act like the stereotypical Stanford kids. :wink:
User avatar
helloitsme16
User avatar
Joined: 05 Sep 2014
Last visit: 25 Jun 2023
Posts: 76
Own Kudos:
40
Given Kudos: 9
Location: United States
Schools: HBS '18 (A) Stanford '18 (M) Wharton '18 (A)
Schools: HBS '18 (A) Stanford '18 (M) Wharton '18 (A)
Posts: 76
Kudos: 40
Stanford GSB: Class of 2017 - Calling All Applicants! 17 Nov 2014, 21:09
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
Narenn
Here is Interview Invitations Summary. (based on Profile updates)

Show more

Congrats on a new invite for the week! but Nov 20??
avatar
intlstudent
avatar
Joined: 17 Nov 2014
Last visit: 11 Dec 2014
Posts: 7
Schools: Stanford '17 (D) HBS '17 (I)
WE:Consulting (Consulting)
Schools: Stanford '17 (D) HBS '17 (I)
Posts: 7
Kudos: 0
Stanford GSB: Class of 2017 - Calling All Applicants! 17 Nov 2014, 21:57
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
losing hope already ...
User avatar
HowLionsHunt
User avatar
Joined: 09 Oct 2014
Last visit: 14 Dec 2016
Posts: 25
Own Kudos:
21
 [2]
Given Kudos: 9
GMAT 1: 760 Q50 V44
GPA: 3.45
Products:
My Reviews
GMAT 1: 760 Q50 V44
Posts: 25
Kudos: 21
 [2]
Stanford GSB: Class of 2017 - Calling All Applicants! 18 Nov 2014, 01:13
1
Kudos
Add Kudos
1
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
Had my interview today.

1) what is your greatest accomplishment and what did you learn?
2) how do you lead others?
3) tell me abt a time when you assembled a team.
4) why mba? Why stanford? Why now?

There were quite a few questions that branched off these big ones and the interviewer cut into my speech very often to ask tougher questions. Still, the atmosphere was friendly and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was abt 45 min.

Hope this helps other interviewers - and good luck to all still waiting! Had some friends that got invites on the last week last yr so keep your heads up!
   1  ...  29   30   31   32   33  ...  87   
Moderator:
GMATNinja
GMAT Club Verbal Expert
7391 posts