How does having an MIM Impact MBA Admissions?

Question

if you have a Master in Management degree from (Think LBS, LSE, Fuqua) how does that impact your application for an MBA program? These programs are essentially the core of a first year MBA program (modified for individuals with little to no work experience) so if you performed well, isn't that the biggest indication you can do the work?

The GMAT/GRE are supposed to predict your first year grades in business school. However, the way I look at it is what better prediction of how you'll handle the work than graduate level business coursework that closely mirrors the work?

If an applicant has a low Quant percentile and a higher Verbal on their test scores but has an MIM, should they write something in the optional essay basically purporting to be able to handle the rigor? Is that inferred already? Would that be viewed inappropriately by the adcom as if you're telling them disregard the test?

Any advice is greatly appreciated!

Thanks

mbaMissionKate · Answer

Hi there, The MIM degree definitely does help to show you can handle the type of coursework required in an MBA program. You also need to be able to show clear and logical reasons for why you want your MBA since you already have that foundation. As far as the GMAT, philosophically you may be right but the reality is that GMAT is an important factor in admissions. It may not be perfect but it is something that schools can compare across applicants. So if you feel your GMAT score does not represent your abilities, have you considered retaking? Schools will always accept your highest score so it doesn't hurt. Otherwise, definitely plan to write the optional essay. Here is an example on our blog: https://www.mbamission.com/blog/2016/03 ... ibility-3/ Good luck! Kate

PsychGuy17 · Answer

Thanks! I will try to retake then if it doesn't get better, I'll write the optional essay.

My reasoning for wanting an MBA is because the MiM provided foundational business acumen which I now wish to build upon. Overall, the MiM taught me the tenets and an MBA is more practical and will teach me how to apply the theories. My target programs emphasize learning by doing, action based learning etc., the MBA skills will complement the skills amassed in the MiM program. I'll hopefully do a first year project and pro bono consulting for a nonprofit and apply the skills acquired in the MBA classroom. Lastly, I wish to utilize the MBA to transition to a different industry. So I will make it clear that two degrees serve distinct purposes for myself. I've known from day one that the MiM wasn't a substitute for the MBA and that'd I'd probably pursue both.

Regarding the optional essay: if I end up doing it, how would you suggest I frame it? Is something along the lines of this acceptable:

"As a testament of my quantitative strengths and ability to handle the rigor of the MBA program at ______, I wish to draw special attention to my completion of the MiM program at _____. I deem that my previous graduate level coursework in Financial Accounting, Statistics, Supply Chain Management, and Finance, will provide a solid foundation for me to be academically successful in the ____ MBA program."

Thanks!

mbaMissionKate · Answer

I can tell you've thought about the difference between your MiM and an MBA, that's great, and those reasons make a lot of sense. I like emphasizing the practical exposure to help you switch industries.

I think something along the lines of what you wrote is what I would recommend for an optional essay. You definitely want to keep it to a short paragraph. If there are quantitative aspects of your current job, you could also briefly mention them there to provide further support.

Good luck! 
Kate

How does having an MIM Impact MBA Admissions?

Prep Toolkit

Top 5 GMAT Debrief Videos

615 to 715 in 15 Days (Ria's Strategies)

More than Quant/Verbal Abilities: Speed vs. Accuracy

745 with Only Self-Prep and GMAT Club

From 555 to 765: 210-point Improvement

Perfect 805 Score Debrief by Julia

My Rewards