Why would schools not like older applicants?

Question

I'm a working professional, and I'm interested in pursuing a full-time MBA in a few years. I am currently in my late 20s. I've been told that top schools don't want people who are much older. Why would that be?

cxa0897 · Answer

They might, but these programs are really designed for a certain experience level, usually 3-8 years of full time work. Sure, people with more or less will benefit, but other programs exist for that. Once you are 30, you typically have 7+ years of work and a few promotions. At that point, an executive mba may be a better fit. You need to show that this really is the appropriate degree for you, and as you get older this becomes more difficult.

ABatExpertsGlobal · Answer

Hi stysonkoo , A number of top schools do not prefer older applicants possibility due to the post-MBA employability risk involved. Besides, older applicants (with much higher work experience) may also find it difficult to assimilate with their younger classmates. While B Schools may have the above-mentioned perceptions, you may overcome these odds by putting in an application that showcases you as a good fit for the school in question. At the same time, you may also consider applying to some top European programs such as INSEAD and HEC Paris where the average age of the class is higher and closer to the 30 mark. All the best!

GotInMBA · Answer

Hi  stysonkoo

I am an MBA Alum of Cambridge University Judge Business School, which is ranked top 5 globally (Financial Times). As a top MBA program we really benefited from people who had YOUR level of work experience because so much knowledge was shared in the classroom and in the group work. Imagine the depth of expertise you can bring and the value you can add to your classmates from all this knowledge! My recommendation is definitely to look into the European MBA programs such as Cambridge Judge, Oxford Said, LBS, INSEAD ... where the average age is in the late 20s.

VeritasPrepDozie · Answer

I think the question is more around the impact the program can have on your career, that generally is the primary apprehension for most schools with older applicants. I would say you are still under 30 so you don't necessarily fall into this bucket but communicating why MBA, why now, and why school X is always critical to a successful application. One additional thing often overlooked by candidates is sharing how they will impact or contribute to the student community at a target school. As an older, more experienced candidate this angle can really be leveraged as a means to standout and debunk any potential negatives

99Colleges · Answer

Many students with substantial work experience don’t want to start their post-MBA career at a level wherein they lose many years of their past experience, thereby limiting their options. Note: most on-campus jobs aren’t customized for varying work experiences. There are other reasons too. You may read more on this   here  .

Why would schools not like older applicants?

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