January | 2011 | Ask the Expert

When selecting my recommendations, what should I consider?

Posted on January 31, 2011 by Graduate Management Admission Council

Written by Arthur Redillas, Director of Admissions and Recruitment, Sauder School of Business, University of British Columbia

While the letters of recommendation remain the one aspect over which MBA applicants don’t retain full control, you can still help your application immensely by choosing your referees carefully.

You’ve already done what you can to showcase your strengths for the admissions committee through your essays, resume, GMAT, and GPA. But one of the main reasons that b-schools value the recommendations is that they give us another person’s opinion on your strengths and weaknesses and help round out the picture that will often be completed by your interview. A glowing recommendation tells us that your work is highly regarded, that you’ve demonstrated strong leadership and management skills in your past experiences, and that you’ll be an asset to the class.

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I’m not happy with my GMAT score. What will schools think if I’ve retaken the GMAT? (Part 2)

Posted on January 24, 2011 by Graduate Management Admission Council

Written by Amanda Barth, Director of MBA Admissions, College of William & Mary, Mason School of Business

These are two important questions that I receive frequently from candidates who are disappointed with their GMAT score. Before you decide to retake the exam, there are several reflective questions that you should consider.

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What is the best way to study for the GMAT?

Posted on January 17, 2011 by Graduate Management Admission Council

Written by Melanie Yeager, Director of Graduate Programs, The Florida State University College of Business

Preparing to take the GMAT can be a daunting task. Those who succeed on the GMAT know the test, have a true picture of their strengths and weaknesses, and prepare accordingly. Below are some helpful tips and advice gleaned from FSU MBA students and admissions staff.

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I’m not happy with my GMAT score. What will schools think if I’ve retaken the GMAT?

Posted on January 6, 2011 by Graduate Management Admission Council

Written by Peggy Conway, Director of MBA Admissions, TCU – Neeley School of Business

Should I repeat my GMAT? Even though it’s a question that admissions officers frequently hear, it’s not one that has a quick single answer. The GMAT is only one of multiple criteria used in admission decisions, so the answer will depend on your unique situation.

To make your decision, you may wish to start by reviewing the class profiles posted by your target schools. How does your test score fit into these profiles? In addition to the average GMAT, take a look at the range of scores for admitted students. Most schools will post this information on their own websites, but it can also be found on the “Find a School” program profiles on mba.com.

As you review the class profiles, think about your full application and how it fits into those profiles. How does your application compare on qualifications such as past academic performance and professional experience? Keep in mind that candidates admitted on the lower end of the GMAT range probably have exceptional qualifications otherwise.

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