Welcome to this special edition of #MBAchat! Today we are talking with @iebusinessLIVE and @EBSuniversitaet about standing out from the crowd.
Q: What are some of the unique qualities you look for in an ideal MBA applicant?
EBS Business School: An ideal candidate is strong in all aspects of the admissions criteria, is focused and determined on their career path.
IE Business School: We look for diverse candidates who are motivated, have an entrepreneurial spirit and will be socially responsible leaders.
Q: What are the application deadlines for your programmes?
EBS Business School: We have a rolling admission process up until end of June for our September intake.
IE Business School: IE has a rolling admission process, however we recommend applying in advance. Go to http://t.co/vf5fp5mh for more information.
Q: what are your GMAT score requirements?
EBS Business School: We expect a GMAT score of at least 600.
IE Business School: Our average GMAT is 670 but we take a holistic approach to admissions evaluating experience, motivation and fit for the programme.
Q: What 3 things would you recommend to a student applying to your programme?
EBS Business School: Have a strong desire to work in a global environment, possess cross-cultural awareness and be entrepreneurially minded.
IE Business School: 1) Research our programmes and school and see if IE is the right fit for you
2) Come and meet us, we have +25 offices worldwide, come to our campus, meet our alumni or students
3) Differentiate yourself, competition is strong so submit the best application possible.
Q: How would you describe your school culture? What differentiates your School?
EBS Business School: High-level learning in small groups, individual one-to-one coaching sessions, and a very strong corporate network.
IE Business School: Our school culture is collaborative and entrepreneurial. For more info about our programmes and events check: http://t.co/MQhQiYZ0 and http://t.co/kUM2ism9
Q: what are some of the advantages of studying in Germany?
EBS Business School: Germany is in a very good economic driving position in Europe with strong employment opportunities. All of courses are taught in English.
Q: What types of financial aid or support do you offer candidates wanting to join your MBA?
EBS Business School: We offer a range of scholarships to strong candidates on a review basis. Apply early for the best opportunity.
IE Business School: IE offers scholarships, fellowships and loans. IE has over 100 merit-based scholarships.
Q: I’m interested in studying in Sweden. On what basis am I to choose the best university?
EBS Business School: Choose the university that offers you the best career platform.
IE Business School: Research the school culture and values to see if they´re aligned to your personal and career goals.
Q: what is the best way to differentiate myself from others?
EBS Business School: Be innovative; demonstrate how you can best contribute to the programme.
IE Business School: Think outside the box and highlight personal and professional achievements that are aligned to the School’s values and culture.
Q: I’m a consultant preparing for the GMAT and looking to move into a leadership position. Which stream/school do you suggest?
EBS Business School: We offer tracks that set you up for success in a global environment that give you a strategic edge in your career.
IE Business School: Look at different school curriculums and career services. At IE we offer a career consulting track and leadership programme.
Q: Is the #GMAT score required?
EBS Business School: Yes, as a leading business school GMAT is a key requirement.
Q: How does your school quantify work experience? Is a job with a brand name company better than an unknown company?
IE Business School: We look for post-undergrad experience. Whatever the company – career progression and varied exposure is key.
Q: Do students from non-typical backgrounds such as journalism need to have higher quant scores to balance their #MBA applications?
EBS Business School: Provided your academic background and professional goals meet our requirements, we would welcome your application.
Q: What are the least scores accepted by you?
EBS Business School: Minimum GMAT score is 600, but we do address the entire application.
IE Business School: We take a holistic approach to admission so every piece of the application counts.
Q: In this current weak European economy, is it worth applying to a European business school?
EBS Business School: Germany’s strong economic position combined with our active corporate network offers an unparalleled platform for success. For an example of our corporate network opportunities visit the following: http://t.co/vkgYUod8
IE Business School: It is an interesting time to study in the EU especially from the perspective of understanding and studying economics and finance.
Q: How much weight on Integrated Reasoning are Business Schools giving in its 2013 Admissions?
EBS Business School: IR is a key skill that we test in our admissions process beginning at the BSc level.
IE Business School: We take everything into consideration and the IR section gives us an additional data point.
Filed under: School Selection

MBA or specialized business masters? Which degree is right for you?

