Most Common GMAT Traps (Avoid them at all costs)

Have you ever done a GMAT question and were confident you did everything correctly, only to discover – to your huge surprise – that you got that question wrong?

If you have, you’re not alone! Almost everyone falls into GMAT traps sooner or later, so learning these traps will definitely help you avoid them! Moreover, knowing the silly mistakes that other people are making can often lead you directly to the right answer without doing too much work!

While there are too many traps to list in this short blog, here are the most common ones – among the dozens of traps that we teach in our GMAT Express self-prep program or the GMAT Mastery instructor-guided course:

Arithmetic Traps

How many numbers are there between 10 and 20, inclusive?…

Are you trying to decide whether there are 9, 10, or 11 such numbers? If you are, think again! There is an infinite number of numbers between 10 and 20. We mostly use whole numbers in our everyday lives, and the GMAT can’t wait to take advantage of our common habits! Unless the GMAT tells you that the number is an integer, it doesn’t have to be!

Speaking about habits, you may have experienced, by now, that sometimes our bad habits drag us down. The key to success on the GMAT will be learning good strategies upfront, and then practicing them until they become good habits.

When you shop around for a GMAT prep course, be sure to choose a course that not only teaches you good strategies, but also includes personalized coaching from an experienced instructor who will help you break old habits and replace them with new, good habits. An Admit Master GMAT Mastery course includes 60+ hours of live classes and 3 hours of private tutoring, giving you a superior personalized experience from start to finish.

Algebra Traps

If x/y>2, is x>2y?…

Most people will say yes, of course, but the answer is: we don’t know. What if y were negative? If we multiply both sides of the inequality by a negative number, we need to flip the sign.

Because y is a variable, it could be both positive and negative. Depending on the sign of y, we may or may not need to flip the sign in the inequality. Hence, we actually don’t know whether x>2y or x<2y. This rule will be super useful when you’re dealing with Data Sufficiency inequality questions, so make sure you’re super comfortable with it!

Geometry Traps

If the distance from A to B is 25, and B to C is 15, what is the distance from A to C?…

If you don’t draw a picture, it’s so easy to fall into this trap and think that the answer is 40. How do we know that C is not between A and B? Or, maybe, these 3 points are not even on the same straight line?

Always draw a picture on a Geometry question, even if one is shown to you. Almost always you need to do something with the picture, so having your own copy is super helpful! Moreover, the GMAT will often manipulate the picture and draw it “not to scale” to mislead you. Redrawing the shape will help you avoid visual traps in Geometry.

Sentence Correction Traps

Why would a dog’s tail be between its legs when it’s raining outside?

Do you know how to correctly use ‘s? Do you also know that its use in pronouns is different than in nouns? Paying attention to such details is going to be very important on the GMAT.

In fact, did you know that the most common skill tested on the GMAT Sentence Correction is attention to detail? How do you develop this attention to detail? By knowing what detail to pay attention to! In our GMAT Mastery and GMAT Express programs, you will learn exactly what to look for in each Sentence Correction question, so that you can master this skill with ease!

Critical Reasoning Traps

The Earth is flat. Therefore, one can fall off the Earth by walking far enough.

Could we weaken this argument by saying that the Earth is actually round? Surprisingly, the answer is no. The first statement was the evidence, and trying to weaken the evidence is one of the most common traps in Critical Reasoning.

Critical Reasoning is definitely a mind-bender, so knowing what to look for will be critical (no pun intended). Be very clear where is your conclusion and where is the evidence, and never strengthen or weaken the evidence!

Reading Comprehension Traps

Should you read the question first or the passage first?

It would be helpful to read the question first if there were only 1 question, but each passage has 3 or 4 questions! Reading efficiently, paying attention to just enough detail, and seeing the big picture is key to your success on Reading Comprehension.

Most people read passages more than once, but truthfully you barely have time to read it once! Some people just skim and miss important details. Some other spend too much time reading into the details that are not even that important.

You may have experienced this pattern in your studies, as well! Often, when we read a GMAT book, we find a lot of details about every topic, but did you know that some topics are way more important than others (obviously)?

In our GMAT Mastery program, we will show you what’s really important to know and what won’t show up on the test very often, so that you can study efficiently and enjoy the process!

Come join us at our next GMAT Mastery live program and get the structure, the coaching, and the support necessary to help you get into your dream business school. Or, if you prefer to study by yourself, check out our GMAT Express self-study program and ace the GMAT at your own pace!

Join our community today – check out self-prep study resources and sample live classes now!

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Financing your MBA

Getting accepted to your dream Business School is very exciting. However, when the initial thrill subsides, you might be faced with a very important decision: securing the resources to fund your program.

Financial matters are consistently ranked as one of the most important concerns for candidates when considering an MBA degree. While it is true that financing an MBA can be costly, financial worries should not be a deal breaker in the pursuit of your dream, as there are many options available to help you fund your MBA:

1. MBA Scholarships / Grants:

Many universities provide scholarship opportunities for prospective candidates. On average, the policies and criteria surrounding these scholarships and grants differ for each school. Your entire application will be considered, including work experience, gender, nationality, academic achievements, GMAT score, etc. However, as a general rule, scholarships and grants are mainly given to candidates with highly competitive profiles that are desirable to business schools.

2. Student Loans & Lines of Credit:

For Canadian and US students looking to pursue an MBA degree, many federal, state or provincial loan options are available to help finance post-graduate studies. If you’re located in Ontario, check out the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) website for more information. For US citizens, the Stafford Loans available from the Federal Government are a viable option.

Bank loans and a Student Line of Credit are also viable options for financing MBA studies, in conjunction with financial aid. Many commercial banks have loans available to finance graduate level studies, with low interest rates that can be paid back once the student has secured employment post graduation. In the US, many top schools have also forged partnerships with local credit unions to help students finance their studies.

3. Employer Subsidies / Workplace Sponsorship:

Many companies have tuition reimbursement / assistance programs embedded into their corporate policies. Do your research to see what options are available at your company and check if there is any post-graduate work commitment for you to be eligible. If you need to submit a request for tuition reimbursement to your manager, be sure to effectively convince them of the value of financing your MBA, and how that would benefit the company. Many business schools will gladly provide assistance and templates that you could use to communicate with your manager.

4. Part Time Work:

Throughout the duration of their studies, some MBA students take on the role of a Teaching or Research assistant at their Business Schools to help partly subsidize their tuition fees. While part-time work on campus can provide extra income, don’t rely on it exclusively to fund your MBA, as you will likely have little availability outside of your studies. Finally, remember to account for your internship income if your MBA program allows for a paid internship.

Don’t let your financial situation hold you back from attending your dream Business School. Consider all the options that are available. We can help you understand what scholarship options will be available to you!

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Master the GMAT: Build the Right Skill Set

GMAT is a test of skills, rather than knowledge

As of July 11, 2017, for the first time in the history of the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), test-takers can choose the order of the four exam sections (a small pilot was run in 2016, but it affected fewer that 1% of test-takers). Why was this change implemented, how will it affect your test-taking experience, and, most importantly, what could you do to take advantage of this change to maximize your GMAT score?

Developed specifically as an admission test to business schools, the GMAT exam has been evolving over its 65-year history to better assess candidates’ potential for success in b-school. The initial version of the GMAT contained just Quantitative and Verbal Reasoning sections. In 1994, the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) section (that contained two types of essays) was added to the GMAT to help schools assess candidates’ writing abilities. In 1997, the exam was transformed from a pen and paper test to the computer-adaptive format (CAT) that ensures a more precise evaluation of the level of the skills tested, based on an intricate scoring methodology that selects the questions based on the answers of the previous questions. In 2012, one of the two essays was replaced with a new section – Integrated Reasoning (IR) – that evaluates a candidate’s ability to synthesize and analyze data from multiple sources and different formats to solve complex problems.

Following the recent change, candidates can choose the order of the four sections of the exam – you can now start with the Essay (as in the “traditional” GMAT format), the Verbal, or the Quant section. This change provides greater flexibility to test-takers and enables candidates who are challenged by the Quant or Verbal sections to potentially improve their scores by starting the test with a “harder” section, while they are less tired.

Before you decide what strategy works best for you, a thorough understanding of the essence of the test is a must.

So what is the GMAT all about?

GMAT is unlike almost any other test you’ve ever taken. Most exams test your knowledge of specific content, such as Math, English, or Chemistry. Even during your professional life, you may have taken certification exams that evaluate your understanding of a certain Body of Knowledge. GMAT is an admission test to graduate-level business and management programs, so you may be forgiven for thinking that this exam measures how well you know business. Then, if you looked at the exam structure (the GMAT consists of an Essay, as well as Quantitative, Verbal and Integrated Reasoning sections), you may have thought that the GMAT is an exam of Math and English language…

Both of these misconceptions are quite far from the truth. Here is an excerpt of the official GMAT brochure: “Rather than testing your knowledge of business or any other subject matter, the GMAT exam measures higher-order reasoning skills – skills that matter in management classrooms and in the 21st century global workplace.” The creators of the test have said it themselves: the GMAT is a test of skills, rather than knowledge – yet most candidates completely miss this fact! Even if they don’t, many of them still focus on trying to memorize a lot of content instead of on developing the right skillset that not only will help them reach a 700+ score, but also will be invaluable for their MBA studies and for their future careers.

So what skills does the GMAT actually test?

You already know, by now, that the GMAT measures advanced reasoning skills that are relevant to your success in a business school and beyond. Moreover, because the GMAT is the only standardized way for admission committees to evaluate candidates from different backgrounds, business schools look at GMAT scores very seriously. Your GMAT results will help MBA Admission Committees assess how well-developed your skills are and, therefore, how likely you are to be successful in the MBA program.

At Admit Master, we strongly believe in long-term value of skills development. All our GMAT Courses (available in person in Canada and the United States, and online globally) follow a skills-based approach. We call the skills tested on the GMAT “Thinking like a CEO”. If you’re able to analyze and synthesize information, ask the right questions, make the right decisions, and manage your time well, you’ll not only do well on the GMAT, but will also be a valued candidate for future employers after graduation. After all, if you want to become a CEO, you should first learn how to think like one!

If the GMAT is a test of skill, why do so many people try to study for it by memorizing content?

Mastering skills instead of memorizing content not only takes longer, but is also an unfamiliar way to study for most people. As you may remember, most exams you’ve ever taken required you to memorize lots and lots of concepts, so this is how most of us are used to studying.

Unfortunately, many GMAT preparation resources and even some GMAT prep courses offer “content-based curriculums” that are designed for the memorization style of learning because this is what most people can easily relate to. While these resources may cover the GMAT content in great detail, they often fall short in helping students develop the higher-order reasoning skills that will help them achieve the “gold standard” score 700+ (on a 200 – 800 scoring scale). As a result, an average GMAT test-taker will get a score of around 550 – certainly limiting their chances of admission to top tier business schools. Sign up for a free Online GMAT Practice Test here.

Moreover, developing skills takes time and effort. Many people don’t see quick progress and get discouraged, or may even give up. However, if you stick with the process of building the right skills, if you focus on understanding the big concepts and their applications for the test, and if you get the right support and coaching, you can achieve remarkable results, as many of our students do.

Getting a 700+ GMAT score requires investment of a lot of time and effort. Is it worth it?

When we meet new candidates, and ask what score they’d like to get on the GMAT, we often hear: 700! So why is getting a high score on the GMAT so important? Indeed, there is a lot of value in doing well on the GMAT.

A high GMAT score will help you:

  • Demonstrate that you have developed a skill set for success in business school and in managerial roles.
  • Meet the admissions requirements of a large variety of reputable MBA programs globally.
  • Qualify for higher entrance merit-based scholarships that will consequently boost your ROI and free up your resources for new business ventures.
  • Have a better chance at landing a job in a competitive industry, because recruiters in these industries consider GMAT scores to filter top candidates.
  • Signal that you are a top candidate committed to exceeding expectations with persistence and dedication.

 

We at Admit Master strongly believe that anyone can achieve a high score (and many of our clients do); however, statistically only 10% of candidates get a score of 700 or more. Achieving a high score on the GMAT not only requires knowledge of rules or formulas, but also a deeper understanding of the test, as well as commitment to developing the skill set for success in business school and beyond. The GMAT is not just an admission test – it is a learning opportunity that prepares you for success.

Have personal questions related to MBA Admissions or GMAT preparation, or would like to receive a free professional evaluation of your profile?

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This article was originally published in the Access MBA Guide, 2017-2018 Edition.

Acing the MBA Admissions Interview

You’ve worked hard on your MBA application, aced the GMAT, told a great story through your CV and essays, had your application package reviewed by a professional MBA Admissions consultant, obtained glowing references, and submitted your application on time. Now what?

The next crucial step in your application is an interview. If you were invited for one – congratulations! This means that the Admissions Committee at your dream business school considers you an interesting candidate and would like to meet you to further assess your qualifications and your personality.

Some candidates believe, mistakenly, that the interview is just a formality. If you were applying for a job, would you think that an interview was only a formality? Getting an interview simply means you’re still “in the game”, so take the interview seriously!

Remember, there are many applicants vying for limited seats in the MBA program, and your job is to “sell” yourself to the Admissions Committee. Be sure to know what the school is looking for in candidates and highlight your achievements that are most relevant to that particular business school.

A common question that many candidates ask is: How do I know what the school is looking for? Chances are, this is the first time you’ll be applying to an MBA program, and you may simply not know what you don’t know. The easiest and most straightforward approach is to hire an MBA Admissions consultant with lots of experience in the industry. After all, you can only do your MBA once, so getting into the best possible school that fits your profile and your career aspirations may mean the difference between living your dream career or getting stuck in the jobs you don’t like for another 30-40 years of your professional life.

How do I prepare?

Remember that the interview is a culmination of your entire application. It is a chance to clarify and elaborate on the “story” you told through your application, and make a good impression that will likely result in an offer of admission.

For this reason, your interview prep should begin well before you’re invited for one! When you’re putting together your “story”, be sure to highlight 3 main areas:

1. Where you came from: your background, education, work experience, and community involvement.

2. Where you’re going: your career objectives, your dream job after the MBA, where do you see yourself in the next 2, 5 and 10 years.

3. How this business school can help you get there: why the school is the perfect fit for you, how you would benefit from the MBA, and how you would contribute to the success of others.

If getting professional help with your MBA Applications is not practical, be sure to do extensive research on your own: read com-ments and profiles of other candidates who were successfully admitted to the same school; visit the school campus and talk with cur-rent students; search your LinkedIn network and connect with students and alumni from that school; ask for advice; and definitely have someone, ideally a friend or a colleague who successfully applied to the same or a similar business school, run mock interviews with you and give you honest feedback.

How should I present myself at the interview?

Make a good first impression from the moment you walk into the reception area. Shake hands, maintain a good eye contact and keep a positive attitude. Be humble but confident. Be well rested and well dressed. Be prepared, but don’t sound like you’re reading from a prompter. Most importantly, relax and be yourself. After all, you want the business school to admit you for who you really are!

Should I simply answer questions?

While it’s important to answer your interviewer’s questions, your job is to tell your “story” and further strengthen your application. Be sure to tailor your answers and highlight unique personal stories that make you different.

Let the interviewer guide you through the first steps, but then gently take control of the conversation. Be polite; never cut off the interviewer when he or she asks questions or makes comments. Start your answer by repeating the question; this will help you stay focused. Avoid one-word answers.

Most importantly, prepare 2-3 compelling questions, answers to which you can’t easily find on the Internet. Asking interesting and unique questions will make you more memorable and could tip the scales in your favour even more!
Finally, remember to follow up no later than 1 day after the interview, and ideally the same day if your interview is in the morning. Thank the interviewer(s) for their time and reiterate your interest in the program. Good luck!

Have personal questions related to MBA Admissions or GMAT preparation, or would like to receive a free professional evaluation of your profile?

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This article was originally published in the Access MBA Guide, 2016-2017 Edition.

Smaller classes, more opportunities: true of MBA programs, true of GMAT courses

Bigger doesn’t always mean better. A small class size often provides a much more personalized learning experience. Here are some things to consider in your search of a perfect MBA program or a GMAT prep course.

1. A good fit

MBA is not simply an academic program where you learn the basics of business. It is a professional degree designed to help you boost your career. A smaller program will often give you more opportunities for closer interaction with your peers, faculty, the career centre, and with the school’s industry contacts at networking events.

Be sure to visit the school’s campus and attend classes and information sessions to get a feel of the school’s culture and understand if a smaller class environment is the right fit for you.

When it comes to selecting an ideal GMAT prep course, you need to look for a personal fit as well. GMAT is unlike most other tests, because it measures not your knowledge of specific rules or formulas, but the skills that will make you a successful MBA student and a successful future manager: skills such as analytical abilities, critical thinking, and decision making.

A good GMAT course will provide not just the knowledge, but the right training environment to help you develop these skills. In a large GMAT class, your instructor won’t get to know you and won’t be able to offer any personalized feedback – the feedback that will be crucial to help you develop the right skills to succeed on the test.

Be sure to contact the GMAT prep centre, ask about the class size, and attend a free sample class, if one is available. Find out if there are is a money back guarantee if you are promised a small class and end up in a class of 25+ people – because you can’t learn effectively in a class this large, you might be better off taking a class at a different prep centre that guarantees small classes.

2. More specialized

Many smaller MBA programs are highly specialized and are designed to meet the needs of specific industries. For example, some world-class MBA programs such as Luxury Brand Management MBA at ESSEC, Hospitality Management MBA at EHL and Wine Marketing and Management MBA at INSEEC may not be as well known as Harvard or Insead, but are much more focused, practice-oriented, and have excellent reputation in their field – many graduates from these smaller specialized programs have multiple job offers from the best companies in their industries before graduation.

Many GMAT courses offer cookie-cutter one-size-fits-all courses. You might be in class for many hours, listening to things you already know, because in a larger class an instructor must progress slowly and can’t afford to lead the class efficiently based on your individual needs.

Admit Master GMAT courses are smaller, more personalized, and are designed for MBA candidates who are targeting 650-700+ scores on the GMAT. Before taking classes, you will take a full-length diagnostic GMAT test, will meet 1-on-1 with an expert instructor to discuss your study plan, and will work on refreshing your basic knowledge of theory by completing practical Math & Verbal exercises online.

Because every candidate coming to the Admit Master GMAT course is well prepared, and because in a small class of 12-15 people your instructor will know you personally, the course will progress much more efficiently, saving you time and letting you focus on harder topics that will make a real difference in your GMAT score results.

3. Marketing

Large business schools can afford to spend more money on advertising, yet schools with smaller enrollments could still be among the best in the world (take Stanford GSB, for example).

The same pattern could be seen in the GMAT prep industry. Prep centres with larger classes spend a lot of money on advertising to fill these classes, yet don’t necessarily offer the best classroom experience, because a large part of your tuition is spent on marketing. These programs tend to be very generic and mass-oriented, where you become just a number. Remember your undergraduate class of 100-500 students? 🙂

Smaller programs, such as Admit Master’s GMAT Mastery program, tend to attract many students through word of mouth and can focus on providing quality training and personal support instead of expensive advertising.

Be sure to read reviews from real past students on Google or Facebook, and don’t hesitate to ask the GMAT prep company to put you in touch with candidates who took the course before you – this will help you not only learn from experiences of others, but also understand if the company indeed cares about each student and keeps in touch with them after the course is over.

4. Cost

An MBA is a major investment. While cost of the program is important, you need to look at the value the MBA will provide to your future career. Don’t choose a program just because it’s cheap – you can only do one MBA, and a cheap program from a less reputable business school may prove to be a poor investment. At the same time, a more expensive program doesn’t always mean a better value – you need to see whether your tuition goes to providing a high-quality, personalized education, or on other things that don’t add value to you.

We recommend picking a program that’s the best fit for your career and that offers the best long-term value, and then maximizing the value of your investment by securing an entrance scholarship based on your competitive GMAT score and your attractive overall MBA application package.

GMAT courses cost a lot less than MBA programs, but an opportunity cost of taking a poor course could be significant: many larger courses are designed for average candidates and won’t help you get a high score within a short time. Thus, you may need to spend more money on additional resources and private tutoring, and may need to delay your MBA application – a decision that may cost you $30,000-$50,000 or more in foregone salary because you will graduate a year later.

Admit Master’s GMAT courses include everything you need to succeed on the GMAT – small classes, personalized attention, online resources and practice tests, free course retakes for 1 full year, and even 1-on-1 tutoring. To maximize the value of your investment in the GMAT course, be sure to register early to take advantage of early-bird discounts, and set aside 8-10 hours per week to do your homework, so that you can get to your dream score faster.

5. Strong network

Smaller, more exclusive MBA programs often have stronger alumni networks. Smaller classes not only facilitate opportunities to get to know your classmates on a more personal level, forging quality lasting relationships and helping you build a stronger professional network, but also allow for greater opportunities to tap into more tight-knit alumni networks that could be invaluable in your post-MBA job search.

For example, two world-class MBA programs – Queen’s & Ivey – have smaller class sizes and are located outside of the Greater Toronto Area, yet many of our students who went on to study at these schools praise excellent recruiting opportunities with the best companies in Toronto – a testament to the strength of the alumni networks at these business schools.

A GMAT course is often your first opportunity to develop lasting relationships with future MBA students at different business schools. This is your perfect chance to expand your network beyond your chosen business school, so don’t take it lightly!

Most GMAT courses offered at University campuses serve almost exclusively applicants to these Universities. Even if you’re planning to apply to these Universities, you’ll be better off taking a GMAT course outside of the campus and expanding your network beyond that one University.

Because Admit Master’s GMAT Mastery program is designed for candidates targeting high GMAT scores of 650-700+, most of your peers in the GMAT course will be successfully admitted to the best MBA programs in Canada, the United States, and Europe. Take full advantage of the opportunity to get to know your classmates in the GMAT course, and you’ll be well on your way to building awesome professional relationships for years to come!

Choose wisely

One of the greatest benefits of smaller programs is the feeling of community. During your program, you will get to know everyone in class. Your trainers, professors, and the staff will be there to support you on a more personal level. When you graduate, you will feel part of a stronger alumni family.

Choose your MBA program and your GMAT course wisely. Do your research, visit the school, and don’t fall for empty promises and one-size-fits-all marketing messages. Find the right learning environment and look for a good fit with your personal and professional goals. Don’t underestimate small programs, because small is indeed beautiful and small can be your perfect match!

Learn more about Admit Master’s GMAT course in Toronto, Chicago, Montreal and Online.

Need help choosing the best GMAT prep option or the best MBA program for you?

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Best strategies for attending an MBA fair

February is a busy time for MBA candidates. You may be still trying to put together applications for September, or are beginning to explore your options for the following academic year. The best way to meet different business schools in one day is to visit an MBA Fair. For the past couple of weeks, cities such as Toronto, Montreal, Chicago, Boston, and New York hosted multiple events: QS World Grad Grad Tour and MBA conferences organized by QS and The MBA Tour.

If you haven’t had a chance to join MBA fairs in your city this time, we would like to share some tips on how to make the most of your time at the next MBA event you’ll be attending.

Do your homework

Create a list of programs you believe will suit your individual goals, abilities and circumstances. Check the list of the schools that are coming to the fair, visit their websites and at least read some information on their home pages and in program guides. Showing that you know a bit, or a lot, about a specific school indicates that you’re serious about doing your MBA.

Ask the right questions

At the fair, focus on the schools you already know are likely to be a good match, and come prepared with a list of questions to ask, such as teaching style, mix of students, academics, areas of specialization, future career options and the cost of living. Do not ask questions, answers to which could be easily found on the business school’s website. Be interesting, ask challenging and creative questions.

Make a good impression

You won’t have much time with each prospective school, so you’ll want to make the most of it. Take a few moments to introduce yourself and be memorable. Tell the Admissions representative about your background, career goals and how you’ll be able to contribute to your future MBA class. In addition to an engaging and a meaningful conversation, you’ll want to make an impression by establishing great eye contact, having a firm handshake, and telling a memorable story. Bring a hard copy of your resume and don’t forget to exchange business cards!

Make connections

An increasing number of schools now bring alumni to fairs alongside their admissions personnel. Probe them for insights about the pros and cons of their MBA experience. Attend different seminars and panels, ask the right questions, talk to business school representatives and alumni to get more useful and unique information.

Dress for success

While it’s certainly not mandatory to wear a black suit, remember this is your first opportunity to make a good impression. It only makes sense to look and act in a professional manner.

Impress the business schools by knowing the GMAT

At the fair, talk to representatives from Admit Master to get more insights into the strategies for acing the GMAT and for preparing an application that will help you stand out. Come to a free GMAT class before going to the fair, or better yet, begin preparing for the GMAT by joining the GMAT Mastery program designed for 700+ scores.

Not only will you get a head start on the admissions process compared to other applicants, but you’ll also show to the business schools that you’re taking this process very seriously.

Can’t visit us at the fair or can’t wait to get tips on how to ace the GMAT? Sign up for a Free 1 on 1 Consultation with one of our expert GMAT & MBA Application Advisers.

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Pros and Cons of Applying to an MBA in Rounds 1, 2 & 3

Apply in Round 1 or Wait till Round 2?

This is the question that pops into the minds of many candidates.

In last week’s blog, we talked about the differences between round-based and rolling admissions, and shared some general advice: Apply as EARLY as you can with the BEST possible application.

However, you may have decided to pursue an MBA later in the application cycle. Or, it may have taken you longer than expected to get a competitive GMAT score.

Should you wait till next year, or should you apply as soon as you can, even if it means applying in later rounds?

This week, we look at the pros and cons of applying in each MBA application round.

Round 1 (early in the year for rolling-based admissions)

Pros: Business schools view early applicants as serious and well-prepared candidates. Statistically, your chance of getting admitted early in the application cycle is higher, because you’re only competing with applicants in that round.

Applying in the first round signals to the business school that it is your top choice; this gives you a better chance for an entrance scholarship. And, just in case you don’t get into your top school, applying early gives you an opportunity to apply to other schools in Round 2.

Cons: If your application is not the strongest, a business school may decide to place you on a wait list and wait to see what other applications arrive later that year. If you could submit a better application in Round 2, it may be worth waiting.

Round 2 (mid-year for rolling-based admissions)

Pros: If you need a few extra weeks (or months) to improve your GMAT, or if you’ve only recently began working with an MBA Admissions Consultant and need more time to prepare a stellar application, then applying in Round 2 may be the way to go.

Applying later may also give you a chance to attend the schools’ information sessions, to visit the campuses, and to better tailor your application to each school.

Cons: Round 2 is when most applications arrive. You’ll be competing with a greater number of candidates (including those from the first round), so the Admissions Committee may be less willing to give consideration to your less-than-perfect application.

Round 3 (late in the year for rolling-based admissions)

Pros: Most business schools will still have a few spots available for outstanding candidates. If you have an amazing background and a super strong application, even top business schools might still offer you admission in Round 3, rather than lose your application to competing schools.

If you’re applying to a second-tier school, it may have had a few spots opened up, because some of its accepted candidates decided to go to a different school. If you could present an interesting and unique application, you’d have a better chance of picking up the vacant spots late in the game.

Cons: The odds are not in your favor if you apply late. Most seats have already been filled. Most scholarships have been given out. If you’re applying to top-ranked schools, you may be better off waiting a few months and applying in Round 1 of the following application year.

Yes, this may mean waiting another year to start your MBA, but – remember, that once you get your MBA, you won’t get a second chance in doing another MBA. Waiting a year and studying at a school that’s a much better choice for your career may be worth it in the long run.

What about applying to multiple schools?

The general advice we share with candidates is to apply to all their desired schools around the same time. However, if you don’t have the time or resources to prepare all applications at once, consider splitting your school list into top choice and second choice schools, and apply to all of your top choice schools FIRST and in the same round.

(This should be obvious, but so many candidates do the exact opposite!)

Applying to schools with rolling admissions is even trickier, since if the AdCom considers your application very strong, it may make a decision very quickly and may give you a limited time to accept the offer and pay your deposit, especially if you’ve been offered an entrance scholarship.

Would you want to be under pressure to accept an offer from your second choice school before you have a chance to hear from your top school?

Navigating application deadlines is a bit like solving a jigsaw puzzle. You’ll need to look not only at “Application Deadlines”, but also at the “Decision Release Dates” published by b-schools with round-based admissions, and decide on your timelines well before applying.

We can help you figure out the best application strategy.

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MBA Application Rounds: What’s the best time to apply?

Perfect Timing! Apply at the “right” time, and your MBA admission is all smooth sailing. Apply at the “wrong” time, and you could get relegated to the wait list, or even worse, get rejected.

While much of this belief is an “urban legend”, and while “timing is NOT everything”, it certainly is important. Here’s what you need to know about MBA Application timelines.

Rounds-Based Admissions

Most U.S. and many International schools accept application in Rounds. This means that your entire application needs to be submitted by a certain deadline.

For example, the 2017 Round 1 deadline for Harvard Business School is September 7, 2016 at 12 noon EST. To be considered for Round 1, your essays, resume, transcripts, recommendation letters, and the official GMAT score report must all be received by the Admissions Office by the deadline. If at least one of the components of your application is missing, your application will be automatically moved to Round 2.

Round-based admissions also mean that your application will not be reviewed before the application deadline, so technically there is no benefit in applying earlier vs. later within the same round (of course, it’s always better to have a “buffer” in case of last minute delays – the last thing you want to do is submit your application at 11.59).

When you apply in a specific Round, you’re guaranteed to receive a decision by the published deadline. This is helpful if you’re applying to multiple schools and want to hear from them around the same time.

Rolling Admissions

Most Canadian and some International schools offer Rolling Admissions. This means that your application will be reviewed within a certain time (usually 4-6 weeks) after it is submitted, but could be evaluated much sooner if you’re applying during a “slower” season.

Many schools that operate on a rolling admissions basis still publish round deadlines, however these timelines are often recommendations, rather than strict deadlines. If you don’t submit your entire application package by the published deadline, you won’t need to wait until the next round to hear back from the school.

What is the common cause of application delays?

The most common “missing pieces” of MBA applications are GMAT scores and recommendation letters.

If you’re applying to a school with round-based admissions, you MUST have the entire application submitted by the deadline. If at least one piece is missing, you’ll be considered in the next round.

If you’re applying to a school with rolling admissions, your application will be reviewed when all pieces of the application are received by the admissions office. Some business schools will do pre-assessments and may get back to you even before receiving your GMAT score or the missing recommendation letter, but this will be up to the AdCom’s discretion and may depend on the strength of your application.

When should I apply?

We’ve asked this question to Admissions directors from many business schools, including Wharton, Berkeley Haas, Michigan Ross, Darden, Duke Fuqua, Schulich, Rotman and McGill, and always got the same answer: The EARLIER you submit your BEST application, the better.

Generally speaking, you have a better chance of getting in when you apply early. Fewer seats will already be taken. More scholarships will still be available. And, just in case you don’t get into your top choice school(s), you may still have a chance to apply to your backup schools later in the year.

If you’re ready to apply in Round 1, there is no reason to wait till Round 2 (more on this in our next blog). However, if your application is not yet strong – for example, if you need to rewrite your GMAT to get a better score, or if you’ve only recently began working with an MBA Admissions Consultant and want to give yourself enough time to prepare the best possible application – it would be best to apply in the next round, when you’ll have a much better application ready.

What if I don’t get in during Round 1, could I still reapply?

A simple answer is no. You will not be able to reapply in later rounds in the same application year, however you could apply the next year if your profile will change considerably, or if you could prepare a much better application package.

Put your best foot forward, the first time around. Plan ahead and apply early.

Next week… we’ll look at pros and cons of applying in each round, and will share tips on timing your application to multiple schools. Don’t miss it!

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10 Best MBA Application Tips for 2017

Applying to an MBA program is as exciting as it is often confusing!

  • How do I pick the right program?
  • When is the best time to apply?
  • How do I make my profile stand out among thousands of other applicants?

 

This week, we kick off the new 2017 MBA Application season with top 10 MBA Admissions tips.

1. Do the school research!

First of all, understand WHY you want to do the MBA and WHAT you want to get out of it. There are a lot of different criteria to consider: location, class composition, program type, program length, tuition, rankings, career opportunities, etc.

Write down your career goals and pick the schools that will help you get there. Be sure to visit MBA fairs and talk to as many school representatives as you can – you may have read some blogs and visited business schools’ websites, but there is no substitute for getting first hand comments from real people!

2. Get to know your dream schools better!

Once you create a short list of your target schools, do a more thorough research into the schools’ profiles to make sure you get the right fit: visit the campus, talk to current students, feel what it’s like to spend a day of the real MBA life on campus. You may have a very different feeling towards a school after visiting it, but you will definitely find your perfect fit!

Take your school selection seriously. After all, an MBA degree is a big investment of your money and time that has the potential to pay you back many times over and fulfill you personal and career dreams. Get the right support and the right resources, and you could take your career to the heights you never thought possible!

3. Get your GMAT or GRE done!

Some business schools will accept either the GMAT or the GRE. Some will require the GMAT only. If you haven’t taken any of these tests yet, choosing the GMAT (the Graduate Management Admission Test) will show the Admissions Committee that you’re serious about getting a Business Degree.

If you’re targeting one of top business schools in the United States, Canada or Europe, you will need an above-average GMAT score, ideally over 700. Since only 11% of test-takers get such a high score, take your preparation seriously and allocate enough time to prepare for this test!

Write a diagnostic test before you begin studying. Put together a realistic study plan. Sign up for a Free 1-on-1 Consultation with a 99%-ile GMAT trainer who will help you understand your strengths and weaknesses and develop a study strategy.

Take a GMAT course if it’s available in your city, or an online prep program if a live course is not feasible. Many other candidates applying for the same MBA spots do!

After all, the GMAT is not a test of intelligence or any subject matter. It’s a test of how well you can study and learn from your own mistakes. No matter how you did in high school or University, you can get a good GMAT score with the right strategies, the right focus, and the right training.

Look for a blog post next week with top 10 GMAT preparation tips!

4. It’s not only about the GMAT…

Nor it is only about your undergraduate GPA. Remember that an MBA is a professional degree, not simply an academic degree. While your academic achievements are important (and getting a low GMAT score and, to a lesser extent, low GPA could be a deal breaker), AdComs look for well-rounded individuals who can succeed not only in the program, but also in their future careers.

Be sure to take the entire application process as seriously as you’re taking your GMAT prep. Even if you plan to prepare the application on your own, get a professional opinion on the strength of your profile before you apply. Admit Master offers free MBA Admissions Consultations, sign up here.

5. Observe the deadlines!

Many top business schools accept applications in rounds. To be considered for a round, you must submit all documentation by the posted deadline (note: they can be different for different schools!)

Leave yourself plenty of time to get your application in order. Learn about financial aid application deadlines (they could be different). Keep in mind that recommendation letters as well as the GMAT prep may take longer to complete.

Look for a blog post in 2 weeks with important tips on the timing of MBA applications!

6. MBA Application Essays: tell a story!

The most successful applicants tell a compelling story. They don’t simply answer the essay questions; they develop a story that helps them stand out among thousands of applicants. You may have a very strong GPA, GMAT and work experience, but how are you different from everyone else who does?

Writing a personal story is often the hardest part of the application, which is so frequently overlooked. Hire an MBA Admissions coach if you need to – it will be a small expense relative to the benefits you’ll get from earning a degree from your dream business school!

Make sure to write targeted essays for each school you apply to. Avoid copying and pasting your essay answers from school A to school B. Business school admission committees will catch these errors right away and your reputation will be undermined. Proofread before submitting your essays.

The worst mistake you can make is to misspell the name of the school or to write about a different school in your essay – this will be a sure-fire way to get your application thrown out before the admissions officer even finishes reading it!

7. Not your typical resume!

The MBA Application resume is different from a typical work resume. Think of quality vs. quantity. Ditch the list of technical skills and focus more on your career progress and your leadership skills.

Whenever available, include specific figures (e.g. the number of employees you supervised, or the amount of sales growth your efforts yielded). Punch up the tone with a variety of verbs, rather than repeating the same, blanket action words. Highlight major certificates or awards, and remember to mention your community and volunteer involvement.

Finally, limit your resume to a single page. An easy task, right?

8. Pick the best recommenders!

Choose people who know you well and can speak about your character, work ethic, dedication, and commitment. Don’t go for titles – your immediate supervisor is often a much better reference than a CEO or a VP who only saw you a handful of times.

Be sure to give your recommenders plenty of time to write your recommendation letters. You don’t want to be chasing your managers or clients at the last minute.

In most cases, schools won’t allow personal friends or family members to write your recommendation letters, and won’t be interested in academic references, unless you’re applying for direct entry Master’s or Co-op MBA programs.

Your letters of recommendation are opportunities to present glowing, third-party endorsements. With proper planning, they’re a foolproof way to boost your application.

9. Ace the Admission Interview!

Some candidates take the MBA Admission interviews too lightly. Don’t!

If you were to invited for a job interview, are you guaranteed the job? Approach the business school interviews even more seriously than you were a job interview.

Do a thorough research into the school you are going to have an interview with. Be ready to answer behavioral questions and address any gaps in your profile.

Let the interviewer lead the session and set the tone, but don’t forget that an interview is a two-way exchange process. Tell your story. Ask compelling questions, answers to which can’t be easily found online.

Don’t miss your opportunity to shine! Once you’ve been invited to the interview, that one hour with the admissions officer may be the most important hour of your future career! It may mean the difference between getting rejected, being on a wait list, or getting in with a huge entrance scholarship!

Even if you haven’t used Admissions Consultants to help you with the entire application process, hiring a coach to help you prepare for the interview is usually an excellent idea!

10. Money can be found!

High MBA tuition fees can certainly be a turn-off for many applicants; however, if you have what it takes to get into a top business school, money can usually be found!

Remember that there are many sources of funding. Business schools have dedicated departments to help you figure out the sources of funding. Moreover, you have a lot of influence over your chances of getting a large entrance scholarship! Don’t let the fact that you don’t know where the funds will come from – yet – deter you from applying to world’s best business schools.

An MBA degree is an investment in yourself that takes careful planning. Follow these best practices and create a competitive MBA Application that will surely make it to the top of the pile! Make the right choices, and your career can be changed for the better forever.

Admit Master is one of North America’s leading MBA Admissions and GMAT prep companies headquartered in Toronto. Admit Master is known for its unique personalized approach, professional GMAT training, and expert MBA Admissions Consulting offered by a team of former Admission Directors from top business schools.

Sign up for a Free 1-on-1 Consultation and let us guide you to a successful admission to your dream business school!

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Admissions Interviews – Deal breakers?

After the GMAT, the admissions interview is definitely the most stressful part of an MBA Application. You will be meeting with an admissions officer who will present your application to the admissions committee. You want to make the right impression and get him or her on your side.

From the day you received your interview invitation, to the minute you meet with the admissions officer, you practice and practice and practice. You’ve built your confidence; you’ve rehearsed compelling answers to behavioral questions, and you’ve prepared a few questions of your own.

On the day of the interview, you think you did well. You believe that you’ve impressed the admissions officer and you enjoyed the conversation yourself. You had an opportunity to share your talking points, you got to know the school even better, you thanked your interviewer for his or her time and you followed up with a thank you note.

The next one or two weeks seem to be the longest weeks of your life. Finally, you hear back from the school and – unfortunately – you didn’t get in. What could have gone wrong?

You review again all the reasons why the school should admit you:

  • You have 4 years of solid work experience at a large organization.
  • Your GPA meets the minimum requirement.
  • Your GMAT score is good.
  • You are sure your references said great things about you.
  • You know you nailed the interview!?

 

Well, maybe you didn’t…

Just like with job applications, once you get invited to an interview, you are not – yet – guaranteed a spot. Remember that there are many other candidates vying for a limited number of seats in the program.

If you got invited to an interview but didn’t get in, then most likely your interview did not go that well. If this is the case, we strongly encourage you to get feedback from the school, if at all possible.

Following that, you should take an objective look at your candidacy and re-evaluate your interview performance. If you’ve used an admissions consultant, ask him or her for a review. If you didn’t, it may be a good idea to work with one for your next application.

There may be a few reasons for “failing” an interview.

You thought it would be very easy so you didn’t feel the need to prepare. The admissions officers take the time to read your application documents and meet with you. You need to take the interview seriously and prepare well.

You didn’t make a good first impression. This is often the hardest part; it is said that hiring managers form an opinion about a candidate within the first minute or two; the same applies to admissions officers. You’re being evaluated from the first handshake, to how you sit down and introduced yourself. When you set the tone right, the interview flows well.

Making the best entrance is important but certainly not enough! Of course, you need to maintain your positive attitude throughout the interview. Your personal story will play a large role in creating a long lasting impression. If you can’t tell a compelling personal story that will captivate your audience, you should definitely seek professional help in improving your interview skills.

Your answers were too rehearsed – you told the interviewer exactly what you thought he or she wanted to hear, but you lacked authenticity. Being authentic is key to “nailing” any interview. You’ve got to be yourself, not who you think the school is looking for.

Feel free to connect with student ambassadors and alumni to learn more about what the school is looking for in candidates, but don’t try to reshape who you are and sell yourself like a “package” to the admissions committee. If you’ve done your research and you believe there is a good fit with the school’s culture, you should certainly be able to demonstrate your good “fit” while being genuine and authentic.

Is the interview just a formality?

Many candidates believe that an MBA Admissions interview is just a formality. The truth is, if you get invited for an interview, you’re only half way there and you still need to ace the second half of the application process!

If you tell a compelling story, show the right attitude, and develop a good connection with your interviewer, you can considerably increase your chances of admissions and be considered for a scholarship as a bonus! Give your admissions officer a reason to vouch for you in front of the admissions committee!

Even if you’ve already submitted your application, consider getting professional help with your interview prep, ideally from a former Admissions Director who interviewed hundreds of candidates. Admit Master offers interview prep packages that start from only $499 Canadian.

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