I know what you are thinking: "Not another tips and tricks post on the internet?" Yet, every day, my team and I get asked the same questions and, every month, our John Molson Graduate Programs Admission Tips & Tricks sessions are filled with prospective students. So I figured, I might as well write them down. You might already know these because you have done extensive research. Or you might be starting your search, and this will be helpful. Either way, feel free to go through them and contact our Graduate Recruitment team if you have any questions.
Tip #1: Don't initiate the conversation asking for an exception
"Hi, can I get a GMAT waiver?" The answer is typically "no". If the program you are interested in mentions the GMAT in the admissions requirements, they usually require it. Should there be any notable exceptions to this rule (for example, some programs exempt candidates who have their CFA charter from having to write the exam), it will be mentioned. The GMAT is required even if you have great work experience and even if you have a great GPA. (Also, starting a conversation asking for an exception is not the best way to make a great first impression, but that's just me.) In case you wonder why the GMAT is so important, I invite you to read my colleague, Beth McKenna’s, GMAT 101 blog post.
Tip #2: Figure out the reason why you want to do an MBA
It may seem like an obvious piece of advice, but an MBA is a significant time and financial commitment, so we want to make sure you are doing it for the right reasons. We will inquire about your motivation at different stages of the application. Do you understand the MBA program you aim to get into, how this degree fits into your career equation and, also, what it is that you bring to the class?
Some recruiters may recommend you have a very specific career goal. On the one hand, the more precise your goal is, the easier it will be for you to figure out whether a program is a good fit for you, and you will be able to target the right opportunities from the very start. On the other hand, keep in mind that many MBA students change or add goals over the course of their program, especially as they get exposed to new opportunities inside and outside of the classroom.
Tip #3: Be professional. At all times.
Treat every interaction as you would for a job interview. I usually summarize it as follows: be punctual and respectful; write complete sentences (no "hey you" or, even worse, "u"); treat the process seriously; do prior research; make a positive impact. Eventually, becoming an MBA student means you become a brand ambassador for the school, coming in contact with our alumni, employers who come to recruit on campus, and other important stakeholders. This is why it is absolutely crucial to not only make a good first impression, but to continuously showcase your professionalism during the various touch points you have with recruiters: in writing, online, at one-to-ones, at fairs, during interviews, etc.
Tip #4: Be yourself
