top of page

How Do MBA Admissions Committees Assess Interviews?


MBA Admissions Committees are responsible for selecting the most qualified and diverse candidates for their MBA programs. The MBA interview is an important part of this process, as it allows the Admissions Committee to evaluate a candidate's professional and personal goals as well as his or her fit with the program.  Here are some key areas that MBA Admissions Committees assess during an interview.

Professional experience and career goals

MBA Admissions Committees are looking for candidates who have a strong track record of achievement and potential for success in their career. One of the main reasons people pursue an MBA is to advance their career or transition to a new industry. During the interview, your interviewer will want to understand your professional experience as well as your strengths and weaknesses.  Your interviewer may ask you to describe your current job, your previous positions, and your responsibilities. They will also ask you to describe your ideal career path and how an MBA will help you achieve your goals.


Personal and leadership qualities

MBA programs are looking for candidates who are well-rounded and have strong leadership potential. During the interview, your interviewer will assess your personal and leadership qualities through questions about your strengths, your values, and your leadership experience. They may ask you to describe a time when you faced a challenge or made a difficult decision, and how you approached it. They may also ask you to describe a time when you worked on a team or led a project, and what you learned from the experience.


Fit with the program


MBA programs are looking for candidates who have a strong fit with the program. During the interview, you will likely be asked you to describe your fit with the program, including your fit with the program's culture, values, and mission.  Therefore, it is extremely important to be prepared with specific reasons why the program appeals to you and how it will help you attain your future career goals.


Communication and interpersonal skills


Additionally, effective communication is crucial for success in an MBA program and in the business world. During the interview, the Admissions Committee will assess your communication and interpersonal skills through your responses to questions and your ability to engage in a meaningful conversation.  One aspect of this is also being prepared to ask your interviewer questions if you are given the opportunity to do so.


In conclusion, MBA Admissions Committees evaluate a wide range of factors during the interview process - the interview is an opportunity for you to showcase your skills and achievements and convince the Admissions Committee that you are the right fit for their program!


About Ivy Groupe:

Ivy Groupe is a boutique MBA admissions consulting company founded by Shaifali Aggarwal, who has been recognized as a top MBA admissions consultant by Business Insider and Poets & Quants. She received her MBA from Harvard Business School and undergraduate degree from Princeton University. Shaifali’s philosophy focuses on authenticity and storytelling to help clients craft compelling and differentiated applications that stand out. With this approach, Shaifali’s clients have gained admission to top-tier MBA programs such as Harvard, Stanford, Wharton, Kellogg, MIT, Columbia, Booth, Tuck, and Yale, among others.

Click on the links to learn more about our company and how you can work with us to maximize your chances of gaining admission to the MBA programs of your choice.


Sign up for our emails at the bottom of the page to get more tips!


Comments


bottom of page