With the MBA being today’s most popular graduate degree, institutions that provide MBA programs have somewhat high standards in the students they admit. What factors do these universities use to determine admissibility?

GMAT Scores and Your MBA Program Application

One of the most common tools MBA programs use in determining your admissibility into their program is your GMAT or Graduate Management Admission Test. Most top MBA programs select students primarily from those attaining a mid 600 point range on this exam.

The Application Essays on your MBA Program Application

Both online and campus based MBA programs require completion of a set of essays. These essays present you to the admissions staff. If they present your educational background and work experience in a concise and well thought out manner, your application will not easily be put aside.

The Importance of Work Experience to Your MBA Program Application

The amount of full time work experience you can bring to the table during your MBA application process, the better off you will be. In recent years, top institutions have gone from admitting students with an average of 2 – 3 years of full time work experience. Today, that figure is closer to 5 years.

Letters of Recommendation

Depending upon the online or campus based MBA program you are applying to, you may have to submit up to 3 letters of recommendation. These letters are to be from previous or current employers, supervisors, or clients. These letters are frequently “guided” letters or forms that you have filled out on your behalf. These are extensive documents and require considerable effort on the part of the recommending individual. Because of that, many students will work on the letters with their employers.

To most online and campus based MBA program admissions personnel, these factors are the most relevant in determining your suitability to be admitted in their program. Undergraduate GPA and interviews are also frequently a part of the process but they are not as significant in the decision making process.