KramerJ 07-03-2003, 06:29 PM Greetings Graham,
I hope you can shed some light on some questions I have for MBA applicants who failed to complete an undergradute degree.
I'm an Australian applicant wanting to gain entry into IMD or Columbia's EMBA Global program - although Harvard & Stanford are on my dream list and I will be applying. A spoke with all schools and they said they would consider my application and mentioned it would be very competitive.
I dropped out of my Digital Systems degree due to financial pressure and have since enjoyed a very successful international career in a fortune 500 for 8 years (I'm 28), rising through the ranks etc. I scored 660 on my GMAT (strong verbal). My questions:
- Am I aiming too high? What's been your experience in the consideration of candidates without UG degree?
- How should I address this issue through my essays, mention it upfront or aviod it altogether and explain in an optional essay?
I appreciate any insight you can offer.
Regards,
Kramer.
Clear Admit 07-08-2003, 09:59 AM Dear Kramer,
Thanks for reading our thread here on Studylink. It sounds like you have had a successful career to date - despite following a rather non-traditional path with regards to your education. I have responded to your questions below:
1> Am I aiming too high? What's been your experience in the consideration of candidates without UG degree?
Essentially, this sort of thing is done on a case by case basis - and quite frankly it is usually done with people who have a 3-year degree (instead of the US-style 4-years). It is only very rarely done for someone with no college degree at all (in fact, I never personally admitted someone at Wharton who did not have a college degree of some length). Having said that, if the schools have assured you that you can apply, then by all means go for it.
2> How should I address this issue through my essays, mention it upfront or aviod it altogether and explain in an optional essay?
The best way to address this would be to have an above average GMAT. This would show the schools that despite your lack of a degree, you are indeed very sharp, etc. At 660, you are currently well below the average at HBS and Stanford (710+) and roughly average at IMD. Another way to address the lack of a degree would be for you to pursue some outside coursework in MBA-foundation courses (like calculus, statistics, economics, acctg). By getting 'As' in these courses, you can again convince the committees that you have the intelligence and maturity to handle the rigors of an MBA program.
It goes without saying that you will have to have a great explanation of the decision you made vis-a-vis your degree - for use in the MBA application essays. You will also need to demonstrate a clear set of career goals and an understanding of what you want from the MBA - again to show that you are dedicated to pursuing the degree, know what you want out of it, etc.
Please contact us via email if you wish to learn more about our services. We are currently offering a reduced rate to all clients who sign up prior to July 15th.
Regards,
Graham
info@clearadmit.com
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