Is it easier to get into an MBA if you come from an unconventional career? I have been told that business schools pool applications from similar sectors ie they pool all applications by candidates who work in finance etc and then rank the candidates. And to maintain a diverse class they try to ensure as many sectors are covered. Is this true?
| +14 | MSc Finance Profile Evaluation | 3 | 3d |
| +12 | Recruiting for Impact / Green Energy / Renewable Infa during MBA | 1 | 2d |
| +10 | Why Harvard? | 2 | 11h |
| +9 | Harvard or Cambridge? | 13 | 18h |
| +9 | CBS JTerm for MD-PHD switch from MBB to healthcare IB/PE | 1 | 1d |
| +9 | Difference Between Finance Degree in Business School or liberal arts degree | 1 | 1d |
| +6 | EOR or other programs at EUR/RSM | 2 | 6d |
| +3 | LBS MiF | 1 | 5d |
Career Resources
Get instant access to lessons taught by experienced private equity pros and bulge bracket investment bankers including financial statement modeling, DCF, M&A, LBO, Comps and Excel Modeling.
1) Yes, but the extent depends on your definition of nontraditional. Are a teacher, a professional athlete, Gramy award winning artist, or do you do something like successfully run an MLM 2) Yes, but you can do things that make yourself stand out in this pool outside of work, which is very important. Adcomms will put more weight to this for these applicants given they have the raw stats.
It is easier stand out, yes, but not as easy as you may think to get it. When I applied for my MBA (the first time), some consultants I spoke to told me: "If you come from an overrepresented sector, you need to make your application stand out, if you come from a non-traditional career, you need to show how you can fit in".
Based on what I've seen, admissions will typically compare you to pools within a certain area (but these don't have to be just industry, they would also look at demographics, age group, business function, STEM/business major etc). They want to ensure a diverse class, but still a selective one. So few application from a certain sector doesn't mean they all get in.
So, if you have a non-traditional backgroup, I would recommend aiming to show as many business/leadership skills as you can. And try to get a good quant score on GMAT if you're coming from a non-quantitative field.
Quia dolor mollitia iure cum optio modi. Quis et molestias autem molestias et. Nihil aliquam voluptas quasi.
See All Comments - 100% Free
WSO depends on everyone being able to pitch in when they know something. Unlock with your email and get bonus: 6 financial modeling lessons free ($199 value)
or Unlock with your social account...