Interview Flexibility
From admissions411, it appears most schools do >75% of their interviews within a span of three weeks for the round. the notable exception to this trend is Columbia.
When a HWS or top ten USA B-School called you for an interview, how much flexibility in scheduling did you have? A few weeks? A few days? Take it or leave it?
when you fill out the application, they will ask you to either rank or simply choose 2 or 3 locations to do the interviews, which can be either on campus or in a major city.
Thus, if you are invited for an interview, the timing is typically pretty quick (a couple of weeks in my experience) which you will arrange with an alum or something in your area.
If you happen to live in a city where they do interviews, then it's pretty straightforward. if you have to travel, then it is more complicated.
In any case, unless you are going to the campus, it's up to you and the interviewer to work out a time. Keep in mind, many interviews are done by alumni who are very busy business people, so flexibility is a given. The interviews usually end up being lunch, dinner, or drinks. So have fun
what is a good way to prepare for these interviews?
I wouldn't sweat these things. Typically they want to see that your plan makes sense.
What's your background? Why do you want an MBA? How is it going to help you get where you want professionally? Why is now the right time for you to get the MBA? Why are you interested in that particular school? etc.
These are the types of things they are be looking for. Honestly, most of mine were just going out and talking. I asked them about their experience at the school, with the alumni, etc. Often it comes off more like they are trying to sell the school.
You need to come across as a smart, normal person who knows what you want. The type of person they think will help the school and fit in.
Occasionally, I have heard of some tougher interviews, but those have all been people who went on campus and got some jack-ass professor or admissions person, rather than an alum.
Alexey,
You've raised some interesting points. In the past, I've heard that going onsite is better. The claims are a demonstrated interest level and the opportunity to interview with a member of the adcom who can stress your case. But it sounds as if the alum interviews have worked out well for you.
Does anyone with on-site interview experience care to weigh in?
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