This is a transcript summary of the Expert Chat that TopMBA Scorecard runs at regular intervals throughout the year. This is a live expert chat with Mr. David Simpson, Senior Manager of MBA Marketing & Admissions of London Business School in the UK. Questions were sent in by respondents from all around the world.
Question: Would you say that GMAT scores from non-native speakers are valued a little higher?
Answer: The GMAT is extremely important for all applicants. In terms of non-native speakers, we will also refer to the GMAT exam to check on English levels in conjunction with other elements of your application. It is essential that all candidates are able to interact in classes and study groups to a fluent standard and can only serve as a disadvantage to the student and fellow students if they are not able to make the most of their experience right from the word go.
Question: Do you have any specific range of GMAT scores for different regions, because some regions tend to have a higher or a lower GMAT average.
Answer: No, we do not have different GMAT ranges from different regions. It is true that patterns emerge from different regions, but it would be too simplistic to have strict expectations from individuals because of that. It is probably more relevant that candidates from different industries score in different ranges, but again, we are careful with that info.
Question: I have a 680 GMAT score but not a great undergraduate GPA (although solid and from a tough law program, which I graduated from in the fastest time possible). Would you address this as a concern in your optional essays or are business schools not too worried with low GPAs if the GMAT is good?
Answer: We look at your grades but make sure to judge how tough admission to that school is. We prefer both grades and GMAT to be strong, (of course!), but understand that sometimes the best applicants have different strengths and weaknesses.
Question: Is it advisable to write the GMAT in a couple of months and then plan to work for the mandatory work-experience?
Answer: Take the GMAT test as soon as you are ready and prepared. The score is valid for 5 years.
Question: How important is the GMAT score in the admission process?
Answer: The GMAT is important to our admission process. It is a benchmarking tool that allows us to make direct comparisons between candidates from all around the world. It also helps us to determine who can cope with the tough academic rigour of the MBA first year. However, it is just one element in an application and we rarely reject candidates on GMAT alone at the point of application. For example, sometimes we shortlist candidates to interview with a lower GMAT, if we think the rest of their application is great. That candidate will have to retake the test and do better before a final offer is made. If a candidate doesn't make the range we're looking for, they will not be offered a place. We think this is a fair way to judge applications.
Question: I scored 670 the GMAT at my third attempt, have 4 years of work exp in Telecommunications, have been top throughout my academics, gold medalist at my university, participated in extra curricular activities in the office/school, volunteer of the reach-out club for needy children, Best performer of the year for last 2 consecutive years in the office, Team award for excellence, No managerial experience. What are my chances of getting into any of Top 20 B-Schools?
Answer: I'm sure with that profile you will find a good school to attend. However, each school places emphasis on different parts of applications. We look closely at experience and possible contributions to study groups / classroom and the campus community.
Question: I have about 9 years experience in manufacturing and now in media to which I have shifted lately. Is a shift like mine considered to add value in the selection process?
Answer: It depends how well you present the information. It could well be taken as a positive.
Question: I am currently working in Dubai as a Marketing manager with a regional marketing & distribution company. I have 4 years of work experience and a Masters in International Business from a reputed college in India. My question is whether LBS gives weight to relevant work experience even with regional companies or only with top renowned MNCs
Answer: We look at candidates from a diverse range of companies and industries. We do not just look at candidates working for well-known MNCs - the class would be a lot less interesting if we just did that. There is always representation from start-ups, family businesses and other non-MNC organizations.
Question: On a scale of 1-10, where does the LBS rate international work experience outside ones home country?
Answer: The Admissions Team looks at several factors from your work experience and overall profile. In terms of international professional experience this can normally be noted as a benefit but it is in fact the quality of your work experience that we are really looking at. Your international experience can also come from outside your direct work experience and this too can add value to a candidate’s profile.
So in terms of giving a rating, it would be difficult to do so as there are many factors which we take into consideration when reviewing your work profile. This includes, team and leaderships skills and progression within your role. It is important to give specific examples so that we can see your roles within teamwork. In addition to working internationally, candidates often work for international organizations and in multi-cultural teams. This can also add value to an application and reflects the international learning environment here at London Business School.
In response to your second question regarding a career change, as you rightly said, this is a common reason for candidates choosing to follow an MBA program. If this is the case, it is essential that candidates demonstrate how they plan to do this. This would only be viewed as a negative if the move was somewhat unrealistic.
To be continuted...