MBA Admissions Q&A: Lindner College, University of Cincinnati

The Carl H. Lindner College of Business is a part of the University of Cincinnati, which is located in Ohio and is one of the 50 largest universities in the US. The city of Cincinnati has an important place in the history of the US, being the first city to be founded following independence from Great Britain in the latter part of the eighteenth century.

The class that entered the full-time MBA program at Lindner College in 2015 was 52% male and 48% female, with 37% of participants defined as international students. Together, they scored an average of 650 on the GMAT and most often held a little under three years in previous work experience. Here to tell us a little more about the program’s admissions process is Jason Dickman, Lindner College’s director of graduate recruiting.

What is the typical acceptance rate to the Cincinnati Lindner MBA program?

This number varies by year, but it typically will fall around the 25% to 30% mark.

What are the most important aspects of the Lindner MBA application process besides GMAT score, prior GPA, and current job position?

Our MBA program (whether it be full or part time) is fairly small by design. We prefer a learning environment where we get to know everyone on a more personal level. With this in mind, the interview and essays are very important. Our goal is to build a class that is academically and professionally prepared as well as one that will gel and build lifetime relationships.

What is a common mistake you see applicants make?

A common mistake that applicants make is not doing enough research upfront about the programs to which they are applying. This process is a two-way street, so it is imperative that the applicants get to know the schools they are applying to. Go visit. Meet the people. Sit in on a class. You need to know you are going into a situation you are comfortable with.

What is something you would like to see applicants do more often?

Too often applicants apply to schools based on name and reputation without taking any other factors into consideration. Applicants should talk to advisors, sit in on classes and visit the campus so that when the program starts they don’t find themselves in a place that they aren’t happy with.

What does the Carl H. Lindner College of Business application process look like?

We require an online application, two letters of recommendation, an essay, GMAT or GRE and prior academic transcripts. If a student is an international applicant we also require a TOEFL or IELTS score. Once we have all of these items we will also interview competitive candidates prior to making a final decision. We review applications holistically so no one portion of the application portfolio will make or break an applicant.

How can a candidate overcome a lower GMAT score?

As mentioned, we do a holistic review and don’t rely solely on either the GMAT or GRE score. While these scores are useful we want to be sure to judge the applicant on their own merits, not just on the basis of some test scores. A solid academic history, a progressive career, professional certifications etc. are all things that can outweigh a lower score.

MBA admissions tips

Essay(s): Find balance – don’t make it too long but, at the same time, tell your story and be genuine.

Interview: Be yourself and be ready to ask questions. This is a two-way street and you need to be interviewing me as well.

Letter(s) of recommendation: Have relevant people submit these – I am not interested solely in job titles and any perceived importance of a recommender. I want someone who can speak about you in detail, not a figurehead who doesn’t know you well.

CV/résumé: Keep it clean – many résumés have too much fluff and not enough substance.

School visit: Talk to everyone! Students, faculty, staff; you will see these people 8-12 hours a day, nearly every day, for the duration of your MBA. Be sure to get to know the culture and see if it matches your values and goals.