Tag: MBA application (page 2 of 10)

Make a Lasting Impression:
The Value of Optional Peer Interviews at Texas McCombs

One of the most vital parts of the MBA application process at Texas McCombs is the human component – “Human-Centered, Future-Focused” is part of our core values for a reason. We pride ourselves in getting to know you at a personal level during the admissions process and will continue to provide hundreds of virtual and in-person ways for you to meet our students, alumni, faculty, and admissions team.

We invite all MBA applicants to close out their application process in a human-centered way through a short, optional peer interview.  

These interactive virtual sessions present a valuable opportunity for our applicants to connect with Full-Time MBA students and leaving a lasting positive impression on Texas McCombs. 

The optional interview will last about 20 minutes and is available throughout the round. The student ambassador will introduce themselves and ask you a few questions. 

We recommend having up to three questions prepared for your student interviewer about the program and student experience. You are also welcome to discuss information about your candidacy that is not addressed elsewhere, as the interviewer can in turn provide this information to the Admissions Committee via a post-interview form.  

Different schools have different interview processes. It’s important to be familiar with how the Texas McCombs MBA program runs the virtual interview experience. Be sure to read all confirmation emails and instructions very carefully All optional interviews are conducted virtually by a member of the McCombs Ambassador Committee. 

Roughly a week after the round deadline, you will receive an email with a link to our online platform to allow you to select an interview slot that works with your schedule. There is a deadline to complete your interview, so be sure to schedule it early. Slots will fill quickly! 

Is an interview required? 

No! There are plenty of ways for the admissions committee to get to know you without the optional peer interview. For example, if you have continuously engaged with the McCombs community, feel confident in your video assessment submission, and have no additional questions for a current student, then registering for and attending a virtual interview might not be necessary. On the other hand, if you have not had the chance to get to know us and would like an additional opportunity to convey something that might not be conveyed elsewhere in the application, we might recommend signing up for a peer interview. At the end of the day, the choice is yours. The interview may serve as an additional data point for the committee, but it is not required for admissions consideration. 

Tip: Remember that every interaction you have with a member of the Texas McCombs community is an opportunity to make a positive impression about who you are and your MBA candidacy. From speaking to our receptionist at the MBA Program Office, to meeting an Admissions Officer on the road, all members of our community have an opportunity to provide informal feedback on MBA applicants, so make every connection count. 

Will I know who my peer interviewer is ahead of time?  

Yes. You will be able to select your student host based on their interests and MBA involvement. However, you do not need to limit yourself to scheduling with someone with similar interests; all of our interviewers are current students and will be able to share their experiences with you regardless of background. In addition, some applicants prefer to select a date and time that is most convenient for them rather than search for slots based on shared interests. 

Can I conduct my interview in-person? 

No. All of our peer interviews are virtual to keep all applicants (including those who cannot come to campus) on a level playing field. We do encourage applicants to visit us in-person so you can get to know us, but peer interviews must be conducted virtually (via Zoom).  

Our Top Interview Tips 

Be On Time: Arriving on time is “Interviewing 101,” yet it still manages to trip up even the most prepared of candidates. Please follow all the instructions in your confirmation email about how to connect with your interviewer. 

Test your Connection: Peer Interviews require a desktop or laptop computer (no iPhone/iPad) with a functioning webcam, microphone, and internet connection. We recommend connecting directly to your internet for the most reliable internet connection – and make sure you have plenty of charge on your laptop or that you are plugged in!

Pace Yourself: You’d be surprised how many times, at the end of an applicant’s long answer, we are asked to repeat the original question. Most often this happens to people who try to put too much into the answer for fear of not being given an opportunity later on to address their prepared examples.  Keep your responses concise and keep in mind the short duration of the interview.

Be Professional but Loosen Up: Given our program’s famously friendly culture, our interviews are relatively informal. If you still find yourself nervous, practice your answers in front of a mirror or with a friend or colleague and ask them how you did. Did you answer the question? Did you rush through it? Take a moment to outline your answer in your mind first, and then address it calmly and confidently. Don’t get too comfortable, though. While we’re an easy-going group, maintaining an appropriate level of professionalism is always a good idea. This includes professional language and attire.

Know What We’re Looking For: We listen for confidence, clear and concise communication, and overall genuine enthusiasm.

Come with questions: A good list of questions for your interviewer can illustrate a few key things about you as a candidate: You’ve done your research, you care about our program, you have envisioned yourself as a Texas McCombs MBA, and you can formulate coherent thoughts under pressure.  Here is a list of topics to consider: 

Discuss any aspect of your candidacy that has not already been covered in other application components.

Get to know your host and their experience at Texas McCombs. Ask them questions about their MBA journey and the McCombs community.

Ask for tips and advice on how to best navigate and spend the time between the admission decision and program kick-off.

In the competitive world of MBA applications, Texas McCombs stands out by prioritizing the human component. Our “Human-Centered, Future-Focused” values resonate throughout the entire admissions process, offering you an opportunity to showcase your collaborative skills and reaffirm your motivations for pursuing an MBA. The option of a short peer interview allows you to engage with our current Full-Time MBA students, leaving a lasting positive impression on the Texas McCombs community.   

Whether you choose to participate in the interview or explore other avenues of engagement, keep in mind that every interaction counts and can contribute to your MBA candidacy. We hope you’ll embrace the chance to make a personal impact and take a step closer toward your future at Texas McCombs.  


If you have any questions during the application process, we’re here to help. Please visit our website for details on applying to each program and follow us on Instagram for an inside look into the Texas McCombs MBA. 

Good luck and Hook ’em!

Who Should Write Your MBA Recommendation?

The Texas McCombs Full-Time MBA application requires one professional letter of recommendation from a person who has supervised your work and/or has assessed your performance during your career.

A recommendation letter is one of the only things you rely on someone else to provide in your application. Circumstances differ for every applicant and deciding who you should ask will vary.  Below are some scenarios to help guide you in choosing the best recommender for your application.

Your Supervisor

Your current direct supervisor is traditionally the best choice. This is likely the person in your network that knows your strengths and weaknesses better than anyone else. However, this may not be a viable option for you.  Perhaps you aren’t able to communicate to your employer that you’re applying to business school or you do not work with your direct boss that closely. It could also be that you attained a new role recently and your current supervisor has not had a chance to work with you very much. Or,  you’re an entrepreneur & don’t have a supervisor.

All of these are valid reasons to look for other recommendation sources, but remember that if you do not ask your current supervisor to write your recommendation letter, we do ask that you explain your choice in the Optional Statement.

Your Former Supervisor

If you cannot ask your current direct supervisor to write your recommendation, maybe you can ask a previous supervisor? Depending on how recently you worked with them, the “old boss” may be the best choice, especially if you had a strong professional relationship with that person. This is also a very common option.

Your Indirect Supervisor

Asking an indirect supervisor can be another option, especially if you’ve worked with this person closely on past assignments or long-term projects.  This is a nice alternative to a supervisor that you may not work with closely.

Your Client or Vendor

This type of recommendation source is especially useful for entrepreneurs or for applicants who work for a family business.

If you work for a family business, it is preferred that you ask an individual outside of your family to write your letter of recommendation.

Your Mentor

Mentors inside or outside of your workplace are great to have in your corner when it comes time to apply to business school. However, be sure that your mentor has a clear understanding of your current professional value, not just your potential or future goals. Select a mentor with whom you have worked with on measurable tasks to ensure that they will provide a recommendation with depth.  Keep in mind that the admissions committee is looking for someone who has worked with you professionally.

Other Options

There are many individuals who may fall in the category of “other recommenders.” For example, a former professor, a colleague, or a coach.

When it comes to these options: use your best judgment. An undergraduate professor may not be the best person to address some of the questions posed on the recommendation form and we’re looking mainly at your post-undergraduate work experience.  Direct reports should never submit a letter of recommendation on behalf of their boss, so steer clear of that scenario. And don’t focus only on title– the CEO of a large company may sound like an impressive recommendation, but unless they work with you closely, the recommendation letter will likely fall short of delivering on the information that the admissions committee is looking for.

You’ve chosen a recommender. What’s next?

First, before asking your recommender to take this on, keep in mind that they are likely a busy individual – be sure to give them plenty of notice prior to an approaching application deadline.

Secondly, give them a heads-up about your request. You don’t want to blindly email someone and ask them to write something for you without having a conversation. Sometimes it’s good to revisit certain projects you worked on with them. Most importantly, explain to your recommender why you’re pursuing an MBA. Giving them some context behind your ask will go a long way and will likely result in a stronger letter.

Finally, make sure you give them all the info on the recommendation before you ask.  Texas McCombs uses the GMAC Common Letter of Recommendation.  Your recommender will be asked to assess specific competencies and traits, as well as answer three explicit questions.  While there will be other programs using this form,  some schools will ask a series of different questions.  If you’re applying to more than one MBA, you may be asking your recommender to fill out and separately submit different forms.


If you have any questions during the application process, we’re here to help. Please visit our website for details on applying to each program and follow us on Instagram for an inside look into the Texas McCombs MBA. 

Good luck and Hook ’em!

The Full-Time MBA Cover Letter and Optional Statement

MBA Cover Letter

The application cover letter is a critical means of learning who you are as an applicant and assessing your communication and writing skills. Here is the prompt to help guide you in writing the application cover letter:

Please write an application cover letter summarizing your aspirations, qualifications, personal and professional experiences that make you a strong candidate for the Texas Full-Time MBA program. (max 500)

MBA Optional Statement 

Please provide any additional information you believe is important or address any areas of concern that you believe will be beneficial to the MBA Admissions Committee in considering your application. (e.g. gaps in work experience, choice of recommender, academic performance, or extenuating personal circumstances) (250 words) 

Honestly, the most important piece of advice we can provide you on the optional statement is to remember that it is just that– optional. Only applicants who feel some of their profile deserves more explanation should submit an optional statement. This section of the application is not to designed for you to tell us more about your extracurricular activities or expand upon the essay prompt. While we love to see how excited you are to share additional information with us, there are other ways to let the Admissions Committee know about additional projects or passions. Your resume and the video assessment are better forums for these additional details. Optional statements should focus on filling gaps or answering questions we are likely to have about you. 

Our Tips for Writing Your Cover Letter

  • Be patient with yourself. Take time to reflect, brainstorm, rewrite, and EDIT. It will likely take more than one draft to realize your final submission.
  • Don’t copy and paste. Do not use the same content for multiple business schools. We can always spot recycled content.
  • STAY ON PROMPT. We actually want your submission to be in cover letter form! Approach this as you would drafting a cover letter for a job – who are you, why do you want to come to McCombs, and how will you contribute to the program?
  • Be honest. The cover letter is a way to learn more about you. Our community values authenticity and we look for submissions that reflect your authentic self.
  • Have someone you trust read over your cover letter. Those closest to you can provide valuable insights, feedback, and perspectives as you highlight your personal gifts and qualities.

We hope these insights into the written portions of our application give you some ideas to think about and some points to revisit as you write (and rewrite) your cover letter. Good luck, and happy applying!


If you have any questions during the application process, we’re here to help. Please visit our website for details on applying to each program and follow us on Instagram for an inside look into the Texas McCombs MBA. 

Getting to Know You Through the Video Assessment

Shortly after you submit your MBA application and your application fee is paid or waived, you will receive an invitation to complete the Texas McCombs MBA Video Assessment! All applicants have 7 days to complete the assessment upon receiving access to the video submission platform. The Video Assessment has 5  question prompts and will take approximately 20 minutes to complete.  The first question will be viewed by the Admissions Committee but will not be evaluated for a score. Applicants will be allowed to practice before submitting their Video Assessment and will have no more than 90 seconds to answer each prompt.  

What is the Admissions Committee looking for? 

This application requirement helps the Admissions Committee better understand who you are in your own voice and allows us to assess your communication skills. Within the video assessment we are evaluating the following competencies, important for every Texas McCombs MBA student: 

Adaptability / Resilience
We are looking for applicants that demonstrate adaptability and resilience through their positive mindset and ability to navigate unexpected circumstances and change. Successful applicants see failure as a learning experience and an opportunity to grow, demonstrated by their coachability and openness to feedback. 

Motivation
The Admissions Committee is looking for  a genuine interest in pursuing an MBA and a clear understanding of how it will help to achieve their professional goals. Applicants should understand why Texas McCombs is the right place to pursue their studies and show enthusiasm for their goals and our MBA program.

Empathy/Inclusivity
Texas McCombs MBA students demonstrate empathy by understanding others’ perspectives. The Admissions Committee is looking for candidates that advocate for under-represented voices and navigate difficult conversations/situations appropriately. Successful applicants embrace and work within diverse teams.

Ambition
The Admissions Committee is looking for candidates that demonstrate ambition and have the ability to deliver results. They show potential to strategically synthesize information to solve complex problems at a high level. They utilize an enterprising and tenacious approach to problem-solving and are intellectually curious. 

Goals
A strong applicant puts significant thought and consideration into their decision-making in applying for this program. They have a long-term vision of how they plan to achieve their goals. 

Well-Roundedness 
We are looking for applicants that are able to explain what drives them outside of work and career. They are well-rounded and display interests and passions in their personal life. Their personality is shaped by various hobbies or interests. 

Verbal Communication
The Admissions Committee is looking for candidates that are excellent verbal communicators. They are proficient and skilled in speaking and presenting in the English language, and they can articulate their thoughts clearly. Strong applicants are engaging, and they can think on their feet. 

Professionalism/Poise
Strong applicants display maturity, poise, answers questions, and conduct themselves in a professional manner. They present themselves professionally and can conduct themselves appropriately in a business setting. 

Tips for a Successful Video Assessment

  1. Practice: You will have the ability to practice responding to test questions for as long as you wish. Take advantage of the opportunity! The more you practice, the more comfortable you’ll be with the technology when answering the real prompts.  
  1. Test Technology: Virtual Assessments are conducted through the Kira platform. It will require a desktop or laptop computer (no iphones/ipads) with a functioning webcam, microphone, and internet connection. We recommend connecting directly to your internet for the most reliable internet connection – and make sure you have plenty of charge on your laptop or that you are plugged in! Most browsers are compatible (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Opera) but the platform will not work well on Safari.  
  1. Pace Yourself: A big reason that we limit responses to three minutes is because it is GREAT practice for your MBA experience.  Keeping responses concise, yet clear, is important when recruiting for U.S.-based jobs. However, make sure you are answering the question in full! Those practice questions will be a great way to gauge what three minutes actually feels like when responding to a question. 
  1. Be Professional, but Loosen Up: If you still find yourself nervous, practice your answers in front of a mirror or with a friend or colleague and ask them how you did. Did you answer the question? Did you rush through it? Take a moment to outline your answer in your mind first, and then address it calmly and confidently.  Don’t get too comfortable, though. While we’re an easy-going group, maintaining an appropriate level of professionalism is always a good idea. This includes professional language and attire. 

Here’s our final piece of advice: The video assessment is your official opportunity to share your story, provide examples, and tell us why you chose McCombs in your own voice like no one else can. Take advantage of this opportunity! It can be just the thing the Admissions Committee needs to understand the rest of your application elements and gives us the chance to get to know you better. 


If you have any questions during the application process, we’re here to help. Please visit our website for details on applying to each program and follow us on Instagram for an inside look into the Texas McCombs MBA. 

What’s New in the 2023-24
Texas McCombs Full-Time
MBA Application

Texas McCombs is delighted to unveil the 2023-24 Full-Time MBA application deadline and components, featuring significant updates that reflect our dedication to reducing bias, fostering inclusivity, and improving accessibility in the admissions process. We are excited to offer an extended application submission window, including our Round 4 deadline, providing applicants with more time to carefully prepare and submit their materials. Additionally, in recognition of the unique profiles of our applicants, we are expanding our standardized test options to include the GMAT Focus, GMAT, GRE, and Executive Assessment, and ongoing merit-based test waiver.

As part of our commitment to enabling applicants to showcase their unique voices, we are bringing back the video assessment component and introducing an optional peer interview, providing enhanced avenues for self-expression as well as authentic conversation. These updates aim to create an inclusive and welcoming admissions experience, ensuring prospective students have an equal opportunity to shine and contribute to our vibrant community at Texas McCombs.

APPLICATION COMPONENTS FOR THE 2023-2024 ADMISSIONS CYCLE

Our Admissions Committee dedicates itself to a meticulous, holistic review of each application. Our objective is to determine if you are a good fit for Texas McCombs and to be sure we are the right school for you and your goals. There are no fixed criteria or weighted portions of the application. Unless otherwise noted, the following application components will be required this cycle:

  • Standardized Test (GMAT, GMAT Focus, GRE, Executive Assessment) or merit-based waiver
  • English Proficiency Test (TOEFL, IELTS) or waiver (international students only)
  • Undergraduate transcripts and graduate transcripts (if applicable)
  • Resume
  • One Professional Recommendation
  • One Written Application Cover Letter
  • Video Assessment
  • Optional: Peer Interview

APPLICATION DEADLINES

Applications for the Full-Time MBA program are accepted in four rounds, and the program enrolls annually every August. Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM Central Time on the deadline date for each round.

  • Round 1: October 10, 2023
  • Round 2: January 5, 2024
  • Round 3: March 26, 2024*
  • Round 4: May 9, 2024

*Final deadline for international applicants.

STANDARDIZED TESTING REQUIREMENTS

To provide MBA candidates with additional flexibility, applicants have more options than ever before when considering how to complete the standardized test requirement in their application. All applicants are required to submit a GMAT, GMAT Focus, GRE, or Executive Assessment (EA) score. We will waive the testing requirement if:

  • Expired (taken 5+ years ago) GMAT, GRE, or EA score is submitted
  • General Test Waiver (merit-based) is approved

Standardized exams like the GRE, GMAT, GMAT Focus, and EA help us to evaluate a candidate’s academic preparedness for the rigor of business school and is also one metric used to compare candidates within a large pool of applicants. However, there are some scenarios where a candidate’s application might shine without the standardized test. Learn more about the criteria required to apply for a general test waiver.

Once the GMAT Focus is launched in late fall, Texas McCombs will accept both the current GMAT test type and the new GMAT Focus test type.

Note that the majority of applicants applying to the Full-Time MBA program take either the GMAT or the GRE due to the competitiveness of the pool. In many cases, having a strong GMAT or GRE score will make you more competitive for both admission and scholarship opportunities.

APPLICATION COVER LETTER

The application cover letter is a critical means of learning who you are as an applicant and assessing your communication and writing skills. Here is the prompt to help guide you in writing the application cover letter:

Please write an application cover letter summarizing your aspirations, qualifications, and personal and professional experiences that make you a strong candidate for the Texas Full-Time MBA program.

LIMIT: 500 words 

Additionally, and if applicable, applicants can provide an optional statement in the essay section of the application. Applicants should only provide an optional statement if there is something they wish to address about their candidacy that is not addressed elsewhere.

VIDEO ASSESSMENT

Texas McCombs has always been at the forefront of innovation and continuous improvement, consistently seeking new ways to enhance the application process for prospective MBA candidates. In line with our school mission and values, we introduced a dynamic video assessment component as part of the 2022-23 admission cycle, offering an alternative approach to a more traditional essay and interview format. Given all applicants will complete the video assessment, MBA candidates will have increased access to the application process and the opportunity to share their stories with us in their own voice.  Through the video assessment, the Admissions Committee will have a chance to experience the “real” you, beyond a resume, test scores, and transcripts. Lastly, the video assessment will enable Texas McCombs to reduce bias in the admissions process by providing all applicants with a structured and consistent assessment experience.

MBA candidates with a submitted application, whose application fee has been paid or waived will be invited to take part in our Texas McCombs Video Assessment. Each applicant will have 7 days from the invitation to complete the assessment. The video assessment is asynchronous and will help the admissions committee evaluate your career goals and the following competencies that are crucial for the fit and success of our students within the program and their future careers:

Adaptability/Resilience

Empathy/Inclusivity

Ambition

Goals

Well-Roundedness

Verbal Communication

Professionalism/Poise 

Each video assessment will start with a fun, non-evaluative question that will help the admissions team learn who you are as a person, then applicants will be asked 4 additional questions, for a total of 5 responses, with each response lasting no more than 90 seconds each. Detailed instructions will be provided with the video assessment invitation so you know what to expect, and applicants will have the opportunity to practice as many times as they wish before completing the final video assessment.

This is your time to show us your personality and enthusiasm! We recommend that you prepare for the video assessment similarly to how you might prepare for an interview.  Think reflectively about your work experience, strengths, weaknesses, and work on your delivery.

OPTIONAL: PEER INTERVIEW

One of the most vital parts of the MBA application process at Texas McCombs is the human component – “Human-Centered, Future-Focused” is our mantra for a reason. We pride ourselves in getting to know you at a personal level during the admissions process and will continue to provide hundreds of virtual and in-person ways for you to meet our students, alumni, faculty, and admissions team.

We invite all MBA applicants to close out their application process in a human-centered way and complete a short, optional virtual interview. While not required, registering for and completing an interview is highly encouraged.  

These interactive virtual sessions present a valuable opportunity for our applicants to connect with Full-Time MBA students, showcasing their collaborative skills, reaffirming their motivation for pursuing an MBA and leaving a lasting positive impression on Texas McCombs.

The optional interview will last 20-30 minutes and are available throughout the round.  The student ambassador will introduce themselves and ask you up to 3 questions that focus on collaboration and your motivation.  The rest of the time is yours to ask 2-3 questions that are top of mind.

OUR COMMITMENT

These enhancements to our application components exemplify our commitment to a human-centered, future-focused approach. We deeply value each candidate’s individual journey and recognize the potential they bring to our program. Join us at Texas McCombs as we shape a class of talented individuals with various perspectives, pioneering a path toward a brighter and more impactful future in business education.

Learn more about the MBA Application Components.


Visit Texas McCombs MBA to learn more about our programs and upcoming events, or take a peek into student life on Instagram. Check out our Application Process page for more information on application components. Please reach out to the MBA Admissions Team with any questions.

Good luck and Hook ’em!

Older posts Newer posts
Skip to toolbar