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Full-Time MBA Application 2023-2024 Updates and Changes

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

June 13, 2023 / / 5 Comments

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!

Picture of a man at a desk in a wheelchair smiling at a laptop in his lap. Text reads - Applying in Round 4 - Submit Today, Start Classes in August

Why It’s OK (and sometimes
better) to Submit Your MBA Application in the Final Round

May 1, 2023 / / Comments Off on Why It’s OK (and sometimes
better) to Submit Your MBA Application in the Final Round

This MBA Insider content comes from Christie Jenkins, Senior Recruiting and Admissions Officer for the Evening MBA Program.

Let’s start with a game of two truths and a lie! Can you spot the lie among the statements below?

  • Texas McCombs is always seeking the most qualified candidates for its MBA programs.
  • The Admissions Committee reviews applications holistically, considering a candidate’s academic performance, work experience, program fit, and a variety of other hard and soft skills.
  • Candidates must apply early to have the best chance at admission.

The first two statements are true. We are looking for the best people we can find, and we review a candidate’s academic profile, work history, and how a Texas McCombs MBA can help them achieve their goals.

The last statement is a myth – and it’s one of the most common misconceptions about applying to our MBA programs.

We are not simply trying to fill the next incoming class as soon as possible; we want to ensure that we have the strongest and most dynamic class we can get. Therefore, we have the same rigorous admissions standards regardless of when you apply. Often, some of our best students apply in the final round!

Depending on the format of the MBA program you are pursuing, either as a Full-Time student or in our Working Professional or Executive MBA programs, your preparation process will likely differ.

Full-Time MBA applicants are choosing to leave the workforce for two years and often relocate to a new city. These steps require advanced planning, and usually, applicants have been working towards them for months. However, there are a variety of valid reasons an applicant may wait until the final round to apply to a Full-Time MBA program. Perhaps there have been unexpected changes to your work or living situation, and suddenly, now would be the ideal time to make a move. Or, you just wrapped up a big project, and you can finally focus on submitting a top-notch application. Or maybe, you’ve only recently come to the realization that pursuing an MBA is the best next step forward to reach your goals.

Working Professional and Executive MBA candidates, who are planning to earn their MBA while continuing to work full-time, typically have a different set of considerations. Of course, you will still notify your employer of your intent to start an MBA, but you can tell them a bit later in the application process. Those conversations will center on your growth plan with your company and if they can offer schedule flexibility or financial sponsorship. You’ll also want to gain support from friends and family, and set expectations with them on how you will manage your time with your new priorities. Because Working Professional and Executive MBA students can continue working and living in the same area, they tend to apply later.

Often, it’s not clear that the time is right to pursue your MBA until later in the application cycle, and candidates don’t want to wait a year before getting started. Sometimes an application can be even stronger when you wait to submit until after you’ve landed a promotion, closed that latest deal, or had more time to prepare. The Admissions Committee recognizes this dynamic. When you’re ready to apply, we’re ready for you.

Bottom line: The best time to submit your application is when you feel ready to do so and you’re confident it will be the best representation of you and your potential in the program.

button that reads "Start or Submit Your MBA Application"

Ready to get started on your MBA journey? Visit Texas McCombs MBA to learn more about our programs, application components, deadlines, and upcoming events, or take a peek into student life on Instagram. Please reach out to the MBA Admissions Team with any questions.

Just announced: Full-Time MBA Round 4

Admissions Announcement: Texas McCombs Full-Time MBA Adds Round 4 for Fall 2023 Entry

February 20, 2023 / / 3 Comments

The Round 3 application deadline to the Texas McCombs Full-Time MBA program is slated for March 28, 2023. However, economic uncertainty has impacted many prospective students around the world. With many prospective students facing layoffs or uncertainty in their professional situation, our team believes an additional application round will be helpful for those needing a little more time to work on their application and evaluate their next professional step.

In response, Texas McCombs will add a fourth round to the Full-Time MBA Class of 2025. The Round 4 application deadline is Thursday, May 11, 2023.

Stacey Batas, Director of Full-Time MBA Recruiting and Admissions, provides insight on the addition of a new application round and advice for navigating the application.

Who is eligible to apply in Round 4?

Any U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident of the U.S. is eligible to apply in the new round. Round 4 is not open to international applicants due to issues with visa documentation timelines.

Are you still offering application fee waivers or test waivers to Round 4 applicants?

Yes! We have one more application fee waiver-eligible event, open to both Round 3 and Round 4 applicants in this application cycle. In order to obtain the waiver, you must register for and attend our Application Overview Virtual Session on March 7 at 8AM CT.  Register here.

As with other rounds, test waiver petitions are also available and can be found on our website. If you are considering applying in Round 4 and would like to submit your application without a GMAT, GRE or Executive Assessment exam, please read this document carefully to see if you’re eligible and submit the waiver form by no later than May 4, or 7 days before the deadline.

Are there still financial aid or scholarship opportunities available to Round 4 applicants?

It’s hard for the admissions team to predict merit-based scholarship availability for future rounds, since it depends on how many scholarships we have to award at that point in the cycle. Admitted students will be notified within their acceptance letter if they receive any merit-based scholarship funding from McCombs.

How will Round 4 work? When will decisions be released?

Round 4 will work much like our other rounds – you need to submit your application by 11:59 PM  CT on May 11, 2023.   Decisions will be released on or before June 8, and the enrollment deposit deadline for those admitted will be June 15.

I was laid off. How do I explain being laid off in my application?

Though unfortunate and stressful, lay-offs happen! Once you upload your resume on the “Employment Information” section of the application, there will be a question asking whether or not you’re currently employed full-time. If the answer is no, you’ll be given a chance to explain your situation. This response is limited to 255 characters, so you don’t have to go into full detail here! If you’d like to include additional details about your employment to the admissions committee, complete the optional statement for us to review.

I was laid off and I don’t have a professional recommender. What are my other options?

There are lots of great sources for recommendation letters! Here are some of our tips to help you choose a recommender who knows you well and can speak to your strengths.

What are the benefits of applying in Round 4 vs. applying next cycle?

The biggest benefit is that you potentially won’t need to wait a full year to enroll! Round 4 is a great option for those who definitely know they want to go to McCombs, but who may have figured that out a little later in the game. We’d also like to dispel the myth that having to reapply the following cycle is a bad thing. We value re-applicants and never look down on someone who applied late cycle and then re-applied the following fall.

What advice would you give to an applicant submitting in Round 4?

Get to know us! We’re hosting campus visits until late April and will be hosting virtual events to help you navigate the application process. Attending our events can also help you craft your essay and prepare for the video assessment.

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

Interviewing for a Working Professional MBA Program

November 1, 2022 / / Comments Off on Interviewing for a Working Professional MBA Program

After you submit your MBA application, the next step in the application process is your admissions interview.  For the 2022-23 admissions cycle, all applicants for the MBA at Dallas and MBA Houston programs will be interviewed. All interviews will be conducted virtually. 

Working Professional MBA Interviews

For our Working Professional MBA programs–Evening MBA, MBA at Dallas/Fort Worth, and MBA at Houston–interviews will be conducted by a member of the Admissions Committee.

You will receive an interview invitation that will allow you to select an interview time slot that works with your schedule. Be sure to schedule it as early as you can.

Interview invitations typically come within two weeks of your application submission. Be sure to check your email (and your spam folder) regularly after you submit your application, so you can secure your preferred time slot.

An Un-Biased Approach  

Going into each interview, our interviewers have limited access to anything about you or your application, except for your resume. (It’s always a good idea to have a copy of your resume on-hand during the conversation.)

All of our interviewers are fully trained on conducting interviews that are professional, fair, impartial, and helpful. Interviews typically last anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.

Most interviews follow the general framework of introductions, questions from the interviewer for you to answer, then leave time at the end for you to ask questions about the program and/or application process.

Top Tips

The interview is your official opportunity to share your story, provide examples, and tell us why you chose McCombs like no one else can. Some applicants anticipate an interview and feel nervous, which is natural. If you are nervous, here is some key advice:

  1. 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.
  2. Test Technology: Virtual interviews are being conducted through Zoom. If you don’t have one already, create a Zoom account. You’ll want to find a good space to conduct your interview, ideally with good lighting, stable internet, and access to a power source.
  3. 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 first answer for fear of not being given an opportunity later on to address their prepared examples.  Don’t worry, you will have time to get to it.  Plus, there is often an opportunity at the end of an interview to mention anything you didn’t address in the formal line of questioning.
  4. Be Professional But Loosen Up: Given our program’s famously friendly culture, our interviews are relatively informal.  If you are nervous, practice your answers in front of a mirror or with a friend 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, as if you were interviewing for a job.
  5. Know What We’re Looking For: We listen for confidence, clear and concise communication of career goals, concrete examples of teamwork and leadership, in-depth knowledge of our MBA program, and overall genuine enthusiasm.  Also, the interview can be a place to showcase secondary skills that are difficult for us to determine solely based on your application: interview skills, self-awareness, communication style, and “hire-ability.” Keep these in mind so we can get a feel for your application’s intangibles.
  6. 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 an MBA student, and you can formulate coherent thoughts under pressure. We usually leave anywhere from 10-15 minutes for questions, so limit your list to 2-3 good ones and have a few backups.

Take advantage of this opportunity. It can be just the thing the Admissions Committee needs to understand your application’s 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. Join us at an upcoming event to connect and learn more about Texas McCombs.  Please sign up for MBA news and follow us on Instagram at @UTexasMBA to stay updated.

Hook ’em!

Texas McCombs Executive MBA Application Now Open

Start Your Executive MBA Application Today

September 27, 2022 / / Comments Off on Start Your Executive MBA Application Today

The application for the Texas McCombs Executive MBA program is now open! Start your application today to be a part of the next century of leaders, innovators, and changemakers.  

START YOUR EXECUTIVE MBA APPLICATION

APPLICATION COMPONENTS FOR THE 2022-2023 ADMISSIONS CYCLE  

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

  • Standardized Test (GMAT, GRE, Executive Assessment) or merit-based test waiver  
  • English Proficiency Test (TOEFL, IELTS) or waiver (international students only)  
  • Undergraduate transcripts and graduate transcripts (if applicable)  
  • Resume  
  • One Professional Recommendation  
  • One Written Essay  
  • Video Assessment   
  • MBA Admissions Interview 

 APPLICATION DEADLINES  

Applications for the Executive MBA program are accepted in two rounds, and the program enrolls annually every August. Applications should be submitted by 11:59 PM Central Time on the deadline date for each round. Applications are accepted and evaluated between rounds, with a 4 – 6-week turnaround for a decision. 

  • Round 1: February 14, 2023 
  • Round 2: May 30, 2023 

TESTING REQUIREMENTS AND WAIVERS 

Applicants have several options when considering how to complete the standardized test requirement in their application.  

All applicants are required to submit a GMAT, GRE, or Executive Assessment (EA) score. We will waive the testing requirement if:  

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

Standardized exams like the GRE, GMAT, 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.  

SUBMITTING YOUR ESSAY  

The essay is a critical means of assessing an applicant’s motivation for attending the McCombs School of Business, their background and goals, and their communication and writing skills. Strong applications convey careful research on Texas McCombs and enthusiasm for the program.

The essay prompt for the 2022-2023 admissions cycle is as follows: 

Take time to reflect on your MBA journey and the direction you want to take in your professional career. Explain how the Texas McCombs MBA program will help you realize your professional goals, and how you will contribute to the McCombs MBA community. (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 explain about their candidacy that is not addressed elsewhere.  

VIDEO ASSESSMENT  

Texas McCombs is excited to introduce the video assessment as a new application component for the 2022-23 Executive MBA admissions cycle. 

All applicants will complete the video assessment, which will give all MBA candidates the opportunity to share their story with us in their own voice.  Through the video assessment, the Admissions Committee will have a chance to experience the “real” you, beyond what we see and read in your application. 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. The video assessment is virtual and on-demand, so applicants can complete it from anywhere in the world at a time in the day convenient to them.  

Applicants will be asked to use the video assessment tool to record responses to four questions, with each response lasting no more than three minutes 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.  Applicants will have seven days from the invitation to complete 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, and weaknesses, and practice your delivery.  

MBA ADMISSIONS INTERVIEW  

Every Executive MBA candidate will complete an interview with a member of the Admissions Committee. The interview format is behavioral-question based and lasts 30 minutes including time for your questions. Expect to receive an email with a link to the online schedule after your application fee is reconciled. 

 The Executive MBA 2022-2023 Application is open! Please sign up for MBA news and follow us on Instagram at @UTexasMBA to stay updated. 

Join us at an upcoming event to connect and learn more about Texas McCombs. 

Hook ’em! 

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