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Texas McCombs Weekend MBA Application Now Open

Start Your Weekend MBA Application Today

The application for the Texas McCombs Weekend MBA at Dallas/Fort Worth and MBA at Houston programs is open! Start your application today to be a part of the next century of leaders, innovators, and changemakers.

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
Undergraduate transcripts and graduate transcripts (if applicable) – must be offical and issued in the last 12 months. International transcripts must include mark sheets, degree certificate, and English translation if applicable.
Resume
One Professional Recommendation
Two Written Essays
MBA Admissions Interview

APPLICATION DEADLINES

Applications for the Weekend MBA at Dallas/Fort Worth and MBA at Houston programs are accepted in four 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 on a rolling basis, with a 4 – 6-week turnaround for a decision.

Round 1 Deadline
Application Due: October 25, 2022
Decision Delivered: December 2, 2022

Round 2 Deadline
Application Due: February 14, 2023
Decision Delivered: March 31, 2023

Round 3 Deadline
Application Due: April 4, 2023
Decision Delivered: May 12, 2023

Round 4 Deadline
Application Due: May 30, 2023
Decision Delivered: July 14, 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 prompts for the 2022-2023 admissions cycle are as follows:

We want to get to know you beyond your resume and professional experience. Tell us about yourself. You can discuss your upbringing, core values, formative experiences, special talents/interests, etc. Feel free to be creative and share anything that you think the Admissions Committee will find interesting. Select only one communication method for your response.

Write an essay (250 words)

Share a video introduction (one minute in length)

Take time to reflect on your MBA journey and the direction you want to take 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.

Learn more about submitting your essay.

MBA ADMISSIONS INTERVIEW

Every MBA candidate will complete an interview with a member of the Admissions Committee. Expect to receive an email with a link to the online schedule after your application fee is reconciled.

Please note: All MBA Admissions interviews are currently being conducted virtually until further notice.

Learn more about the MBA Interview.

The Weekend 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!

Creating Connections: The Weekend MBA at DFW and Houston Student Experience

May 13, 2022 / Texas MBA Admissions / Comments Off

The MBA Insider content below comes from Rebecca Gavillet, Managing Director of Working Professional MBA Student Affairs. She writes about the Working Professional student experience and different ways to connect with classmates while in the program.

The MBA at Dallas/Fort Worth and MBA at Houston programs are offered to those who want a Texas McCombs MBA but do not want to stop working while pursuing their degree. Students take classes every other weekend at the Centrum in Dallas and the Cizik School of Nursing in Houston. The Working Professional MBA programs allow students to immediately apply learnings at work, enhance their careers, as well as transform themselves into leaders. Students can tap into the robust Longhorn network, building lifelong connections with their classmates, other Texas McCombs MBAs, and alumni.

Cohorts and Study Groups

Students are put into cohorts at the beginning of the program and take all classes with their cohort mates. The cohort-based model offers a collaborative learning environment, helping students to network and support one another in their classes. Additionally, each student is assigned a study team of 4-6 students within their cohort. Study teams are created to promote diversity across backgrounds and strengths. Each student will be assigned to four different study teams throughout the program, encouraging student interaction and community building.

“The cohort system allowed us to quickly get comfortable with one another and speak freely in class. As for my study group, I can’t say enough positive things. We all pull the weight and our skills benefit one another so well – like complementary puzzle pieces.”

– Trevor Baugh, MBA at Houston ’23

“I absolutely enjoyed the cohort experience. Looking back, I would not have been able to choose my own classes or plan my MBA path. On top of that, being able to learn through the coursework with the same groups of classmates brought us even closer together. I couldn’t imagine an MBA experience any other way.”

– Jospeh Shih, MBA at Houston ’22

“My study group was one of the most impactful and valuable aspects of McCombs for me. It was just another element of the program that showed me how customized the school made the program. Our study groups were so well-rounded in terms of background that it made learning that much more collaborative and insightful. One person might run point as the subject matter expertise and could help the others by providing real-world examples, etc. It truly helped bring the material to life and make it that much more impactful.”

– Kelsey Charles, MBA at DFW ’22.

Austin Intensives

Austin Intensives are week-long immersions that happen at the beginning of your first and second year on The University of Texas at Austin campus. DFW and Houston MBA students come together for a week of orientation, team building, career management sessions, and McCombs+ workshops, along with academic classes. We still leave time for students to socialize – offering program planned activities, such as dinner and a tour of DKR Football Stadium, and student planned events, such as a Graduate Women in Business (GWiB) hosted social at historic Scholz Garten. While in Austin, students stay in their own room at AT&T Conference Center and Hotel on campus. Most meals are provided, including all breakfasts, lunches, snacks, and some dinners. Meals and accommodations are included in the program cost. The week is definitely intense, but students gain a great amount of learning and networking during the week, along with time to explore campus and Austin.

“I had no clue what Intensives was when I got to Austin. I wondered why we had multiple days of orientation, but I soon realized it was much more than that. I still remember going out the first night with my classmates, building the bicycles in the auditorium, as well as the festivities the last night and the impending headaches while in class Friday before driving home. A truly valuable experience in more ways than one.”

– Trevor Baugh, MBA at Houston ’23

First Semester Residency

During the fall semester of the first year, students stay at a nearby hotel on class weekends. In Dallas, students stay at the Marriott Uptown and the Hotel Zaza Museum District in Houston – both are a short drive from campus. The residency experience allows students to build community with one another and faculty. It also decreases commute times and allows students to focus on academics. Typically, students go to the hotel immediately following class on Friday and socialize at the hotel bar. There are also ample meeting spaces throughout each hotel for study teams to gather and prep for class the next day. Each student gets their own room during the residency, which is included in the program cost.

“The residency was a great feature of the program. The hotel was the perfect spot to congregate for group work…or meet at the bar for drinks. I wish we had the option to sign up for a room throughout other semesters.”

– Trevor Baugh, MBA at Houston ’23

“Residency is great because it gives you a chance to truly get to know your peers. This program FLIES by. You will be done before you know it and residency is just another way to get to know your fellow classmates and make friends and connections that will last a lifetime.”

– Kelsey Charles, MBA at DFW ’22

Global Trips

One of my favorite components of the program is the Global Studies course, which incorporates a week-long international study tour providing students with a global perspective on business and leadership. Students from the DFW, Houston and Texas Evening MBA students travel together to learn how business is done in another country, as well as experience another culture. This past year, we traveled to Croatia, Germany, Greece, Italy, Panama, Portugal, Spain, and the UAE. In the course, students gain background knowledge of the history, culture, politics, and economics of the region, enhancing their knowledge and understanding of global business.

A student who recently traveled to Italy said the “trip made me a well-rounded and more internationally aware”, while a DFW MBA classmate said, “the best part was interacting with students in the other programs. It was nice getting to know new people that can sympathize with your situation and also exchange stories on classes, projects, etc.”

A Houston MBA student who went to the UAE said he enjoyed, “Spending time with business leaders seeing how strategy, marketing, and operations look in practice, plus visiting the cultural sites including the Burj Al Arab and the spectacular Burj Khalifa; it was completely worth the time and money from a cultural and educational standpoint”.

To learn more about Texas McCombs, visit us online, join us at an upcoming event, and sign up to receive MBA news.

The MBA at Dallas/Fort Worth and MBA at Houston applications are open. The next and final deadline to apply is June 15, 2022.

Student Spotlight: Kelsey Charles, MBA at DFW ’22

April 26, 2022 / Texas MBA Admissions / Comments Off

Meet Kelsey Charles, MBA at Dallas/Fort Worth Class of 2022. At McCombs, Kelsey is a part of the McCombs Ambassador Committee as a MAC Chair. She is currently a Strategic Sports and Entertainment Sponsorship Director at MVP. Kelsey tells us about her experience juggling life and work, while in school, and shares advice for students looking to apply to McCombs.

What were you looking forward to most when you started your MBA journey?

“When starting my MBA journey, one of the things I was most excited about was the opportunity to connect with like-minded people. Undergraduate programs are awesome and set a great baseline in terms of general knowledge, but deciding to go back to school for an advanced degree, especially while working full-time, is a different level of commitment and drive. I think it’s important to surround yourself with people who push you and the McCombs MBA program does just that.”

Why did you choose the Texas McCombs MBA at Dallas program for your MBA?

“McCombs is iconic and well-respected internationally. There is simply no other way to put it and it’s for good reason. Texas picks the best and brightest but also places an emphasis on culture which I think is important. By coming to UT, you are joining one of the most well-rounded, well-known, and respected groups in the world. It’s the opportunity of a lifetime.”

What was the application/interview process like for you?

“The application process was great. I really appreciated McCombs asking what my goals were in the short and long term because it ensured that I had intention when entering the program. I also really enjoyed the conversations I had with alumni and the admissions staff- it was very clear what type of people go to McCombs and I immediately knew I found my home when I realized that culture was just as important as intelligence and experience.”

What were some of the challenges, if any, that you and your peers faced in the first semester?

“Juggling a full-time job in addition to school is always difficult at first. On top of that, many people have spouses, families, or even additional commitments and side hustles. I personally have several other commitments and jobs on top of my 9-5, so working out a schedule to balance it all was imperative for me in the beginning.”

What were you surprised by in the first semester?

“I was surprised by the diversity of the curriculum, in the best way. I feel like a lot of schools are focused solely on tactical types of programming, whereas McCombs truly builds future leaders through career coaching, leadership classes, and of course, a core business foundation.”

Kelsey also took part in the Austin Intensive Seminars. The Austin Intensive Seminar is a week-long signature program that kicks-off your first and second year in the MBA at Dallas/Fort Worth and MBA at Houston programs. They are an opportunity for you to get to know your classmates, start learning from McCombs faculty, and launch your first and second year of MBA studies on The University of Texas at Austin campus. The Austin Intensive Seminars bring together first and second year students from our two weekend programs in Dallas/Fort Worth and Houston.

What were Austin Intensives like?

INTENSE. But SO FUN. It truly was the epitome of ‘work hard, play hard’ and was the perfect combination of drinking from a fire hose and learning so many incredible things, but doing it alongside your friends in the program. It was a true bonding experience.”

MBA at Dallas/Fort Worth Class of 2022 in Austin.

Bonding with your classmates is an invaluable part of the MBA experience. The MBA at Dallas/Fort Worth program also includes a Residency component, in which you’ll stay in Dallas at the Marriot Dallas Uptown, the official program hotel, on class weekends during the first semester. The Residency cuts down on commute time, fosters a more immersive environment, and creates additional networking opportunities for students and faculty.

How did the first-semester residency impact your part-time MBA experience?

“Residency is great because it gives you a chance to truly get to know your peers. This program FLIES by. You will be done before you know it and residency is just another way to get to know your fellow classmates and make friends and connections that will last a lifetime.”

What is the work/life/school balance like for you?

“Work/life/school balance has been great. I think identifying days upfront that you will be studying is key and really leaning into your study groups is helpful too. Teamwork makes the dream work, right? You’re not alone in this so asking others what works for them is always a great idea and then fine-tuning it to fit your personal schedule has been my strategy.”

What is your study group like? Did you find it helpful to have those selected for you?

“My study group was one of the most impactful and valuable aspects of McCombs for me. It was just another element of the program that showed me how customized the school made the program. Our study groups were so well-rounded in terms of background that it made learning that much more collaborative and insightful. One person might run point as the subject matter expertise and could help the others by providing real-world examples, etc. It truly helped bring the material to life and make it that much more impactful.”

Kelsey Charles with Emily Le, Senior MBA at Dallas/Fort Worth Admissions Officer.

What has been the biggest lesson you have learned?

“That being a successful leader in the business world isn’t all about the work you produce, but also the qualitative values you bring to the table too. Being a good leader, pushing the envelope, not being afraid to roll up your sleeves, asking the tough questions, and diving in.. the secret sauce is in being more than one-dimensional and I know I have been equipped with the proper tools to be successful as a leader in my field moving forward.”

Do you have any advice for future students starting the program in the fall?

“DO THE ACCOUNTING BOOTCAMP! And if you do not have a business background, don’t worry. You will be successful. This is truly a program of well-rounded individuals. Don’t be afraid to ask for help where you may have blind spots- you will truly get what you put into the program.”

Learn more about the MBA at Dallas/Fort Worth and stay up to date with all things McCombs by subscribing to our newsletter. Follow us on Instagram to see more about student life. If you have any questions, please reach out to MBA Admissions. Hook ’em!

The working professional & executive mba application: essay writing tips

Working Professional and Executive MBA Essay Questions

October 19, 2021 / Texas MBA Admissions / Comments Off

The essays in your MBA application are an important part of sharing your unique story. The most successful essays thoughtfully address the prompts, clearly communicate why you want to attend Texas McCombs, and authentically share who you are. We’ve shared some tips below to aid you in submitting a strong set of essays.

Texas McCombs MBA Essay 1

We will learn a lot about your professional background through your resume and letter of recommendation, but we want to get to know you further. Please introduce yourself. Select only one communication method for your response

a. Write an essay (250 words)
b. Share a video introduction (one minute in length)

First, this prompt is purposely open-ended. It grants you the freedom to introduce yourself in a way that is genuinely “you.” Think about what gives you energy and recharges you. When you first meet someone, what’s your personal elevator pitch? How does it share your values? Give us a well-rounded mix of information in this essay so we can better understand you beyond your work life.

Don’t forget about the first sentence of the prompt: “We will learn a lot about your professional background through your resume and letter of recommendation.” The admissions committee already read your resume, letter of recommendation, education history, and goals. While your professional life is important, this essay is your opportunity to share who you are outside of those components.

Finally, the choice is yours: written essay or video. We have seen significant success with both mediums and do not have a preference for one over the other. Therefore, play to your strengths! If your skill is in writing, focus on the essay. If you’re not shy in front of a camera, then record a video. However, if you do submit a video, keep in mind that sending us a photo slideshow isn’t advisable. These slideshow submissions don’t grant the admissions committee the chance to actually see and hear from you, which is really what we are looking for in a video submission. Have fun with either submission and do not take this essay for granted— it can go a long way in setting the stage for your MBA application and creating another great impression.

Texas McCombs MBA Essay 2

Describe how the Texas McCombs MBA will help you realize your professional aspirations, and the unique knowledge and experiences you have to share with your classmates. (500 words)

Essay Two provides an opportunity to explain why you’re applying to Texas McCombs.

By answering the first part of the prompt, we will understand why the Texas McCombs MBA, your career plan, and discover how you want to develop yourself both in and out of the classroom. What classes, organizations, and experiential opportunities specifically relate to your career plan? Connect the dots between your goals and how McCombs will get you there.

By answering the second part of the prompt, we will learn what you will bring to the program. How do you envision yourself becoming an active member of our community? What personal and professional attributes and experiences will you be sharing with your classmates?

Make sure to give us specifics. If you’ve engaged with the program, you know there is a lot to look forward to: challenging classes, organizations, student/alumni networking, award-winning professors, unique career-oriented opportunities…the list goes on. Illustrate what attributes of the program you plan to take full advantage of and how you plan to make a positive impact while you are a student. What will be your MBA legacy? Convince us that you are indispensable to our community.

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 MBA Admissions in considering your application (e.g. gaps in work experience, choice of recommender, academic performance, or extenuating personal circumstances). If living outside of the metro area that the program is held in, please provide explanation regarding your plans to commute or relocate to the program location. (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 piece of their profile deserves more explanation should submit an optional statement. This section of the application is not to tell us more about your extracurricular activities or expand upon your personal introduction. 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. The bottom of your resume or your interview are likely better forums for these details. Optional statements should focus on filling gaps or answering questions we are likely to have about you.

Our Top Essay Writing Tips

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. If you bypass the actual questions in an effort to tell us something you think we want to hear, you will not provide the information we are looking for. This includes sticking to the word counts and time limits that are given.
Be honest. These essays are our way to learn more about you. Our community values authenticity and we look for essays that reflect your authentic self.
Have someone you trust read over your essays. 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 essay prompts give you some ideas to think about and some points to revisit as you write (and rewrite) your essays. Good luck and happy applying!

Please reach out to the MBA Admissions Team with any questions.

Hook ’em!

Working Professional and Executive MBA Testing Options

October 15, 2021 / Texas MBA Admissions / Comments Off

Preparing for and taking an MBA admissions exam is one of the best ways to get your mind back into academic mode as you prepare for business school. Some of the most common questions we receive from MBA candidates are about the standardized tests. Texas McCombs MBA admissions is excited to share that working professional and executive MBA candidates 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, GRE, or Executive Assessment (EA). We will waive the testing requirement if:

Expired (taken 5+ years ago) GMAT, GRE, or EA score
General Test Waiver (merit-based) is approved
COVID-19 Test Exception is approved

Standardized exams like the GRE, GMAT, EA, TOEFL, and IELTS help us to evaluate a candidate’s academic preparedness for the rigor of business school and is one metric used to compare candidates within a large pool of applicants.

In addition, studying for and taking the exam – for some, even taking it multiple times – can show the admissions committee your commitment to the competitive business school application process and how you may approach academic challenges as a student.

This post contains a lot of information, broken down into three sections:

Test Options for Working Professional and Executive MBA Candidates
Which Exam is Right for You?
Impact of Your Test Score.

Test Options for Working Professional and Executive MBA Candidates

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

Expired (taken 5+ years ago) GMAT, GRE, or EA score
General Test Waiver (merit-based) is approved
COVID-19 Test Exception is approved

Our admissions committee does not have a preference on which test you take and there is no minimum score.

Submitting Current GMAT, GRE, or EA Scores

For current scores, you must self-report your test scores in your application as well as have official score reports sent directly to UT Austin by the testing agency. The date that your official scores are sent to UT Austin by the testing agency should be no later than the application round deadline, as it can take up to 3-4 weeks for new scores to be processed. Note that if you are taking the GMAT, GRE, or EA online, you will want to allow up to two weeks to receive your score from the testing agency. You must have your test score in hand by the application deadline in order to submit your application.

Submitting Expired GRE, GMAT, or EA Scores

For expired scores (5 years or older), you must self-report your score and upload proof of the test score in the application. Examples of proof for expired test scores include a score report you received previously from the testing agency OR documentation from another educational institution that previously received the score (e.g. for another graduate/terminal degree application).

About the Executive Assessment (EA)

In 2016 GMAC (who also administers the GMAT exam) saw the need for a new exam, designed specifically for the needs of MBA applicants who have a significant amount of work experience. Originally conceived for Executive MBA programs, the Executive Assessment (EA) exam was launched. Today, almost 100 MBA programs, Full-Time, Professional, and Executive, accept the EA. Unlike the GMAT or GRE, the EA is a readiness exam and a benchmark for academic preparedness. More details about the EA exam can be found below.

General Test Waiver Petition

A merit-based test waiver is available by request prior to submitting your application. Waivers/Exceptions are not available for applicants who have already sent scores to UT.

For candidates who would like to request a merit-based test waiver:

Submit the General Test Waiver petition form prior to submitting your application.
The General Test Waiver petition form can be accessed directly (UT EID login required) or via the test scores section of the application.
Waiver approval is merit-based and takes into account your work experience and academic history. Your resume and transcripts are required for consideration.
A decision on your test waiver request will be shared within 5-10 business days after submission.
Waivers/Exceptions are not available for applicants who have already sent scores to UT.

COVID-19 Test Exception Petition

A test exception is available if you have been directly affected by COVID-19 and are unable to take the exam in person or at home. Waivers/Exceptions are not available for applicants who have already sent sores to UT.

For candidates who would like to request a COVID-19 Test Exception:

Request the COVID-19 test exception form by emailing TexasMBA@mccombs.utexas.edu.
Submit the COVID-19 test exception form prior to submitting your application.
The COVID-19 test exception is only for those applicants who are unable to take an exam in or at home for reasons directly related to COVID-19.

Which Exam is Right for You?

The Admissions Committee does not prefer one test over the other in terms of demonstrating your preparedness for business school, but it is important to think about which exam is best for you as an individual. There are different reasons to consider taking the GMAT vs the GRE vs the EA.

While the GMAT and GRE tests both have quantitative and verbal sections, they have noticeable differences. We encourage you to do your research and take practice tests to learn each test’s points of emphasis, and how they are scored.

Both The GMAT and GRE are adaptive, which means that your success in answering questions correctly has an impact on the future questions you are given. But the tests deliver adaptive questions in different ways.

The GMAT is adaptive by question. When you get an answer correct, the next question is more difficult, and when you get an answer wrong, the next question is less difficult. This also means that once you answer a question, you can’t go back to that question.
The GRE is adaptive by section. If you do well on the first verbal section, you get a more difficult version of the next verbal section and vice versa.

We have included some more details about the GMAT, GRE, and EA below, but if you are unsure which exam is best for you, here are our tips:

We recommend taking some practice tests! There’s a chance you may be more comfortable with one test format over the other. At the end of the day, the choice of which exam to take is yours.
Build in study time and leave yourself enough room on the calendar to retake an exam if necessary. If you’re not happy with your score, you can retake either test. While many candidates take the test only once thinking it will fulfill the requirement, others recognize that a second effort is likely to yield improvement. It comes at the cost of additional time and another test fee, but the payoff can be significant if it makes you a stronger candidate.
Make sure you submit your application as confidently as possible and with a score you feel good about.

GMAT

For many years, the GMAT was the only standardized test accepted by business schools, but in the last decade, that has changed. Like Texas McCombs, many schools accept the GMAT, GRE, and EA with no preference for one test over another. However, it’s important to be aware that the GMAT is still used by most large consulting and investment banking companies as a baseline qualifier for the recruiting process. If consulting or I-banking are in your sights, this means that the GMAT is the best choice. The Fine Print: Not ALL consulting and investment banking firms look at your GMAT – boutique consulting firms, for example, typically do not ask for your score. So this is not a one-size-fits-all rule but is something to consider if those industries are of interest to you.

Exam Structure: The GMAT has only one section each of verbal and quantitative questions. Within each section, a handful of questions are experimental, however, you won’t know which questions count towards your score and which are experimental. The verbal section of the GMAT focuses on grammar (sentence correction) and reading comprehension. In the quantitative section, the GMAT questions center on problem-solving and data sufficiency– you will get some questions where you have to understand if you have enough data to reach a conclusive answer. The GMAT also includes an Integrated Reasoning section, which measures how well you use data to solve complex problems, and an Analytical Writing Assessment, which asks you to analyze an argument and communicate your critique of that argument through a written essay.

Scoring: The GMAT overall scoring range is 200-800, with verbal and quant sections scored on a scale of 6 to 51. The verbal and quant sections both count toward your overall score. The Integrated Reasoning and Analytical Writing sections are scored individually.

Preparation: The amount of time you need to study for the GMAT will be unique to your individual circumstances. However, on average, candidates report that they spend 3 – 6 months preparing for the GMAT exam. You can find more information and resources for GMAT preparation at MBA.com.

Time to Complete: 3.5 hours total (including two optional breaks) with 30 minutes for Analytical Writing, 30 minutes for Integrated Reasoning (12 questions), 62 minutes each for the quantitative section (31 questions), and 65 minutes for the verbal section (36 questions). The GMAT is considered the ultimate test of executive decision-making. Time is short and you only have one section of each format, so you must what questions are worth spending the most time on.

Cost: $250 – $275 USD depending on location

Delivery: The GMAT is delivered in-person at testing centers or online. You can take the GMAT once every 16 days, no more than five times in a rolling 12-month period, and no more than eight times total. Within the overall limit, you can only take the GMAT online exam up to two times.

Learn more about the GMAT at mba.com/exams.

GRE

Sometimes the GRE is the best choice for applicants who have already completed a Master’s degree or those who are pursuing their MBA in conjunction with other Master’s degrees, for example, our dual degree programs. Taking only the GRE allows you to apply to both programs separately with one score, a convenience factor that most dual-degree applicants very much appreciated.

Exam Structure: The GRE has two sections of verbal and two sections of quantitative questions, plus one additional section that could be either verbal or quantitative. This additional section is experimental– your responses won’t count toward your score – but like the GMAT, you don’t know which section is the experimental one. So you have to treat each section on its own as if it will count toward your score. The GRE is also known for having a tough vocabulary portion (antonyms, analogies, and sentence completion) in the verbal sections, along with reading comprehension. Quant questions focus more on geometry and data comparisons. Also, the GRE quant includes questions where more than one answer is correct, and you must select all of the correct answers to get credit for that question. The GRE does give you the use of an on-screen calculator, though this provides only basic arithmetic functions. The GRE also includes an Analytical Writing section, which includes an “Analyze a Task” question and one “Analyze an Argument” question.

Scoring: The GRE gives you one score for verbal and one score for quant, both ranging from 130 to 170. There is no total score for the GRE.

Preparation: Preparation time will vary based on your individual schedule and strengths. ETS offers a variety of free and low-cost tools to help you prepare for the GRE exam.

Time to Complete: The overall testing time for the GRE is about 3 hours and 45 minutes, consisting of 60 minutes for Analytical Writing, 60 minutes for two sections of Verbal Reasoning questions (20 questions per section), 70. minutes for two sections of Quantitative Reasoning (20 questions per section), along with some un-scored and research questions.

Cost: $205 USD

Delivery: The GRE can be taken at testing centers or online. You can take the GRE once every 21 days, up to five times within any continuous 12-month/365 day period.

Learn more about the GRE at ets.org/gre.

Executive Assessment (EA)

The Executive Assessment is a readiness exam and a benchmark for academic preparedness. It is designed specifically for busy, experienced professionals. Anyone is eligible to take the EA.

Exam Structure: There are three sections on the exam – quant, verbal, and integrated reasoning with the type of questions for quant and verbal on the EA being very similar to GMAT. The integrated reasoning section has four types of questions: multi-source reasoning, graphics interpretation, two-part analysis, and table analysis.

Scoring: The total score ranges from 100 to 200 with all three sections weighted equally (0-20).

Preparation: The EA was designed to require minimal preparation, but we recommend putting in enough prep to feel comfortable when you take the exam. On average, candidates put in 21-30 hours of prep time before taking the EA. This test is good option for busy working professionals looking for a way to demonstrate their MBA readiness without the rigorous preparation that the GMAT and GRE demands.

Exam Length: The test is shorter in duration compared to the GMAT and GRE. The test takes about 90 minutes to complete for 40 questions – 30 minutes for Integrated Reasoning (12 questions), 30 minutes for Verbal (14 questions), and 30 minutes for Quant (14 questions).

Cost: $350 USD

Delivery: The Executive Assessment is available both online and in-person at test centers worldwide making the assessment available around the clock to ensure you meet your application deadlines. You can take the Executive Assessment up to two times.

Learn more about the EA at gmac.com/executive-assessment.

Impact of Your Test Score

Future Employment

Before you make a final decision on your testing options, it’s best to research some of your target companies or industries and determine two things:

The extent to which they evaluate a test score in reviewing job candidates.
Whether they have a preference for one of the tests. At McCombs, we have found that most consulting and investment banking firms do look at the candidate’s test scores, and both industries historically have favored the GMAT.

Regardless of which test you take, you should consider it as another opportunity to not only impress the Admissions Committee, but also potential employers.

Academic History

Does your undergraduate or graduate transcript accurately reflect your academic ability? If your GPA is low, and you do not submit a strong test score, the admissions committee may have concerns about your ability to succeed in the rigorous MBA curriculum.

One other factor to consider is whether or not your quantitative ability shines elsewhere in your application. While many of our MBA students come to McCombs from non-quantitative majors, these applicants are typically able to prove their quantitative prowess through their test scores. If you come from a non-quantitative background and do not submit a strong test score, you will need to find other areas within your background or experience that can demonstrate your quantitative skills. At the end of the day, we want to make sure that you are set up to succeed academically in the program. If the admissions committee has concerns about your quantitative ability, it may impact your chance of admission, or you may be required to complete pre-MBA coursework prior to admission and/or prior to enrollment.

Scholarships

Scholarship awards are competitive and limited in number. Scholarship decisions are based on a longstanding holistic review process that takes into account your entire application and serves to assess the overall strength of your candidacy, including readiness for academic rigor, career goals, leadership potential, and fit with our program culture. Submitting an application without a strong test score may limit the information available to award a merit-based scholarship.

Please reach out to the MBA Admissions Team with any questions.

Good luck and Hook ’em!

Texas McCombs MBA Insider

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