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Category: Executive MBA (page 1 of 8)

What Makes a Leader Worth Following? Meet Hildebrand Leadership Fellows

November 26, 2025 / / Comments Off on What Makes a Leader Worth Following? Meet Hildebrand Leadership Fellows

Leadership isn’t just about climbing the ladder faster or learning to sound authoritative in meetings. It’s about becoming someone people actually want to follow. Someone with both the skills to execute and the character to earn trust.

That’s the thinking behind the Hildebrand Leadership Fellows program at Texas McCombs, a leadership development experience available to all MBA students across Full-Time, Working Professional, and Executive MBA formats.

Beyond the Buzzwords

Most MBA programs will teach you strategy frameworks and financial modeling. McCombs does that too. But the Hildebrand Leadership Fellows program asks a deeper question: What kind of leader do you want to become?

The program is built around two pillars that matter in the real world: character and credibility. Character is about who you are when no one’s watching. Your integrity, self-awareness, and values. Credibility is about how you show up and deliver. Your communication, collaboration, and ability to drive results.

“I joined the Leadership Fellows Program because I wanted to be intentional about my growth as a leader,” says Ruby Grace Reyes, EMBA ’26. “The program goes beyond academics and gives you a framework to build both character and credibility as a leader.”

How It Works

The program isn’t another box to check on your MBA to-do list. It’s a personalized journey that weaves through your time at McCombs, combining hands-on experiences with structured reflection.

You’ll engage in industry-focused workshops, one-on-one leadership coaching, real-world consulting projects, and global experiences. But here’s what sets it apart: every activity comes with built-in reflection time.

Herman Morris, DMBA ‘26, calls this “the most valuable aspect” of his experience. “It’s easy to just jump from one challenge to the next, but this program made me pause and think about what I was learning and how I was showing up as a leader.”

For Lawrence Sanchez, Evening MBA ’25, who came to McCombs from a military background, the coaching and reflection were game changers. “In the military, feedback is direct and constant—you always know where you stand,” he explains. “The program gave me the structure and space to seek out feedback, process it, and apply it. Through coaching and reflection, I learned how to identify blind spots and understand how my communication style impacted others.”

That reflective practice leads to real change. Herman says the program has helped him “balance confidence with curiosity” and become “more intentional about asking questions and creating space for my team.”

Lawrence saw similar shifts in his own approach. “I already had a strong foundation of discipline and structure from my military background, but now I’m more intentional about listening first. My approach to team communication has evolved from being more directive to being more collaborative.”

Real Growth and Results

As a Hildebrand Leadership Fellow, you select from more than 100 opportunities to satisfy program requirements. After engaging in your selected activity, you spend time purposefully reflecting on what you learned and how you plan to incorporate your new knowledge. As you continue to make progress in the program, you will receive incremental rewards to inspire further leadership development. You will also receive micro-credentials that document your leadership growth. After completing all skills in the program and crafting a personal leadership plan, you will receive an honor cord and special recognition at commencement ceremonies.

Ruby Grace recently put her learning into practice during a cross-functional project. “I shifted from simply driving agendas to creating space for dialogue,” she explains. “I used active listening and radical candor to bring alignment more quickly. The result was stronger collaboration and faster progress because people felt heard and engaged.”

For Herman, the impact shows up in his day-to-day work. “I feel more confident and clearer about the kind of leader I want to be. That shows up in how I mentor my team, guide clients, and contribute at the firm.”

Since graduating, Lawrence has been asked to take on more strategic roles that require leadership across teams. But the biggest change? “I approach leadership now with more patience and empathy. I still value execution, but I’ve learned that getting the best out of people often comes from understanding them first.”

Why This Matters for You

Whether you’re considering McCombs or already here, the Hildebrand Leadership Fellows program offers something rare: a structured way to grow as a leader while you’re building your business expertise.

Made possible by a $20 million naming gift through the Hildebrand MBA Excellence Fund, this program represents McCombs’ commitment to developing leaders who can handle complexity with purpose and authenticity.

Lawrence especially recommends the program for people transitioning from structured environments. “The Hildebrand Leadership Fellows Program gives you a chance to rethink leadership in a civilian or corporate context—and it does so in a way that’s hands-on, practical, and personal. It’s not just lectures—it’s coaching, reflection, and real-world application.”

Ruby sums it up well: “The program challenges you to grow in ways that are both practical and personal. It gives you tools you can apply immediately, but more importantly, it helps you define the kind of leader you want to be long after the EMBA.”

Leadership is something you’re always working on. The Hildebrand Leadership Fellows program gives you the framework, experiences, and reflection time to do that work intentionally.

Because the best leaders aren’t just competent. They’re credible. And that makes all the difference.

Ready to become a Hildebrand Leadership Fellow? When you join Texas McCombs, this program is waiting for you. Learn more about the Hildebrand MBA and take the first step toward becoming the leader you want to be.

Executive Presence for Women: How To Lead With Confidence

November 24, 2025 / / Comments Off on Executive Presence for Women: How To Lead With Confidence

Executive presence is the combination of confidence, clarity, and credibility that convinces others you can navigate uncertainty and drive results. For women in our Texas McCombs community and beyond, it’s more than a buzzword. It’s a skill set that amplifies your voice, accelerates your influence, and ensures your ideas are heard in rooms where decisions are made.

Executive training plays a crucial role in helping women refine these leadership skills and translate potential into impact. MBA programs like those offered at Texas McCombs provide the structured learning, mentorship, and peer network that empower you to lead with confidence and authenticity. 

This blog will explore what a strong executive presence means for you as a woman in the modern workforce, the common challenges you face in developing it, and actionable strategies for strengthening credibility, communication, and confidence.

What Is Executive Presence for Women?

Executive presence is the ability to inspire confidence — both in those you lead and those who have the power to advance your career — by signaling that you can navigate complex challenges and deliver results. For women, that signal carries extra weight: it validates expertise in rooms where bias may question it and ensures ideas receive the attention they deserve.

Developing executive presence can significantly enhance a woman’s credibility and influence within an organization. It helps others see her as capable of leading through complexity, making strategic decisions, and representing the organization’s vision at the highest levels. This perception often opens doors to greater career growth, leadership opportunities, and a stronger professional network.

Importantly, executive presence isn’t just about charisma. While a compelling stage presence helps, the real differentiator is consistency: aligning words, actions, and values in a way that earns trust over time. That alignment is what turns a confident moment into a confident reputation — one that carries you from your first leadership opportunity to the C-suite.

The Core Pillars of Executive Presence

Executive presence rests on five interconnected pillars that signal you are ready for bigger challenges and higher-stakes decisions.

  • Gravitas: Your calm confidence under pressure, decisive thinking, and willingness to own outcomes reassure teams and stakeholders alike.
  • Communication: Clear, concise language paired with active listening turns ideas into influence.
  • Professional Appearance: Polished presence, purposeful body language, and a confident demeanor help others focus on your message.
  • Emotional Intelligence: Self-awareness and attunement allow you to read a room, manage conflict, and build trust.
  • Authenticity: When actions align with values, people see a leader who is both credible and relatable, and research shows authenticity now ranks alongside confidence and decisiveness in shaping executive presence.

Finally, remember that expertise fuels every pillar. When you continuously learn and refine your craft, you naturally increase confidence in subject matter and project the gravitas audiences expect from top-tier leaders. 

“Pursuing my Executive MBA (EMBA) at Texas McCombs has been one of the most rewarding and transformative experiences of my life,” said Indra Gutierrez, an EMBA alum. “I have become the business leader that I always envisioned myself to be since a young age. I’m able to lead my organization with a clear and bold vision due to the knowledge I gained in this program. The curriculum taught me so much about not only business but also how to lead, restructure, and scale an organization. I wouldn’t be able to execute with such confidence if it weren’t for the knowledge I gained in this program.”

Common Challenges Women Face in Executive Presence

Bias still tilts the playing field. While women are just as qualified for leadership roles, men are often more likely to occupy top-paying leadership roles. The number of women in C-Suite positions has increased from just 17% in 2015 to 29% in 2024, but there’s still plenty of room for improvement when it comes to female leadership growth.

Layered onto that imbalance is the “double bind.” Women often walk a narrow line: too assertive and they’re labeled abrasive, too collaborative and they’re deemed lacking in authority. This makes every leadership move feel high-stakes and highly scrutinized.

In daily practice, these pressures can surface as over-apologizing, downplaying wins, staying silent in meetings, listening too much to your inner critic, or shying away from visible assignments. Left unchecked, such habits chip away at credibility and mask the very expertise that fuels executive presence.

Proven Strategies To Build Confidence

Before you can refine executive presence, you need a clear picture of how others view your work style. Start by gathering 360-degree feedback from managers, peers, and direct reports. Patterns — positive or negative — provide a roadmap for growth and help you focus on the behaviors that elevate credibility.

Here are practical ways to strengthen your presence:

  • Conduct a self-assessment that pinpoints how you show up under pressure.
  • Invest in public-speaking and storytelling workshops to sharpen delivery.
  • Observe women leaders you admire and adapt techniques that feel authentic to you.
  • Enroll in executive-presence training designed for women, where real-time coaching turns insight into action.
  • Track outcomes like promotions earned, high-stakes projects secured, or new influence gained to measure progress and sustain momentum.
  • Enlist a mentor or sponsor who can champion your ideas in high-visibility settings.

A supportive network makes the journey easier. At Texas McCombs, we have both collaborative cohorts and diverse study teams that create a true community-focused environment and reinforce accountability and confidence. We extend that support well beyond the classroom. Dedicated leadership positions and career coaches will be here to provide support, ensuring you have expert guidance while you translate new skills into tangible career wins.

With these strategies in place, you’re ready to deepen relationships and leverage community, an essential next step in sustaining executive presence.

Partner With McCombs for Increased Skill-Building

We deliver programs designed specifically to help women develop a modern, inclusive leadership presence. One standout example is a specialty course that invites participants to build and leverage their executive presence through modules on bias awareness, grit, and strategic risk-taking.

Beyond the classroom, the Executive MBA experience surrounds you with a collaborative cohort model where study teams, speaker series, and student organizations expand your network and create real-time opportunities to practice new skills. These elements foster a safe environment to test ideas, receive feedback, and refine your leadership voice before taking it back to your organization.

“If you’re feeling that itch — that desire to grow, to expand your understanding, to stretch yourself beyond your current role — it’s not going to go away,” said Ruby Grace O Reyes, an EMBA student. “I sat with that feeling for nearly a decade, thinking maybe a new job or a different industry would scratch that itch. And while those helped, they didn’t fully address the root of it. Investing in yourself through an EMBA is different. It gives you the space, structure, and support to grow intentionally. And you’re not doing it alone — you’re surrounded by other leaders who are just as committed.”

Executive presence is too important to leave to chance. Invest in your growth, tap into the resources that champion women leaders, and elevate the strengths only you can bring. Explore the McCombs Executive MBA Program to build the confidence, connections, and capabilities that define high-impact leadership potential.

Deciding Between MBA Programs: Your Guide to Choosing the Right McCombs Format

October 28, 2025 / / Comments Off on Deciding Between MBA Programs: Your Guide to Choosing the Right McCombs Format

Choosing an MBA program is already a significant decision, but what happens when you find yourself drawn to multiple formats? At the McCombs School of Business, we understand this dilemma. Our Hildebrand MBA portfolio offers five distinct program options across Austin, Dallas, and Houston, each designed for different career stages and lifestyle needs.

Many prospective students discover that several programs appeal to them for different reasons. Maybe you’re torn between the immersive experience of our Full-Time MBA and the flexibility of continuing to work while earning your degree. Or perhaps you’re deciding between our Dallas and Houston Working Professional locations. The good news? You don’t have to choose just one when applying.

We’ve created detailed program comparisons to help you understand specific differences between Executive MBA vs. Part-Time MBA, Part-Time vs. Full-Time MBA, and Executive MBA vs. MBA formats. But what if multiple programs still appeal to you after reviewing these resources? Here’s your strategic guide to applying to more than one McCombs MBA format while maximizing your chances of admission.

Understanding McCombs’ Multiple Application Process

The Reality: You Can Apply to Multiple Programs

McCombs supports applicants who want to apply to multiple programs within our Hildebrand MBA portfolio. This flexibility exists because we recognize that your career goals, personal circumstances, and professional situation may make more than one program format viable for your success.

Here’s what you need to know upfront: each application is evaluated separately, and you’ll receive separate admissions decisions. The admissions committee for each program assesses candidates based on that program’s specific criteria and competitive landscape. Simply put, admission to one program doesn’t guarantee admission to another.

Three Strategic Scenarios for Multiple Applications

Scenario 1: Full-Time vs. Working Professional If you’re genuinely undecided about leaving your current job to become a full-time student, you can pursue both paths. This scenario requires creating separate applications for each program type. The same approach applies if you’re considering our Full-Time MBA alongside our Executive MBA program.

Your application strategy (in writing and in dialogue) should reflect the distinct nature of these paths—full-time students often focus on both personal and career transformation and exploration, while working professionals emphasize advancement or pivots within their current trajectory.

Scenario 2: Multiple Working Professional Locations Interested in both our Dallas and Austin programs for working professionals because your flexible work hours allow you to consider either program’s schedule? Start by speaking with our admissions team to determine your primary preference based on work schedule, lifestyle, and commute considerations. Other factors to consider are your target industries, the network of peers, and personal commitments.

You’ll only need to start one Working Professional MBA application. Then, use your optional essay and admissions interview to clarify your interest in the other location and explain why both would work for your situation.

Scenario 3: Executive MBA vs. Working Professional For candidates who are considering both programs and meet the minimum requirements for both programs, we recommend starting your Executive MBA application first. For example, if you live in Dallas and want to stay local but are also interested in the Executive program’s peer group and curriculum approach.

In your optional essay and interview, indicate your interest in the Working Professional program. You’ll be simultaneously evaluated for both programs based on your Executive MBA application materials.

Key Process Benefits

The multiple application process includes several applicant-friendly features. You’ll receive an automatic application fee waiver for your second application. If you’ve completed components like letters of recommendation, test scores, or your resume, we can transfer these materials to avoid duplicating your work.

If you start an application but realize mid-process that you want to apply to a different program instead, reach out to our admissions team. We can help guide your next steps and potentially save you time by transferring completed components to your new desired application.

Critical Differences That Impact Your Strategy

Application Pool and Competition Dynamics

Understanding the competitive landscape for each program is crucial for your strategy. Our Full-Time MBA attracts 2,000+ applicants from around the world, creating a highly diverse but intensely competitive pool. These candidates often have varied professional backgrounds and are seeking transformational career changes.

In contrast, our Working Professional and Executive programs draw more regional, focused applicant pools. These candidates typically have established careers in specific industries and clear advancement or career pivot goals. The evaluation criteria and competitive dynamics differ significantly between these pools.

Remember: Admission to one McCombs program doesn’t guarantee admission to another. Each admissions committee evaluates candidates against their specific program requirements and peer group. The only exception is that all three working professional programs work collaboratively for admissions evaluation.

Scholarship and Financial Aid Variations

Scholarship opportunities and criteria vary substantially across our Hildebrand MBA programs. Full-Time MBA scholarships often emphasize academic achievement, leadership potential, and diversity factors, with several merit-based awards available.

Working Professional program scholarships typically consider professional accomplishments and alignment of goals, academic readiness, employer support, and community involvement. The structure and availability of these awards reflect the different financial situations and career stages of working professionals.

Executive MBA financial aid takes a different approach, recognizing that these candidates often have different funding sources and financial priorities. Understanding these variations helps you set realistic expectations and plan your financial strategy.

Application Timeline and Process Differences

The application cycles differ between programs, which impacts your strategic planning. Our Full-Time MBA operates on three rounds with fixed application review and decision release dates. All applications in each round are reviewed together, and decisions are announced simultaneously.

Working Professional and Executive programs accept applications on a rolling basis across four rounds. This means you may receive your decision much earlier than the posted “decision delivery” date, sometimes within weeks of submitting a complete application if all required components are completed quickly.

Post-Submission Requirements

After submitting your application, the process varies by program type. Full-Time MBA applicants complete a required video assessment and may participate in an optional interview with a current student.

Working Professional and Executive applicants face a more extensive post-submission process, including both a required video assessment and a required interview with a member of our admissions team. This reflects the different evaluation approaches for working professionals and executives.

Strategic Application Approach

Research and Preparation Phase

Before applying to multiple programs, invest time in deep research beyond our comparison guides. Connect with current students and alumni from each program type you’re considering. Their insights about day-to-day experiences, career outcomes, and program culture will help you craft compelling applications.

Assess your readiness for different application processes and requirements. The interview formats, essay prompts, and evaluation criteria vary between programs, so prepare accordingly.

Tailoring Your Applications

This cannot be overstated: customize each application thoroughly. The biggest mistake applicants make is trying to use a “one-size-fits-all” approach across multiple programs. Your career goals as a Full-Time MBA candidate will differ significantly from your objectives as a Working Professional.

Full-Time applications often emphasize exploration, career changes, and transformational growth. Working Professional applications typically focus on advancement, career pivots, skill development, and leadership within established career paths. Executive MBA applications highlight senior-level leadership challenges and strategic thinking.

Make sure each application authentically reflects why that specific program format aligns with your goals, timeline, and circumstances.

Managing Multiple Applications Effectively

Coordinate your timeline carefully across different admission cycles. The rolling admission process for Working Professional and Executive programs means you might receive decisions at different times, affecting your planning. It’s okay to communicate with the admissions team your varying timelines.

Balance application quality with quantity. It’s better to submit two excellent, tailored applications than three generic ones. Focus your energy on the programs that truly fit your situation and show that you’ve envisioned yourself here.

Don’t hesitate to seek guidance from our admissions team throughout the process. We’re here to help you navigate these decisions and put your best foot forward.

Making Your Final Decision

If Accepted to Multiple Programs

Congratulations—this is a good problem to have! Compare more than just acceptance letters. Look at financial packages, program start dates, and any changes in your professional or personal circumstances since you applied.

Consider which program aligns best with your current situation, not just your situation when you applied months earlier. Your work environment, family circumstances, or career priorities may have evolved. Reach out to an admissions team member if you have any uncertainty.

Decision Timeline Management

Pay close attention to deposit deadlines and commitment requirements, which vary between programs. Communicate clearly with our admissions team about your timeline and decision process.

If you need to withdraw from a program you won’t attend, do so gracefully and promptly. This courtesy helps us manage our incoming class and may benefit future applicants on waiting lists.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply to all five McCombs MBA programs? While technically possible, we don’t recommend this approach. Focus on the 2-3 programs that genuinely align with your goals and circumstances. Quality applications to fewer programs typically yield better results than generic applications to many programs.

What happens if I want to switch programs mid-application? Contact our admissions team immediately. We can often transfer completed components like recommendations and test scores to a new application, saving you significant time and effort.

How do scholarship opportunities compare between programs? Each program has distinct scholarship criteria and availability. Full-Time programs often offer more merit-based awards, while Working Professional and Executive scholarships may emphasize professional accomplishments and employer partnerships.

Will applying to multiple programs hurt my chances? No, if done thoughtfully. Each application is evaluated independently. However, generic applications that don’t demonstrate genuine interest in each specific program can hurt your chances.

What if my work situation changes after I apply? This happens frequently. Contact our admissions team to discuss how changes might affect your program choice or application status. We can often provide guidance or flexibility.

How do I explain applying to multiple formats in interviews? Be honest about your decision-making process and demonstrate that you’ve thoroughly researched each program. Show how different scenarios in your life or career might make different formats appropriate.

Next Steps: Your Action Plan

Start with a consultation with our admissions team to discuss your specific situation and goals. We can help you determine which programs make sense for your circumstances and provide personalized guidance on the application process.

Attend program-specific information sessions for each format you’re considering. These sessions provide detailed insights you won’t find in our general materials and offer opportunities to connect with current students and alumni.

Develop a clear application timeline that accounts for different deadlines, requirements, and decision dates. This planning prevents last-minute scrambling and ensures you can dedicate appropriate time to each application.

Ready to explore your options within our Hildebrand MBA portfolio? Contact our admissions team to schedule a personalized consultation. We’re here to help you navigate this important decision and find the program format that best fits your career goals and life circumstances.

Your MBA journey starts with choosing the right path—and at McCombs, we’re committed to helping you find yours.

Executive MBA vs MBA: Picking the Perfect Fit

October 23, 2025 / / Comments Off on Executive MBA vs MBA: Picking the Perfect Fit

You’re ready to sharpen your leadership skills, expand your network, and accelerate your career—but which path will get you there faster, an Executive MBA (Master of Business Administration) or a traditional MBA? The decision isn’t just academic; it’s a pivotal career move that shapes your trajectory for years to come.

First, the baseline: every McCombs MBA program leads to the same prestigious degree, taught by the same world-class faculty who travel from Austin to teach in Dallas and Houston, and backed by a similar robust career support system. The differences come down to format, pacing, and who each program is designed to serve best. 

An Executive MBA (EMBA) caters to seasoned professionals who want to expand their strategic knowledge and executive network while they keep working, blending advanced strategy with peer-to-peer insight from fellow executives. A traditional MBA, on the other hand, immerses early- to mid-career professionals in foundational business disciplines, unlocking opportunities to pivot industries or leap ahead in their current field.

This blog breaks down these options side by side so you can confidently choose the McCombs path that aligns with your goals and lifestyle.

Understanding the Executive MBA (EMBA) Experience

Here at Texas McCombs School of Business, our Executive MBA is tailor-made for high-achievers who may lead teams or manage P&Ls and want to amplify their impact without stepping away from the office. Consider how these admission and profile benchmarks set the tone for every cohort:

  • Minimum of eight years of professional experience, including at least five in leadership roles – ensuring the classroom feels more like a boardroom than a lecture hall. 
  • A demonstrated track record of strategic decision-making and cross-functional collaboration.
  • Clear motivation to accelerate into senior or C-suite positions while maintaining full-time employment.
  • Commitment to sharing industry insights and mentoring classmates as part of a collaborative executive community.

Beyond the MBA resume requirements, the EMBA format itself is designed around executive workloads. Executive MBA students meet in Austin one weekend each month, allowing students from across the country to stay fully engaged at work, then commuting to immerse themselves in learning. Students meet for class from Thursday through Saturday, creating an intensive yet manageable rhythm. 

The program also includes six strategic immersions that deepen learning and build cohort bonds. Between on-campus sessions, students unite for six high-impact immersions — a five-day orientation in Austin, experiential learning weekends in New York and Washington, D.C., and a six-day global immersion, a four-day academic intensive in Austin, and a three-day executive retreat in the Texas Hill Country — blending classroom theory with real-world market observations. This one weekend per month cadence lets executives stay career-focused while broadening their strategic lens.

Strategic Leadership and Applied Learning

The EMBA curriculum zeroes in on the advanced competencies seasoned leaders crave by weaving together leadership labs, global strategy modules, and rigorous financial management courses, all delivered in a cohort model that mirrors an executive task force. Every assignment encourages EMBA students to bring live business challenges to class, apply analytical frameworks, and return to the office Monday ready to act. 

Small class sizes foster candid dialogue and executive-level coaching, while peer-to-peer learning pairs leaders from various industries to solve shared challenges in real time. Cross-functional projects sharpen decision-making under uncertainty and build a toolkit for enterprise-wide execution, and faculty with deep industry ties bring the latest market shifts into the classroom, ensuring immediate relevance.

Together, these elements transform theory into action — bridging the gap between academic insight and boardroom execution, and setting the stage for a look at how the traditional MBA develops broad business foundations.

Career Advancement and Alumni Network

EMBA graduates leave with more than a diploma; they gain momentum toward C-suite roles and a lifetime of career support. Like all McCombs MBA alumni, they receive alumni career management for life, unlocking coaching, resources, and networking long after graduation. EMBA students gain access to exclusive executive-level networking events and industry roundtables, benefit from alumni mentorship each semester, and receive introductions that often lead to internal promotions or new leadership roles. 

Graduates also join a 25,000-plus strong McCombs alumni community, a network spanning every major industry and region. While EMBAs leverage their current positions for vertical growth, traditional MBA candidates often pursue broader career pivots, highlighting the distinct career advancement opportunities for EMBA versus MBA students.

Breaking Down the Traditional MBA Pathways

Early- and mid-career professionals, typically those with two to ten years of experience, often choose a traditional MBA to gain broad business fluency, pivot industries, or accelerate into management roles. We meet these goals through multiple formats. The Full-Time MBA delivers an immersive, two-year on-campus experience in Austin. Working professionals can opt for the Evening MBA in Austin or Weekend MBA programs in Dallas and Houston, balancing rigorous coursework with weekday careers while still tapping into the same Austin-based faculty and resources.

Foundational Business Skills and Team Learning

A traditional MBA builds a rock-solid base across every major business function, with courses spanning finance, marketing, operations, strategy, and leadership, all designed to sharpen analytical thinking and cross-functional collaboration. They also bolster leadership skills and business management capabilities for present and future success.

Case-based discussions put applicants in the decision-maker’s seat, testing strategies against real market conditions, while consulting practicums pair student teams with corporate partners to solve pressing challenges. Leadership labs and simulations foster self-awareness, interpersonal influence, and ethical decision-making, and campus recruiting events connect students with Fortune 500 firms, high-growth startups, and global nonprofits, expanding networks well beyond Austin. 

Together, these experiences translate classroom theory into on-the-ground results, empowering students to step confidently into their next role.

Career Advancement, Funding, and ROI

Traditional MBA students benefit from our robust career management center, which offers personalized coaching, industry treks, and on-campus interviews that open doors to consulting, tech, finance, and more. 

While cost considerations differ between program types, both pathways come with tailored support: both programs offer veterans benefits, private loans, and federal loans for MBA students. 

For executives weighing the higher price tag of an EMBA, resources such as tuition and financial aid details, veterans benefits, federal and private loans, and the salary increases many graduates see within months provide guidance. Evaluating these financial variables alongside your career timeline ensures you maximize return on investment — one of several key differences between the programs.

Key Differences Between EMBA and MBA at McCombs

Choosing between completing the application process for the two pathways comes down to aligning program design with where you are and where you want to go:

  • Career stage & experience: EMBAs average eight or more years in the workforce with substantial leadership responsibilities, while MBAs typically bring two to ten years of experience and are poised for a big pivot or acceleration.
  • Schedule & format: Executives gather on campus one weekend each month and complete six immersive residencies; MBA students pick from a full-time, evening, or weekend cadence that matches their current workload.
  • Curriculum focus: EMBA coursework targets enterprise-level strategy and executive decision-making; the MBA builds foundational breadth across every business discipline.
  • Networking style: EMBAs collaborate with senior peers facing similar C-suite challenges; MBA candidates cultivate broad, cross-industry connections through class projects and campus recruiting.
  • ROI timeline: EMBA and part-time program learners apply lessons Monday morning and often see immediate workplace impact; Full-Time MBA graduates leverage internships or recruiting pipelines to land new roles within months of graduation.

Here’s how those differences translate into community and connection:

25,000+ people ready to vouch for you — that’s the strength of our alumni network, which pairs students with mentors each semester and rallies graduates to pull resumes from the stack when hiring. EMBA cohorts bond through executive roundtables and global residencies, creating lifelong advisory boards. MBA students gain a uniquely international cohort, expanding cultural perspectives and global reach after graduation.

Across every format, alumni frequently return to campus for mock interviews, guest lectures, and industry deep dives, ensuring you always have experts in your corner.

Making Your Decision: Which Path Fits Your Career Goals?

Start by taking a clear-eyed look at where you stand — and where you want to land. 

Map Your Career Stage and Total Years of Experience

If you’ve been leading teams for nearly a decade, the EMBA’s executive focus will likely feel spot-on. Earlier in your journey? A traditional MBA offers the foundational breadth to pivot or accelerate.

Gauge Your Bandwidth

Are you able to step away from work for a full-time program, or do you need a one-weekend-per-month cadence that keeps your career momentum humming?

Define Your Endgame

Are you angling for an internal promotion to a vice-president role, or planning a bold industry switch that requires internship experience and campus recruiting?

Pressure-Rest Funding and ROI

Review employer sponsorship policies, compare scholarship options, and revisit the EMBA tuition and financial aid details already discussed to weigh how quickly each path can pay dividends.

Tap Into the Human Network

Schedule a conversation with our admissions team, connect with alumni on LinkedIn, and attend a virtual info session to hear first-hand how each program shapes careers.

Before you click over to program pages, run through this quick checklist:

  • Evaluate your time commitment: Weekends, evenings, or full-time immersion.
  • Project your ROI timeline: Immediate on-the-job impact versus post-graduation career change.
  • Outline your financing mix: Employer support, loans, scholarships, or personal savings.
  • Identify must-have experiences: Global residencies, campus leadership roles, or industry treks.
  • Reach out to mentors and family: Your support system matters just as much as any syllabus.

Armed with these insights, you’re ready to explore every McCombs MBA pathway with confidence.

Take Your Next Step: Explore All McCombs MBA Programs

Your future is calling — answer it with a McCombs Hildebrand MBA pathway that matches your ambition and lifestyle. Whether you’re eyeing the Full-Time MBA or pursuing executive leadership, each program connects you to world-class faculty, a 25,000-plus alumni network, and the flexibility to keep life in motion.

Ready to dive deeper?

  • Explore the McCombs Executive MBA program for one-weekend-per-month learning that accelerates seasoned leaders into strategic roles.
  • Discover the McCombs Full-Time MBA program and immerse yourself in Austin’s innovative ecosystem for two transformative years.
  • Balance work and study with the McCombs Evening MBA program, designed for professionals who want to lead without pressing pause on their careers.
  • Leverage regional flexibility through the McCombs Weekend MBA in Dallas or Houston, where Austin-based faculty bring top-tier instruction to your backyard. 

No matter which option you choose, you’ll join a collaborative, forward-looking community that equips you to lead through disruption and make a lasting impact. Take your next step today — the McCombs family is ready to welcome you.

Creating Options for the Future: Israel, a First-Generation Graduate, Shares His Leadership Journey

October 6, 2025 / / 0 Comments

When Israel Escamilla was young, he worked alongside his father after the family migrated from Mexico to Texas as farm workers. “Do you want to do this the rest of your life?” his father asked one day. When Israel replied “no,” his father advised: “Well, then you better stay in school.”

Now a strategic operator at Procter & Gamble with 13+ years of experience and a recent graduate of the McCombs School of Business Executive MBA program (Class of ’25, Magna Cum Laude), Israel reflects on that pivotal moment. While his father only attended school through the second grade, he understood the transformative power of education. “Education is our way to create options for the future,” Israel recalled his father teaching him.

That commitment to education has guided Israel’s career path, leading him to pursue a leadership development MBA designed for experienced professionals. After building extensive experience in operations, Israel wanted to make the pivot into sales and revenue generation. “I was thinking, what’s going to help me maximize this jump from operations into the commercial space? And that’s where the Executive MBA came to mind,” he explains. The program appealed to him not only for its academic rigor, but for its strategic focus on developing leaders ready for the C-suite. His ultimate goal? Moving into the senior level of executive leadership.

Work-Life Balance and Flexibility

Israel chose McCombs for reasons that went beyond academics. Living in Cincinnati, Ohio, while maintaining family ties in Dallas, he appreciated that the program’s location made commuting feasible. “All of my education has been in Texas,” he says. The direct flight from Cincinnati to Austin made the program format particularly attractive, allowing him to advance his education while staying connected to his Texas roots.

Israel was drawn to the program’s flexibility. The Executive MBA program format was essential for a working professional managing complex initiatives across sales, supply chain, and brand organizations. “The Executive MBA program was attractive because it was one weekend per month,” Israel explains. Attending in-person classes just one weekend per month – while completing their coursework remotely – has allowed him to keep his current job and maintain work-life balance.

Leadership Through Mentorship and Service

Israel didn’t just excel academically—earning Magna Cum Laude honors and spots on both the Dean’s Academic Excellence List and University Honors List—he also became a leader who lifts others. As Class Vice President of the Graduate Business Council and a member of the prestigious Hildebrand Leadership Fellows program, he recognized an opportunity to help his classmates succeed.

When he saw that many of his peers weren’t aware of the Fellows program requirements, Israel created simple, clear instructions and shared them through their class Slack channel. His initiative resulted in more Executive MBA students actively engaging in the Fellows program than ever before. “The people that achieve the highest levels, they do it together,” Israel explains. “How do we elevate each other, knowing that ultimately we’re here to accomplish the same thing?”

This approach reflects his broader philosophy about mentorship and community building. “I wouldn’t be where I am without my mentors,” Israel reflects, crediting individuals like David Northcutt, who “took me in in elementary school” and showed him “how we can work hard and smart.” Now, Israel dedicates himself to ensuring other immigrant students receive similar guidance and support.

Learning from Varied Perspectives

Israel was excited about his cohort, which averages 17 years of experience across multiple industries. “I wanted to be surrounded by top talent,” he said. “You’re working with people that have been there, done that. At the same time, they want more.”

The program’s real-time applicability has been transformative. “You have professors that are masters in their craft, speaking to you in a way where you can see what they’re saying and how this is tangible and directly correlated to what I’m dealing with on the work end,” Israel explains.

Embracing Vulnerability and Growth

One of Israel’s key takeaways has been learning to reframe challenges as opportunities. A classmate shared how his company positions obstacles not as problems, but as challenges. “It really is framing your mindset in that way,” Israel reflects. “Even though there’s a lot of uncertainty, how do I adapt? How can I be agile, and how can I always be elevating myself holistically to be as successful as I can?”

The program taught him the value of vulnerability in leadership. “It’s okay to come in and not know. It’s okay to ask questions,” he says. “That’s probably been one of the biggest learnings—being able to understand that I can take a step back and ask questions. It takes humility, takes vulnerability.”

This mindset shift has been profound. Unlike his undergraduate experience, Israel found the executive program fosters collaboration over competition. “A lot of us are in a great position from a career standpoint, and you’re coming at it from a wants base and not a needs base,” he explains. “When you come in with that energy that you want something, it makes it easier for you to take a step back and truly be yourself.”

Building Networks That Last

As a McCombs Ambassador and Texas Exes Network Member, Israel has experienced the MBA alumni network and mentorship opportunities that create lasting value. When professors don’t have specific examples, classmates step in with real-world experience. “Because our classmates have such diverse experiences, someone’s able to come in and share a real life example of how they work through it,” he says.

This peer learning environment has expanded his perspective dramatically. “I thought I knew there was a lot out there having classmates from the financial sector, from the nonprofit sector having oil and gas—having all these industries come together.”

The abundance mindset has become central to his leadership philosophy. As their negotiations professor Dr. Melissa Murphy taught them, “People come into discussions thinking that there’s 100 points when in reality it’s 130 points. Could be even more than that.”

Applying Learning to Real-World Impact

Through McCombs+ Projects and community involvement, Israel has demonstrated how business skills can drive meaningful change. With over 12 years of nonprofit board experience supporting underserved youth and military veterans, he brings a unique perspective to every project.

“How can y’all come together with your skill sets and strengths and really build the pie and grow the pie for the community in parallel to building it for yourself,” he explains, describing the program’s holistic approach to development.

Looking Toward the Future

Having graduated in 2025, Israel is focused on his goal of leading sales and marketing teams for a Fortune 50 company before eventually transitioning to Texas politics. His experience translating executive vision into enterprise-wide results, combined with his commitment to mentoring the next generation of leaders, positions him well for these ambitious goals.

“You’re going to get out of it what you put into it,” Israel reflects on his MBA journey. “What you find out is how much have you put into it. And you see those tangible results and relationships and opportunities.”

Now, when Israel speaks to prospective MBA candidates, he echoes that same spirit of possibility his father instilled in him. “Why not now? Why not you?” he asks, embodying the mindset that has carried him from migrant farm work to corporate leadership. For those considering the Executive MBA, he offers reassurance: “You’re not in it alone. The relationships that you build as you’re going through doing this hard thing together is awesome.”

For Israel, education has always been about creating options—not just for himself, but for the communities he serves and the fellow students he mentors along the way.

Start Your McCombs Journey

Ready to begin your MBA journey? Learn more about the Hildebrand MBA at Texas McCombs. For detailed information about application components and deadlines, check out our Application Process page.

Executive MBA vs Part Time MBA: Which Program Is Right for You?

September 1, 2025 / / Comments Off on Executive MBA vs Part Time MBA: Which Program Is Right for You?

Your choice of MBA program can redefine your career path, expand your influence, and accelerate your growth. Selecting the right fit isn’t just about earning a degree — it’s about unlocking the leadership potential that propels you forward.

Executive MBA and Part-Time MBA programs both empower working professionals, yet they serve distinct audiences with unique goals. Our Executive MBA program caters to mid- to aspiring senior-level leaders ready to refine strategic vision and elevate into C-suite roles. Part-Time MBAs — sometimes called Working Professional MBAs — support early- to mid-career talent looking to strengthen business administration fundamentals, pivot industries, or advance into management while maintaining full-time work.

At Texas McCombs, you don’t have to choose between career momentum and a Hildebrand MBA. Our Part-Time MBA options — Evening MBA, Weekend MBA at Dallas/Fort Worth and Weekend MBA at Houston — are purpose-built for ambitious professionals. Each program has the opportunity to leverage our innovative ecosystem, world-class faculty, and a community that’s driven to make a global impact. 

What Is an Executive MBA?

An Executive MBA is built for accomplished professionals — typically with seven to 10 years of experience — who are ready to elevate from managing teams to steering organizations. You’re already influencing strategy; now you want a program that sharpens your decision-making, deepens your global perspective, and positions you for senior-level impact.

In the Texas McCombs Executive MBA, every course centers on strategic leadership. Faculty guide you through high-level analytics, innovation frameworks, and boardroom-level financial insights that translate immediately to your workplace. Because the cohort is composed of mid- and senior-level leaders from diverse industries, class discussions mirror the complexity of real business challenges, expanding your problem-solving lens beyond your own sector.

Leadership growth here goes beyond academics. You’ll gain access to executive coaching, targeted career resources, and a robust alumni network that opens doors to global opportunities. Graduates often step into C-suite roles, launch entrepreneurial ventures, or champion transformational initiatives within their organizations — proof that an Executive MBA is more than a credential; it’s a catalyst for senior-level influence.

Program Format and Immersions

Texas McCombs’ Executive MBA cohort meets one intensive weekend per month at Rowling Hall in Austin — an efficient schedule that respects your demanding calendar while immersing you in a tight-knit learning community. Yet the real signature of our EMBA program is six immersive experiences that weave together coursework, leadership practice, and global insight.

Each immersion aligns tightly with semester coursework, ensuring concepts move from the classroom to real-world context immediately. You’ll collaborate with classmates on consulting projects, meet high-level executives, and cultivate relationships that last well beyond graduation — an invaluable return on interaction that distinguishes our Executive MBA from other EMBA programs.

As a program option that blends rigorous academics, experiential learning, and global business exposure, the Texas McCombs Executive MBA empowers you to lead confidently in any boardroom.

What Is a Part-Time MBA?

A Part-Time — or Working Professional — MBA is crafted for early- to mid-career talent with typically two to eight years of experience and who prefer not to pause their career momentum for graduate studies. You’re juggling deadlines, leading projects, and eyeing your next promotion; this program lets you cultivate advanced business acumen without stepping away from the office.

The McCombs working professional coursework grounds you in core disciplines — finance, statistics, economics, marketing, operations — while layering leadership development and strategic management. What you learn in the classroom gets applied in the workplace right away,  allowing you to show immediate value and accelerate your growth.

Team-based projects and hands-on simulations connect you with classmates from technology, healthcare, manufacturing, financial services, consulting, and more. This range of professional backgrounds broadens your perspective and builds a supportive network that stretches across Texas and beyond. Many graduates secure managerial roles, pivot industries, or even launch startups.

Program Flexibility and Scheduling

Texas McCombs offers three scheduling paths designed for working professionals:

  • Evening MBA in Austin: Meets weekly on Monday and Tuesday evenings from 6–9 p.m., ideal if you prefer a consistent weekday routine and want to keep weekends free for family, travel, or passion projects. Located in the heart of Austin’s innovation hub, the program frequently features guest lectures from local founders and tech leaders who want to pass on business skills and proficiencies.
  • Weekend MBA at Dallas/Fort Worth: Held on alternating weekends, with classes offered in Uptown Dallas on Friday evenings and all day Saturday. This format is perfect for professionals across North Texas who prefer immersive, condensed learning that minimizes weekday disruptions while still providing space to learn in-person from Austin-based professors. Proximity to major corporate headquarters in the DFW metroplex enhances coursework through company presentations and real-world case studies.
  • Weekend MBA at Houston: Following the same alternating weekend schedule, with Friday-Saturday coursework designed to let you focus fully on business learning with peers before returning to work energized to apply new insights. Positioned in a key global business hub, the program offers unparalleled access to leaders in various industries. For example, sectors like energy, healthcare, aerospace, real estate, manufacturing, and consulting.

All three formats require full-time employment, ensuring classroom discussions mirror real-time business challenges. Faculty leverage this dynamic, encouraging you to apply frameworks immediately, gather feedback, and refine strategies before the next class session. Whether you prefer weeknight consistency or biweekly weekend sessions at our Dallas or Houston campuses, McCombs meets you where you are — without forcing you to compromise career progress.

Key Differences Between Executive MBA and Part-Time MBA

Both programs empower working professionals, yet the experience you’ll have — and the outcomes you can expect — vary in meaningful ways:

Experience Level

  • Executive MBA: Most EMBA students bring eight+ years of professional experience, often managing departments or divisions before entering the program.
  • Part-Time MBA: Candidates on average have two–eight years of experience and are preparing to move into their first managerial or senior specialist roles. It’s also common for candidates to have more than eight years of experience from a non-business field and want to gain the skills and knowledge to have a seat in the boardroom. 

Career Trajectory

  • Executive MBA: Designed for leadership acceleration — think VP, C-suite, or entrepreneurial founder.
  • Part-Time MBA: Focuses on career growth, functional mastery, and optional pivots across industries or roles.

Program Intensity and Duration

  • Both tracks span roughly two years, but the EMBA’s once-per-month weekend format compresses coursework into high-impact sessions and immersive residencies.
  • Part-Time MBA spreads learning across weekly evening or biweekly weekend classes, delivering steady progress without overwhelming your calendar.

Investment

  • Executive MBA: Typically requires a higher financial commitment, reflecting the exclusive immersions, executive coaching, and senior-level networking.
  • Part-Time MBA: Tuition is lower, offering a strong return on investment for professionals who anticipate salary growth or role changes during the program.

Networking Ecosystem

  • Executive MBA: Intake classes average 65 students — each a seasoned leader — creating intimate, high-level peer connections that often translate into board appointments or joint ventures.
  • Part-Time MBA: Entering classes across Austin, Dallas, and Houston average 250 students, giving you a broader network of professionals across Texas and access to multi-program networking in electives and international trips.

Learning and Curriculum

  • Executive MBA: Centers on strategic leadership, corporate governance, and enterprise-level analytics. Courses emphasize case studies that mirror boardroom dilemmas, preparing you to influence vision and organizational culture. Executive coaches and leadership diagnostics personalize your growth plan, sharpening decision-making under pressure.
  • Part-Time MBA: Builds a solid foundation in finance, marketing, operations, and data analytics through lectures by expert professors and application of case studies, then layers leadership development through electives and experiential modules. Real-time application lets you apply learnings at work and return to class with fresh insights, enriching discussions for everyone.

The Hildebrand Leadership Fellows program immerses high-impact Part-Time, Executive, and Full-Time MBA students in advanced leadership workshops, industry treks, and executive mentorship, adding depth to your managerial toolkit.

Shared Strengths

Regardless of track, you access world-class faculty, hands-on projects, and the powerful Texas McCombs alumni network. Yet the balance of strategy versus fundamentals — and the caliber of your peer group — differs, guiding you toward the program that aligns best with your current role and future vision. Plus, all programs have a fall start date and walk together for graduation when wrapping up the MBA program, so you’ll start and end at the same time among your fellow students. 

Ready to pinpoint your fit? Let’s explore how to evaluate personal factors like experience, goals, and time commitment before making your decision.

Determining Which MBA Program Is Right for You

Start by taking an honest inventory of where you stand today and where you intend to go next. Your level of experience, career ambitions, and life commitments all shape whether an Executive MBA or Part-Time MBA will serve you best.

Look At Your Work Experience and Career Stage

If you already lead teams, manage P&L, or influence corporate strategy, the Executive MBA’s executive-level peer group will match your pace and perspective, assuming you meet the minimum eight years of work experience. If you’re climbing toward your first management role or seeking a strategic skill set to pivot industries or functions, the Part-Time MBA delivers the business fundamentals and leadership coaching to get you there.

Have Your Desired Program Format and Time Commitment in Mind

The Executive MBA’s once-per-month weekend classes and six immersive residencies suit professionals who can carve out concentrated blocks of time, plus the potential commute. Either the Evening or Weekend MBA option disperses class time across weeknights or alternating weekends in your area, a rhythm that accommodates continuous full-time work and family obligations.

Think About Your Long-Term Goals

Aspiring C-suite leaders benefit from the EMBA’s focus on high-level strategy, global business, and peer-executive networking. Professionals planning a functional pivot or mid-career leap gain versatility through the Part-Time MBA’s broad curriculum and immediate, on-the-job application.

Experience McCombs Culture Firsthand

Sit in on a class, connect with current MBA students, or attend an admissions event to test-drive each program’s environment. Engage with admissions consulting resources or review tuition overviews to ensure the investment aligns with your personal and financial plan.

Explore Texas McCombs MBA Programs: Making Your Academics Work for You

Executive MBA or Part-Time MBA — each Hildebrand MBA path at Texas McCombs empowers working professionals to lead with vision and agility. The Executive MBA delivers an immersive, strategy-focused journey alongside seasoned executives. The Part-Time MBA offers flexible evening and weekend classes that let you master business fundamentals while advancing your career. Both share world-class faculty, a collaborative community, and access to Austin’s innovative economy. Additionally, all programs start with an orientation and coursework kick-off in Austin and end with an MBA graduation together.

No matter your career stage, you’ll find a program engineered for growth. Our Hildebrand MBA initiatives, leadership fellows’ experiences, and global immersions ensure every McCombs student develops the insight and confidence to drive meaningful change.

Ready to discover your perfect MBA program fit? Explore the Executive MBA, Evening MBA, and Weekend MBA options in Dallas and Houston today, and see how a Texas McCombs School of Business degree propels you toward your next leadership milestone.

Texas McCombs MBA Application: Letter of Recommendation

Everything to Know About the MBA Recommendation Letter

July 19, 2025 / / Comments Off on Everything to Know About the MBA Recommendation Letter

An MBA recommendation letter is a concise, third-party endorsement that spotlights your leadership potential, professional achievements, and character. It’s a powerful narrative that can validate the claims you make elsewhere in your application and reveal dimensions of your experience that transcripts, test scores, and resumes can’t capture.

Admissions committees at every world-class school of business, including Texas McCombs, lean on these letters to understand how you lead teams, tackle challenges, and inspire results. A compelling MBA recommendation can elevate your entire application, while a lukewarm note may undermine your competitiveness in the admissions process.

Texas McCombs sets clear expectations and deadlines for the recommendation process, so it’s smart to get familiar with them well before you hit “submit.” Knowing what we require — and when — gives you the runway to choose the right advocate and equip them to advocate for you brilliantly.

With this guide, you’ll have a roadmap to secure an MBA recommendation letter that underscores your value and aligns perfectly with Texas McCombs’ emphasis on leadership, innovation, and community impact.

What Is an MBA Recommendation Letter: Definition and Importance

Think of your MBA recommendation letter as a professional spotlight — one that’s directed by someone who has witnessed your growth firsthand. Its primary purpose is to deliver a credible, third-party evaluation of your abilities, leadership potential, and character. When a direct supervisor or respected mentor vouches for your performance with specific examples, admissions committees gain invaluable insight into who you are.

They balance quantitative metrics — like GPA, test scores, and master program courses — with qualitative evidence of how you collaborate, make decisions, and elevate those around you. A well-crafted recommendation helps schools envision you thriving in team projects, case competitions, and future boardrooms.

Texas McCombs sees each letter as a chance to confirm your readiness to lead through disruption and contribute to a dynamic community. 

Our Recommendation Letter Requirements

Texas McCombs keeps the process straightforward: you need one professional recommendation submitted through our online application portal. We strongly prefer a direct supervisor or someone who manages your work, because they can speak in detail to your impact, leadership style, and growth trajectory. Academic references are rarely as effective given the context and nature of the relationship.

We use the industry-standard Common Letter of Recommendation (LOR) format, designed to streamline the process for both applicants and recommenders. That means we do not accept a traditional “Dear Admissions Committee” attachment, nor do we allow recommenders to write “please see attached letter” in the form. Instead, they’ll answer targeted questions inside the portal, ensuring each response aligns with the competencies our admissions committee values.

Here’s how the submission works:

  1. While completing your application, you’ll enter your recommender’s email address.
  2. Our system immediately sends an invitation with secure login details.
  3. Once your recommender submits the form, you’ll receive an automated confirmation email.

Behind the scenes, our reviewers evaluate each recommendation alongside your essays, resume, and test scores, looking for consistency and depth. We want specific examples that highlight leadership potential, collaboration, and integrity — qualities central to the Texas McCombs culture.

Here’s an example of the standard recommendation template your advocate will follow.

What Should a Strong MBA Recommendation Letter Include?

Admissions readers scan hundreds of letters every cycle, so a standout MBA recommendation hits two marks simultaneously: it showcases the qualities Texas McCombs values most, and it delivers those insights in a clear, structured narrative.

Below are the attributes our committee looks for:

  • Leadership potential
  • Professional achievements and impact
  • Collaboration and communication skills
  • Problem-solving ability under pressure
  • Integrity and character

A powerful letter recommendation follows a simple, effective framework:

  • Introduction: Who the recommender is, how long they’ve known you, and what their relationship with you is — like a direct report, boss, or peer.
  • Key qualities + stories: Concrete anecdotes that illustrate your leadership, teamwork, and strategic thinking.
  • Constructive feedback: Honest reflection on an area of growth and how you responded.
  • Final endorsement: A definitive statement of support, complete with contact information.

Here’s a concise excerpt that captures these elements:

“As Jane’s direct supervisor for three years, I’ve watched her transform an underperforming analytics team into a high-impact unit that increased revenue forecasting accuracy by 18%. She pairs data fluency with empathetic leadership, motivating colleagues across finance, marketing, and private equity sales to rally behind bold, data-driven strategies. When I tasked her with leading a cross-border project, she navigated cultural nuances and tight timelines with integrity, delivering results ahead of schedule. I strongly recommend Jane for the Texas McCombs MBA program, confident she’ll elevate classroom discussions and team outcomes alike.”

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

Even seasoned leaders can stumble when they write MBA recommendation letters. Watch out for these traps:

  • Generic language that could describe anyone in your cohort.
  • Vague praise without numbers, timelines, or specific examples.
  • Missed deadlines that delay your entire MBA package. 
  • Accidental references to another school business — a quick credibility killer.

Instead, ensure you follow these quick tips:

  • Provide your recommender with your résumé, personal statement, and key deadlines.
  • Highlight two or three accomplishments you’d love them to emphasize.
  • Set up time to discuss your request for a recommendation before entering the person’s email address in the application. This will give them a heads up on your expectations and ensure you’re aligned. 
  • Send gentle reminders as the deadline approaches; a timely letter reflects well on your organizational skills.

How To Choose and Ask the Right Advocate

Your recommender isn’t just writing a letter; they’re championing your candidacy to the MBA admissions team. Selecting the right advocate — and equipping them to succeed — can determine whether your application narrative feels cohesive and compelling.

Who Makes the Strongest Advocate?

When it comes to your academic future, not just anyone will be able to recommend you. Here are the best people to ask:

Your Supervisor

Your current direct supervisor is traditionally the best choice. This is likely the person in your network who 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. 

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 MBA 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 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.  

What To Hand Over

  • An updated résumé highlighting key achievements.
  • A brief summary of your career goals and MBA objectives.
  • A one-pager on the Texas McCombs program highlights that excites you.
  • A clear reminder of the application deadline and submission process.

Inside the Common LOR form, your recommender will answer three core questions:

  • A 50-word description of your working relationship and role.
  • A 500-word assessment of your principal strengths compared with peers.
  • A 500-word account of the most important constructive feedback they’ve given you and your response.

Communicating With Your Recommenders

Clear communication unlocks stronger letters and smoother timelines. Make sure you:

  • Ask four to six weeks before the deadline. 
  • Explain the online submission steps and deadlines up front.
  • Offer to meet or call to answer any questions about the MBA program.
  • Provide gentle, periodic reminders — especially one week before the due date.
  • Confirm receipt once the system notifies you that the recommendation has arrived.

Expressing Gratitude

A thoughtful thank-you reinforces professional relationships and reflects the integrity McCombs cherishes. Simple yet meaningful gestures include:

  • A handwritten note detailing how their mentorship has shaped your career.
  • A small gift card to their favorite coffee shop or bookstore.
  • An update email once you receive your admissions decision, regardless of the outcome.

By closing the loop with genuine appreciation, you not only honor their effort but also strengthen a professional bond that can last well beyond your MBA journey.

Find the People That Have Your Back

Strong recommendations don’t materialize overnight. They grow from authentic professional relationships and careful planning. Start early, brief your advocate thoroughly, and build in extra time so they can craft vivid, data-driven stories that elevate your application.

For Full-Time MBA applicants, the letter of recommendation is due at the round deadline — though if it is missing, our team reaches out and they have a chance to get it in within a reasonable time to be considered for that round. On the other hand, Working Professional and Executive applicants must turn in their request for a letter of recommendation by the application deadline, but don’t have to be completed by then. Generally, McCombs recommends you have them finished by the time you wrap up your interview and video assessment. 

Aim to give your recommender at least a four-week buffer before these dates so last-minute hurdles — travel, client crises, or tech glitches — don’t derail your timeline.

Need more insight? We’re always here to clarify requirements, share best practices, and ensure you feel confident every step of the way. Take the next steps on your MBA application and find the right people to advocate for your professional experience today.

Texas McCombs MBA Application: MBA Interview

What To Expect in an MBA Interview and How To Prepare

July 15, 2025 / / Comments Off on What To Expect in an MBA Interview and How To Prepare

An MBA interview is a focused, conversational meeting — usually 20 to 45 minutes — where an admissions team member, current student, or alumni interviewer evaluates your readiness for business school. It’s your opportunity to move beyond written essays and test scores, bringing your leadership stories and career goals to life.

Within the broader MBA admission journey, this personal interview serves as a pivotal touchpoint. The admissions committee uses it to confirm the strengths they’ve already seen in your application and to gauge qualities that transcripts can’t capture: presence, communication skills, and shared values with the MBA program.

Reaching the interview stage signals you’ve cleared the first hurdle of the application process. .

You’re Invited to an MBA Interview: What Does It Mean?

First, let’s decode the invitation itself. If you’re applying to the Working Professional or Executive MBA at Texas McCombs, an interview with our admissions team is required, in addition to your video assessment. For Full-Time MBA applicants, the interview is optional and led by current student peers — an extra chance to share insights that may not appear elsewhere in your application.

What sets the McCombs application process apart from other business schools is that all applicants get to complete all application components, including the interview. Keep in mind that the interviews help us verify the qualities we value most: authentic motivation, collaborative spirit, and readiness to lead through disruption. They also give you space to ask thoughtful questions and confirm that McCombs is the right launchpad for your goals.

Remember, every interaction with the Texas McCombs community — from a quick email to a chat with our receptionist — shapes your candidacy. Treat each moment of engagement as a chance to demonstrate professionalism, curiosity, and genuine enthusiasm for our MBA program.

What Is the Interviewer Looking for? Our Interview Process

At Texas McCombs, interviewers listen for more than just polished answers. They’re tuning into three core signals: executive presence, clear and concise communication, and genuine enthusiasm for our community and culture.

The conversation centers on three key competencies:

  • Motivation: We want to see that you understand how an MBA — specifically a Texas McCombs MBA — fits into your journey and advances your professional goals, and that you’re energized by the journey ahead.
  • Collaboration: Successful MBA candidates show self-awareness of their strengths, rely on teammates’ expertise when needed, and elevate group outcomes.
  • Preparedness: Particularly for the Working Professional and Executive MBA candidates, we want to see that you’ve done your homework on the specific program you’re applying to, understand its unique resources and format, and have thoughtfully considered how you’ll manage the demands of graduate study alongside your current responsibilities. This includes having the support systems in place —  whether from your employer, family, or both —  to help you succeed throughout the program.

Here’s what you can expect from our MBA interview process:

  • Format: All Working Professional and Executive MBA interviews are virtual, one-on-one with admissions staff, and last 20–30 minutes. Full-Time MBA optional interviews are also virtual, 20 minutes and led by current students.
  • Typical length: Expect a 20-30-minute window depending on the program, giving adequate time for brief introductions, answering behavioral questions, and Q&A.
  • Tone: Think conversational yet evaluative. We’re eager to learn about you, help you learn more about us, but we’re also measuring fit with our collaborative culture.
  • Virtual vs. in-person: If you ever encounter an in-person setting (at another school or future round), remember to build rapport through firm handshakes and eye contact. In virtual rooms, give enough time to test technology, frame good lighting and camera view, and maintain steady engagement on camera.

How To Prepare for an MBA Interview

Strategic preparation turns a good MBA interview into a memorable one. Here are our tips for preparing for your MBA interview:

Review Your Application in Advance

Start by rereading your entire application — essays, resumes, and short answers — to ensure every story you share in the interview aligns with what you’ve already submitted. Refreshing these details also helps you address any potential weak spots, such as an unconventional career pivot, with confidence and clarity. Don’t shy away from having a copy of your resume in front of you for reference!

Understand the Program’s Specifics

Understand our core values, coursework, opportunities to engage outside of the classroom, and career resources so you can connect them directly to your goals. Showing that you’ve done the homework demonstrates respect for the admissions committee and underscores why McCombs is the ideal launchpad for your next chapter.

Practice Common MBA Interview Questions

When it comes to MBA interview preparation, practice is non-negotiable. Conduct mock interviews with a mentor or peer and lean on behavioral frameworks like the STAR method to structure your responses. Rehearse answers out loud until they feel natural, not scripted. As you practice, focus on concise storytelling, specific and relevant examples, tie back the outcome, and genuine enthusiasm.

To help you cover every angle, follow this quick hit list of interview best practices:

  • Identify 2–3 personal stories that highlight leadership, problem-solving, and teamwork.
  • Prepare succinct answers to common MBA interview questions, using real metrics when possible. Practice saying these answers out loud.
  • Dress professionally (just as you would for an in-person interview), test your technology, and plan to log in early for virtual interviews.
  • Craft thoughtful questions that showcase your curiosity about the program, culture, and community.
  • Practice closing strong by summarizing your values alignment and reiterating enthusiasm for admission.

On interview day, take care of both mind and body. A short walk, deep-breathing exercises, or a quick mindfulness session can calm nerves and sharpen focus. When the conversation ends, thank your interviewer and confirm next steps — you’ll be ready for the questions ahead.

Common MBA Interview Questions + How To Answer Them

While every MBA interviewer brings a unique style, most conversations revolve around four themes: background and motivation, professional experience, behavioral scenarios, and career fit. Preparing clear, story-driven answers for each category keeps you agile in the moment.

Below is a collection of common MBA interview questions, paired with guidance on how to craft winning responses.

Background & Motivation

Why do you want to pursue an MBA?

Connect your past experience, current skill gaps, and future ambitions. Show that the MBA is the strategic bridge, not a detour or something to get done on your bucket list.

Why McCombs specifically?

Reference courses and faculty, engagement with current/past students, student organizations or the program’s collaborative culture that align with your goals. Show you’ve done your homework by mentioning conversations with current students or alumni and explain what aspects of the Texas McCombs community – whether it’s the innovative spirit, professional network in your city, or specific program resources – make it the right fit for your journey. Demonstrate you’ve envisioned yourself here.

Professional Experience

Tell me about a time you overcame a professional challenge.

Use the STAR method — Situation, Task, Action, Result — quantifying outcomes whenever possible.

Describe a leadership experience.

Highlight how you motivated others, navigated complexity, and delivered measurable impact.

Behavioral & Situational

Give an example of working with a difficult team member.

Emphasize empathy, active listening, and constructive conflict resolution.

How do you handle conflict?

Illustrate a step-by-step approach: identify root causes, facilitate open dialogue, and commit to a shared solution.

Goals

What are your short- and long-term career goals?

Outline a clear career trajectory with specific timeframes. Show how your short-term goal connects to your long-term vision — whether that’s a natural progression in your current field (for WP/EMBA candidates) or a strategic pivot to a new industry or function (often the case for Full-time candidates). Either way, demonstrate that your MBA is the intentional bridge between where you’ve been and where you’re headed. Tie both goals to relevant McCombs resources that will help you get there.

How will McCombs help you achieve those goals?

Mention specific classes, co-curricular resources, or experiential learning opportunities that will accelerate your journey.

Answering these specific questions with authenticity not only showcases your readiness but also underscores your fit with our community.

Explore the Full Application Process

Interview day is just one piece of the larger admissions puzzle. Texas McCombs designs every step — from essays and video assessments to letters of recommendation — with a human-centered, future-focused lens. Each component invites you to showcase your collaborative spirit, clarify your motivations, and highlight the impact you plan to make.

Whether you choose to schedule an interview, engage with student ambassadors, or join a virtual information session, remember that every touchpoint is an opportunity to reinforce your story. Select the options that best align with your goals and approach them with the same enthusiasm you’d bring to a boardroom pitch.

Ready to dive deeper? Explore our application process to discover timelines, requirements, and insider tips that will help you present a standout application. We look forward to learning more about your journey — and potentially welcoming you to the Texas McCombs family.

Explore our application process and take the next steps toward pursuing an MBA.

Texas McCombs MBA Application: Video Assessment

The Ultimate Guide to MBA Video Assessment: Tips, Strategies, and Examples

July 11, 2025 / / Comments Off on The Ultimate Guide to MBA Video Assessment: Tips, Strategies, and Examples

MBA video assessments have become an integral part of the modern business school application process. These virtual screenings allow admissions committees to evaluate your communication skills, personality, and cultural fit beyond what’s possible through transcripts and essays alone. Understanding how to excel in MBA video assessments can positively impact your admissions chances.

At Texas McCombs, our MBA video assessment is an essential component that helps us see beyond your written application and get to know you as an individual. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about MBA video assessments, from preparation strategies to examples of successful responses. By the end, you’ll have the confidence and knowledge to showcase your best self during this important part of your application process.

What are MBA Video Assessments?

MBA video assessments are timed video recordings that business schools use to evaluate prospective students’ verbal communication skills, professionalism, and get to know you. Unlike traditional in-person interviews, these assessments are typically completed on your own schedule using platforms like Kira or similar video software.

Most MBA video assessments follow a similar format: you’ll receive a series of prompts or questions with limited time to prepare and respond. Response times typically range from 60 to 120 seconds per question, with some programs allowing up to 3 minutes for complex scenarios.

The Importance of MBA Video Assessments in Admissions

Why Business Schools Use Video Assessments

MBA video assessments serve multiple purposes in the admissions process. They help admissions committees assess your ability to think on your feet, communicate clearly under pressure, and demonstrate the soft skills essential for MBA success. These assessments also provide insight into your personality and alignment with the program’s values.

Video assessments are particularly valuable for evaluating international candidates whose first language may not be English, as they demonstrate real-time communication abilities that written essays cannot capture. Additionally, they help admissions committees put a face and voice to your application, making you more memorable in a competitive applicant pool.

What Admissions Committees Evaluate

When reviewing MBA video assessments, admissions committees typically look for several key competencies:

Communication Skills: Your ability to articulate thoughts clearly, concisely, and confidently in English while thinking on your feet.

Adaptability and Resilience: How you handle unexpected questions or challenges while remaining composed under pressure and demonstrating openness to feedback.

Leadership and Ambition: Evidence of your ability to influence others, drive results, and strategically solve complex problems with an enterprising approach.

Clear Goals: Thoughtful decision-making in pursuing an MBA with a long-term vision for achieving your career objectives.

Empathy and Inclusivity: How you advocate for all voices in the room to be heard and navigate difficult conversations and situations.  

Personal Interests: Your ability to explain what drives you outside of work, demonstrating well-rounded interests that shape your personality.

Professionalism and Poise: Mature, professional conduct appropriate for business settings while maintaining authenticity.

Essential Tips for MBA Video Assessment Preparation

Research the School and Program

Before beginning your MBA video assessment preparation, thoroughly research the specific business school and the program you’re applying to. Understand their values, culture, and what they’re looking for in candidates. Review their website, attend information sessions, and connect with current students or alumni to gain insights.

Many programs will ask why you’re interested in their specific MBA program, so having detailed knowledge about their unique offerings, faculty, clubs, and career services will help you provide compelling, specific responses.

Master the Technical Requirements

McCombs’ Video 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.

Test your technology setup multiple times before the actual assessment. Ensure your camera is at eye level, your lighting is flattering, and your background is professional and distraction-free.

Practice Responding to Questions

The practice opportunities provided by the assessment platforms are invaluable. Take advantage of unlimited practice sessions prior to recording your actual video responses to:

  • Get comfortable with the technology and format (yes, you will be talking to yourself)
  • Practice timing your responses (McCombs’ prompts are between 90-120 second responses, depending on the program you are applying to)
  • Refine your delivery and non-verbal body language
  • Test different response structures

Develop Your Core Stories

Prepare 5-7 compelling stories that demonstrate your key strengths and experiences. These should cover:

  • Leadership experience
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Overcoming challenges
  • Professional achievements
  • Personal interests or hobbies
  • Career goals and motivation for MBA

Structure each story using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to ensure clear, impactful responses within time constraints. Consider practicing with friends, family, or career counselors who can provide feedback on your communication style, clarity, and professionalism.

Proven Strategies for MBA Video Assessment Success

Structure your stories using the STAR method. Most successful MBA video assessment responses follow a simple structure:

  • First 15-20 seconds: Set up the Situation and Task
  • Next 45-60 seconds: Detail your specific Actions and the Results
  • Final 15-20 seconds: Brief reflection or key takeaway (connect to MBA goals if the question specifically asks for it)

This structure ensures you address the question completely while staying within time limits, in the case of McCombs, responses times allotted are between 90-120 seconds and you may only record your response once.

Tip: Always include a specific, concrete example. Vague responses don’t demonstrate your capabilities or give the admissions committee insight into how you think and operate.

Professional Presentation Tips

Dress Professionally: Wear business attire as you would for an in-person interview. Solid colors work better on camera than patterns or stripes.

Maintain Eye Contact: Look directly at the camera, not the screen, to create the impression of eye contact. Do not read answers from your screen; typically, this is obvious to the admissions committee and is distracting.

Use Confident Body Language: Sit up straight, use natural hand gestures, and smile genuinely when appropriate.

Speak Clearly and Pace Yourself: Avoid rushing through responses. Speak at a measured pace and enunciate clearly.

Managing Nerves and Pressure

Video assessments can feel unnatural and stressful. To manage anxiety:

  • Practice deep breathing exercises before starting
  • Remind yourself that you can take a moment to collect your thoughts
  • Focus on having a conversation rather than giving a performance
  • Remember that some nervousness is normal and expected

Example of Previous Kira Question & Response

Question: At Texas McCombs we value leadership. Tell us about your most significant leadership experience.

Strong Response Example: In my role as a team lead at a growing financial services firm, I was asked to oversee a project aimed at improving client onboarding. I brought together colleagues from different departments, set clear goals, and created a timeline that kept us on track. By encouraging open communication and collaboration, we reduced onboarding time by 30% and improved client satisfaction scores. This experience taught me how to lead with empathy, keep teams aligned, and deliver results—qualities I’m excited to bring to McCombs.

Why This Works: This response lets the evaluator know what you do, what was the objective of the assignment, and the direct result and impact of your action. It is a specific example that is relatable to how a student can contribute to the program.

McCombs-specific Video Assessment: What to Expect

This exciting part of your application journey begins shortly after you submit your MBA application. Here’s what you need to know about completing your video assessment:

Invitation: Once you submit your application, you’ll receive an invitation from Kira to complete the Hildebrand MBA Video Assessment.

Time Frame: You’ll have 7 days from receiving access to the video assessment platform to complete your assessment. Mark your calendar and plan accordingly!

Structure: The video assessment consists of 4-5 question prompts and will take approximately 20 minutes to complete. You’ll have between 90-120 (again, depending on the MBA program you’re applying to!) seconds to answer each prompt.

Practice Opportunity. Don’t worry about going in cold! You’ll have the chance to practice with the camera and platform before recording your actual responses for submitting. Take advantage of this to get comfortable with the format and technology. However, when you actually go to record your responses, you will only have ONE attempt per question.

Your Path to MBA Video Assessment Success

MBA video assessments represent both a challenge and an opportunity in your business school application journey. By understanding what admissions committees are looking for, preparing thoroughly, and presenting yourself authentically, you can turn this component into a competitive advantage. The key to success lies in balancing professionalism with authenticity, demonstrating your qualifications while letting your personality shine through.

With proper preparation and the right mindset, your MBA video assessment can help set your application apart and open the door to your future business school success. Take advantage of every practice opportunity, stay true to yourself, and approach your assessment with confidence. Your future MBA classmates and career are waiting on the other side of this important milestone.

Ready to take the next step? Visit our MBA admissions page to learn more about application requirements and deadlines. For additional resources and insights into the Hildebrand MBA at Texas McCombs experience, follow us on social media or register for an admissions event.

Texas McCombs MBA Application: Test Options & Waiver

Should You Take the GMAT, GRE, EA or Request a Test Waiver? A Strategic Guide for MBA Applicants

July 3, 2025 / / Comments Off on Should You Take the GMAT, GRE, EA or Request a Test Waiver? A Strategic Guide for MBA Applicants

The landscape of MBA admissions has evolved significantly in recent years, particularly around standardized testing requirements. While tests like the GMAT and GRE continue to play important roles in the application process, many top programs now offer more flexible approaches to demonstrating your readiness for rigorous graduate business education.

At McCombs, we understand that exceptional candidates come from various backgrounds and may showcase their analytical abilities in different ways. Whether you’re considering taking a standardized test or exploring waiver options, this guide will help you make the most informed decision for your MBA application strategy.

Understanding Standardized Test Value and Limitations

Why Standardized Tests Still Matter

Standardized tests have remained central to MBA admissions for several compelling reasons. They provide a common metric to compare candidates from diverse academic and professional backgrounds, making it easier for admissions committees to evaluate applicants regardless of undergraduate institution or country of origin.

Research consistently shows that higher scores on standardized tests correlate with stronger academic performance and program completion rates in business school. These scores, particularly in quantitative areas, help schools assess a candidate’s ability to handle rigorous coursework in subjects like financial modeling, operations research, and data analysis.

For many candidates, a strong standardized test score can also compensate for weaker areas in their profile. If you have a lower undergraduate GPA or limited quantitative coursework, an impressive GMAT or GRE score can significantly enhance your candidacy, especially for highly competitive programs where every advantage matters.

The Shift Toward Flexibility

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated a trend that was already emerging in MBA admissions: greater flexibility around testing requirements. Many business schools began offering test waivers or optional submission policies, recognizing that talented professionals might demonstrate their capabilities through alternative means.

This shift has created several benefits. Test waivers can increase accessibility for mid-career professionals, international applicants, and those with strong profiles who may excel in business environments but struggle with traditional testing formats. Rather than relying solely on one exam score, schools can now evaluate candidates more holistically using academic transcripts, professional experience, and specialized certifications as evidence of readiness.

However, this flexibility comes with important considerations. Some critics argue that waiving tests can introduce more subjectivity into admissions decisions, making it harder to compare candidates objectively. There’s also ongoing discussion about how test-optional policies affect student preparation and program outcomes.

When Taking a Test Provides Competitive Advantage

While waivers offer valuable flexibility, taking a standardized test still provides competitive advantages in many situations. If you have a lower undergraduate GPA or limited quantitative coursework, a strong test score can significantly boost your profile and demonstrate your academic readiness.

Similarly, if you’re applying to highly competitive programs where marginal advantages matter, submitting an impressive test score alongside other strong application components can set you apart from other candidates. Test scores also remain important factors in program rankings, so many top schools continue to value strong performance.

For candidates with less extensive professional experience or those transitioning from non-business backgrounds, a solid test score provides concrete evidence of your analytical abilities and commitment to graduate business education.

Your Test Options: McCombs accepts the GMAT, GRE, and Executive Assessment (EA), and our admissions committee does not have a preference between test types. The GMAT remains popular among business school applicants and is still used by some top-tier consulting and investment banking firms as a baseline qualifier during recruiting. The GRE offers advantages for candidates pursuing dual degree programs or those who have already completed master’s degrees, as one score can serve multiple application purposes. The Executive Assessment (EA) was designed specifically for MBA candidates with significant work experience and serves as a readiness exam for academic preparedness.

When Waivers Make Strategic Sense

Waiver requests make the most strategic sense when you can demonstrate quantitative and analytical excellence through other means. If you have strong academic credentials and substantial professional experience with clear analytical responsibilities, these accomplishments may provide more compelling evidence than a test score alone. Professional experience enhances your academic foundations; it cannot substitute for weak quantitative academic performance.

Waivers are also strategic for candidates whose time and energy are better invested in other application components. If you’re confident in your quantitative background and prefer to focus on crafting exceptional essays, building relationships for recommendations, or preparing for the interview, a waiver request allows that flexibility.

Consider your overall application narrative as well. If your professional story and career goals are strongly aligned with your target program, and you have clear evidence of analytical success, a waiver request can allow admissions committees to focus on these compelling elements rather than a single test score.

Full-Time MBA students who are admitted without a valid GRE, GMAT or EA score will be required to enroll in Accelerated Foundations Program, a one-week quantitative prep series taught by McCombs faculty. There is a cost associated with this requirement for incoming students with a waiver. Consideration for scholarship awards: Scholarships at Texas McCombs are competitive, merit-based and limited in number. All Full-Time and Working Professional MBA candidates are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships. There are no scholarships available for Executive MBA candidates.

Scholarship decisions are based on a longstanding holistic review process considering 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. Though all candidates are eligible for merit-based scholarships, a valid test score provides the admissions committee a concrete data point that may strengthen a candidate’s position for scholarship awards. Additionally, for Working Professional MBAs, scholarships are more likely awarded early in the application cycle, making it advantageous to apply in earlier rounds.

Assessing Your Quantitative Profile Strength

Before deciding between testing and waiver requests, honestly assess your quantitative profile. Review your undergraduate coursework, professional experience, and any additional credentials to determine whether they provide compelling evidence of analytical capabilities.

Strong quantitative profiles typically include undergraduate performance in analytical subjects, professional roles requiring data analysis or financial modeling, leadership of quantitative projects, completion of relevant certifications or advanced coursework, and demonstrated success in analytically demanding environments.

If your background includes these elements and you can articulate them clearly in your application, a waiver request may be the right choice. However, remember that academic performance in quantitative subjects is the foundation; professional experience enhances but cannot replace strong academic credentials. If your quantitative background is less robust, taking a standardized test might strengthen your overall candidacy.

Making Your Strategic Decision

The decision between taking a standardized test and requesting a test waiver depends on several key factors:

Consider taking a test if you:

  • Have a lower undergraduate GPA (such as under 3.0) or limited quantitative coursework
  • Are applying to highly competitive programs where every advantage matters
  • Have less extensive professional experience or are intending to change careers
  • Need to provide concrete evidence of your analytical readiness for admissions evaluation
  • Want to maximize your scholarship potential (especially for Working Professional candidates applying in early rounds and Full-Time candidates applying in any round)

Consider requesting a waiver if you:

  • Have strong academic credentials preferably 3.0 GPA or higher with solid performance in quantitative courses AND 3+ years of progressive professional experience with analytical and leadership responsibilities
  • Hold advanced degrees or professional certifications (CFA, CPA, etc.) in addition to meeting the academic and experience requirements
  • Can demonstrate analytical abilities through both your transcript and professional achievements
  • Prefer to invest time in perfecting other application elements (only if you meet the academic criteria)

Remember: At McCombs, we evaluate waiver requests through a comprehensive review process that considers academic performance first, then professional experience. Academic credentials play the primary role – a strong undergraduate GPA, preferably with a 3.0 GPA or higher, especially in quantitative subjects like mathematics, engineering, economics, or business, is strongly recommended to be approved for a test waiver.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Deciding between taking a standardized test and requesting a waiver is an important strategic choice in your MBA application process. At McCombs, we’re committed to evaluating each candidate holistically and finding the approach that best showcases your unique strengths and readiness for graduate business education.

Whether you choose to submit test scores or request a waiver, focus on presenting the strongest possible evidence of your analytical capabilities, professional achievements, and potential for success in our program.

Ready to apply for a test waiver? Read our detailed guide on How to Successfully Apply for an MBA Test Waiver at McCombs for step-by-step instructions, application tips, and everything you need to know about the waiver process.

For more information about application requirements, visit our MBA admissions page or contact MBA admissions to discuss your specific situation.

For more MBA application insights and tips, subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed about admissions trends, application deadlines, and program updates.

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