Texas McCombs MBA Insider

Tag: application tips (page 2 of 3)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

button that reads "Start or Submit Your MBA Application"

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

Letter of Recommendation

How To Submit A Successful MBA Recommendation

December 1, 2022 / / Comments Off on How To Submit A Successful MBA Recommendation

The Texas McCombs Working Professional and Executive MBA applications require one professional letter of recommendation from a person who has supervised your work and/or has directly assessed your work performance during your career.  

A recommendation letter is the only component of your application where you rely on someone else to provide information, so it is important that you carefully decide who you will ask to be your recommender. The Admissions Committee uses this recommendation to assess your work capabilities, such as your motivation, contribution, strengths, areas of growth, etc. 

What is in the Recommendation Letter? 

First of all, this is NOT the traditional letter of recommendation you typically think of where someone writes a letter on your behalf to vouch for your professional performance. Texas McCombs uses the GMAC Common Letter of Recommendation. Your recommender will receive a link to assess specific competencies/traits and answer three short-response questions. 

Keep in mind that while there are other programs using this form, some schools will ask a different series of questions.  If you’re applying to more than one MBA, you may be asking your recommender to separately fill out different forms. Make sure they do not copy and paste their responses. 

Who should write your MBA Recommendation? 

Circumstances differ for every applicant and deciding who you should ask might vary.  Below are some scenarios to help guide you in choosing the best recommender for your MBA application. 

Your Supervisor
Your current direct supervisor is traditionally the best choice. This is likely the person in your network that knows your strengths and weaknesses better than anyone else and can speak to your professional capabilities. 

However, in some instances, your current supervisor 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 long. Or, you’re an entrepreneur and don’t have a supervisor.  

All of these are valid reasons to look for other recommendation sources. If you choose to request a different recommender than your current supervisor, please explain your choice in the Optional Essay. 

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 the most common alternative option. 

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

Your Client or Vendor
This recommendation source is typically useful for entrepreneurs or for applicants who work for a family business. If you work for a family business, it is preferred that you ask an individual outside of your family to write your letter of recommendation. 

Mentor or Other Options
Mentors can be from inside or outside of your workplace who have a clear understanding of your professional value. Also, there are many individuals who may fall in the category of “other recommenders.” For example, a former professor, a colleague, or a coach. However, be sure that the person you select has worked with you on measurable tasks and understands your professional experiences to ensure they will provide a recommendation with depth. This is the least preferred option by the admissions committee. 

Other Tips: 

  • Don’t focus only on title – the CEO of a large company may sound like an impressive recommendation, but unless they work with you closely, the recommendation letter will likely fall short of delivering the information that the Admissions Committee is looking for. 
  • Steer clear of asking a direct report (someone who reports up to you) to submit a letter of recommendation. 
  • When it comes to other options, use your best judgment. An undergraduate professor may not be the best person to address some of the questions posed on the recommendation form and the Admissions Committee is looking mainly at your post-undergraduate work experience.   

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

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

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

Finally, make sure you give them all the information on the recommendation before you ask, especially the timeline for when you will be submitting your application. Let them know they will be receiving a link to fill out the recommendation, and that they do NOT need to write a supplemental letter. 

If you have any questions during the application process, we’re here to help. Join us at an upcoming event to connect and learn more about Texas McCombs.  Please sign up for MBA news and follow us on Instagram at @UTexasMBA to stay updated.

Hook ’em!

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Completing the Executive MBA Video Assessment and Interview

November 3, 2022 / / Comments Off on Completing the Executive MBA Video Assessment and Interview

Getting to Know our Candidates: Executive MBA Video Assessment and Interview

Shortly after you submit your MBA application and your application fee is paid or waived, you will receive two “action requested” emails – one pertains to your Video Assessment, and the other to your Interview.

All Executive MBA applicants are required to complete both the Video Assessment and the MBA Interview in order to complete the application process.

The Video Assessment and Interview are two opportunities to share your story and tell us why you chose McCombs in your own voice. 

Video Assessment

This application requirement helps the Admissions Committee better understand who you are in your own voice and allows us to assess your communication skills. All applicants have seven days to complete the assessment upon receiving access to the video submission platform. The Video Assessment has four question prompts and will take between 20 – 30 minutes to complete. Applicants will be allowed to practice before submitting their Video Assessment and will have between two and three minutes to answer each prompt, depending on the question.

Within the Video Assessment we are evaluating the following competencies for every Texas McCombs Executive MBA student:

Leadership
We are looking for well-rounded individuals who have a wealth of knowledge and life experience in informal or formal leadership positions. Consider how you’ve added your own unique perspective and skill set when engaged in the pursuit of leading others.

Collaboration
We’re looking for applicants who excel at collaboration with their active listening skills and empathy. They easily see others’ perspectives and are slow to judge, creating an inclusive space to solve problems as a team. They value team wins over their own.

Coachability
We’re looking for applicants who are coachable, demonstrated by their growth mindset, acceptance of constructive criticism, and dedication to continuous self-improvement. They’re adaptable in the face of unexpected challenges and remain positive. They’re curious, exhibited by their willingness to learn from others.

Problem Solving/Enterprising Spirit
The ideal applicant has the ability to think on their feet, remaining composed and clearly articulating their thought processes when faced with ambiguous, complex problems. They see the broader picture when problem-solving, showing creativity and resourcefulness in identifying viable approaches before reaching an informed decision

Tips for Completing Your Video Assessment

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

MBA Interview

The Interview provides an opportunity for you and a member of the Admissions Committee to have a one-to-one conversation about you and your MBA candidacy. It’s a chance for us to get a deeper understanding of your readiness for the demands of this rigorous program, as well as how you will contribute to and engage with the Executive MBA cohort.

Similar to the Video Assessment, we’re assessing your verbal communication skills and your professional presence. Interviews are mostly conducted via Zoom, with periodic opportunities for in-person interviews during campus visit events. The interview lasts 30 minutes total, including time for your specific questions.

Tips for Completing Your MBA Interview

  1. Be On Time: Arriving on time is “Interviewing 101,” yet it still manages to trip up even the most prepared of candidates. Please follow all the instructions in your confirmation email about how to connect with your interviewer via Zoom. If you’re interviewing on campus, scope out the location of the MBA Program Office in advance.
  2. Test Technology (virtual interviews only): Virtual interviews are being conducted through Zoom. If you don’t have one already, create a Zoom account. You’ll want to find a good space to conduct your interview, ideally with good lighting, stable internet, and access to a plug. We recommend connecting directly to your internet for the most reliable internet connection.
  3. Pace Yourself: Come prepared with examples for behavioral-type interview questions. And just like we recommend for the Video Assessment, keep your responses concise, yet clear. Make sure your examples answer the question in full.
  4. Be Professional but Loosen Up: Given McCombs’ and Austin’s collegial and laid-back culture, our interviews are relatively informal.  If you find yourself nervous, practice your answers in front of a mirror or with a friend or colleague and ask them how you did. Did you answer the question? Did you rush through it? Take a moment to outline your answer in your mind first, and then address it calmly and confidently.
  5. Know What We’re Looking For: We listen for confidence, clear and concise communication of career goals, concrete examples of teamwork and leadership, in-depth knowledge of our MBA program, and overall genuine enthusiasm.
  6. Come with questions: You’ll have about 10 minutes for questions with your interviewer, so please come prepared with 2 or 3 questions.

Visit Texas McCombs MBA to learn more about our programs and upcoming events. Check out our Application Process page for more information on application components. Please reach out to the MBA Admissions Team with any questions.

Good luck and Hook ’em!

Interviewing for a Working Professional MBA Program

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

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

Working Professional MBA Interviews

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

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

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

An Un-Biased Approach  

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

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

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

Top Tips

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

  1. Be On Time: Arriving on time is “Interviewing 101,” yet it still manages to trip up even the most prepared of candidates. Please follow all the instructions in your confirmation email about how to connect with your interviewer.
  2. Test Technology: Virtual interviews are being conducted through Zoom. If you don’t have one already, create a Zoom account. You’ll want to find a good space to conduct your interview, ideally with good lighting, stable internet, and access to a power source.
  3. Pace Yourself: You’d be surprised how many times, at the end of an applicant’s long answer, we are asked to repeat the original question. Most often this happens to people who try to put too much into the first answer for fear of not being given an opportunity later on to address their prepared examples.  Don’t worry, you will have time to get to it.  Plus, there is often an opportunity at the end of an interview to mention anything you didn’t address in the formal line of questioning.
  4. Be Professional But Loosen Up: Given our program’s famously friendly culture, our interviews are relatively informal.  If you are nervous, practice your answers in front of a mirror or with a friend and ask them how you did. Did you answer the question? Did you rush through it? Take a moment to outline your answer in your mind first, and then address it calmly and confidently.  Don’t get too comfortable, though. While we’re an easy-going group, maintaining an appropriate level of professionalism is always a good idea. This includes professional language and attire, as if you were interviewing for a job.
  5. Know What We’re Looking For: We listen for confidence, clear and concise communication of career goals, concrete examples of teamwork and leadership, in-depth knowledge of our MBA program, and overall genuine enthusiasm.  Also, the interview can be a place to showcase secondary skills that are difficult for us to determine solely based on your application: interview skills, self-awareness, communication style, and “hire-ability.” Keep these in mind so we can get a feel for your application’s intangibles.
  6. Come with questions: A good list of questions for your interviewer can illustrate a few key things about you as a candidate: You’ve done your research, you care about our program, you have envisioned yourself as an MBA student, and you can formulate coherent thoughts under pressure. We usually leave anywhere from 10-15 minutes for questions, so limit your list to 2-3 good ones and have a few backups.

Take advantage of this opportunity. It can be just the thing the Admissions Committee needs to understand your application’s elements and gives us the chance to get to know you better!

If you have any questions during the application process, we’re here to help. Join us at an upcoming event to connect and learn more about Texas McCombs.  Please sign up for MBA news and follow us on Instagram at @UTexasMBA to stay updated.

Hook ’em!

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How to Reapply for Your MBA

August 15, 2022 / / Comments Off on How to Reapply for Your MBA

With each new admissions cycle, questions come in from those who have applied in the past about applying again to join the next class of Texas McCombs MBAs. 

First, having applied in a previous year is not considered a negative factor in your application.  

We are pleased to see your continued interest in the program and will evaluate your new application on its merits and in the context of the new applicant pool, just as if you are applying for the first time. Below is an overview of important info and tips for reapplying to the MBA program that we hope you find helpful. 

Application 

All candidates reapplying are required to complete a new application new essay, a new resume, and pay the application fee. Our essay prompts can change from year to year, so copying and pasting your essay responses from a previous application cycle is not recommended. In addition, rewriting your essays shows effort! 

Review essays and application components

Learn more about the new application updates

Official Transcripts 

We keep your official transcript on file for one year. You will need to submit your transcripts again if you have taken any additional coursework or if you applied more than one year ago. You can always review your application status on the “MyStatus” page to make sure you have current transcripts. 

Test Scores 

GMAT  and GRE  scores are also kept on file for one year and overall, scores are valid five years after the date the test is taken. This year candidates also have the option of submitting an Executive Assessment (EA) test score or a merit-based test waiver. For TOEFL scores, this period is two years. The McCombs Admissions Committee considers only the highest total submitted score in the evaluation of applications.

Learn about the test options for Full-Time MBA candidates

Recommendation Letter  

Although not required, we suggest you submit a new letter of recommendation. Determine if another recommender may provide a more current, insightful, and thorough perspective on your experience. If you choose to submit a prior recommendation, you will need to email MBA Admissions with a request to resubmit. 

 How Have You Improved? 

While completing your application, you will be asked, “Since your previous application, what steps have you taken to enhance your candidacy?” The Admissions Committee reviews this answer closely so please ensure that you spend time reflecting on and explaining these improvements. 

Choosing to reapply to the MBA program shows perseverance and dedication. We encourage you to consider giving yourself a fresh start when you approach your new application. Think through and reassess your application, address any weak areas, and add new information that may be helpful in the admission process. 

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

Good luck and Hook ’em!

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The Texas McCombs Admissions Connection

August 4, 2022 / / Comments Off on The Texas McCombs Admissions Connection

The Texas McCombs Admissions Connection is designed to add a human component to the application process and is the perfect way to wrap up your Texas McCombs MBA application journey.  

What is an Admissions Connection?  

 The Admissions Connection is a live, virtual get-to-know-you session that serves as an opportunity for our applicants to engage directly with a Full-Time MBA Admissions Ambassador. While not required, registering for and attending an Admissions Connection session is highly encouraged.   

These sessions are NOT your traditional admissions interview.  MBA applicants will have 15 minutes with a student member of the McCombs Ambassador Committee (MAC) to ask questions about the program/student experience, discuss information about their candidacy that is not addressed elsewhere, and align on the next steps in the application process.  

Admissions Connections will become available roughly one-week post-round deadline. Once available, applicants will be able to choose a host based on shared interests whenever they register for a slot.  

How should I prepare for the Admissions Connection? 

The Admissions Connection session is virtual, on Zoom, and will kick off with a very brief mutual introduction between the applicant and the Admissions Ambassador. You will know who your host is ahead of time and will be provided with their LinkedIn page.  

Tip: Keep your introduction to 1-3 minutes only. Remember the ambassador will not have access to your resume; we recommend mixing a bit of personal and professional in your introduction.  

After the introduction, the applicant will drive the conversation with the Admissions Ambassador.  

Tip: Because the session will last approximately 15 minutes, we recommend applicants  come prepared with 3–5 questions about the MBA program and/or next steps in the application process.  

Here is a list of topics to consider during the Admissions Connection: 

  • Discuss any aspect of your candidacy that has not already been covered in other application components.   
  • Get to know your host and their experience at Texas McCombs. Ask them questions about their MBA journey and the McCombs community. 
  • Ask for tips and advice on how to best navigate and spend the time between the admission decision and program kick-off. 

The Admissions Ambassador will wrap up the session by asking you for feedback on your Full-Time MBA admissions experience and covering key dates to remember as you conclude the application process. 

Does the Admissions Connection impact the admission decision? 

 There is no evaluative component to this session, although your Admissions Ambassador will be able to pass along any information you share to the admissions committee.

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

Is my admission decision impacted by not having an Admissions Connection?  

The Admissions Connection is optional and applicants will not be penalized if they decide to not take advantage of it. Keep in mind, however, attending a session helps show the committee that you have a genuine interest in getting to know the Texas McCombs MBA program. 

 

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

Good luck and Hook ’em!

Full-Time MBA Application: 2022-2023 Updates and Changes

Full-Time MBA Application Changes: Increasing Accessibility and Minimizing Bias 

June 2, 2022 / / 3 Comments

Each cycle, the Texas McCombs Full-Time MBA Admissions Team reviews MBA application requirements to ensure our admissions process is as equitable and fair as possible. This upcoming cycle, we are excited to announce some changes to our application components that help reduce bias and ensure our application process continues to be accessible and inclusive.   

Being human centered and future focused is at the core of what we do at Texas McCombs, and the updates to our application components were informed by the evaluation processes our MBA students experience in their job search, while also increasing the opportunities for applicants to showcase who they are as an individual. Stay tuned for our blog series on key application components over the summer and mark your calendar for our Full-Time MBA Class of 2025 application opening in August 2022. 

APPLICATION COMPONENTS FOR THE 2022-2023 ADMISSIONS CYCLE 

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

APPLICATION DEADLINES 

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

  • Round 1: October 11, 2022 
  • Round 2: January 5, 2023 
  • Round 3: March 28, 2023 

 CHANGES TO TESTING REQUIREMENTS 

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

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

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

Learn more about the criteria required to apply for a general test waiver. 

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

CHANGES TO ESSAY REQUIREMENTS 

The written essay is a critical means of assessing an applicant’s background and goals, communication and writing skills, and motivation for attending Texas McCombs. In order to streamline the application process,  the Full-Time MBA Admissions Team has reduced the number of required essays from two to one.

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

Picture yourself at graduation. Describe how you spent your time as a Texas McCombs MBA to achieve your personal and professional goals. (500 words) 

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

VIDEO ASSESSMENT 

Texas McCombs is excited to introduce the video assessment as a new application component for the 2022-23 Full-Time MBA admissions cycle. All applicants will complete the video assessment, which will give MBA candidates increased accessibility to the application process and the opportunity to share their story with us in their own voice.  Through the video assessment, the Admissions Committee will have a chance to experience the “real” you, beyond a resume, test scores, and transcripts. Lastly, the video assessment will enable Texas McCombs to reduce bias in the admissions process by providing all applicants with a structured and consistent assessment experience.  

MBA candidates with a submitted application, whose application fee has been paid or waived will be invited to take part in our Texas McCombs Video Assessment. The video assessment is virtual and on-demand, so applicants can complete it from anywhere in the world at a time in the day convenient to them. The video assessment will help the Admissions Committee evaluate the following competencies that are crucial for the fit and success of our students within the program and their future careers: 

Adaptability/Resilience  Ambition 
Motivation  Career Goals 
Empathy/Inclusivity  Verbal Communication 
Collaboration  Self-Awareness 

 Applicants will be asked to use the video assessment tool to record responses to seven questions, with each response lasting no more than three minutes each. Detailed instructions will be provided with the video assessment invitation so you know what to expect, and applicants will have the opportunity to practice as many times as they wish before completing the final video assessment.  Applicants will have seven days from the invitation to complete the final video assessment. 

This is your time to show us your personality and enthusiasm! We recommend that you prepare for the video assessment similarly to how you might prepare for an interview.  Think reflectively about your work experience, strengths, weaknesses, and practice your delivery. More tips will be provided in the coming weeks. 

TEXAS McCOMBS ADMISSIONS CONNECTION 

One of the most vital parts of the MBA application process at Texas McCombs is the human component. We pride ourselves on getting to know you at a personal level during the admissions process and will continue to provide hundreds of virtual and in-person ways for you to meet our students, alumni, faculty, and Admissions Team.

We invite all MBA applicants to close out their application process by signing up for a “Texas McCombs Admissions Connection” after completing all other MBA application requirements.  These live, virtual get-to-know-you sessions are an opportunity for our applicants to engage directly with a Full-Time MBA student. While not required, registering for and attending an Admissions Connection session is highly encouraged.  

These sessions are NOT your traditional admissions interview.  MBA applicants will have 15 minutes with a member of the McCombs Ambassador Committee (MAC) to ask questions about the program/student experience, discuss information about their candidacy that is not addressed elsewhere, and align on the next steps in the application process. You will be able to choose your host whenever you register for a slot. There is no evaluative component to this session, although your student host will be able to pass along any information you share to the admissions committee.   

Because the session will last approximately 15 minutes, we recommend applicants to come prepared with 3–5 questions about the MBA program and/or next steps in the application process  

Admissions Connection FAQs

Texas McCombs is committed to reducing bias while ensuring our application process continues to be accessible and inclusive. By expanding our testing options and inviting all applicants to participate in our new Admissions Connection and Video Assessment components, we are delivering on this commitment in a more equitable way.  

 The Full-Time MBA 2022-2023 Application will open in August. Stay tuned for our blog series on key application components over the summer. Please sign up for MBA news and follow us on Instagram at @UTexasMBA to stay updated.

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

Hook ’em! 

The working professional & executive mba application: essay writing tips

Working Professional and Executive MBA Essay Questions

October 19, 2021 / / Comments Off on Working Professional and Executive MBA Essay Questions

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

Texas McCombs MBA Essay 1

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

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

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

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

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

Texas McCombs MBA Essay 2

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

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

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

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

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

MBA Optional Statement

Please provide any additional information you believe is important or address any areas of concern that you believe will be beneficial to MBA Admissions in considering your application (e.g. gaps in work experience, choice of recommender, academic performance, or extenuating personal circumstances). If living outside of the metro area that the program is held in, please provide explanation regarding your plans to commute or relocate to the program location. (250 words)

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

Our Top Essay Writing Tips

  • Be patient with yourself. Take time to reflect, brainstorm, rewrite, and EDIT. It will likely take more than one draft to realize your final submission.
  • Don’t Copy and paste. Do not use the same content for multiple business schools. We can always spot recycled content.
  • STAY ON PROMPT. If you bypass the actual questions in an effort to tell us something you think we want to hear, you will not provide the information we are looking for. This includes sticking to the word counts and time limits that are given.
  • Be honest. These essays are our way to learn more about you. Our community values authenticity and we look for essays that reflect your authentic self.
  • Have someone you trust read over your essays. Those closest to you can provide valuable insights, feedback, and perspectives as you highlight your personal gifts and qualities.

We hope these insights into the essay prompts give you some ideas to think about and some points to revisit as you write (and rewrite) your essays. Good luck and happy applying!

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

Hook ’em!

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Full-Time MBA Scholarships & Financial Aid

September 17, 2021 / / Comments Off on Full-Time MBA Scholarships & Financial Aid

We understand that pursuing your MBA at a top school is a big investment in your future. Our Full-Time MBA is proud to have consistently been named a Best Value among Top 20 MBA programs by U.S. News & World Report. Austin has also been named one of the best places to live and work in the U.S. and rated in the Top-5 Best Places to Live by U.S. News & World Report for 5 years in a row.

To make your MBA future even more attainable, the Texas McCombs MBA provides financial assistance to many students to help cover the cost of education. The most common financial assistance comes in the form of student loans, but other options may help fund your MBA. We invite you to review the options below to help you navigate your MBA application process.

Recruiting Scholarships

graphic that reads 63% of the Full-Time MBA Class of 2023 received scholarship offers

Texas McCombs does offer some recruiting scholarships, including cash awards and out-of-state tuition waivers. All applicants are automatically considered for recruiting scholarships during the admissions review process. Recruiting scholarships are offered to domestic and international candidates who demonstrate a superior record of academic merit and professional accomplishments.

Texas McCombs designates the first-round application deadline as the priority deadline for scholarships and fellowships.

The MBA Program’s scholarship funding varies from year to year, thus the percentage of students who receive scholarships will also vary from year to year.  This past admissions cycle, 63% of enrolled Texas McCombs MBA students received scholarship offers, and those who accepted merit-based recruiting scholarships received awards ranging from $5,000 to full tuition.

For International candidates, 70% of enrolled students received scholarship offers.

In tandem with our recruiting scholarships, McCombs partners with Bay Area for McCombs, Consortium for Graduate Study in Management, Forté Foundation, and Reaching Out MBA to allocate selective scholarship and Fellowship designations to top admitted candidates.

2nd Year Student Scholarships

At the end of the first year, students are invited to apply for 2nd Year MBA Scholarships. These awards, given by the McCombs School of Business through the generous support of individual donors and corporate supporters, typically range anywhere from $1,000-$5,000. The 2nd Year Scholarship awards are given based on academic performance, leadership, and involvement during their first year in the program, as well as financial need.

Institutional Scholarships

The UT Austin Office of Financial Aid administers institutional endowed scholarships for continuing students that first-year MBAs may qualify for, beginning in November of your first year. You may be eligible to apply, but please review the specific criteria and application procedures carefully and reach out to McCombs Financial Aid with any questions.

Federal Loans

Many students are eligible for federal student loans and in some cases, grants. To determine your eligibility you must complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA for the 2021-2022 school year will be available October 1, and Texas has a priority deadline of January 15. At the latest, it is recommended that you have your FAFSA completed by June 1. Students who are eligible to complete the FAFSA are U.S. Citizens, Permanent Residents, and other eligible non-citizens. Please watch this two-minute video for help with the financial aid application process.

Private Education Loans

Private/alternative loans are not offered by federal or state governments. As a result, the terms of the loan will vary from lender to lender. If pursuing a private loan, check with your lender about the length of time your application will remain valid to ensure your approval won’t expire before you actually start the program.

The Texas McCombs MBA Financial Aid team cannot recommend any private loans but will work with all banks and lending institutions once you’ve been approved.

Loans for International Students

For international students, there may be private loan options, with or without a U.S. citizen or permanent resident co-signer. (Note: We, as The University of Texas at Austin, cannot be your co-signer, nor can we recommend any specific lenders.) The student-run International MBA Student Association (IMBASA) is a good resource for information about pursuing an MBA as an international student. You are encouraged to reach out to IMBASA with any questions.

Most students finance their MBA education using multiple sources— a combination of personal savings and loans and, in some cases, scholarship funding. Before you apply to business school, do research on how to finance your education and let us know if you have any questions.

Visit Texas McCombs MBA to find out more about all our programs, submitting your application, and upcoming events. Hook ’em!

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How to Highlight Your Work Experience

September 17, 2021 / / Comments Off on How to Highlight Your Work Experience

This MBA Insider content comes from Sharon Barrett, Director of Working Professional & Executive MBA Admissions.

When evaluating your application, our MBA Admissions Committee aims for a complete picture of your qualifications and fit with the program. It’s all about perspective. We look  at your application as if we are holding a scale, balancing all the parts.

When considering the specific experience on your resume, on one side there’s a raw number of years (Quantity), and on the other is your job experience (Quality).

Quantity

Say that you are the CEO of a mid-size corporation. Wonderful!  Oh, you just started in this position? That’s an amazing accomplishment, but perhaps you’d still admit that your knowledge and expertise in such a new position wouldn’t be as developed as someone who’s been doing it for a few years.

Or maybe you have been in the same job for 10 years.  Wow!  No doubt you are a go-to person when it comes to that role, but could it mean that perhaps you didn’t take as much initiative or demonstrate the leadership qualities required to launch you to the next level? Or perhaps you have only had a project manager role for a year, but in that time you’ve produced measurable results and demonstrated leadership.  In these cases, the quality of your work experience matters more.

Quality

A general job title like “Project Manager” may seem lackluster, but could actually be pretty exciting.  Don’t let us make assumptions. Take every opportunity on your application to illustrate just WHAT about your job made your experience rich and rewarding.

On the flip side, a Chief Operating Office title sounds impressive, but what kind of company did you work for and how extensive were your duties?  An impressive title with naught to back it up won’t move the needle in your favor when it comes to work experience.

The take-away on work experience:  Years, titles, and accomplishments are not, by themselves deciding factors. To help you provide us with a clear picture, here are our top tips for highlighting the quality and quantity of your work experience on your resume:

Blue graphic that reads 7 Tips for a Better Resume

  1. Tailor Content – You may have heard the adage that your resume should be tailored to your audience, which is true. But customizing your resume may simply entail reordering or swapping out bullet points. Remember, a resume is a summary of your relevant experience, not necessarily all of it.
  2. Emphasize Results – We don’t just want a summary. We want to know whether you generated results from your work.  If the person replacing you could copy and paste your resume bullet points into their resume, that’s probably a sign your bullet points need to better emphasize your individual contributions in the role.
  3. Avoid Redundancy – Think of each line on your resume as a valuable piece of real estate. Consider the incremental value that each line on your resume provides for you as a candidate. If you have performed the same task in multiple roles, is it necessary to list that same task more than once on your resume? Likely not.
  4. Show Balance – We want to see a “balanced” candidate – someone who has been strong in the classroom and in the workplace while participating in extracurricular activities and having unique interests outside of work. Consider creating an “Additional” section to detail your activities and interests for use as a potential conversation starter.
  5. Utilize White Space – Great resume content can only be great if a reader can easily access it. That’s where resume readability comes into play. Don’t forget to use your white space effectively. A resume is not about cramming as much you can onto the page. Rather, give your content some space to breathe.
  6. Enlist Proofreaders– Perhaps the most important element of a resume is that it is free of errors. A single spelling, grammatical, or formatting error can hurt even the most impressive resume. Have multiple individuals proofread your resume.
  7. Convey Personal Brand – What do you think of when you think of great global brands like Apple, Nike, or Google? What words come to mind? Now, when we read your resume, what words do you want to come to mind about you? Have a peer give your resume a 30-second review and see if the words you want to pop for a reader, actually do.

Remember, your resume is important, but it’s only one data point for you as a candidate. Years of work experience give only one sense of you as a candidate, so use your resume to make the quality of those years really stand out.

Visit Texas McCombs MBA to find out more about all our programs, submitting your application, and upcoming events. Hook ’em!

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