ADMITIFY’S TOP INTERVIEW STRATEGIES

If you’ve received an invitation for an MBA interview, congratulations! To help you shine in this crucial step, we’re sharing Admitify’s top strategies, including common questions you might face and how to customize your approach based on who’s interviewing you.

Business schools use different interview methods during the admissions process. Some interview all applicants, while others select candidates only after an initial screening. Regardless of how your schools conduct interviews, know that they carry significant weight. A strong performance can elevate your application, while a poor one can be a setback. Whether your interview is with an admissions officer, an alum, a student, or faculty member, it’s vital to be well-prepared.

While essay questions in MBA applications tend to fall into predictable categories, interview questions can be far more diverse. Even though most schools only require a few essays, a half-hour interview can include more than ten questions, ranging from your academic history to unexpected curveballs like, “If you were a vegetable, which one would you be, and why?” This unpredictability is precisely why interviews remain a critical evaluation tool for admissions committees.

Still, there are several core questions that come up frequently:

Core Questions:

• What are your career goals?
• Why do you want to pursue an MBA?
• Why did you choose our school?
• Walk me through your resume, and explain any gaps.

Beyond these basics, it’s wise to prepare for three main types of questions:

Behavioral Questions:

These assess how you respond in specific situations and test your decision-making and interpersonal skills.

• How would you handle a disagreement with your team while working on a project late at night?
• Describe your management style and how you motivate others

Tough Questions:

These dig deeper into your personal character and fit for the program.

• Tell me about yourself.
• Why should we admit you?
• What unique qualities would you bring to our program?

Questions for the Interviewer:

Always be ready with thoughtful questions for your interviewer. Avoid asking anything you could have easily looked up, as this can reflect poorly on your interest and preparation. Tailor your questions based on the interviewer’s role:

• Admissions Committee: Ask insightful questions that reflect your knowledge of the program and emphasize your interest in specific academic or extracurricular offerings. Steer clear of questions that seem negative or show nervousness about the admissions process.
• Student Interviewers: Ask about classes, professors, or the student experience. Remember that students are assessing you as a potential peer, so stay professional yet approachable.
• Alumni Interviewers: These interviews can vary significantly, so ask questions that connect to their experiences, such as how the MBA influenced their career. Avoid assuming they’re up-to-date on current details about the program.

By preparing for a range of scenarios and engaging your interviewer thoughtfully, you’ll be well-positioned to make a lasting impression.