MBA waitlist
Some say that getting waitlisted is worse than a rejection. That is because there is this long hope and uncertainty, often until a few days before classes start! It also prevents you from focusing on the MBA program you would be attending otherwise if you get dinged in the end. In general, only few make it off the waitlist each year and even fewer might get a deferred admit for the next year. What does it mean to be waitlisted? Usually it’s an indication that you have a very strong application, but unfortunately there were others with a similar background who were just slightly more competitive. Now if you are waitlisted in round 1, for example, the admissions committee will wait to see how many admits with a similar background as yours will accept their offer. If one of them decides to attend another MBA program, it obviously greatly improves your chances to get admitted and take that person’s spot. If all accept, then you will most likely remain on the waitlist and you will be compared to round 2 admits and so on. Sometimes, business schools also waitlist those who haven’t shown their MBA program enough love, meaning they are competitive enough to be admitted but the admissions committee is not sure if they would accept an offer (it’s important for business schools to have a high yield % - the percentage of admits accepting an offer - for the rankings).
Regardless of what your case is, if the MBA program that waitlisted you is your #1 choice then you have to stay in touch with the admissions committee without annoying them (some MBA programs, however, instruct you not to contact them at all). The business schools that allow contact often will invite you to submit an additional recommendation letter (which should preferably be from an alumni if possible) or send in an update on any significant developments since you submitted your application (e.g. a new exciting project with leadership opportunities, a promotion, a new job, a new extracurricular activity, etc.). Also, you will want to visit the business school and stop by the admissions office to have a chat to show some additional love, especially if you haven't been to the campus before (a visit is also very recommended when you are not allowed to submit additional materials). Most importantly, indicate either through periodic updates or in person that there is no doubt that you will attend their MBA program if you get admitted in the end.
Don’t be overwhelmed by all the information you just sucked in. There might be times during your application process when you will feel discouraged or you will start doubting yourself. Everyone goes through this! No application is perfect and most face the same issues you do. Two important things to keep in mind:
- Always stay positive!
- Always dream big!
If you thought the stuff you just read was helpful, then please forward a link to this website to friends who are also considering an MBA. Remember, business schools are looking for collaborative and unselfish students :-).
That's it! Best of luck with your MBA applications!!!
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