MBA Admissions Q&A: Cass Business School

Based in the London, Cass Business School is rated among the best in the UK by international recruiters and academics in the fields of business and management. It also holds triple accreditation status, combining awards from AACSB, AMBA and EQUIS.

If you’re serious about getting into the MBA program available at Cass, it’s vital to do your research properly. That’s research into your possible funding options as well as into the program itself and whether it can fulfill your individual post-MBA career ambitions: “This is a big investment,” cautions a member of the admissions team at Cass, “so you will need to display that an MBA will be beneficial for your future career development.” Read on to learn more…

What are the most important aspects of the Cass MBA application process besides GMAT score, prior GPA, and current job position?

We are looking for a well-rounded application and give equal weighting to the different aspects of a candidate’s MBA profile. As well as a strong academic background, relevant professional experience and good career progression, we are particularly interested in individuals who possess the motivation and commitment to succeed on such a rigorous program. We also want our candidates to have realistic career aspirations. This is a big investment so you will need to display that an MBA will be beneficial for your future career development.

What is a common mistake you see applicants make?

Our application process is straightforward and not designed to catch you out. You should aim to present an accurate description of yourself and your motivation to do an MBA – don’t try to second guess what you think we want to hear. To avoid mistakes, do as much research as you can. If possible, visit the school and attend one of our MBA information events or sample lectures. Speak to as many people as possible; the recruitment team, students and alumni to gain their insights.

What is something you would like to see applicants do more often?

We strongly recommend that you talk to our recruitment team before submitting a formal application. Think about how you are going to finance the MBA and don’t rely solely on scholarships. Too many candidates fail to research alternative funding options. Do your research and don’t leave it too late!

What does the Cass MBA application process look like?

We have a rolling admissions process. Cass will continue to accept applications as long as there are places available, so we strongly recommend you apply sooner rather than later. This is particularly important for candidates who require a Tier 4 student visa for the UK. For the full-time MBA, minimum entry requirements are; a previous degree, three years’ work experience since graduating, an IELTS score of 7.0 (for candidates who do not speak English as a first language) and a minimum, well-balanced GMAT score of 600.

Once we receive a complete application, it will be assessed by our admissions panel which consists of MBA recruitment and admissions staff, career advisors and the school’s MBA program directors. High-quality candidates will then be shortlisted for a formal interview with a senior member of the Cass faculty. From start to finish, the entire process takes around four weeks and we recommend that you liaise with the MBA recruitment and admissions team during this time.

How can a candidate overcome a lower GMAT score?

The average GMAT score for our full-time MBA is 645 and candidates are expected to achieve strong, well-balanced scores in all sections of the test. However, GMAT is not the most important aspect of our selection criteria. You can compensate for a lower score with a strong professional background, fast career progression, excellent performance at interview and a clear motivation for wanting to do an MBA. In some instances we will consider candidates without a previous degree if they have outstanding professional experience. You will also need to show an ability to contribute valuable insights in class discussions and group work.

MBA admissions tips

Essay(s): You will need to tell us who you are, why you want to do an MBA and display a solid and analytical understanding of business. Allow yourself plenty of time, check your spelling and grammar and make sure you answer the questions that have been asked.

Interview: Make sure you are well prepared – you will likely be questioned about the contents of your essays and challenged on how you will achieve your post-MBA career aspirations. It is also an opportunity for you to ask questions of our faculty. 

Letter(s) of recommendation (references): Please reach out to your referees beforehand and check if they are happy to be contacted. It may be a good idea to have a chat with them about your motivations to do an MBA.

CV/résumé: We would prefer a brief, one or two-page CV outlining your education and career to date. If you have a long and technical, sector-specific CV, we recommend you produce a more concise version for the purposes of your MBA application.

School visit: Attending one of our regular MBA information events for prospective students will give you a much better sense of what Cass and the MBA are all about. In addition, having an in-person conversation with our recruitment team is a great opportunity to discuss the program and your suitability for it in more detail.