MBA Admissions Q&A: Desautels Faculty of Management

Montréal’s McGill University is home to the Desautels Faculty of Management, a member of this year’s top 10 business schools in Canada, according to QS’s MBA rankings. McGill is also the highest-placing Canadian university in the new QS subject rankings in business and management that are now available from our sister site, TopUniversities.com, and that considers a wider set of  master’s level education in the discipline.  

Here to focus specifically on securing a berth in the MBA program at the Desautels Faculty of Management, however, is the school’s associate director of MBA admissions, Antoinette Molino.

What is the typical acceptance rate to the Desautels Faculty of Management MBA program?

The typical acceptance rate for the McGill MBA program at the Desautels Faculty of Management is 30-35% of the applicant pool.

What are the most important aspects of the McGill MBA application process?

Aside from academics, GMAT and work experience, leadership qualities are also very important, and we take into consideration an applicant’s extracurricular activities and drive. In addition, the interview is something that is very important, as this is where the candidate has the opportunity to demonstrate that they are the right person for the program.

What is one common mistake you see applicants make?

One mistake that applicants typically make is that the essays are not targeted to McGill and are very generic.

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

During the interview come prepared and be yourself. Let us know who you are. This is the time for you to shine and convince the interviewer that you are the right person for the program.

What does the McGill MBA application process look like?

All applications are completed online and all documents are uploaded. Once all unofficial documents are received the file is reviewed to determine whether or not the applicant is invited for an interview. Applicants meeting the minimum requirements are invited for an interview—which can be conducted in person or via Skype. Once an applicant is accepted, we then require the official transcripts from their home university.

How can a candidate overcome a lower GMAT score?

Although important, the GMAT is only one component of the admissions criteria. GPA, work experience, extracurricular activities, essays and references are also key to the decision-making process.

MBA admissions tips

Letter of recommendation: It is important to provide letters from individuals who are in the position to evaluate a candidate’s professional skills – ideally from a work supervisor who knows you well enough to evaluate your abilities.

CV/Résumé: Ideally, limit the length to one page. Ensure that the dates on your CV are consecutive and that there are no gaps in employment (unless there truly are). For admissions purposes, it is imperative for us to know if or when there is a change in employment.

School visit: if there is an opportunity for you to visit the school, this makes all the difference. You not only get the opportunity to meet with the staff (professors, admissions and careers) but you will be able to interact with current students and ensure that the program, location etc. is somewhere you see yourself spending the next few years.