MBA Admissions Q&A: Krannert School of Management

Purdue University's Krannert School of Management climbed over thirty places in the latest edition of the QS Global Business Schools Report and one that drew, for the first time, on the opinions of academics in the fields of business and management as well as from international MBA employers.

The Indiana-based school now ranks inside the US’s top 50 for the reputation of its full-time MBA program and 54th in North America as a whole. Krannert also recently named economics professor, David Hummels as its new dean, a position Hummels had already been performing on an interim basis since the start of the academic year.

What is the typical acceptance rate to the Krannert School of Management MBA program?

One out of eight applicants is offered admission into our full-time MBA program.

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

All aspects of the application process are equally important. If you think of a candidate in terms of a jigsaw puzzle, you need all the pieces to see the entire picture.

What is a common mistake you see applicants make?

One common mistake we see is candidates who attempt to take the GMAT without allowing enough time to prepare for the exam.

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

We would like to see more of our candidates visit campus during their admissions process.

What does the Krannert application process look like?

We ask our candidates to complete Purdue’s Graduate School application which includes our statement of purpose and our integrity essay as well as to submit other supporting documents to complete their file. Once complete, the candidate will receive an initial review and, in most cases, an invitation to conduct an admissions interview. Once the interview has taken place, the candidate will receive a final review and the decision of our admissions committee.  

How can a candidate overcome a lower GMAT score?

We would always encourage a student to retake the GMAT exam after taking some additional preparation time and/or a prep course as one way to overcome a low GMAT score. We also perform a holistic review process that includes reviewing your essays, personal statement, GMAT score, and admission interview, which means that a GMAT score is just one piece in the overall larger puzzle.  

MBA admissions tips

Essay(s): When writing your essays you should lay the foundation of why you want to pursue an MBA and how it will help in achieving your future career. We should also start to understand why you feel Purdue University and Krannert can help you reach those career goals.

Interview: This is your opportunity to shine and stand out from other candidates. By the time the interview is over we should have a complete picture of you as an MBA candidate.

Letter of recommendation: Make sure you choose recommenders who can speak to your leadership abilities, potential growth areas and your ability to receive feedback. Also make sure you choose recommenders who will be able to complete the recommendation in a timely manner.

CV/Résumé: We would recommend you provide your most up to date résumé that includes all relevant information regarding internship and full-time work experience.  

School visit: We would encourage candidates to visit campus, if possible, before making a final decision about any MBA program.