MBA Admissions Q&A: Texas A&M Mays Business School

Located in College Station towards the east of Texas (roughly equidistant from Houston and Austin), Mays is the business school of Texas A&M, the fourth-biggest university in the US. It is currently ranked as the 35th-best school in the QS Global 200 rankings for North America. Mays has over 50 years of history, and hosts nearly 9,000 students, most of which are undergraduates. We spoke to Patti Cudney, the school’s director of MBA recruiting and admissions to find out what the prestigious Texas institution looks for in its MBA recruits.

What is the typical acceptance rate to the Mays MBA program?

Over the last five years, we have averaged an admission rate of 24% to the full-time MBA program.

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

We seek students with a proven track record of success both in their prior degree programs and on the job. Success doesn’t always mean having the ‘best’ title; it can come through in a variety of ways – innovation/creativity, project management, developing breadth through a new industry or functional area, etc. We place a high value on teamwork as our students work very closely with each other and with our faculty and staff throughout the program. We’re looking for students who are highly motivated as this will help them not only in their studies but also as they are seeking internships and full-time employment after graduation. 

What is one mistake you see applicants make?

Aside from some of the ‘silly’ errors I’ve seen, such as using the wrong school’s name in an essay (which happens all the time), I think the biggest mistake in the process is not taking the time before you submit to make sure the school(s) you’re considering are the right fit. It can be frustrating on our end to read an application or to conduct an interview and to still be left wondering why that candidate chose our program. Make sure to spend the time to research and to ask questions so you can feel confident in your school selections.

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

I encourage candidates to ensure that their résumé and essays give a clear picture of both the breadth and depth of their achievements. I know it can be easy to focus on a small set of accomplishments, but the more information candidates can provide the better the admissions committee can get to know them through our review.

What does the Mays Business School application process look like?

We ask for an online application which allows for students to submit their resume and two required essay questions. We also ask for a GMAT or GRE score, degree transcripts, and three letters of recommendation. International candidates may also need to provide an English language proficiency test (TOEFL or IELTS are accepted). Full information can be found on our website. 

How can a candidate overcome a lower GMAT score?

If a candidate has a lower GMAT or GRE score, they should first consider retaking the test (allowing for time and resources needed to prepare). If after a retake their score is still on the lower side, they should ensure that their application package highlights their strengths that can give us insights beyond a test score. They can use the optional essay to direct the admissions committee to their past academic achievements and their professional skills that will demonstrate additional competencies. We are reviewing each application as package, rather than just on a test score, but that score is an important part of the process so candidates should take the test prep process seriously from the start.

MBA admissions tips

Essay(s): When possible, use examples in the essays that build upon your resume rather than repeating the same information.

Interview: Be prepared to discuss your post-MBA goals, including both industries and functional areas of interest. We know that you may change your mind as you move through the program, but we want to know that you’ve given your goals serious thought in the context of what we have to offer.

Letter of recommendation: Make sure your recommenders are prepared, especially if they are someone you are not currently working with closely.  Send them your resume and schedule a time to speak with them so they know why you are interested in this next step…this will help them as they write their recommendation.

CV/résumé: Avoid using bullet points that just describe your position descriptions. Instead, focus on how you have made contributions. If you can quantify these contributions, that’s great but otherwise provide qualitative descriptions of your accomplishments rather than just listing responsibilities assigned to you.

School visit: We know not every candidate can make it to campus, so if you can’t make it please take advantage of other ways to connect such as webinars or communicating with current students. We really want you to get to know us as you decide where you’ll apply!