Choosing the Right Business School

Deciding which MBA programs or business schools to apply to is a conundrum faced by even the most decisive of MBA applicants.

In fact, even if you’ve had your heart set on gaining an MBA from a particular business school for years, you’d be foolish not to consider all the options available to you. After all, one of the key-skills represented in all successful managers is their ability to make important decisions, considering all available options in order to achieve the most beneficial outcome.

“A lot of time is spent by applicants in trying to distinguish themselves in their MBA applications, but there’s actually a lot of distinguishing that needs to be done on the other side as well, on the side of the MBA programs themselves,” explains Linda Abraham, president and founder of Accepted.com.

“Each business school or MBA program has its own characteristics, its own strengths and weaknesses, advantages and disadvantages. It’s important that discerning MBA applicants spend some time uncovering these differences so that they can determine which programs are best for them. MBA applicants should browse schools websites, speak with current students and alumni, and attend MBA fairs to assist in their search.”

Thorough research

“I chose which schools to apply to for three main reasons,” explains Matthias Wölm, current MBA student at Cambridge’s Judge Business School, and winner of the QS Community Scholarship 2011.

“Firstly, I initially only had an undergraduate degree, and while I knew my own field of business, I was keen to develop a deeper understanding of topics, particularly entrepreneurship.

“Secondly, I wanted to study abroad and ensure that I would be surrounded by international students, in a European business school.

“My third reason was that I only wanted to apply to schools with high quality MBA programs that focus on moral and social development. While I don’t think I have any flaws in this area, I do believe that this is something that everyone can benefit from improving upon.”

While researching the many differing MBA degrees available, Wölm found both the QS World MBA Tour and the Connect 1-2-1 events particularly useful.

“As a German, or anyone else for that matter, having a single event where you can meet international business schools from all over the world was extremely convenient,” Wölm explains. “I was able to meet around 10 different business schools, all in one day.

“Prior to the Frankfurt MBA fair, I attended the Connect 1-2-1 event on the same day. I found this really useful as it allows you to meet with representatives from high quality business schools on a one-to-one basis, away from the usual fair atmosphere.”