MBA Admissions Q&A: Carlson School of Business, University of Minnesota

Ranking among the top-50 schools in North America, the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Business offers a full range of business programs, from undergraduate to MBAs. We spoke to admissions director Linh Gilles to get the lowdown on how to get into this near century old school.

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

On average, we accept approximately 38% of candidates applying to the Carlson full-time MBA program.

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

All aspects of the application are critical, including factors that indicate academic (GMAT, GPA) and professional strength (résumé). Our review of applications is holistic – we look for the overall strength of an application as a basis for our admissions decisions. With that said, our program is highly experiential and all students will work on several fee-based consulting projects for real business clients; or manage over US$35 million through a fixed or growth income fund. Due to the experiential nature of our program, we especially seek to admit students who are highly motivated, strong communicators, analytical and collaborative. These qualities are often best represented in a candidate’s personal statement and admissions interview.

What is one mistake you see applicants make?

Not doing enough homework on our program. We understand applying to business school takes time. Candidates often (and should) apply to multiple programs. However, do not cut corners. Take time to thoroughly research the programs you’re applying to and appropriately showcase this research in your application through your essay or interview. We admit students who demonstrate a strong fit for our program. A strong applicant demonstrates an awareness of why they are interested in our program and how they believe our program will help them achieve their goals. Go beyond the website and research program features like the student culture, career resources, curriculum, and clubs and activities you can see yourself participating in.

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

Connect with our admissions team – whether through attending a webinar, information session or coffee chat; or just send an email note with questions. There is great deal of expertise on our admissions team and we are truly committed to helping you no matter where you are at in your MBA journey – from even deciding if an MBA is right for you to being knee-deep in the application process. Take advantage of our expertise and use us as a resource.

How can a candidate overcome a lower GMAT score?

Remember, we holistically review applications and all aspects of an application are weighed carefully in our decision making process. We do not have a minimum total score requirement and we will evaluate your scores in each section of your GMAT or GRE (both are accepted for application). It also helps to know that your test scores are an indication of your academic strength in our application review process.  Our program is challenging and the GMAT or GRE provides insight into how well you can handle the academic rigor of our program, but is not the only factor we review. We also look for academic strength through your past academic experiences as demonstrated by your transcripts.

Ultimately, you will want to submit the strongest application for consideration and ensure that all aspects are representative of your capabilities. If you’re not confident in your test scores, the best way to overcome this is by retaking the exam. We will review your application based on your highest score.

MBA admissions tips

Essay(s): Have a peer or mentor review your essays to ensure you have adequately answered the essay question(s). All candidates attempt to differentiate themselves through the essays and it is easy to get lost in this process. As a result, we receive pages of prose that never even address the core questions being asked.

Interview: Keep it real. Focus on your authentic and honest story. If you don’t know exactly what you want to do, don’t force it. However, it is important to know what your strengths and gaps are, the type of career you’re seeking, and how you think an MBA will help get you there.

Letter of recommendation: Instead of recommendation letters, we will ask you to provide names and contact information for three references.  This process is much like a job application process.  Should we seek additional information about your candidacy for our program, we will reach out directly to your listed references.

CV/résumé: Your résumé should be one, max two, pages.

School visit: We offer many opportunities for a school visit. Take advantage of these opportunities and try to schedule at least one visit. If you’re unable to physically visit campus, consider one of our virtual events.