Eight Questions To Ask an MBA Interviewer
Eight Questions To Ask an MBA Interviewer
Applying for an MBA program can be a daunting task. There are a number of requirements that need to be met in order to gain admission into a program. Even once your application is submitted, the journey isn’t over! There are several steps before the final admissions decision is made, including the infamous interview.
Upon an initial screening of each application, the admissions committee determines if a candidate moves on to the next stage of consideration. Those candidates selected for further consideration may be contacted to arrange for an interview. Interviews are required for our Full-Time MBA, Evening MBA, Executive MBA and Professional MBA programs.
While the interview allows the admissions team to learn more about you, your professional experience and goals, it is also a great opportunity for you to ask questions and learn more about the school and show your interest in the program. But what are some good questions for an MBA interview?
To help you ace the interview, we asked the Assistant Dean of Eller MBA, Paige Bausman, for some tips on what questions to ask your MBA interviewer.
Interview Preparation Questions
1. Who will I be meeting with?
Even before the interview is scheduled, there are a few questions to ask. The first is to ask who will be interviewing you. Research the interviewer(s) on the school’s website to learn more about their experience and background. This will help you to tailor your responses and bring a more personal touch to the interview. As with any presentation, knowing your audience is key.
2. Is there anything special that you would like me to prepare for the interview?
This proactive approach to the interview will differentiate you from the applicant pool and can help you feel prepared. Some institutions may want you to speak to a case study or deliver a short presentation, so this question will help ensure you know exactly what is being asked of you.
During the Interview
3. How would you describe the culture of the school?
You want to know if this school offers the type of environment you are looking for. Asking this question can help you decide if the school is a good fit for you and your needs, especially when it comes to how students interact and what support you can expect from faculty and staff. It also shows that you are interested in becoming part of the community.
4. What do you like best about working/teaching/studying at this school?
This question will give insight into the values held by the interviewer(s), and by extension, the school. It is important that the institution’s values align with your values as the degree contributes to your professional reputation for years to come.
5. From your perspective, what qualities would a successful student bring to your program?
Not only does this question help show what the interviewer is looking for in prospective students, it also gives you the opportunity to reflect on those qualities and showcase how they play out in your life.
6. Is there anything that I did not mention in my interview that you would like me to address?
Show that you are comfortable in the interview process with the admissions team. This will give them confidence that you’ll do the same in the all-important internship and job interviews down the road.
7. If admitted, what recommendations do you have on how I could use this time to prepare for the program?
In addition to setting you up for a successful start to the program, this question shows the school that you are excited and engaged. Show them that you are committed to being a successful MBA student.
After the Interview
In addition to thanking the interview for their time and the helpful information they have provided, it is important to ask:
8. What are the next steps in the process?
This again reiterates your interest in the program, shows that you are organized and want to take an active role in managing your side of the process.
With these questions handy, you should be set to rock the interview. Most important, remember to be yourself and be confident!
Learn more about the MBA admissions process at the Eller College of Management.