If you’ve been working at an executive level with a company for a few years, it might be time to look into an EMBA. Why should you bother with one, you might ask? An EMBA can increase your earning potential and give a boost in career advancement. Or perhaps you’d like to hone your skills further. An EMBA is a higher form of professional development. Updating your skills is never a negative undertaking, only reaping positive benefits for your life and career aspirations. However, it can be difficult to understand the best way to go about applying for an EMBA. What are some of the methods you can use to get business schools to notice your application? It can be tricky, but there are ways to get noticed and then accepted into the executive MBA program of your choice.
First, when it comes to top tier business schools, they typically look for people with a minimum of five to fifteen years experience with a company. At that experience level, that’s usually a prime time to explore an EMBA. Also, an EMBA is perfect for those who would like to continue working and complete a degree in two years. This is also works well if you don’t want to be concerned about your GMAT scores.
The truth is, your GMAT score does have a factor in your candidacy, but it’s not the only one. Some business schools certainly require your GMAT scores, while others won’t. Check with your school of interest on their GMAT requirements. Focus on your other achievements, like awards received, job promotion, or a series of successes you’ve had in your career. Overall, business schools want to see that you can bring well rounded experience and a sharp outlook to their EMBA program.
Another aspect that business schools seek is some quantitative experience. Quantitative experience is the ability to analyze models or data and come to a conclusion. This kind of analysis is useful in solving unique business problems. If you lack this kind of experience, sometimes a high GMAT score can sway a school. Better yet, take on a quantitative project at work to show real world experience. If that fails, even finishing an accredited class in Quantitative analysis will make school admission officers notice.
When researching a potential school, there are several ways to find the right one. You could poll friends or colleagues to see what schools they recommend. Many schools have open house events that allow you to get a sense of school, both faculty and the quality of the program. Or you can also use social media to follow a school’s status. The most crucial part of the application process for an EMBA is the interview. During the interview, use this chance to sell yourself. Many schools want to see a dynamic, open minded individual with strong leadership skills, but also someone adaptable, who can adjust to the changing economic markets. Besides discussing your accomplishments and strengths, emphasize your short and long term goals. Remember, an EMBA is a goal oriented type of degree. Finally, don’t forget the logistics. Will your company fully sponsor your EMBA? What kind of time commitment is involved? Also, when is a good time to apply? Make sure to cover sponsorship terms with your company and inform the school you have applied to. Try to balance all your time commitments accordingly, so you can fit in a work schedule, a study schedule and family time. Because the EMBA is so flexible, you don’t have to apply in the fall any longer, some schools have winter or spring intakes as well. Attaining an EMBA can be a rewarding and enriching experience, so it’s a good idea to be prepared for the application process to ensure future success.