Business School Admissions - Darden Admissions

I recently had the opportunity to interview Wendy Huber, the Associate Director of Admissions at the Darden School of Business. Wendy was able to expertly answer questions about Darden and the Darden admissions process:


Can you provide a general overview of your admissions process?

If I had to break down the process I’d look at it this way:

August – February: We will hit the road attending MBA Fairs (Domestic and International) and hosting information sessions and alumni/admissions receptions. We will also host students for on campus interviews and class visits. Interested candidates can schedule an interview and/or visit on line through the Darden admissions website. Prospective applicants can also see our travel and reception schedule and register to attend our events on line.

We think interviewing, attending a class visit, meeting our staff and alumni on the road are great ways for applicants to learn more about Darden and for Darden to learn more about them.

October – April: It’s evaluation time. We are looking for well rounded applicants that will not only bring a track record of professional success to the classroom but also interesting personal adventures and passions. With only 300 places in the class we are looking for diversity. When I say diversity, I mean diverse in terms of ethnicity, gender, academic background and professional background, just to name a few.

Is it better to apply early in the process?

You hear a lot of talk around this – my response is usually, a strong application merits admission no matter when it’s received. If someone wants to be considered for merit based scholarships, it’s absolutely better to apply early. I think some applicants game the system and think if they submit a weaker application in an earlier round that the admissions committee may feel more generous and offer them admission. A weak application is a weak application. Applicants should take the time they need to put their best foot forward. If that means waiting for the next deadline to submit their application so they can write stronger essays or get their GMAT score higher then they should take the time.

Who conducts your admissions interviews?

Interviews are conducted by our team of admissions professionals. We use alumni only when an interview has to be conducted outside of the United States.

Do you have any interview tips for applicants?

The interview is not set up to be intimidating. This is a wonderful opportunity for the candidate to get more information about Darden and for Darden to learn more about the candidate. Because of our pedagogy, communication and interpersonal skills are very important. My tip; candidates need to know their story. They should know what’s important to them and why they are considering Darden and what they hope to get out of the MBA degree.

How important is an applicants GMAT score?

This is just one piece of the puzzle. We have validated the GMAT as a predictor of first year success. In addition to the GMAT we will also be looking at an applicant’s undergraduate transcript as well as any post graduate work they may have completed. The GMAT and academic work provide us with some evidence that an applicant can handle the quantitative nature of an MBA program. The last thing the Admissions Committee wants to do is put someone in academic jeopardy.

What is your position on people who apply to your MBA program directly out of college?

Applicants are ready at different times to apply for an MBA. I think the timing is an individual decision. When we are considering an applicant who would be coming to us directly out of undergrad, we are looking for mature individuals who have had significant internship experiences and leadership roles either on campus or in their community.

What qualifies as a good letter of recommendation?

When choosing someone to write a letter of recommendation, don’t get wrapped up in title, you want someone who can really answer the questions. If they can’t answer the questions, they aren’t really helping you. You want some one who knows what you have done and what your potential is.

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