|
Admission & Application Survey |
| Full-time MBA program |
While the process is nominally similar to other top tier schools, majore
differences reside behind the scenes.
Advice on Getting In
First, the numbers should be considered "table stakes." Put a different
way, applicants will find it very difficult (albeit possible in
exceptional circumstances) to overcome a GPA or GMAT score much below
Tuck's means. And yes, top tier undergraduate institutions are highly
valued (though secondary in importance to GPA/GMAT).
Next, and most different about Tuck from other top programs, cultural
fit is absolutely key. Applicants who take this for granted will almost
surely fall short. Tuck is in a beautiful setting ideal for those who
enjoy the outdoors (e.g., not in a "remote" location, as it is often
described). Candidates should not only know Tuck's distinctive features
(first MBA program, founded in 1900; smallest top 20 program; no PhD;
strong emphasis on teaching - the research only professorial profile
doesn't fly in Hanover; incredibly collegial - all students and faculty
on a first name basis; students socialize with faculty to some extent
outside the classroom) but also craft an application (including the
paper app but also the interview and any other contacts with admissions
officials or other alums) that presents a compelling fit between
applicant and the school. Can't emphasize enough how important that
is. Essays, recommenders and interview have to all scream this fit and
do so consistently across touchpoints.
Interview - optional but not really. Not interviewing puts applicants
at a disadvantage to those who do since the school so values cultural
fit and interpersonal skills (fully rounded students - not myopically
focused, cutthroat investment banker types; though many Tuck grads do go
into I-banking). Also, ask for the interview as early as possible. Much
better to have it on campus with an admissions officer than take ones
chances with an alum. Really depends on how serious the applicant is
about Tuck. Making a visit to the school before filing and/or before
interviewing speaks to motivation - something else used to differentiate
otherwise equally impressive applicants.
Selectivity - very! Top 10 and the smallest program means they can be
highly selective and are.
Last tip - put some effort into talking with alums and "get paid" for
those efforts in essays (e.g., "in speaking with more than ___ alums, I
was able to learn that Tuck represents the best fit for my goals and
background...") and interviews. Most applicants won't talk with alums
at all. A slightly lesser number will talk with alums who are readily
available (e.g., work for the same company, participate in the same
beyond-work activity). Even fewer will reach out to friends of friends
or "2-degree" contacts to talk with (and learn from) Tuck alums. And,
very few will go the extra mile to ask Tuck's admissions office for a
list of alums in their local area (something the office will provide if
asked) AND follow up on it. Getting into the top schools (especially
true for Tuck) is all about differentiating oneself - these are ways to
do it.
|
|
Dartmouth University (Tuck) Admission & Application Surveys
