MBA: “Young” can do it

There is this myth among potential MBAs that you have to have solid work experience before you can apply to top b-schools. And here is my response: False!

Every year, the average age at top MBA programs all around the world are decreasing; and there is a reason behind it. More and more top business schools are considering exceptional young applicants right out of college. So, before you throw out the idea of getting your MBA right out of college, please take a moment and read what we have to say.

Most top business schools will consider exceptional young applicants right out of college. But, what does “exceptional” really mean? Does it mean you have to have a 3.8 GPA and a 750 GMAT? - No! It only means that you understand what an MBA education entails, you conduct yourself professionally, you are a competitive applicant based on the most recent class profile of the program, and you bring something unique to the table. It is no secret that a younger applicant needs to make up for his/her lack of work experience with the other parts of the application. This can be done through grades, GMAT, extracurricular activities, essays, interview or unique international background among many other things.

Furthermore, when it comes to contributing to class discussion, I can honestly say that every young MBA student I have interacted with contributes just as much (and meaningful) to the class discussion as their more experienced peers, because young MBAs are more eager to learn and like to stimulate everyone to think outside the box.

With that said, keep in mind that every MBA program is different in their ways of approaching young applicants; so I suggest you do a comprehensive research about various schools before you create your target list. I will post more on how to find the best b-schools for young applicants soon.