Do MBA programs really want more international students?

[shopgirl76]

Hi all,

I am a 28 year old female from Indonesia, I grew up in Singapore and did my undergrad degree in Boston, USA.

Is it true that most MBA programs are more geared towards female international students? I read an article on the Wall Street Journal claiming that MBA programs are targetting more women but it didn't say anything about international students.

I have a low GPA due to excessive partying but my work record has been quite good. I have about 3 years of working experience, was promoted within one year of joining a petrochemicals firm (in Indonesia) and I feel that it is a good time for me to do an MBA. I am applying to London Business School and was wondering what my chances are. I am pretty late, I know, for the 2004 intake, but fortunately, the admissions director says that he is still willing to review my application. So far I have been offered a spot in City University's Cass Business School, but all my friends are encouraging me to try LBS, because they think my GMAT and demographics should qualify me.

I was just wondering if you think the school will take into account that I am a female from Indonesia, and if it will give me more advantage because of that. What do you think?

Thanks.

[EEPHDWANNABE]

Those pathetic AA followers probably will. Nothing against you, but I hate when people use their gender/race to gain things they otherwise couldn't get.

[Erin]

But it's still a valid question.

Anything that affects one's chances at a given school should be taken into consideration, and in this case, I don't think the applicant has much choice in whether to use any factors to gain advantage--all of this information will be contained in the application, and the adcomms will know her gender and ethnicity.

In general, good MBA programs do look for diversity, but the applicant pool is so large that it's hard to see that there's any advantage. I have personally worked with many Asian female applicants in the past, and it was difficult to see any sort of advantage.

In short, such an applicant may stand out a bit more, but I would in no case rely on these differences to get in.

EEPHDWANNABE--I know you're just expressing your opinion, but I would appreciate it if you could also address the original poster's question, as I really try to run a helpful, friendly forum.

In your case, your low GPA will cause concern, but your work experience may help. And if you've been told to apply, you should. We don't know your GPA or your GMAT score, but I imagine it'd be hard to get into a good program at this late date.

Please keep us informed. I'd love to hear how it turns out.

[shopgirl76]

Hi Erin,

Thanks for the info. I must've forgotten to include my GMAT. I got a 660, (Q46, V35) but my GPA is only 2.5 (due to excessive partying.) I've got abt 3 years of working experience so far in the plastic manufacturing industry.

I've just sent off my application to London Business School (the admissions director told me that as long as he received it by this week, it should be ok) and I should know if I am admitted by the first week of Aug.

Thanks for the info and advice. I will let you know when I hear from them!