How to improve & build your profile for MBA MS abroad

- How to build your profile for MBA and MS programs.
- What do GMAT GRE Masters programs expect?
- What can you do to improve your work experience for Ivy League universities?
Sameer Kamat, MBA Crystal Ball founder, answers these questions and more.
Here's how we help applicants build their profile for top MBA programs such as Harvard, Stanford, MIT, London Business School, INSEAD, Cambridge, Oxford, ISB, IIM.
www.mbacrystalball.com/profil...
If you're applying this year and don't have enough time to build your profile, this should help:
www.mbacrystalball.com/mba-pr...
And make sure you read this book: www.mbacrystalball.com/beyond...

[@sameer-kamat]

Please 'like' the video if you found it helpful! Share your queries about profile building below and we'd be happy to give you some perspectives.

[@davidj4654]

Sameer Kamat thank you sir helpful :)

[@sameer-kamat]

@@davidj4654 Glad you liked it.

[@kothapallimitesh4163]

Very helpful thank you Sameer

[@sameer-kamat]

@@kothapallimitesh4163 Nice of you to say that.

[@anshverma1531]

Thanks you sir for sharing such an experience 🙏🏻

[@Vikhyath_Shetty]

Thank you sir, it was really insightful and i can't restrain from watching you videos further.

[@jeremiahtheofarr2022]

That's incredible and I am interested ❤

[@kasimshaikh3750]

Brilliant video

[@kalyansrinivas9851]

Thank you

[@Shikharg57]

This content is helpful to me.

[@MBACrystalBall]

Happy to hear that.

[@NikhilKumar-kp9xi]

hello sir, please make a video for the admission in PhD program in life science area and accepting marks of GRE in different universities (Ohio, stanford, yale etc)

[@MBACrystalBall]

Hi Nikhil, thanks for the suggestion. That topic might be too niche for this channel at this stage.

[@palavibhole8509]

Hi, I am planning to apply for MS in HCI in the USA. GRE: 302, q: 157, v: 145, awa: 3.5 Bachelor's in computer engineering: 6.68 cgpa(till 7th semester) Had 6 backlogs No work experience Please guide me on this. Planning for fall 2021 admissions.

[@stuff_of_cinema99]

Doing a computer language course(c++, java , pyothan) with my graduation is beneficial for my profile building ? If i want to do an MBA in business analytics.

[@MBACrystalBall]

Doing any form of technical training is helpful, not so much for the MBA program (since it's more business focused, rather than tech), but more from the perspective of gaining good professional experience for the first few years.

[@udhavagupta2481]

I also saw your video on profile building on KZbin and it got me thinking that there are so many college students I will be competing with later who especially after watching your video would be start up founders and college club founders. Won't this become a general template for students? How should I work on myself in such a case?

[@MBACrystalBall]

You're overestimating the capabilities of your competition. Most are happy to see our videos and get a burst of inspiration. Beyond that they fall back into their old way of working and procrastination. They realise just before applications that it's too late to do anything new. That's an opportunity for someone who's more proactive, and puts the initial inspiration into action. So our advice is - don't just watch our videos and consume the tips and ideas we share. Act upon them too.

[@naeemsayyad9233]

i work in supply chain department of a automotive company (2 year exp) and i really want to go for mba abroad (US)which exam should i take gre or gmat

[@MBACrystalBall]

If you don't have a preference, go for GMAT.

[@Shikharg57]

what hard skills and soft skills should I look for in order to improve my chance of getting a job. I'm a fresher. Completed my graduation on BBA 2019.

[@MBACrystalBall]

The hard skills would depend on the job you're applying to. The soft skills are mostly universal - communication, networking, teamwork, negotiation, emotional intelligence.

[@shruthipolinakode1689]

I have gone through all your videos, any insight on retail professionals getting into Ivy Leagues or at least top MBA’s? Can you make any video on that please, as most information is available for engineering candidates only.

[@MBACrystalBall]

That'll probably be a very niche topic for a video, Shruthi. But we do work with a large number of non-engineers, including those from retail backgrounds. The basic concepts of strengthening your profile and overall applications remain the same. When you are ready to move ahead, if you feel the need for some professional support, drop us an email. Do you already have a GMAT score?

[@shrishkm7468]

Should the work we do before MBA be related to business or any other work will do to get into top b-schools for a bsc graduate

[@MBACrystalBall]

This article should help you understand the type of work required: www.mbacrystalball.com/blog/2017/06/28/what-type-work-experience-required-mba-abroad/

[@dhruvpratapsingh2233]

Hello Sir, Can you tell how to convert a CGPA score (out of a scale of 10 ) into GPA out of a scale of 4?

[@MBACrystalBall]

You can check out sites like WES that do such conversions.

[@animeshmohanty5052]

Which would be a better exam to appear into engineering Management program? The GRE or the GMAT?

[@MBACrystalBall]

The official website of your target programs would specify what they prefer. Make sure to check that out rather than relying on other teams. That'll ensure your efforts are in the right direction.

[@udhavagupta2481]

In the lieu of showing some proof of leadership on my profile and partly a general idea of doing good for my college for the years i am there, i am thinking of starting a consulting club. Is this a good idea/motivation to do so? should i not think about what my self interests are and focus only on doing work which resonates with me beyond my self interest even if it might not look cool in my profile?

[@MBACrystalBall]

It's never a good idea to do something that you 'think' Adcoms want to see. Better to get involved in initiatives that genuinely interest you. You'll find opportunities to make a visible impact in every field.

[@udhavagupta2481]

I don't go to a college that is super famous or is old enough to have a legacy or strong alumni. I have had a very average academic background and okayish extracurriculars, and especially in the last two years I have had a performance which was really poor. However in my undergrad I have been working towards and noticing a major U curve. Does something like this impress the admissions committee more than a star performer who has been a "A+" since always? Do I still have a good chance at Stanford with my upward trajectory?

[@MBACrystalBall]

As a general rule, consistency gets appreciated more than volatile graphs. If you haven't been able to do that in acads, try doing it in your professional life.

[@shrishkm7468]

Hi Sir, I applied for a job in byjus for learning and development programme where my job is to teach and mentor students in the field of mathematics.Will this be considered as a work experience or should I try any other job pertaining to the business field only to get into top b schools in India/abroad

[@MBACrystalBall]

Yes, it will be considered as experience. But whether it is relevant experience or not (considering the post MBA goals) is something for you to think about.

[@rajeshgoudev6640]

Hello sir/ma'am I have completed my MBA in finance and marketing in 2013 and started my career with retail outlets at front end (sales) and I'm looking to do any courses which will help to grow my career with my experience in back end field or some other and I'm aged of 31 years could you please suggest any course

[@MBACrystalBall]

Short term courses generally don't have a big impact on career changers. If you can leverage your network within the industry, you may not need another course to make the transition.

[@devnathawat2968]

Hello Sir, I'm a 12th grade student from commerce background, thinking of doing b.com in college. After that I want to apply for a deferred mba program offered by the top b-schools globally , just after I complete my b.com . I have certain doubts that , not coming from a stem background it won't be possible for me to get into those b schools. Any suggestions on should I apply or not?

[@MBACrystalBall]

You can apply with a non-STEM background. But our recommendation is to be patient and build a profile strong enough to apply to regular MBA programs.

[@anshmehta9694]

In a person's undergraduate programme, in terms of top mbas... Do your 1st year and 2nd year marks matter or only your 3rd year matters? Like the GPA is calculated only based on your 3rd year scores right?

[@MBACrystalBall]

Bschools ask for transcripts that include all semesters across years. That gives them an idea of how consistent the applicant has been.

[@mtgbambi1366]

Greetings Sir,I need to ask from you whether Rotman School accepts 3 years of Bachelors degree from India??

[@MBACrystalBall]

Yes, they've started accepting 3-year bachelors degree since the last few years. Send them an email to confirm, so you have no doubts.

[@kumarsrijan2015]

Hello sir, I'm a chartered accountant student. Would my articleship from big 4 be considered as work experience in ivy leagues or best b schools from UK?

[@MBACrystalBall]

We've covered this here: www.mbacrystalball.com/blog/2014/02/02/chartered-accountant-ca-articleship-experience/

[@niharikabalivada8677]

Hloo sir!! I've finished my undergraduation(Btech) in 2021 and got placed in Techm. I'm already working right now. My undergaraduation pointer was 6.2.So, I thought of gaining some work experience for a period of 2 year's and then want to pursue MBA in a Good Institute overseas. So, how can I develop myself in order to achieve?

[@MBACrystalBall]

We've shared several tips in the video to do just that. Didn't find anything you could use?

[@aishwaryasingh7753]

Hey I'm planning to study MBA in abroad and I'm thinking to go for GRE as most colleges are accepting GRE for MBA so should I go for it?

[@MBACrystalBall]

Yes, that should be fine. Just make sure you re-confirm on your target program websites rather than making assumptions.

[@mohanrangasamysriram8476]

Hi sir, Currently i have 1year 8 months work ex in a leading supply chain start up and i have decided to take 3-4 months sabbatical for my GMAT preparation. Will it really affect my application if i have this break for preparation?

[@MBACrystalBall]

It won't be a good idea to quit your job for GMAT prep. Here's why: www.mbacrystalball.com/blog/2015/04/17/quit-job-to-study-for-gmat/

[@abhamehta6660]

will finish my B. com from.DU in 2020. I want to do a Masters in US . What should be my next step ?

[@MBACrystalBall]

We've published a step-by-step guide to get into the top Masters programs. Hope it helps: www.mbacrystalball.com/masters-degree

[@priyankakadyan1108]

Could you please share your bschool journey with us.

[@MBACrystalBall]

In a nutshell, it was an amazing and transformative experience. The details are shared in my book 'Beyond the MBA Hype'.

[@Mrpcsin]

Any vids/links to the website on MBA in Gulf countries(Qatar, UAE, Bahrain, Oman)? Objective is to get a job right after the program and stay there for as long as possible. A comparison between the Desi (SP Jain Dubai, IMT dubai), Western (Australian, British, American) and Arab (university of Dubai, Sheikh Zayed university, Sultan Qaboos university Oman) would be highly appreciated. That is, whether these native Arab university programs in those respective countries would give an edge during the job hunt and work permit legalities later...

[@MBACrystalBall]

We're not familiar with the options available in the region, since most clients working with us don't target them.

[@lsmagar]

Hello sir, we just have to mention our extra curricular activities in application or we need certificate (proof) for it??

[@MBACrystalBall]

You don't necessarily need a certificate, since most extra curriculars won't get you one. But make sure you can defend it, if you get questions during the interview.

[@volo9864]

Hey Sameer I just Completed my Bba . My graduation scores aren’t great but I’m hoping to get into good mba colleges I have zero work experience . What all should I do to build an profile to get into good mba colleges ?

[@MBACrystalBall]

There's no substitute for getting good work experience. Be patient and work on some of the ideas we've shared in this video.

[@fizapathan8651]

What if I m not amongst the exclusive groups like BCG , B and C , McKinsey but working in some other company of my stream.???? I'm a BBA Finance student.

[@MBACrystalBall]

Focus on making an impact in whichever role you're in, and then make sure the other aspects still in your control (like test scores) are strong.

[@ysaiakhil4635]

I graduated from a normal Engg CLG in INDIA. What should I do for getting into top mba programmes in the world like gsb,hbs, Wharton ?

[@MBACrystalBall]

Other than the tips we've shared in this video on how to build your profile, also check out our videos on HBS and Stanford to get bschool specific insights.

[@61kuldeepsingh75]

Hi, My name is Kuldeep Singh and I am in first sem of MBA-MS 5 years program, I am very happy with this programme but I want to become a scholar for which I have to study hard and in good University also....So I am confused what to do, how to get admission in good University, which entrance exams I should prepare for?can you guide me a little please?

[@MBACrystalBall]

You still have a long way to go before you complete the current (dual) degree. Try to make the most of it first without worrying about another one. If you really need one, you can consider it after working for a few years.

[@harshitchaudhary4236]

Sir i have low academic background and want to get admission in top foreign b schools... so right now i m preparing for BANK PO to get an experience of managerial skills will it be sufficient to get admission into that ?

[@MBACrystalBall]

You'll have to work for a few years and be able to show a good mix of technical and managerial skills. For the low academic grades, here's are some insights that should help: www.mbacrystalball.com/blog/2015/04/13/managing-low-academic-grades-gpa-mba-applications/

[@shashanksonkusle6529]

Hello Harshit, I am sailing the same boat, contact me @ 8983593505

[@akhilkumar8545]

My under grad CGPA is 8.72, currently working in big 4 as a SAP consultant since 2018( the year I passed out of the college). Please suggest me as how to build a profile. I’m expecting a personalised advice regarding this.

[@MBACrystalBall]

We offer personalised counselling under this option: www.mbacrystalball.com/profile-building

[@EuropeVisaReporter]

Sir learne other language like spanish, franch etc is build my profile for mba

[@MBACrystalBall]

Only if you're able to use those languages productively, and not just show it as a tick mark.

[@alualo3420]

Looking for One year MBA program in Canada or Germany by September 2020 intake. Can you please guide mee with some best Institutions along with their cost for one year. Also visa and how to apply

[@MBACrystalBall]

We've covered several good 1-year MBA programs across the world in this article. Hope it helps: www.mbacrystalball.com/blog/2016/07/25/best-one-year-mba-programs-world/

[@kritikasainia5046]

Hi sir, I didn’t perform well in my 10th and 12th grade I only scored 72% in both the grades will It effect my chance of getting in a nice b-school

[@MBACrystalBall]

Not much, since your graduate grades, GMAT score and experience matter more.

[@aditijagtap5805]

Can trading in stock market/learning about trade be considered as a good skill for profile building?!

[@MBACrystalBall]

It could, depending on how you're able to convey the significance of what you've learnt doing that and what skills you've picked up that can help you in the future.

[@akarshlokanath8]

sir i've done MLM for 2 years and now applying for top b schools , will it be considered ? as i was not an employee but a self employed or partially entrepreneur .

[@MBACrystalBall]

If you can position your experience appropriately, get some career clarity and convince the adcoms how an MBA will help you, then sure go ahead with it.

[@chetna8024]

Hello Sir, I am doing English hons. and I want to do MBA after i graduate. What should i do to make my profile strong and to be selected in Top-B School?

[@MBACrystalBall]

We've shared several ideas in the video above.

[@anshmehta9694]

hey sameer sir, Ansh here. I had a few questions.... I am currently studying law at Jindal global law school (ranked no.1 law school in India by QS world rankings)..... My 10th score is 87.5% , 12th is 84%... my acads are really low and I wish to do an mba from an ivy league. how should I make it up for my low acads? do you think becoming the class representative/batch representative, taking parts in events and clubs, 3-4 years of work experience help? we also have student exchange programmes and summer camps in ivy leagues, should I go for it?

[@MBACrystalBall]

Extra curriculars can be helpful, but in most cases they won't be game changers. Your work experience would matter a lot too, if you're looking for a top MBA. Here are some ideas on profile building when you're still in college: www.mbacrystalball.com/blog/2019/02/11/improve-profile-in-college-how-to/

[@ujaipru2862]

Hi sir, I am Ujaipru marma. I am from Bangladesh. I study BBS(Becholor of Business Studies) in National University. Which duration is 3 year. So is that degree is accept for MBA program? In USA,Europe.

[@MBACrystalBall]

Hi Ujai, did you post this same query elsewhere? Here's a list of MBA programs that accept 3 year bachelor degree: www.mbacrystalball.com/blog/2012/10/08/usa-mba-accepting-15-years-education-indian-universities/

[@nakulmahajan7641]

Sir, I have quit my CA in CA Final and I would like to do ms in finance. How should I approach further?

[@MBACrystalBall]

Check this out: www.mbacrystalball.com/masters-degree/

[@aditijagtap5805]

Do all these skills need to be acquired from certified courses??

[@MBACrystalBall]

Not at all. Practical accomplishment are more convincing than theoretical certifications.

[@mansibhardwaj1988]

I'm currently in my 2nd year, doing bachelor's in elementary education, which is a 4 year course from Delhi University. However I really don't wanna be an elementary teacher, and that's why I am planning to apply for MiM after my graduation. How should I go about it? And what all can I do in the time I'm left with till I complete my graduation to build on a good profile? Kindly help! Thank you

[@MBACrystalBall]

Make sure you research the MiM degree inside out. Don't look at it as an escape from your bachelor's field. have a clear idea of what you want to do after MiM.

[@piyushkumar-wg8cv]

I am B tech third year undergraduate student. I have interests in economics and business related things so I am looking forward to do MBA after completing my B tech. But I am confused related to some things like if I want to pursue MBA from abroad, how can I get scholarship because I have high financial constraints. Also how can I start preparing for the entrances (CAT, GMAT). If it is right strategy or not working one or two year in job and then go for mba.

[@MBACrystalBall]

Working for 3-4 years would be good before you apply. We've covered details on how to get scholarships in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iYLCeKCpndpqfZo

[@priyanshusharma8573]

Sir I have 75 in 10th and 93 in 12th and also 9.1 CGPA in b.com but no work ex so can I get into top universities for mim

[@MBACrystalBall]

The 'no work experience' part will be an issue for all good MBA programs. Be patient and work on that before you apply.

[@aparnak319]

Hi sir. I’ve year gaps in my career. Started working this year only. How do I justify it. The gaps are pretty long . Need your help on this please

[@MBACrystalBall]

Here's what an adcom says: www.mbacrystalball.com/blog/2016/04/01/how-to-handle-career-gaps-in-mba-applications/

[@gideonjayanth7571]

heyy mate, i’m from India. I have a CGPA of 8.3 with no standing arrears looking to secure admission in a top public university in Germany. I have a history of arrears and Ive had 5 backlogs in the past. Is it possible to secure a seat in a top 100 university in Germany?

[@MBACrystalBall]

See if you can use some of these tips while applying: www.mbacrystalball.com/blog/2015/04/13/managing-low-academic-grades-gpa-mba-applications/

[@sanskritikeshattiwar6490]

How get internships in reputed companies like Bain, Goldman Sachs or the big 4

[@MBACrystalBall]

If you are referring to internships during an MBA program, you can use the bschool resources and alumni network to reach out to your target companies. Also read this: www.mbacrystalball.com/blog/2013/10/21/how-mba-internships-work/ If you were referring to pre-MBA internships, we've covered that in more detail here: www.mbacrystalball.com/blog/2017/10/27/pre-mba-internship/

[@kedarharpale7937]

Sir plz make a video on MBA in UK/Europe

[@MBACrystalBall]

Thanks for the suggestion, Kedar. We'll share it with the video team.

[@the_apramey]

Which are the colleges and countries providing free education to economically weak students.

[@MBACrystalBall]

Read this article: www.mbacrystalball.com/blog/2016/02/05/study-abroad-for-free/

[@aditigera965]

Hello sir! It's really helpful to read your articles and watch your videos. I've gain so much insight from your work and I appreciate it so much. Thank you! This video has been quite helpful too, but can you please suggest on how a student can build a good profile and get into a top school if he/she is planning to go for MS program right after undergraduation?

[@MBACrystalBall]

Hi Aditi, the big difference between building a profile for an MS and MBA is the lack (or paucity) of work experience since MS programs don't insist on working before applying. But it still helps to work for some time before going abroad, mainly because you'll have an edge over your classmates not just in studies (by being able to better appreciate what's being taught) but also during job hunting (since you can hit the ground running compared to the others). Besides that great grades, and a passion for the field you're targeting would help too.

[@divyanshisingh1185]

Is doing a online course equally good as institute course??

[@MBACrystalBall]

It's not, if you're looking at it from a market value angle.

[@akumar6568]

Sir how I can approach MBA crystal ball for the admission process. ?

[@MBACrystalBall]

Send across an email with your profile details, GMAT score, target programs: info at mbacrystalball dot com

[@yashkumarsurendravyas3786]

Hello sameer sir, I am pursuing B.sc right now its a three year graduate course and i am into Second Year right now, so can i make into these B- schools with scholarship.

[@MBACrystalBall]

Not without a few years of experience. And of course the usual - GMAT, essays, goals, interviews etc

[@yashkumarsurendravyas3786]

I mean experience in what sort of field, and one thing is that i have started preaparing for gmat is that ok sir?What else i gotta do sir can you help me?

[@MBACrystalBall]

Read this: www.mbacrystalball.com/blog/2017/06/28/what-type-work-experience-required-mba-abroad/

[@uttkarshsinha6315]

Sir, I want to become a football analyst and want to pursue a career in sports management. I wanted to know about the best colleges present in Europe especially (Germany).What are the basic requirements to get admission? What are the future career opportunities? I also wanted to know about accadis university's ma in sports management program (Germany) is it worth it ?

[@MBACrystalBall]

This article should give you many insights on masters programs for sports management: www.mbacrystalball.com/masters-degree/sports-management

[@g.rajesh6251]

Sir in one KZbin channel they said if you apply in 2022 then you would get admission in 2026 is it right..

[@MBACrystalBall]

That's not correct. Applications are generally for classes that start in the subsequent year. e.g. 2022 applications are for 2023 fall (Sept) start.

[@ashishranjan9396]

My name is Ashish Ranjan. I am currently pursing my bachelor's degree in chemistry major, second year and I have 6 certified moocs courses which were completed.I have diploma degree inSpanish and Turkish language. I don't have work experience now but I am going to join freelancing. Does it count as work experience? Am I eligible to get any top B schools in the world. I am going to take my GMAT in mid 2020 and looking forward to join online preparation program.

[@MBACrystalBall]

Hi Ashish, most MBA programs consider full-time work experience after graduation. It's tough for them to judge freelancing work for students. But if you think it was substantial, then you can connect with a few admission teams and ask them if they'd value it.

[@rishabhsingh2747]

Good evening Sameer, This question is regarding working with Market Leaders. I am working with Deloitte consulting in Supply chain sector. Do i have any added advantage?? Thanks.

[@MBACrystalBall]

Yes, Rishabh, it will be helpful to have a strong brand like Deloitte on your resume. The company is among the biggest recruiter of MBA graduates. So everyone in the admissions team knows about it.

[@rishabhsingh2747]

@@MBACrystalBall Thanks alot. I am preparing for Gmat currently. Once i have a healthy score, will definitely reach out to you for other admission process.

[@MBACrystalBall]

Keeping our fingers crossed for you!

[@udhavagupta2481]

What is the best way to identify what makes me different as a person, my character, my drive?

[@MBACrystalBall]

Here's a tip. Focus on what makes you 'unique', not 'different'. That way you can use introspection as a tool to look within yourself and try to figure out the answers. Think about the kind of triggers (events, tasks, words, or any other form of external stimuli) that make you happy, motivated, energized. In a more formal capacity, during career counselling we use a personality test to validate career plans. Contrast that to the pressure of being 'different', where you'll feel compelled to compare yourself to others, and try to force-fit yourself into a mould that wasn't made for you. There's a subtle difference between the two, but the difference in the analytical viewpoint can make a lot of difference in understanding yourself.

[@udhavagupta2481]

Thanks!

[@namrata9264]

Hello Sir, I have completed my graduation and currently pursuing CA but planning to drop very soon, my academic scores are not good, is there any possibility of getting admission in NUS if I want to pursue 2-3 years later?

[@MBACrystalBall]

Since the acads aren't going to be a strong point, focus on building the rest of your profile as suggested in the video. And then take a shot at multiple schools.

[@sanjanaraj7998]

Hello...even I'm in the same position

[@namastearif]

Sir I am b.com hons. Student and I want to study mba in abroad so what I do

[@MBACrystalBall]

Get a few years of experience and then think about applying. We have several videos that explain the process.

[@Mrpcsin]

Hi Sameer, most of these Indian "MBA" programs including many of the elite ones like the IIMs, SPJIMR, MDI offer PGP, PDPM, PGDM, PGXX on the transcripts, not a Master's/MBA as these colleges don't have university status. So, after a program from one of these coupled with the required years of "quality" Indian experience (hard to jump outside the country given the Indian B-School campus placement stats), wouldn't justifying a second American/European university MBA be a pretty straightforward process to the adcoms in them? "I'm a PG diploma/program guy with experience, no master's here already, therefore, a good fit for your MBA" in a nutshell....

[@MBACrystalBall]

Hi Sandeep, adcoms are aware of the nomenclature differences for these degrees in India, considering the number of such applicants who apply to their programs. If they haven't specifically mentioned it on their site, rather than making assumptions, it's best to connect with them and ask directly how they view the degree. That'll save you the trouble of applying to programs that don't accept second MBA applicants.

[@sreegovindp3667]

I'm doing my final sem at college.. What can I do here which makes my profile look good

[@MBACrystalBall]

We've shared several thoughts on how to improve your profile in college in this article: www.mbacrystalball.com/blog/2019/02/11/improve-profile-in-college-how-to/

[@sreegovindp3667]

I'm currently doing my final semester in BTech.. And in this last 3 months what can I do over here??

[@Jayyoff]

So I'm a grade 12th student from India and after my undergraduation from India (3 year BBA) I'm willing to finish my MBA in Stanford university , I have thought about it for a while now and by my past experiences I'm sure Stanford will be a great fit for me so what will be your advice to me considering I have no work experience nor any accomplishments that will make me stand out (yet) Thanks for taking the time for reading through , will be waiting for your positive response

[@MBACrystalBall]

Hi Jay, can you explain what you mean by 'past experiences'?

[@Jayyoff]

@@MBACrystalBall by past experiences I meant doing projects with a team , so in school whenever we have a social project like surveys and all I'd lead the role in that which made me realize that I can be good in collaborative work

[@MBACrystalBall]

Thanks for clarifying. It's great that you've found ways to lead such projects in school. Make sure you continue doing that as you go through college and then take up a job. You'll find many more tips in our video on Harvard (which competes with Stanford for the top MBA applicants): kzbin.info/www/bejne/jpSchZymequSn80

[@Gotham.Public.Library]

Hi Sir, I had a question. Will the online Bsc Degree from IIT in Data Science boost my chances of getting an admit from a Top Bschool later on? I'm confused between the online Bsc offered by IITM and the online BCA degree offered by Amity online . My current degree is a BBA with a focus on data science and I've also taken up a 1 year PG certificate program from greatlakes in DS. After checking the curriculum I realized that the BSc from IIT mostly focuses on DS & AI while the BCA from Amity covers all major emerging technologies like blockchain, cloud, systems, DS, IOT, AI and multiple languages like java, python, C++ etc. Getting into a Top Bschool with a focus on entrepreneurship (tech) is definitely a factor to be considered. My plan is to try for the MSC in entrepreneurship from HEC Paris as a first step..work for two years at an incubator as an in house expert and brush up on my French , then use that and other case studies etc. to land a strategy or product consulting offer from MBB or Accenture in France. Then get some considerable amount of consulting experience and aim for an MBA at a later stage from SBS Oxford/ HEC Paris or Msx to exit into entrepreneurship. The cost of the BCA is substantially less than the Bsc (1 lakh). On the other hand the brand equity of IIT is a factor..however how much of it will actually matter for my Bschool admissions is my question.

[@MBACrystalBall]

Online courses are unlikely to tilt the scales to a large extent. Go for it only if you see some inherent value in them, in an independent capacity. And not as a stepping stone to another degree.

[@Gotham.Public.Library]

@@MBACrystalBall In that case I guess I guess te best option is to go for the BCA. It does cover most of the emerging tech and is more cost efficient.

[@Gotham.Public.Library]

@@MBACrystalBall Thank you sir

[@meeralpanchal93]

I required personalized counselling / consulting with respect to EMBA. How to connect you ?

[@MBACrystalBall]

If you've shortlisted the program and need help with the applications, send us an email please.

[@meeralpanchal93]

@@MBACrystalBall As per my understanding I have short listed some of school like ISEAD, MIT, IE , ISB but little I have confusion in my mind whether US school is better or European school. And really I have required concselling for that.

[@MBACrystalBall]

Those are not EMBA programs. Read this to clear the confusion: www.mbacrystalball.com/blog/2012/10/04/executive-mba-in-india/ For the regular MBA programs you've listed, we come into the picture after you have a GMAT score. As a general rule, if your experience is closer to EMBA programs, then the full-time ones you've listed may not be a good fit.

[@aryantyagi6965]

Sir..... Can I gain experience in any field like Teaching....or only in the relevant field will do?

[@MBACrystalBall]

It's better if the experience is relevant to your long term career goals.

[@aryantyagi6965]

@@MBACrystalBall OK Sir

[@JudiJoseph]

I'm an American who's interested in an MBA in the UK/Europe. For work experience, does being a founder of a startup company can be used as work experience? I'm an entrepreneur and does working for my own company count as work experience or does it have to be a traditional job. Thanks.

[@MBACrystalBall]

Yes, your startup experience will not just count as experience, but you can use it to stand out from the sea of traditional applicants who look and sound the same on paper. Do you have a GMAT score?

[@JudiJoseph]

​@@MBACrystalBallI haven't taken it yet. I'm currently preparing & studying for the GMAT exam.

[@MBACrystalBall]

That'll be one of the important parameters to focus on, apart from the essays. Good luck with it.

[@abhinavbahuguna6315]

Sir make a video on how to get scholarship for mba abroad

[@MBACrystalBall]

We've covered it in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iYLCeKCpndpqfZo

[@sudeepmishra4461]

Can you tell about 2nd mba at age of 30....College which allow 2nd mba

[@MBACrystalBall]

We've written about getting a second MBA here: www.mbacrystalball.com/blog/2017/02/15/second-mba-abroad-after-iim-isb/

[@lannister1211]

Sir, will an applicant face problems regarding eligibility/admission for top MBA/ms programs if one did his undergrad(btech) from a constituent college of a Deemed To be University in India?

[@MBACrystalBall]

For matters related to eligibility, rather than relying on a 3rd party's opinion, it's best to check directly with some of your target universities, as the policies tend to vary quite a bit.

[@lannister1211]

@@MBACrystalBall did you work with any applicant who was from a deemed university and ended up in t-15 programs?

[@MBACrystalBall]

Can't say for sure, since we recommend that applicants working with us check directly with universities first before starting work on the application. Once they get back to us, we focus on the essays, recos, resumes, interviews without particularly bothering about their undergrad (since that's an aspect we can't control). Having said that, try spreading the net wider if the top ones don't show flexibility.

[@ZshaanKhan]

Hello Sir, I am Zishaan Khan, I am working as Assistant Business Manager in Konsole Group raipur, which is a PR based company, with 5 year of Experience and I am also a entrepreneur, Mr Tiffin is my company and we do corporate catering. Now I am planning for MBA in marketing from Top B School. Want to know is my working profile is considerable for the top B school. Please Reply.

[@MBACrystalBall]

Hi Zishaan, the work you do sounds interesting and that makes your profile unique. Since you plan to be a marketing manager, use the opportunity to demonstrate your marketing skills. What you'll have to do is to squeeze out the most remarkable achievements from those 5 years and package it in a way that'll make the admission officers sit up and take notice.

[@ZshaanKhan]

Thanks, I really thankyou alot.

[@sahilsoni2875]

I have done bsc in agriculture and i want to do mba in Canada , is it a unique field rather than IT , for my profile .

[@MBACrystalBall]

It's unusual for MBA programs to get agri grads applying, so yes it sure would be a unique field.

[@sahilsoni2875]

@@MBACrystalBall thnx

[@YashRaj-gh9fg]

Hello Sir, I am MBA aspirant, My GPA are not very good. Does the GPA's have effect on the CAT percentile and selection process for MBA in IIMs Thank you Sir

[@MBACrystalBall]

We don't focus on CAT MBA programs, so we won't be the right team to answer that query.

[@YashRaj-gh9fg]

Ok thank you Sir

[@udhavagupta2481]

What is the best time to seek the help of an admissions consultant for applying to a deferred mba program?

[@MBACrystalBall]

Assuming you're only referring to application work (and not profile building), around 2 months before the deadline you're aiming for would give you enough time to do justice to the applications.

[@udhavagupta2481]

@@MBACrystalBall so how exactly do you guys help with profile building? And if I am interested in that too, how early should I approach you guys?

[@MBACrystalBall]

@@udhavagupta2481 Profile building is for recent grads who've worked for a year or so, and have a decent idea of where their career is heading. If you're still studying it won't help.

[@udhavagupta2481]

What do you guys think about the hbs peek weekend program? Is it beneficial for an MBA admit later?

[@MBACrystalBall]

It's helpful in getting to know what HBS offers. However, it won't be a game changer later, if the attendee doesn't have what it takes to compete with regular applicants.

[@udditsachdev1148]

I want to know more about this HBS peek program. How can I find out ?

[@MBACrystalBall]

@@udditsachdev1148 Visit their website, where they've shared the details.

[@udditsachdev1148]

@@MBACrystalBall The program is only eligible for students currently in the bachelor's degree program. I am already done with Bachelors

[@MBACrystalBall]

@@udditsachdev1148 Focus on building your profile and aiming for the regular intake when you are ready.

[@pranavsundar6105]

Is MS better or is MBA better? I'm asking this because a lot of time is wasted before we do an MBA. We do an MBA only when we have an experience of 2 years or more. In top business schools, the average work experience is more than 5 years. So is it better do do an MS since we can start working early and will have more experience than an MBA before they start working early. So does an MS graduate have an edge over an MBA graduate?

[@MBACrystalBall]

Why do you feel the time is wasted before an MBA?

[@pranavsundar6105]

@@MBACrystalBall I am currently pursueing my BBA. If I opt for MBA, I will have to work for atleast 4-6 years before applying to an MBA. Even in those 4-6 years, my position would not be high since I am only a bachelors graduate. But if I opt for MS, the position that I would get would be comparitively higher since I'm a masters graduate. When you look at the experience gained, an MS graduate has agined more experience since he/she starts working at the age of 22/23 since most MS programs are of 1 or 2 years. But when you are an MBA graduate, you will probably be 30 on an average. Only those that are exceptionally good will be a younger MBA graduate. So which is better MS or MBA?

[@pranavsundar6105]

In the long term, are MBA graduates paid better than MS graduates?

[@MBACrystalBall]

@@pranavsundar6105 Between the two an MBA is better from a long-term compensation perspective.

[@pranavsundar6105]

@@MBACrystalBall Thanks.

[@muhammadessa2125]

Hello Sir ! I am final year BBA student in Pakistan. I want to either get into an MBA program or get work experience in Europe or Canada. Need your assistance and advise please .

[@MBACrystalBall]

All good MBA programs will ask for several years of work experience. Best to work in your home-country after graduation for some time, build up your profile (as explained in the video above) and then think about going abroad.

[@muhammadessa2125]

@@MBACrystalBall So how can I go abroad after I build my profile? I mean when you don't have an employer abroad ? And which countries will be a good option to build your career and relocate ?

[@MBACrystalBall]

That's why students choose an international masters program, so they can network and tap into the local opportunities in that country.

[@NikhilSingh-gh1cl]

Can i get into top b schools without work experience and with an gmat of 760 .

[@MBACrystalBall]

Very unlikely. And not advisable either. Btw, is that your real score, or a hypothetical question?

[@NikhilSingh-gh1cl]

@@MBACrystalBall i have scored 759

[@MBACrystalBall]

@@NikhilSingh-gh1cl Are you sure that's the score? GMAT scores are in multiples of 10.

[@twishamukherjee9752]

Hello Sir, I was going through your blog in MBACrystalball.com, about the GMAT underdogs, who despite their apparently disappointing score, went on to secure places in their dream colleges. I happen to be one of them, got my share of disappointing news today, 610/800, Q 47, V 27, IR 5. And since I used my best card (GMAT Online) in this current pandemic, retaking the exam in a test centre is not a feasible choice. So trying to figure out if it's the end of the world or should I buckle up and try my luck! A bit more about myself, IT Engineer with 5.5 years experience, of which 1.5 years of UK client handling exposure. Average academic background, 91.6% in 10th standard, 81.6% in 12th standard and B.Tech in Applied Electronics and Instrumentation Engineering.

[@MBACrystalBall]

Depending on luck is never a good strategy, specially when applying to highly competitive programs, more so in the IT applicant pool. What score were you getting in the mocks? Do you think you'd be able to score significantly higher if you retake it?

[@twishamukherjee9752]

@@MBACrystalBall my mocks were in the range of 580-680.

[@twishamukherjee9752]

And as a safe bet, can I apply to few colleges now and then retake the exam after 2-3 months? All these doubts due to the current COVID uncertainty.

[@MBACrystalBall]

It'll be a risky bet, not safe. Our recommendation is always to take the time to rectify what is in your hands and submit the strongest application you can. Rushing in just to meet the deadline, knowing well that there was something that could be rectified, is never a good idea.

[@twishamukherjee9752]

@@MBACrystalBall Thank you Sir!

[@kunjalramani465]

After b.com ms is possible

[@MBACrystalBall]

Yes, provided you choose the right masters degree, that's related to your knowledge and expertise.

[@harshinimutyala577]

I hv scored in my 10th,12th grades as 7.8,85% respectively.later im having a 1 year gap as i prepared for CA bt next from 2016-19 i hd done my grdauation BBA with 8.3 in one of the buisness school itself i.e Mittal school of buisness.In this journey i hv 16 months of experience were 7 months are after post graduation as an accountant and reamining 11months of internship in my graduation period in which few are paid internships too. So now im planning to do MBA in london specially in London Buinsness school for this jan 2020 intake A'm i eligible to get here or not plz suggest me a gud university in uk for MBA if im nt eligible. Thank you.

[@MBACrystalBall]

The experience seems on the lower side compared to the average for bschools like the London Business School. It'll be better to have a longer and more impactful stint at work first before applying. You can take the GMAT along the way when you're ready.

[@harshinimutyala577]

@@MBACrystalBall ok ifnt can u suggest me gud universities in uk without experience plz.

[@MBACrystalBall]

@@harshinimutyala577 You could consider MiM programs, as they are more popular in Europe and don't expect any experience. But the value is not the same as a regular flagship MBA.

[@harshinimutyala577]

@@MBACrystalBall Bt im asking about universities can u suggest me in that bcz i wanna do MBA in finance ...wt about university of bristol ...i also gave my IELTS exam unfortinately 6 band ...are they any more universities..??

[@MBACrystalBall]

@@harshinimutyala577 Check out the Financial Times ranking. You'll get plenty of options to consider.

[@nachiketkaul820]

By saying excellent academic grades , did you also meant excellent grades in class 12th?!

[@MBACrystalBall]

No, 10th and 12th grades don't matter for international MBA programs.

[@nachiketkaul820]

@@MBACrystalBall I'm always in a doubt because I've only scored 52% that too from NIOS board.

[@MBACrystalBall]

When in doubt, best to check with the university directly.

[@Mrpcsin]

Can a BE/Btech totally escape from coding/programming for good after their MBA? The question is targeted on those IT consultant/business analyst roles offered in MBA placements. Right from engineering days to my job, I've dabbled in computer networking, AI/ML/data science - R/Python, J2EE/C# - .net, mobile app, web app development, all have been extremely frustrating experiences. The classes/objects based hardcore long form programming with unlimited syntax and types of classes and whatnot - neverending technical learning are not at all my cup of tea. Consuming Excel, Jira and similar tools with client requirement gathering, bug and dev work tracking, coordinating with the devs, client, UI/UX, marketing, bizdev teams shouldn't be a problem. While dreaming on about strategy consulting and those wholesale finance jobs is alright(all sorts of information gathered on these enticing jobs, no real experience in these), I'm sure many outsiders like me and fresh MBA grads do that, given my Btech CS and software engineer background and the fact that I'm fine with a job role change alone without an industry change, please enlighten me on the probability of avoiding "Coding" as it were, in a post MBA job. It would be an eye opener for IT engineer chaps like me, which I'm sure there are many(probably more than the total number of sand grains on Earth), who want to avoid "technical" work altogether, therefore, are counting on the MBA.

[@MBACrystalBall]

Yes, most software engineers who complete an MBA manage to 'escape' coding and move into business roles. In such jobs, they don't need to worry about the nuts & bolts of debugging complex nested loops and uninitialised variables causing tricky boundary condition errors. However, their background in technical fields can still help them better understand the bigger picture in a range of business areas. Here are some career change options after MBA for software engineers: www.mbacrystalball.com/blog/2015/11/26/career-change-options-after-mba-for-software-engineers/

[@anumirfan7333]

Is work experience really important for applying mba in Canada or Germany? Or any other foreign university?

[@MBACrystalBall]

Yes, all the good bschools will insist on it.

[@anumirfan7333]

And what if one doesn’t have any experience, but her academic background is very strong..?

[@MBACrystalBall]

Grades aren't a replacement for experience. Both are independent and important components in the application.

[@anumirfan7333]

And without any experience, I’m not likely to get any scholarship?

[@MBACrystalBall]

That's right. Lower ranked and unranked programs might give it, but they'd probably not be worth the effort.

[@sachinbharti1558]

I wanna meet you sir where are you from

[@MBACrystalBall]

We operated on a virtual / online model. You can ask your queries here.

[@georgetokarz797]

Can a 33 y/o get into an MBA?

[@MBACrystalBall]

Yes, you'll find several success stories on our website where candidates over 30 have got into the top bschools. And there are many more that don't make it to our blog. Having said that, it does get tougher with age to convince the admission committee that you'd be a good fit for their class. Send us an email with your profile details and we'd be able to share more specific insights for your application.

[@sachinbharti1558]

Please reply me sir

[@meeralpanchal93]

How to contact you via phone ?

[@MBACrystalBall]

We're responding to general queries here. You can post yours too.

[@meeralpanchal93]

@@MBACrystalBall I have 17+ years of experience. Presently I am working with world top engineering consulting firm as Mechanical Engineer. Now need to change my stream. And I need to have EMBA. Which top School you recommend? After EMBA carries progress is my aim.

[@MBACrystalBall]

With an EMBA (where you work while you study), the options tend to be limited to the city you're in. We've collated a list of the best Executive MBA programs in the world: www.mbacrystalball.com/blog/2013/06/05/best-executive-mba-programs/

[@chilliii8800]

I'm a 2nd year student and i wanna apply for mba as soon as i graduate. Is having work experience after completion of undergrad studies compulsory? Or do they accept students without any work experience as well?

[@MBACrystalBall]

For the good MBA programs, it is necessary. For MiM, MIB etc options it is not.

[@neelmodi7008]

I need help about selecting course in state of Canada. Apart from that, I also want to know about current situation in Canada related to get PR after completing MBA course in whichever province. In addition , can you please know me which state will have higher opportunity to get job as well as PR after completion of my master degree in management. At last, of course, I want to know about the best stream in MBA for which I should come to Canada to complety further study , and it can help me to achieve well paid job.

[@MBACrystalBall]

This video should give you an overview about studying in Canada: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oGfXhmqldr2Ld8U