This blog post is part of our “Application Insider” blog post series that provides insider information, tips, and advice about applying to the UCLA Anderson MBA program.

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APPLICATION INSIDER TOPIC:

ROUND 2 COACHING WEBINAR RECAP

Earlier today, Anderson Admissions Officers hosted a special live webinar to provide insider coaching on preparing a successful application for our upcoming Round 2 deadline (January 5, 2017). We had over 100 attendees from all over the world, including India, China, Germany, Mexico, Brazil, Canada, as well as some right in our backyard in the Los Angeles area.  

For those who could not attend, below is a recap of the answers to many of the questions that we received:

• TEST SCORES: GMAT, GRE, TOEFL, IELTS
  • How do we evaluate multiple test scores in a profile?
    We will use your highest total score of any given test in our evaluation, though we will see all test scores in your profile/submitted to us. If you submit a mix of GMAT and GRE scores, for example, we will look to the highest score between the two.
    
  • Are official test reports required during the application process?
    Unofficial/self-reported test scores are fine for the initial application submission. We recommend that you send the official test scores to our Admissions Office, but it is not required until you are invited to interview. If you will not receive your scores before the submission deadline, you can indicate the date you took the test, and have your official scores sent to our office. 
    
  • Who is required to take the TOEFL/IELTS?
    All international applicants must provide TOEFL or IELTS scores (with the exception of those educated in Australia, Barbados, Canada, Ireland, Jamaica, New Zealand, or the United Kingdom), regardless of the language of instruction during your undergraduate studies. This is a requirement from UCLA Graduate Division, which is the department that oversees all graduate admissions. For more information about the TOEFL/IELTS requirement from UCLA Graduate Division, you can visit their website​.
    
  • Is there a minimum TOEFL score?
    We do not impose minimum test scores for applying to our program.  However, almost all UCLA Anderson admits taking the TOEFL have over 100 on the TOEFL IBT, or 7.0 overall on the IELTS.  UCLA’s Graduate Division has minimum TOEFL/IELTS requirements, which you can view on their website.  Learn more information about tests by reading this blog post.
    
• MBA PROGRAM
  • What style are the classes given in (e.g., case study, lecture only, etc.)?
    UCLA Anderson’s teaching method varies, with a mix of both case study and traditional lecture style. Some classes are exclusively one or the other, and some classes use a mix of methods. 
    
  • Can you speak to the different specializations? Can students pick more than one specialization?
    We offer 15 different optional specializations — learn more about them here. Students can pick more than one specialization (or, in fact, choose no specializations by taking a wide breadth of elective courses).  By giving flexibility of elective selection to our students, our MBAs can really customize their degree to their own goals. 
    
  • Can you take electives in other UCLA programs outside of Anderson?
    The ability to take additional courses outside of Anderson is a great advantage of coming here, as you get access to other top-ranked UCLA graduate schools. You can take up to three classes outside of UCLA Anderson at other UCLA graduate schools and apply that course credit to your MBA degree (you will need to get prior approval to make sure the course credit will apply). For example, Anderson students have taken classes in the UCLA schools of Public Health, Public Policy, Law, and Film & Television (among others). Class offerings and availability varies each quarter.
    
  • Can you tell me more about the Applied Management Research (AMR) project?
    In addition to the core classes, students complete an Applied Management Research (AMR) Project in their second year.  The AMR Program is a two quarter, 10-unit course that provides a unique educational experience for second-year MBA students and is the capstone of the UCLA Anderson MBA program. Students get to select from a wide range of companies/projects with a variety of project focuses, allowing them to tailor this project to their interests. Learn more on the AMR website. 
  • I’d like to learn more about your MBA program from current students. How can I get connected to them?
    To get in contact with our current students, you can use the ‘Connect with a Student’ interest form on our website. Once submitted, one of our current students will reach out to you with answers. During the winter holiday break, replies may be delayed, as students are travelling and/or at home on vacation.  We also recommend you view any club webpages that you find interesting and directly reach out to any of the second-year student board members in those clubs (profiles and e-mail addresses are provided on each club webpage).
    
  • Where do graduates work after graduation? What type of work do they do?
    Please see this Career Services page for details and download the detailed employment report. 
    
• APPLICATION PROFILE
  • Do we have students who come from a non-business background/undergraduate degree?
    Yes. We admit individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. View our class profile. 
    
  • How can I show my aptitude in quantitative skills?
    There are a variety of ways applicants exhibit their quantitative skills, including (but not limited to): performance on quantitative section of the GMAT/GRE, undergraduate studies/coursework, additional coursework taken after undergrad, in their work duties/projects, and in their extra-curricular activities.
    
  • What personal qualities do we look for in applicants?
    At UCLA Anderson we are a community defined by three core qualities: We share success, think fearlessly and drive change. We look for these attributes in our applicants. Learn more here. 
    
  • Should undergraduate internships be listed in the Activities or Employment section of the application?
    It depends. Generally, only full-time work experience should be included in the employment section of the application, and you can put any undergraduate internships under the “Activites” section and/or on your resume.  However, if your full-time work experience is limited and/or if your internship was significant/important to your application profile, it is fine to include any internships in the Employment section. Use your best judgment. 
    
  • Can a letter of recommendation be from a current student/alum?
    If a current student/alum knows you in a work capacity and you feel that they can speak to you and your skills from a professional point of view, (e.g., they were your former supervisor), then yes, it is completely fine to have be one of your recommenders. 
    
  • I’m not sure if I’m ready to submit my application by the Round 2 deadline — is it OK to wait until Round 3?
    Check out the pros and cons of applying in our three rounds in this past blog post. 
    
  • Can you provide some guidance on the essay? How much of the essay should be devoted to the different elements of the essay question?
    Short answer: There is no perfect mix/formula for a successful essay, as it depends on your personal story and goals. Long answer: Please read this great Application Insider blog post all about the essay. 
    
  • How are reapplicants evaluated?
    If you applied in the last two application seasons you are considered a re-applicant, and should apply following the guidelines we have for re-applicants. The Admissions Committee will review your new application and may review the application from the prior year, so re-applying allows you to highlight any progress you’ve made since previously applying.  Please read this Application Insider blog post about re-applicants. 
    
• INTERVIEWS
  • When do applicants find out if they are invited for an interview? How will they get notified?
    Interview invitations are sent out via e-mail on a rolling basis and you will hear from us no later than the published decision deadline. Interviews are by invitation only and are required of all admitted applicants.
    
  • How can you prepare for an interview?
    Please read this insightful blog post with some interview tips!
    
  • Are interviews offered only on campus?
    Interviews are conducted on campus or remotely through Skype with current students or admissions officers. Please note that all interviews carry equal weight since all interviewers are trained on the same evaluation metrics. Interviewing on-campus allows candidates to see the school up close, but there is no advantage to interviewing on campus or remotely.

For more important information, be sure to also read our top frequently asked questions (FAQs) from applicants.

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Questions? Contact us at: mba.admissions@anderson.ucla.edu