Darden MBA Admissions Tips (Virginia)

GMAT

Average GMAT is 690. In 2006-7, the average was 677 with 70 percent of enrolled students scoring 650-750.

Essays

Darden pays close attention to past achievements and especially leadership skills and potential. As with most business schools, applicants will want to tailor their application to the individual school and the student it’s looking for. Applicants to Darden must particularly show the admissions committee that they will fit in well.

Darden emphasizes leadership in the workplace, in the community, in the classroom

Applicants should emphasize background and fit and show a willingness and desire to contribute to the community.

Applicants who followed a less traditional professional path must fully explain choices. 

  • Make sure essays show a progression in leadership and that recommendations highlight the potential for future leadership growth.
  • Darden has a strong emphasis on ethics and ethical questions may be raised during the interview.
  • There are three application essays. Try not to explore the same topic and experience in each essay.
  • Don’t just list accomplishments ? show how and experiences or accomplishments highlights character and aspirations (as an introduction of yourself).
  • Be specific ? vague goals and generalities do not allow the committee to evaluate fit or potential.
  • Show that you are not afraid to participate in classroom discussion. Also, show that you can fully develop your ideas and be open to having your ideas challenged or judged in a public arena.

A visit to the Darden campus and facilities is a great way to show commitment to the school (make sure to mention the visit in your application).

Interviews

Interviews by invitation only (not all applicants), conducted by students and staff.

Many questions are asked about process and culture.

The ability to contribute to case conversations will most likely be tested during the interview. The interviewer will be looking for cogent responses that show confidence and professionalism. It’s important to be able to play both the student and teacher roles in the case study framework.  Specific preparation for the Darden interview is recommended.

Committee Review Process

Each application is read three times, two staff readings, then the director reads and makes the decision.

Waitlist

Wait listed students are automatically rolled into the next round for consideration.

For expert help with your application, check out our MBA Admissions Consulting.

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