IMD MBA Admissions Tips

GMAT

Average score: 671

Interviews

IMD incorporates a thorough interview process:

• On-campus interviews in Lausanne
  The interview is an essential part of our evaluation process as it allows us to get to know the person behind the application. The interview consists of a complete evaluation which incorporates the following:
• Impromptu presentation
  When you arrive, you will be given a business topic on which to prepare a five minute presentation. This gives you an opportunity to demonstrate, amongst other things, your communication and presentation skills.
• Case study
  The IMD MBA includes extensive use of case studies. Therefore, we have included a mini case study to give you a feel for our teaching methods as well as to give us a feel for how you will contribute in this kind of setting.
• Interview
  Due to the small class size, we want to be sure that we meet the person behind the application. A member of the admissions committee or Faculty conducts the interview with the aim of getting to know you and developing a better understanding of your career progression and key achievements.
• MBA class observation
  If possible, you will sit in and observe our MBAs in the auditorium to give you the opportunity to assess us and our teaching style, just as we will be assessing you and your potential.
• Lunch with MBAs
  Talk to our current participants and ask them any questions you have about their experiences.

Essays

Examples of essay prompts previously used by IMD:

1. Two situations of importance to you
2. Please comment on a situation where you failed to reach an objective and what you learned from it.
3. Describe a situation where you had to demonstrate strong leadership skills. Explain how effective you were and what you learned.
4. How do you imagine your superior would describe your strengths and weaknesses to someone who does not know you?
5. Describe a situation where you successfully worked across cultures and/or nations.
6. IMD receives numerous applications per year. Give us four bullet points that clearly differentiate you from this applicant pool.
7. If you are not admitted, what alternatives will you consider?
8. Please explain how you intend to finance your studies at IMD. What would be your budget?
9. Do you have a disability or illness that could affect your performance at IMD? If so, please explain.
10. Optional question: Is there any additional information that is critical for the Admissions Committee to know which has not been covered elsewhere in this application?

Recommendations

3 professional references are required.

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