Frequently Asked Questions

Admission Requirements

What qualifications does the Admission Committee look for in an applicant?

Besides the quantitative measures (tests and grades), we look at evidence of leadership, drive, communication and interpersonal skills, and goal-orientation. There also has to be a fit between the applicant’s background and interests, and the program.

Does OTM have prerequisites for mathematics and computer skills?

The School of Business does no longer require special skills in these areas, but OTM students typically have math and computer skills above average.

Does OTM require every MBA student to own a computer?

No. The Erdman Center provides desk top computers in a student work area. However, many OTM students have their own laptops.

Questions about GMAT, GPA, TOEFL

Is there a minimum Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) score or Grade Point Average (GPA) required for admission?

You should have a GPA of 3.0 or greater (domestic students) and your total GMAT score should be at least 600. A low GPA must be compensated by a high GMAT score (and you may be admitted on probation), and vice versa. But test scores are not all that matters. Your work experience, your personal qualifications, and your goals also play an important role in the admission process.

If I take the GMAT more than once, will the Admissions Committee average the scores or take the highest one?

The highest score will be considered.

Can a strong GPA neutralize a low GMAT score?

Yes, unless the GMAT score is very low (and note that both the verbal and the quantitative GMAT scores are considered; there should be a balance here).

Where and when is the GMAT offered?

Go to the website www.mba.com/mba/TaketheGMAT.

If I have a less than desirable GPA, how can I show that I can now perform in an academic environment?

If you performed poorly in your undergraduate studies you may be able to demonstrate that you are capable of performing well in your graduate studies by (a) having high GMAT test scores, (b) providing strong letters of recommendations, and (c) having a work experience that has proven your capabilities, initiative, and leadership skills.

Is there a minimum acceptable score on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)?

Yes. The minimum score is 250 on computerized tests and 600 on paper-based tests.

Letters of Recommendation

Can one of my recommendation letters be from a professor?

Yes.

I can’t ask my boss for a recommendation because s/he doesn’t know I plan to return to school. Who should I ask?

You could ask a former professor, a previous boss, a colleague who is not your peer. Letters that come from friends or relatives are ignored.

Interviews

Are interviews necessary? Who will interview me and how do I sign up?

You will be contacted for an interview by Erdman Center staff if you are considered a potential candidate for the program. The interview will be conducted by the Center Director and in some cases by the Associate Director.

Can I interview with an alumnus in my area?

That can be done in certain cases.

How do I prepare for my interview?

By being yourself. The interview is to ascertain a fit between you and the OTM program. It is beneficial to both parties that such a fit exists.

General Application Questions

How much does the letters of recommendation, interview, GMAT, etc., matter? Do you weigh one more than others?

All the components of the application package and the interview process matter. Excellence in one area does not balance out poor performance in another.

What kind of work experience are you looking for?

The ideal work experience is one where you have worked with issues pertaining to operations and/or technology, where you have been exposed to a variety of responsibilities, and where you are able to demonstrate results.

How do you view experience as a graduate research/teaching assistant?

This type of experience is useful if you want to apply for an assistantship position in the business school. However, it cannot substitute for industrial work experience in your MBA application.

Can prospective students visit the campus? May I meet with an admissions counselor / current students / alumni?

We encourage all applicants to make personal visits to the university and the Center so they can visit with students and staff, view the facilities, etc. Alumni may in certain cases be available during such visits, but we can always arrange for email contacts between applicants and alumni.

How does a visit weigh into the decision process?

In-person visits are not required, but will benefit both the Center and the applicant.

How strict are the length limitations for essay questions? Do applicants have a little leeway?

Longer essays are not necessarily better essays. Work on the content rather than the length.

May I defer my admission?

Yes, admissions can be deferred. But that is handled on a case-by-case basis and decided by the MBA Office.

If I already have an MBA, may I still apply to the Wisconsin OTM MBA Program?

Yes, you could. However, the decision to get a second MBA should be discussed with Center staff.

When will I receive my decision letter?

Applications are processed sequentially. Thus, decisions are not deferred until the application deadline is met. You will normally hear from the MBA Office within five weeks regarding your admittance.

Are there any advantages to applying early?

Yes! You are more likely to receive financial aid if you apply early (since funds are limited).

International Students

What is the application deadline for international applicants?

Deadline is March 26th.

What type of degree does the admission committee require for international applicants?

Same as for domestic applicants: a university degree in engineering, the sciences, or, in some cases, business or economics.