Can I still get admission for MBA abroad after having gap yrs without having work ex as I am involve in my family business, if yes how i should start preparing for it and the process from scratch?
Asked by Aanchal Dubey over 2 years ago
Study Abroad Expert
Hey, gap years are no issues, and your being involved in your family business is also considered work experience; you can just present it as entrepreneurship and not highlight it as a family business. If you still feel you lack work experience, you can go for an MIM (Master’s in Management) instead of an MBA as it doesn’t require any previous work experience. Here is a list of universities that you can target for your MIM:
HEC, Paris
London Business School
ESSEC, France
ESADE, Spain
Imperial College, London
IE Business School
London School of Economics
CEMS
University of Copenhagen, Denmark
ESCP, Europe Business school
If you have any further doubts, just ask me.
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Study abroad expert
Many MBA programs abroad like when students have different experiences, like being part of a family business. Here's what you should do to get ready:
1. Think About Your Experience: Look at your role in the family business and think about how it taught you important things for an MBA, like being a leader, making decisions, and handling money.
2. Get Ready for Tests: Start practicing for the GMAT or GRE tests. They're really important for your application, especially if you haven't had a regular job.
3. Check Out MBA Programs: Find programs that like students with different work backgrounds. See if they've accepted people like you before.
4. Make a Strong Application: When you write your essays and get recommendation letters, talk about your unique story and what you've learned in business. Show how your past connects to what you want to do in the future with an MBA.
5. Get Ready for Interviews: Be ready to talk about your family business experience in a way that makes sense to the people who decide who gets into the MBA program.
6. Language Skills: If you're applying to programs where they speak a different language, think about taking language tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
Remember, your unique journey is a big strength. Start planning early and take your time!
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Student of Delhi University
It's about how you talk about your experience. Working in a family business is really important! Describe your role and what you did in a way that matches business principles. Also, get ready for the GMAT/GRE test because a good score can help a lot. Look into different schools and what they need. And don't forget how powerful a good personal statement can be—it's a chance to share your unique story and what you've learned in business.
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Sr. Consultant
Absolutely, having gap years and involvement in your family business can still pave the way for an MBA abroad. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started on your application process:Â
Evaluate Your Experience: Reflect on your role in the family business. Identify key responsibilities, achievements, and skills gained. This self-assessment will help you articulate your experience effectively.Â
Choose the Right Programs: Look for MBA programs that appreciate diverse professional backgrounds. Schools in Europe, such as HEC Paris, and those in Asia, like NUS Business School, often value entrepreneurial and family business experiences.Â
GMAT/GRE Preparation: Start studying for the GMAT or GRE. Utilize online resources, prep courses, and practice tests to achieve a competitive score. Allocate 3-6 months for preparation.Â
Build a Strong Application:Â
- Resume: Craft a detailed resume that emphasizes your family business role. Highlight leadership roles, project management, and any growth or innovations you’ve contributed to.Â
- Personal Statements: Write essays that tell your story. Explain the gap years positively, focusing on the skills and experiences gained. Connect these experiences to your MBA aspirations and career goals.Â
- Recommendations: Seek recommendations from mentors or colleagues who can provide insights into your work ethic and contributions to the family business.Â
- Network and Research: Attend MBA fairs, webinars, and connect with alumni. This will give you insights into different programs and help you understand what each school values in applicants.Â
- Application Deadlines: Create a timeline with key deadlines. Many schools have multiple rounds of admissions, so apply when your application is strongest. Aim for early rounds to increase your chances of admission and scholarships.
Yes, you can still pursue an MBA abroad despite having gap years and no traditional work experience, especially if you've been involved in your family business. Business schools often appreciate diverse backgrounds and experiences. Here’s how you can prepare for the process:Â
Research and Select Schools: Identify MBA programs that value entrepreneurial experiences. Schools like IE Business School, INSEAD, and Harvard have a history of admitting candidates from family business backgrounds.Â
GMAT/GRE Preparation: These standardized tests are crucial for your application. Begin by taking a practice test to assess your baseline. Enroll in a prep course or use online resources and study guides. Aim to study for about 3-6 months to achieve a competitive score.Â
Build a Strong Resume: Highlight your roles and achievements in the family business. Focus on leadership roles, innovative projects, and any quantifiable success metrics. Business schools look for evidence of leadership and impact.Â
Letters of Recommendation: Secure strong recommendations from individuals who can attest to your skills and contributions. This could be family members, business partners, or even clients.Â
Craft Compelling Essays: Your personal statement and essays should tell your story. Explain your gap years in a positive light, focusing on what you learned and how your family business experience has prepared you for an MBA. Be clear about your career goals and why an MBA is essential for you.Â
Application Deadlines: Keep track of application deadlines for your chosen programs. Many top schools have multiple application rounds (e.g., Round 1 in September, Round 2 in January). Apply early if possible.Â
Prepare for Interviews: Be ready to discuss your family business experience in detail. Practice common interview questions and think about how your unique background adds value to the MBA program.Â
Additional Courses: Consider taking online courses or certifications related to business, finance, or management to strengthen your profile and show your commitment to learning.Â
Starting this process early and staying organized is key. Use resources like MBA forums, alumni networks, and professional consultants to guide you. Your unique experiences and entrepreneurial background can make you a compelling candidate for top MBA programs.Â
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