The Role of MBA Interviews in the Selection Process
- Goalisb
- Sep 24
- 18 min read
Table of Contents
Introduction
In recent years, the popularity of MBA and Executive MBA (EMBA) programs has witnessed a significant upswing.
This trend can be attributed to several factors that make MBA or EMBA programs a preferred choice for ambitious executives. Executive MBA programs are designed specifically for mid-career professionals who are already employed and wish to pursue higher education without interrupting their professional commitments. These programs offer a unique blend of academic rigor, practical knowledge, and networking opportunities tailored to meet the needs of experienced professionals.
One notable shift in EMBA and the MBA admissions criteria is the decreasing reliance on GMAT scores. Traditionally, GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) scores held substantial weight in the admission process for MBA programs. However, many leading business schools are now embracing a more comprehensive evaluation of candidates, focusing on their overall capabilities and potential beyond standardized test scores.
This change recognizes that the success of professionals in the business world cannot be solely measured by their test-taking abilities. Instead, business schools are placing greater emphasis on assessing candidates' real-world experience, leadership skills, industry knowledge, and potential for future growth. This is where the role of the MBA interview in the selection process becomes crucial.
1. Interviews provide a platform for candidates to showcase their interpersonal skills, communication abilities, problem-solving capabilities, and overall fit with the program and its values.
2. Interviews allow admissions committees to evaluate candidates holistically, delving into their motivations, aspirations, and potential contributions to the program. During interviews, candidates are evaluated on various parameters, such as their ability to articulate their career goals, demonstrate leadership potential, handle challenging situations, and contribute to collaborative environments.
3. Interviews provide insights into a candidate's interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence, and their ability to think critically and strategically.
4. Moreover, interviews offer an opportunity for candidates to learn more about the EMBA program, its curriculum, faculty, and networking opportunities. It allows applicants to gain a deeper understanding of the program's values, culture, and learning environment, ensuring that there is alignment between their goals and what the program offers.
Today, business schools are acknowledging the importance of holistic evaluation. Interviews play a pivotal role in this process, providing a platform for candidates to demonstrate their potential, showcase their unique attributes, and determine their fit with the program. As MBA programs continue to evolve, the emphasis on comprehensive evaluation methods, including interviews, will undoubtedly contribute to the success of aspiring executives seeking to take their careers to new heights.
At GOALisB, we guide professionals through MBA and EMBA applications — from profile evaluation to interview success — so you can confidently present your strengths beyond test scores. Book a free consultation today.
The Evolution of MBA Admissions
A. The traditional reliance on GMAT scores for admission:
For many years, the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) has been a cornerstone of the admissions process for MBA programs, including Executive MBA (EMBA) programs. GMAT scores were considered a crucial component in evaluating candidates' aptitude for business studies.
B. The factors that led to the emergence of holistic admissions process:
However, over time, the landscape of business education and the needs of aspiring executives have evolved. Business schools began to recognize that relying solely on GMAT scores for admissions limited the pool of talented professionals who could benefit from an MBA or the EMBA program. This realization, combined with other factors, led to the emergence of non-GMAT programs and holistic MBA admissions process.
One significant factor is the changing nature of business and leadership. Today's business environment requires executives who possess not only strong analytical abilities but also well-developed soft skills, including communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills. Admissions committees started acknowledging that GMAT scores alone could not capture the full range of skills and qualities necessary for success in the business world.
Another factor contributing to the rise of non-GMAT programs is the increasing demand for diversity and inclusivity in business education. Business schools recognized that relying heavily on standardized tests like the GMAT could create biases and limit the admission of talented individuals from diverse backgrounds who may not perform as well on standardized tests but possess valuable experiences and perspectives.
C. The advantages of non-GMAT focussed admissions for MBA or Executive MBA programs:
The emergence of non-GMAT focussed admission criteria in MBA or EMBA programs has several advantages. Firstly, it allows for a more comprehensive evaluation of candidates. By considering factors beyond test scores, such as work experience, leadership potential, industry knowledge, and interpersonal skills, business schools can identify well-rounded professionals who can contribute significantly to the program and their future organizations.
Holistic admissions also promote inclusivity and diversity. By broadening the evaluation criteria, business schools can attract professionals from a wide range of industries, backgrounds, and experiences. This diversity enriches the learning environment and encourages cross-cultural collaboration and innovation. Additionally, non-GMAT admissions encourage the recognition of real-world achievements.
Professionals who have excelled in their careers but may not have performed as well on standardized tests now have an opportunity to showcase their accomplishments, leadership abilities, and the impact they have made in their respective fields. By shifting the focus away from GMAT scores, non-GMAT programs open doors for professionals who possess the drive, ambition, and potential to excel in an EMBA program. It allows business schools to create a cohort of students who bring a variety of perspectives, experiences, and skill sets, fostering a dynamic and enriching learning environment.
In conclusion, the evolution of MBA or EMBA admissions from relying solely on GMAT scores to considering non-GMAT criteria reflects a recognition of the changing needs of aspiring executives and the value of a holistic evaluation process.
Holistic MBA admissions bring numerous advantages, including a more comprehensive assessment of candidates, promoting diversity and inclusivity, and recognizing the real-world achievements of professionals. As MBA programs continue to adapt, these non-GMAT admission criteria will play a pivotal role in identifying the next generation of business leaders.
Unsure how to position your profile in a holistic admissions process? GOALisB mentors help you highlight leadership, career achievements, and goals that resonate with top global MBA programs. Schedule a call.
The Significance of MBA Interviews in the Selection Process:
A. Evaluating candidates beyond test scores:
While standardized tests like the GMAT provide valuable insights into a candidate's academic aptitude, they often fall short in capturing the full range of skills and qualities necessary for success in an Executive MBA (EMBA) program. This is where interviews play a crucial role in the selection process. Interviews provide a platform for business schools to assess candidates holistically, going beyond test scores and gaining deeper insights into their personal and professional attributes.
B. Aspects assessed during interviews:
During interviews, candidates are evaluated on various aspects that are essential for success in an EMBA program. The ability to articulate thoughts clearly, actively listen, and engage in meaningful dialogue is closely examined. Leadership potential is another critical aspect evaluated during interviews.
Admissions committees assess candidates' leadership qualities, including their ability to motivate and influence others, handle challenging situations, and inspire positive change. Cultural fit is also a significant consideration. Admissions committees strive to create a diverse and collaborative learning environment. Through interviews, they gauge whether candidates possess the right values, ethics, and mindset that align with the program's culture. This ensures that candidates will not only thrive individually but also contribute to the collective growth of their cohort. Interviewers' perspective and evaluation criteria:
From the interviewers' perspective, conducting interviews provides an opportunity to interact with candidates on a personal level and gain a deeper understanding of their motivations, aspirations, and potential contributions to the EMBA program. Interviewers look beyond the résumé and delve into candidates' experiences, achievements, and challenges faced in their professional journey.
During the interview, interviewers carefully evaluate the candidate's overall demeanor, confidence, and professionalism. They pay attention to the candidate's ability to think critically and provide well-reasoned responses. Interviewers also observe non-verbal cues, such as body language and interpersonal skills, to gauge how candidates might interact with peers, faculty, and industry professionals during the program.
Evaluation criteria during interviews can vary from one business school to another, but they generally revolve around assessing a candidate's fit with the program's values, leadership potential, communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and overall readiness for the rigorous demands of an MBA program. Interviews hold significant importance in the selection process for MBA programs. They allow business schools to evaluate candidates beyond test scores and gain insights into their communication skills, leadership potential, and cultural fit. From the interviewers' perspective, interviews provide a personal connection with candidates and aid in assessing their overall readiness for the program.
Aspiring EMBA/ MBA candidates should recognize the significance of interviews and prepare thoroughly to showcase their strengths, experiences, and potential for growth in order to secure admission to their desired EMBA or MBA program.
Interviews often make or break an MBA application. Get real-time assistance with GOALisB for personalized mock interviews and coaching so you can showcase confidence, clarity, and cultural fit.
MBA Interview Formats and Techniques
A. Various interview formats used in Executive MBA and MBA admissions:
When it comes to Executive MBA (EMBA) or MBA admissions, interviews are conducted using different formats, each designed to assess candidates from unique perspectives.
Let's explore three common MBA interview formats:
1. One-on-one interviews: This format involves a single interviewer interacting with the candidate.
2. Panel interviews often include faculty members, alumni, and industry experts. Candidates should be prepared to handle multiple interviewers and adapt to different communication styles and question types.
3. Behavioral interviews: Behavioral interviews focus on past experiences and seek to assess how candidates have handled specific situations in the past. This format aims to gauge a candidate's behavioral tendencies, decision-making skills, and problem-solving abilities.
B. Techniques used to assess MBA candidates during interviews:
Interviewers employ various techniques to evaluate candidates during MBA interviews. These techniques provide insights into candidates' competencies, decision-making abilities, and overall suitability for the program.
Here are three commonly used MBA Interview techniques:
1. Competency-based questions: Competency-based questions assess specific skills and behaviors relevant to the EMBA or the MBA program and the business world. Interviewers may ask candidates to provide examples of situations where they demonstrated leadership, teamwork, adaptability, or conflict resolution. By evaluating candidates' responses, interviewers gain insights into their ability to apply these competencies in practical scenarios.
2. Case-based interviews: Case-based interviews present candidates with business scenarios or challenges and ask them to analyze, strategize, and provide solutions. This technique assesses candidates' analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and ability to handle complex business situations. Interviewers evaluate how candidates structure their responses, their thought processes, and the quality of their recommendations.
3. Role-playing scenarios: Role-playing scenarios involve candidates assuming a specific role and engaging in a simulated business interaction. This technique evaluates candidates' communication skills, negotiation abilities, and their capacity to think on their feet. Role-playing scenarios provide interviewers with insights into how candidates handle interpersonal dynamics and navigate challenging situations. By employing these techniques, interviewers aim to evaluate candidates' aptitude for the MBA program, their potential for growth, and their ability to contribute effectively to the program's learning environment.
In conclusion, interview formats and techniques used in MBA admissions provide a comprehensive assessment of candidates' abilities, experiences, and fit for the program. One-on-one interviews, panel interviews, and behavioral interviews offer unique perspectives, while competency-based questions, case-based interviews, and role-playing scenarios evaluate candidates' competencies, problem-solving skills, and interpersonal abilities.
MBA candidates should familiarize themselves with these interview formats and techniques, and prepare accordingly to present their best selves during the interview process.
Every MBA school uses unique interview formats. With GOALisB’s guidance and free consultation, you can prepare for one-on-one, panel, and case-based interviews with strategies tailored to your target schools
Preparing for an MBA Interview:
In this blog section, we will provide you with valuable tips to excel in your EMBA interview and increase your chances of securing a coveted spot in your desired program.
A. Tips for candidates to excel in their MBA interviews:
1. Researching the program and its values: Take the time to thoroughly research the EMBA program you are applying to. Familiarize yourself with its curriculum, faculty, alumni network, and core values. Understanding the program's unique features and what sets it apart will help you tailor your responses and showcase your genuine interest and enthusiasm during the interview.
2. Reflecting on personal and professional experiences: Prepare compelling examples from your personal and professional experiences that demonstrate your leadership, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork skills. Being able to articulate your experiences with clarity and relevance will make your answers more impactful and memorable.
3. Mock Interviews: Enlist the help of a mentor, colleague, or professional coach to conduct mock interviews with you. This preparation will help you formulate concise, structured, and persuasive answers during the actual interview.
B. The importance of showcasing leadership skills and industry knowledge:
EMBA programs seek candidates who possess strong leadership potential and a solid understanding of the industry. During your interview, be prepared to showcase your leadership skills by highlighting instances where you have led teams, initiated change, or made significant contributions to your organization. Demonstrate your knowledge by discussing relevant industry news or sharing insights on how you perceive the future of the industry. This shows your interviewers that you are not only a strong candidate but also someone who is well-informed and can contribute meaningfully to class discussions and projects.
C. The significance of demonstrating alignment with the program's mission and values:
MBA programs have their unique mission and values that guide their curriculum and student selection process. Discuss how you can contribute to the program's community, share your experiences and insights, and support fellow classmates' growth. Highlighting your shared values and a clear understanding of the program's objectives will convey your genuine interest and commitment to the EMBA experience.
Admissions committees want to admit candidates who will thrive in their program and contribute to the overall learning environment, so emphasizing this alignment can make a significant impact on their decision. In conclusion, preparing for your EMBA or MBA interview is a crucial step towards securing your spot in your desired program. Researching the program, reflecting on your experiences, practicing mock interviews, showcasing leadership skills and industry knowledge, and demonstrating alignment with the program's mission and values are all essential elements of your preparation.
By following these tips and presenting your best self during the interview, you will increase your chances of standing out and impressing the interviewers with your potential and fit for the EMBA or the MBA program.
Our MBA admissions experts at GOALisB help you research programs, reflect on your leadership experiences, and practice with real interview simulations to stand out. Get free personalized consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the MBA interview?
The purpose of the MBA interview is to assess an applicant’s communication skills, leadership potential, career goals, and program fit beyond what’s shown in the written application.
Detailed Answer: The MBA interview is a crucial step in the admissions process, designed to evaluate qualities that can’t be fully captured through test scores, transcripts, or essays. Schools like Chicago Booth, Wharton, and Harvard use it to ensure that admitted candidates not only excel academically but also contribute meaningfully to the MBA community.
Key purposes of the MBA interview:
Assess Communication & Interpersonal Skills – Admissions committees want to see how clearly and confidently you express ideas, since MBA programs emphasize teamwork and leadership.
Evaluate Leadership & Teamwork Potential – Interviewers look for evidence of past leadership experiences and how you collaborate with others.
Understand Career Goals & Motivation – Schools test whether your short-term and long-term goals are realistic and aligned with the resources the MBA program offers.
Determine Cultural & Program Fit – Each MBA program has its own culture (e.g., Booth’s analytical rigor, Wharton’s finance leadership, Kellogg’s collaboration). The interview helps assess if you’ll thrive in that environment.
Clarify Application Details – Interviewers may ask about gaps in your resume, job transitions, or academic performance.
In short: The MBA interview is not just about confirming your credentials but about ensuring you are a strong communicator, a future leader, and a good cultural fit for the program.
What is the purpose of an interview in the selection process?
The purpose of an interview in the selection process is to evaluate a candidate’s skills, experience, personality, and cultural fit beyond what is shown in their application or resume.
Detailed Answer: In hiring, admissions, or MBA admissions, an interview is a key tool to assess candidates in ways that written documents cannot. It helps decision-makers determine whether a candidate is both qualified on paper and suitable in practice for the role, program, or organization.
Main purposes of an interview in the selection process:
Verify Qualifications: Confirms details on the resume or application, such as work experience, academic performance, or technical expertise.
Assess Communication Skills: Measures how well candidates articulate ideas, respond under pressure, and engage in conversation.
Evaluate Personality & Cultural Fit: Determines if the candidate’s values, work style, and attitude align with the company or program culture.
Test Problem-Solving & Critical Thinking: Many interviews include case questions, behavioral scenarios, or situational judgment to test analytical ability.
Understand Motivation & Goals: Clarifies why the candidate is applying, their long-term aspirations, and whether the opportunity fits their objectives.
Provide Two-Way Insight: Allows candidates to ask questions, assess the organization or school, and determine if it’s the right fit for them.
In summary: The interview bridges the gap between credentials and character, ensuring that the selected candidate is not only capable but also the right fit for the opportunity.
What is the selection process for MBA?
The MBA selection process typically includes application submission, standardized test scores (GMAT/GRE), academic transcripts, essays, recommendations, an interview, and final admission decision.
Detailed Answer: The MBA admission process is multi-stage and holistic, designed to assess academic ability, professional experience, leadership potential, and program fit. While specifics vary across schools, most top MBA programs (e.g., Chicago Booth, Wharton, Harvard, ISB) follow these core steps:
1. Application Submission
Online application form, including academic history, work experience, extracurriculars.
2. Standardized Test Scores
GMAT, GMAT Focus Edition, or GRE are typically required (some schools offer waivers).
3. Academic Records
Undergraduate transcripts and GPA to evaluate academic strength.
4. Essays / Statement of Purpose
Personal essays to assess career goals, leadership, motivation, and fit with the MBA program.
5. Letters of Recommendation
Usually 2 professional references highlighting leadership, teamwork, and achievements.
6. Resume / Work Experience
Most top schools expect 3–7 years of professional experience, though early-career options exist.
7. Interview (Shortlisted Applicants)
Evaluates communication, leadership potential, career clarity, and cultural fit.
8. Final Decision
Admissions committees review the complete profile and make offers, sometimes with scholarships.
In summary: The MBA selection process is a mix of academic evaluation, professional track record, personal essays, and interviews, ensuring that admitted candidates are well-rounded and aligned with the program’s values.
Is an interview compulsory for an MBA?
Yes, for most top MBA programs, the interview is a compulsory part of the admissions process and usually required before an offer is made.
Detailed Answer: In MBA admissions, the interview is considered a mandatory final step once an applicant is shortlisted. While not every applicant is invited, those who are must complete the interview to be considered for admission.
Key points about MBA interviews:
Shortlisting: Only selected candidates are invited to interview, based on application strength.
Mandatory if Invited: If you are invited, attending the interview is compulsory to move forward in the process.
Purpose: Interviews test communication skills, leadership qualities, cultural fit, and clarify career goals.
Format: Can be conducted in-person, virtually, or with alumni; some schools use team-based discussions (e.g., Wharton).
Exceptions: A few online or executive MBA programs may waive interviews if candidates have extensive work experience or prior interaction, but this is rare.
In summary: While not every applicant reaches the interview stage, for those invited, it is compulsory to complete the interview to secure admission to an MBA program.
Do all MBA applicants get interviews?
No, not all MBA applicants get interviews—only shortlisted candidates are invited, typically based on strong academics, work experience, and application quality.
Detailed Answer: MBA programs at top schools like Chicago Booth, Wharton, Harvard, INSEAD, and ISB do not interview every applicant. Instead, they use the written application to filter candidates before extending interview invitations.
How it works:
Application Review: Admissions committees first evaluate test scores, GPA, resume, essays, and recommendations.
Shortlisting: Only applicants who meet the school’s academic and professional standards, and show leadership potential, are invited to interview.
Selectivity: At elite MBA programs, interview invites may go to only 20–40% of applicants, reflecting their highly competitive nature.
Interview as Gatekeeper: The interview is then compulsory for those invited; no applicant is admitted without completing it.
Different Formats: Schools may use one-on-one, panel, or team-based discussion formats (e.g., Wharton’s Team-Based Discussion).
In summary: The MBA interview is a selective stage, not guaranteed to all applicants—only those who stand out in the first round of evaluation receive an invite.
What do they ask in MBA interviews?
MBA interviews typically include questions on career goals, leadership experiences, teamwork, strengths/weaknesses, program fit, and behavioral scenarios.
Detailed Answer: MBA interviews are structured to test professional achievements, communication skills, leadership qualities, and alignment with the program’s culture. While formats vary (traditional one-on-one, alumni-led, or team-based discussions), most schools focus on a common set of themes.
Common MBA Interview Question Areas:
Career Goals & Motivation
Why do you want an MBA now?
Why our school specifically (e.g., Booth, Wharton, ISB)?
What are your short-term and long-term career goals?
Professional & Leadership Experience
Tell me about a time you led a team.
Describe a professional challenge and how you overcame it.
How have you influenced others without formal authority?
Teamwork & Collaboration
Share an example of working in a diverse team.
How do you handle conflict within a group?
Strengths, Weaknesses & Personal Fit
What are your biggest strengths and weaknesses?
How will you contribute to the MBA community?
What unique perspective do you bring to the class?
Behavioral & Situational Questions (often using the STAR method)
Give an example of a time you failed and what you learned.
Tell me about a decision you made with incomplete data.
Program-Specific / Cultural Fit
Why Booth’s flexible curriculum?
How will Wharton’s network help you achieve your goals?
What clubs, resources, or professors do you want to engage with?
In summary: MBA interview questions focus on goals, leadership, teamwork, personal reflection, and school fit, ensuring candidates are not only qualified but also aligned with the program’s culture and values.
What is the process of joining an MBA?
The process of joining an MBA includes researching schools, preparing for and taking GMAT/GRE, submitting an application (essays, recommendations, transcripts), attending an interview if shortlisted, receiving admission, and completing enrollment formalities.
Detailed Answer: Joining an MBA program involves multiple steps, from preparation to final enrollment. While the process can vary slightly by country or school, the core MBA admission process follows these stages:
1. Research & Shortlisting Schools
Compare MBA programs (full-time, part-time, executive) based on career goals, location, rankings, fees, and placements.
2. Entrance Exams
Most top schools require GMAT, GMAT Focus Edition, or GRE.
Some schools (especially in India) may also accept CAT, XAT, or NMAT.
3. Application Submission
Online application with academic transcripts, test scores, resume, work experience details.
Essays or Statement of Purpose to explain career goals, leadership potential, and program fit.
Letters of Recommendation from professional or academic referees.
4. Shortlisting & Interview
Based on academic, professional, and personal profile, candidates are shortlisted.
Interviews test communication skills, leadership, goals clarity, and cultural fit.
5. Admission Decision
Successful applicants receive an offer of admission, sometimes with scholarships or financial aid.
6. Enrollment & Pre-MBA Prep
Pay enrollment deposit, arrange student visa (if studying abroad), and complete pre-MBA coursework or bootcamps.
In summary: The MBA joining process is a step-by-step journey starting with exams and applications, leading to interviews, offers, and final enrollment.
What is the IIM selection process?
The IIM selection process is based on CAT exam scores, Written Ability Test (WAT), Personal Interview (PI), academic record, work experience, and diversity factors, with weightages varying by each IIM.
Detailed Answer: Admission to the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) is highly competitive and follows a multi-stage selection process. While each IIM sets its own criteria, the overall structure is similar across top campuses like IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Bangalore, IIM Calcutta, IIM Lucknow, etc.
Stages of IIM Selection Process:
CAT Examination
Common Admission Test (CAT) is the primary entrance exam for IIMs.
Candidates must meet both overall and sectional cutoffs to qualify.
Shortlisting for WAT–PI Round
Candidates are shortlisted based on CAT percentile, academic performance (Class 10, 12, graduation), and work experience.
Each IIM applies different weightages.
Written Ability Test (WAT)
A short essay or case-based writing test to evaluate clarity of thought, written communication, and analytical ability.
Personal Interview (PI)
Conducted by faculty/alumni panels.
Tests communication, leadership potential, career goals, general awareness, and fit for management education.
Final Composite Score & Selection
IIMs prepare a merit list based on weighted scores of:
CAT performance (25–40%)
PI performance (30–50%)
WAT performance (10–15%)
Academic record (10–20%)
Work experience & diversity factors (5–10%)
Example:
IIM Ahmedabad (2025): High weightage to CAT & PI.
IIM Bangalore: More emphasis on academic consistency.
IIM Calcutta: Stronger focus on CAT scores.
In summary: The IIM selection process goes beyond CAT scores, emphasizing holistic evaluation through academics, WAT, PI, and overall profile strength.
What are rounds in MBA admissions?
MBA admissions are typically divided into three rounds—Round 1 (early), Round 2 (main), and Round 3 (final/last chance)—each representing different application deadlines and competition levels.
Detailed Answer: Top global MBA programs, including Chicago Booth, Wharton, Harvard, INSEAD, and ISB, organize their admissions in multiple rounds to manage applications throughout the year.
Typical MBA Admission Rounds:
Round 1 (Early Round)
Deadline: September–October (for U.S./Europe schools).
Best for: Applicants with strong profiles ready early.
Advantage: Higher scholarship opportunities and more seats available.
Round 2 (Main Round)
Deadline: January (most popular round).
Best for: Majority of applicants; allows time to strengthen test scores and applications.
Competition: More intense since schools already admit strong candidates in Round 1.
Round 3 (Final Round)
Deadline: March–April (sometimes May for European schools).
Best for: Exceptional or late applicants, often with unique profiles.
Challenge: Fewer seats and scholarships left; higher risk of rejection.
India-specific (e.g., ISB, IIMs for Executive MBA):
ISB has two rounds (September and January).
IIMs (for PGPX/Executive MBA) follow multiple admission stages but align similarly with early vs. later deadlines.
In summary: MBA rounds are simply phased deadlines—Round 1 offers early-mover advantage, Round 2 is most common, and Round 3 is a last opportunity with higher competition.
Does the interview happen in the selection stage?
Yes, the interview is a key part of the MBA selection stage, conducted after shortlisting and before the final admission decision.
Detailed Answer: In MBA admissions (both in India at IIMs/ISB and globally at schools like Chicago Booth, Wharton, Harvard), the interview is a mandatory selection step once candidates clear the initial shortlist.
Where the interview fits in the selection process:
Application Screening – Academic records, test scores (GMAT/GRE/CAT), essays, and recommendations are reviewed.
Shortlisting – Strong candidates are invited to the next stage.
Interview Stage – Applicants face one-on-one, panel, or team-based discussions. Some schools also include a Written Ability Test (WAT) or group exercise.
Final Selection – Interview performance, combined with prior scores and profile evaluation, determines admission.
Purpose of interview at the selection stage:
To verify application details.
To assess communication, leadership, and teamwork.
To test program fit and career clarity.
In summary: The interview is an essential component of the selection stage, acting as the final filter before an MBA admission offer.
For assistance with your MBA interview preparation including mock interviews get in touch with our MBA admissions consultant at GOALisB. You can email us at contact@goalisb.com or whatsapp at +91 7719497187.
