recommendations

Most business school applications will require you to submit two recommendations. Rather than submitting an actual letter of recommendation, both of your recommenders will have to complete an online form. The recommendations are a great opportunity for the admissions officer to learn more about you, so make sure to follow the tips below:

1. CHOOSE WISELY

Make a list of managers, mentors and co-workers, with whom you have worked with along the years. They should be able to answer questions about your work experience, leadership potential and extracurricular interests. Many people think that asking a VP or CEO at their organization will carry more weight in their application, but remember to only do this if they actually know you and can personally speak to your strengths.

Note: For most schools, is not required to ask your current supervisor (in case they are not aware that you are applying) but otherwise it is good practice to have them submit a recommendation. If you are not able to ask your current supervisor for a recommendation, make sure to make a note of it in the optional essay.

2. BE STRATEGIC

Provide your recommenders with your resume, and a one-pager of why you are applying to business school, future goals, and most importantly, things your would like them to highlight. It is useful to remind your recommenders of past accomplishments.

Remember, recommendations are another opportunity for admissions officer to learn more about you. If you perhaps have a high GMAT quant score, but low verbal - ask your recommender to highlight your communication and presentation skills. In the other hand, if you had a low GMAT quant score, perhaps they can reference the technical project you worked on (and excelled at!).

3. START EARLY

It is good practice to allow at least 6 weeks for your recommenders to complete your recommendation. A late recommendation makes your application incomplete, so you will want to start this process as early as possible. Ideally, start with a 1:1 face conversation with your recommenders, and then follow up with emails/meetings, as needed. 

Pro-tip: If you are applying round two, the deadlines are usually during Holiday season, so consider providing your recommenders with an earlier "internal" deadline.