Preparing for CAT, XAT, MAT, IIFT or any other important MBA Admission test, then this is important for you. Generally, MBA aspirants focus more subjective preparation (Quants, Aptitude, Verbal etc.) underestimating the significance of other vital elements of the admission process. Even approach of coaching centers is always “syllabus-completion” driven, leaving students in tizzy after the written test. To avoid this situation & for a smooth transition from being an “MBA Aspirant” to “MBA Student”, consider below points
1. Group Discussion holds bigger importance than written test – For Top B-Schools, candidate’s approach & thoughts during an extempore discussion holds greater value & it helps them to explore candidate’s insights for an unprepared topic. Hence, many B-Schools give more weightage to GD during final score computation.
2. Market Awareness is vital than Aptitude knowledge– For students, awareness is the ladder to success & in a course like MBA, awareness related to economy & market dynamics is that ladder. Such awareness also helps students during “Group Discussion” & “Personal Interview” to remain competitive.
3. MAT is not less important than CAT or XAT– Many times students weigh CAT more important than other exams but the reality is exam like MAT offers wide choice of B-schools to the student even at a low score. So, treat every exam equally.
4. Don’t run after every exam – In coaching centers scenario is “to follow up”. Students follow advice of teachers / friends & generally try to write almost every entrance exam. But, it is always recommended to prepare a list of target B-Schools based on your preparation / priorities & choose exams accordingly.
5. College should be decided based on market reputation rather than newspaper ad size – Now a days, B-Schools are spending huge money to attract new students. TV commercials, big newspaper ads, aggressive online promotions have been planned to reach every student. Even many B-schools tied up with coaching centers to pitch students directly in the classroom. Rather than relying on promotions alone, try to explore reality through discussions, expert advice, secondary research etc.
A bad decision related to B-School selection can ruin the entire career so choose wisely.
3. MAT is not less important than CAT or XAT – Many times students weigh CAT more important than other exams but the reality is exam like MAT offers wide choice of B-schools to the student even at a low score. So, treat every exam equally.
