We aim to make sure you’re as informed as possible during the application process.
What qualifications does the admissions committee look for in an applicant?
The admissions committee evaluates applicants’ prospects as leaders and their projected ability to succeed in, benefit from and contribute to the Riordan MBA Fellows Program. Committee members carefully consider personal and academic background information, achievements, awards and honors, employment history, letters of recommendation and college and community involvement, especially where candidates have served in leadership capacities. The admissions committee seeks to create a community of students who bring unique contributions from their diverse backgrounds and experiences and who will collectively enrich the educational experience. The Riordan MBA Fellows Program is a pre-MBA program designed for applicants looking to apply to but have not been previously enrolled in business school.
What are the advantages of applying in Round 1?
What kind of work experience are you looking for?
There is no “cookie cutter” profile for admission to the Riordan MBA Fellows Program. We do not prefer applicants according to industry or job function; however, we are specifically interested in how you have contributed to your organization, and especially in what opportunities for leadership you have taken.
What are my chances of acceptance?
Each year the Riordan Programs admit an extraordinary group of students and professionals. We have carefully designed our review process to ensure quality and fairness. Admission into the Riordan MBA Fellows Program is highly selective and based on a comprehensive review of all applicants.
What does it mean to be on the wait list?
If you’re notified you’re on the wait list it means the admissions committee has not yet reached a final decision. The committee is continuing to consider your application beyond the decision date. All wait list applicants will be notified of their acceptance by the Round 2 decision date (June 27, 2019).
I cannot ask my boss for a recommendation because s/he does not know I plan to return to school. Who should I ask?
Think of another work-related source, such as a client or a manager from another department who knows your skills. Perhaps you could ask a former boss who has left the company. What we are looking for is a recommendation from someone who knows your work well, preferably from a supervisory perspective.
How do I sign up for my admission interview?
Interviews will be held on an “as needed” basis. Interview dates are tentatively scheduled on a rolling basis. Although not all applicants will be invited to interview, we ask that you set aside these dates in advance. Declining an invitation to interview is highly discouraged and will affect your admission into the program.
If I have been denied, may I appeal the decision?
No. We are well aware of the depth of the investment our applicants make while participating in our selection process. Accordingly, the admissions committee reviews each candidacy with great care and thoughtful consideration. Our review process is extremely thorough, and all decisions are final. There is no process for appeal.
If I have been denied admission, may I receive feedback on my candidacy?
Each candidate is examined with an eye to individual strengths as well as a consideration of the pool as a whole and the balance we are seeking in each entering class. Our review process is exhaustive, and our decisions are made only after thoughtful deliberations. We know that being denied admission can be both unexpected and disappointing. The most difficult part for the admissions committee is not being able to admit every highly qualified and compelling candidate. Because of the quantity of applicants, feedback will not be provided to denied candidates.
If I am not admitted, may I reapply to the program?
Yes. If you are not offered admission to the Riordan MBA Fellows Program, you are welcome to reapply. All re-applicants are required to complete a new application, including new academic transcripts, essays, recommendation letters, resume and application fees. The admission decision will be based on the new application materials received, not on previously submitted materials. Do you have additional questions after reviewing our FAQ? Schedule a one-on-one admissions meeting. One-on-one meetings take place weekly over the phone, or in person. To make an appointment, please email Associate Director April Owens at april.owens@anderson.ucla.edu.