Haskayne School of Business, University of Calgary
WCW Question:
Who reads the applications once they arrive at the business school? Are students involved in this process? Is it an individual or Board decision?
Haskayne Answer:
Goes to the MBA Admissions Officer first. They coordinate the file that
goes to the MBA Admissions Board. Students are not involved. The Board makes the
final decision.
WCW Question:
How would you describe the decision making process?
Haskayne Answer:
Equitable and process oriented
WCW Question:
What criteria are used to evaluate good prospective candidates?
Haskayne Answer
Requirements - GMAT, TOEFL, relevant work experience, grade-point
average, 4-year undergraduate degree, personal statement of goals, appraisal form
(from someone who knows the student and their capabilities as well as relevant
experiences)
WCW Question:
How important is the GMAT/TOEFL scores? Is there a minimum needed before a candidate should consider applying? Does it matter how many times a candidate sit these exams?
Haskayne Answer:
Very important. Minimum for GMAT is 550 - average is 621. Minimum
TOEFL is 600 (written)
Candidates may write as many times as GMAT allows. The highest score is taken.
WCW Question:
Does the school expect particular profiles from international students?
Haskayne Answer:
They are expected to meet the requirements.
WCW Question:
What is the breakdown in diversity according to geographic region?
Haskayne Answer:
In 2004, 38% of MBA intake had admission degrees from outside Canada.
8% of the intake were Visa students.
WCW Question:
What is the male/ female ratio?
Haskayne Answer:
60/40
WCW Question:
How many years of professional experience does the school prefer applicants to have?
Haskayne Answer:
3 years is the minimum required. In 2004 the average was 6.7 years.
WCW Question:
How would the administration describe the strengths of the school? What makes the programme unique when compared with other programmes?
Haskayne Answer:
Flexibility of course-based offering through day, evening and block week
options. International in outlook. Specializations offered, including a customized
specialization upon approval. Excellent links to the business community.
WCW Question:
How would the current students describe the school and the programme? Are they content with the career services department?
Haskayne Answer:
According to student surveys done annually, students are satisfied,
giving an overall rating of 5 on a 7-point scale. The location in Calgary, in the
oil and gas sector, is also a positive draw.
The Career Centre has a full-time Career Coordinator for MBA students. In 2004 88%
of MBA students were employed with in 3 months of graduating.
WCW Question:
Who are the major recruiters on campus?
Haskayne Answer:
TD Canada Trust, City of Calgary, Canadian Pacific Railway, Suncor
Energy, Enbridge Inc, PricewaterhouseCoopers
WCW Question:
What guidelines should candidates adhere to for the essays? 'Do's & Don'ts'
Haskayne Answer:
Clearly state your goals for earning an MBA. Direct your essay towards
the value of an MBA to your career aspirations. Don't include a lengthy
self-history - focus on the degree, career intentions, what you hope to learn, and
how you expect to utilize the learning outcomes from the degree.
WCW Question:
How important is it to stay within the designated word limit?
Haskayne Answer:
Limit is 300 words - Board is looking for clarity and organization in
the essay. Recommend applicants be succinct.
WCW Question:
What role do the 'Letters of Recommendation' play?
Haskayne Answer:
Haskayne uses these for input on specific questions. This information
gives the Board input from someone who has known the student - either in a work or
personal setting. It allows the School insight into the student's ability in such
areas as team work, communications, strength of character, corporate responsibility,
persistence in reaching a goal.
WCW Question:
What is the function of an interview at your school, and what role does it play in the admissions process?
Haskayne Answer:
Optional
WCW Question:
Are there unofficial/ official quotas allocated by country or region?
Haskayne Answer:
No
WCW Question:
Does your school have 'rolling' admissions or admissions 'rounds'? When is the best period for a candidate to apply? Are candidates penalized for applying in the last round?
Haskayne Answer:
Yes. Preferred time is between January and March of any year.
Incomplete applications are held for consideration until they are complete.
MBA/EMBA Programme: MBA
