Inside the GMAT

Artificial intelligence is here, but how much is too much when it comes to your MBA application?

This week, host Zach Fernebok sits down with Loubna Bouamane, founder of Admission Concierge and former Director of MBA Admissions, to explore the nuanced role AI now plays in business school applications. From brainstorming essays to managing deadlines, AI tools like ChatGPT can support candidates, but there's a fine line between using AI and outsourcing your voice.

Loubna shares the real risks of overrelying on AI, explains how admissions teams are adapting to this new landscape, and offers actionable advice on preserving authenticity in an increasingly automated world. If you're considering using AI in your MBA journey (or already are) this episode is your guide to staying smart, ethical, and unforgettable.

Admission Concierge: https://admissionconcierge.com/

1. AI can help, but it can't (and shouldn't) tell your story. Using AI for structure, grammar, and idea generation can be helpful, but outsourcing your personal voice leads to generic, shallow, and forgettable applications.

2. Authenticity is your biggest competitive edge. Admissions officers can spot essays that lack real reflection. What stands out isn't perfect prose. It's self-awareness, emotional honesty, and clarity of purpose.

3. Schools aren't anti-AI. They're anti-fake. Top programs are updating their policies to emphasize ethics. Many condone AI for brainstorming, but warn against using it to write essays or letters of recommendation.

4. Interviews and real-time assessments are gaining importance. Expect more behavioral, values-based, and spontaneous prompts as schools look to assess consistency between your written and spoken narrative.

5. Use AI wisely: treat it like a project assistant, not a ghostwriter. Smart uses include organizing deadlines, shortening essays, or improving clarity, not generating full drafts or making up content.

00:55 - The Beginning of AI in Applications

02:48 - The Role of AI in Application Strategy

05:29 - Common Uses of AI by Applicants

09:45 - Business School Response to AI

12:03 - Smart and Responsible AI Usage

12:54 - The Risks of AI in Applications

15:09 - The Importance of Authenticity

17:45 - Strategies for Authentic Writing

18:51 - Exercises for Developing Personal Narratives

20:50 - Real-Life Examples of Authenticity

22:53 - Future of Admissions in the Age of AI

24:31 - Final Thoughts

Thinking about business school? Don't go it alone.

In this episode, we're hitting the road as we explore GMAC Tours, the global events that bring top business schools and aspiring students together under one roof. Host Zach is joined by Maggie Cooley, Director of Events and Marketing for GMAC Tours, to unpack why these MBA & Masters Tour events are more than just information sessions. They're networking goldmines, resume-boosting bootcamps, and overall application game-changers.

You'll hear what really happens at a Tour event, how to make a lasting impression, and why attending one could help you discover your best-fit program (especially one you've never considered before).

Whether you're years away from applying or finalizing your target school list, this episode will help you make the most of one of the most impactful tools on your business school journey.

Find a Tour near you: https://www.mba.com/connect-with-schools/gmac-tours/events-calendar

1. GMAC Tours are free, curated events designed for every stage of the b-school journey. Whether you're exploring your options or ready to apply, there's value for everyone—from keynotes and meetups to resume clinics and GMAT info sessions.

2. The biggest asset? Face time with admissions reps. Attendees meet directly with decision-makers from top global business schools, building authentic relationships that can strengthen applications and inform school selection.

3. Thoughtful preparation goes a long way. Doing research ahead of time, preparing smart questions, and showing genuine curiosity helps you stand out, both in scheduled meetups and casual booth chats.

4. Be open to discovering new schools. 80% of attendees consider a new program they hadn't previously thought about. Don't just target the usual suspects—use the event to explore your full range of options.

5. Your application can benefit directly. From resume feedback to application tips and admissions insights, the information (and impression) you gain at a Tour event can translate into a stronger, more personalized application.

01:12 - What is a Tour Event?

03:25 - Who Should Attend?

05:24 - Overview of Activities

06:55 - About School Meet-Ups

10:04 - About Resume Review Clinics

11:20 - About B-School Talks

12:01 - About the GMAT Info Session

13:16 - Planning Your Schedule

14:52 - Benefits of Attending

16:57 - Using the Event to Strengthen Your Application

17:56 - Success Stories

21:07 - Tips for Attending

23:06 - Making a Great Impression at Networking Events

25:07 - Common Mistakes to Avoid

28:42 - Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts

In this episode, Zach sits down with friend and colleague Andrew Walker, Director of Industry Communications at GMAC, to unpack the latest insights from the 2025 Prospective Students Survey. They dive into what 5,000 prospective business school candidates around the world are thinking about today — from the growing demand for hands-on AI experiences to the rising importance of human skills, like grit and adaptability. You'll hear why more candidates are prioritizing ROI over program rankings, how financial planning is evolving, and why in-person programs are making a surprising comeback.

Whether you're actively applying, just starting to explore your options, or simply curious about what's shaping the future of graduate management education, this conversation offers data-backed insights and practical takeaways you won't want to miss.

Takeaways:

• 46% of business school candidates prioritize AI experiences in their curriculum.
• Employers value human skills like emotional intelligence and adaptability alongside technical skills.
• Cost remains a significant barrier for candidates considering business school.
• Only 29% of candidates prioritize program rankings first when researching schools.
• Candidates are increasingly looking for direct information from school websites, not AI.
• The MBA remains the most preferred degree, but interest in business master's programs is growing.
• Candidates prefer full-time in-person programs over hybrid or online formats post-pandemic.
• Financial aid is becoming a more significant part of funding education for candidates.
• Candidates are considering a multi-dimensional approach to their return on investment from business school.

Chapters:

In this episode, Shaifali Aggarwal, founder and CEO of Ivy Groupe MBA Admissions Consulting, dives deep into MBA application essays and school interviews. She discusses the importance of each in the application process, emphasizing the need for authenticity and self-reflection. Shaifali also shares practical tips for writing compelling essays, common mistakes applicants make, and how to manage stress during the writing process. The second half of the conversation covers the role of interviews, the types of interviews, the most common questions asked, and strategies for effective preparation.

Takeaways:

• Authenticity and reflection are key to standing out.
• Understanding the intent behind essay questions is crucial.
• Storytelling should connect experiences to larger themes.
• Avoid writing what you think admissions committees want to hear.
• Generative AI can assist in research but not in writing essays.
• Start with self-reflection before writing your essays.
• Practice common interview questions out loud for confidence.
• Know your application inside out for interviews.
• Follow up with interviewers to express gratitude.

Chapters:

01:21 - Meet Shaifali03:05 - What are MBA Essays?05:06 - Different Types of Essay Questions07:57 - Types of MBA Essays and Their Purpose10:58 - Storytelling in Essays12:19 - AI in Essay Writing13:42 - Common Mistakes in Essay Writing15:05 - Adding a Personal Touch18:03 - Practical Writing Tips20:27 - Incorporating Feedback Effectively22:30 - Managing Stress While Writing23:47 - The Role of Interviews in MBA Applications25:37 - Types of MBA Interviews28:20 - Common Interview Questions and Strategies32:36 - Job vs. MBA Interview33:41 - Interview Preparation Essentials36:44 - Managing Interview Stress38:58 - Post-Interview Follow-Up and Reflection39:55 - Outro

In this episode, Zach is joined by Melody Jones from Vantage Point MBA to discuss the often-overlooked period between MBA acceptance and the start of classes, sometimes referred to as the 'Dead Zone.' They explore various strategies for academic readiness, networking, and personal development, as well as the logistical considerations for incoming students. The discussion highlights the significance of using this time wisely to set the stage for a successful MBA experience. Melody also touches on the emotional journey of dealing with rejection and the importance of self-reflection. The conversation ends with common mistakes applicants make during the 'Dead Zone' before starting school.

Takeaways:

• Start building momentum as soon as you're accepted. This can include networking, traveling, or working on personal projects.
• Understand the recruiting timeline for your industry and leverage your new school email address for networking.
• Reading can enhance self-awareness and leadership skills.
• On housing: It's important to understand housing application deadlines, and "Accepted Student Weekends" are a great place to find your roommate.
• MBA budgets often underestimate true costs; Melody suggests increasing yours by 20-40%.
• Weekend travel and social events can significantly impact your budget (traveling with classmates can enhance your MBA experience).
• International students should use this time to fully understand banking and health insurance.
• If you were rejected from your top choice school, use this time to strategize how to strengthen your profile if you want to reapply.
• Avoid comparing your pre-MBA journey to others; focus on your own path.
• Overall, business school is a transformational experience beyond just education.

In this episode, Stacey Koprince from Manhattan Prep discusses the essential considerations when preparing to take a business school entrance exam. Stacey breaks down her top prep strategies and emphasizes the importance of understanding your study timeline, effective study techniques, recognizing when to take breaks, and the value of collaborative study.

Additionally, she highlights the significance of practice tests in gauging progress and structuring a personalized study plan to ensure GMAT success. And of course, no conversation about GMAT prep is complete without covering all three sections of the exam: Quant, Verbal, and Data Insights.

Resources:

• Manhattan Prep's Free GMAT Starter Kit
• GMAC's Official GMAT Free Starter Kit

Takeaways:

• Preparing for business school starts before studying begins, and sometimes that prep even includes choosing a school/program.
• Even if a school/program is test optional, an entrance exam can enhance your application.
• Aim to start studying 3-5 months out, with five or six days of study each week.
• Prep tips: take breaks, set a timer for short study sessions can help overcome procrastination, and study in groups.
• Practice tests are essential for gauging progress, identifying weaknesses, and establishing a baseline score.
• Focus on actionable takeaways from mistakes to improve performance.
• Structuring your study in phases can lead to more effective learning. You have strengths and weaknesses in your review process.
• Understand the different question types and strategies for each.
• Utilize free resources and official materials from GMAC and Manhattan Prep for effective preparation!

Chapters

00:00 Introduction 03:48 Choosing a Program 10:24 Exam Requirements 19:09 The Right Time to Take an Exam 23:40 Part-Time vs Full-Time Programs 27:51 GMAT Prep Timeline 32:24 Prep Motivation Techniques 37:13 Studying with Others 41:47 Practice Exams 45:34 How to Retain What You've Learned 52:46 GMAT Study Phases 59:36 Exam Best Practices 01:10:17 Recommended Prep Products 01:14:15 Key Takeaways 01:17:21 Conclusion

Summary

In this episode, Travis Morgan from MBA Whisperer discusses the intricacies of applying to business schools, debunking common myths and providing valuable insights into the application process. He emphasize the importance of resumes, essays, and understanding school fit over rankings. The discussion also covers the significance of test scores, the role of waitlists, and alternative testing options like the Executive Assessment.

Takeaways

• Your resume is the first impression in applications.
• Connecting with current students can enhance your application.
• Admissions committees want to see a three-dimensional applicant.
• Essays should reflect your personal story, not just professional achievements.
• Top schools are not the only path to success in business.
• Rankings should not dictate your school choice.
• Lower-ranked schools can still offer valuable opportunities.
• Waitlisted candidates are still strong contenders.
• The GMAT is not solely a math or English test; it's about problem-solving skills.
• The Executive Assessment is a viable alternative for many applicants.

Chapters

01:03 - Myth 1: Business Experience Required for MBA 03:26 - Myth 2: Apply in Round One for Best Chances 05:36 - When to Start Preparing Your Application 08:12 - The Importance of Networking 09:26 - Myth 3: Your Resume Should Be All Business 11:46 - What About Essays? 14:39 - Myth 4: Only High-Ranked Schools Matter 18:13 - Finding the Right School for Your Goals 20:32 - Myth 5: Lower Ranked Schools Are Easy to Get Into 23:05 - Myth 6: You Can't Get Off the Waitlist 27:07 - Myth 7: The GMAT is Harder Than the GRE 32:08 - Myth 8: The Test Score is the Most Important Part of My Application 34:29 - Can a Test Waiver Hurt Your Chances? 36:13 - Myth 9: Is the GMAT Just a Math + English Test? 39:44 - Myth 10: There Are No Other Exam Alternatives 43:15 - Switching from GMAT, GRE to EA

Summary

In this episode, Petia Whitmore from My MBA Path delves into the intricacies of the MBA application process, emphasizing the importance of storytelling, clarity of purpose, and the evaluation criteria used by admissions committees. Petia shares insights from her experience as a former Dean of MBA Admissions, outlining the two phases of the application process: evaluation and selection. She highlights the significance of crafting a unique narrative that showcases a candidate's impact and authenticity, while also addressing common misconceptions about test scores and work experience. The discussion culminates in practical advice for prospective applicants on how to approach their applications with curiosity and a sense of possibility.

Takeaways

• Your application is more than just numbers.
• Craft a narrative that tells your unique story.
• Evaluation determines admissibility; selection determines desirability.
• Clarity of purpose is crucial in your application.
• Demonstrated impact can come in many forms.
• Authenticity is key to standing out.
• Quality of experience is more important than quantity.
• Test scores indicate academic preparedness but are not the sole factor.
• Timing your application can influence your chances of admission.
• Approach the application process with curiosity and openness.

Chapters

01:38 - Overview of the MBA Application Process 05:34 - About Admissions Committees 07:26 - Three Pillars of a Strong Application: Clarity, Impact & Authenticity 10:34 - Demonstrating Impact 12:03 - Applicant Authenticity 14:45 - Defining Program "Fit" 17:51 - Introspection and Self-Discovery 23:44 - Quality vs. Quantity 27:26 - Understanding the Role of Test Scores 30:00 - Navigating Test Waivers and Their Implications 32:22 - Timing Your Application: Round One vs. Round Two 36:15 - The Value of Starting Early in the Application Process 38:42 - The Interview Process: What to Expect 45:31 - Finding Your Why: The Key to a Strong Application

Introducing Inside the GMAT. A weekly show with interviews with experts and advice on how you can navigate through your graduate business school admissions process. Subscribe to the show on your favorite podcast app or YouTube!

Our UK host, Nalisha Patel, gets to know one of this year's inspiring GMAT Talent and Opportunity Scholarship winners, Renata Agostinelli. Renata talks about her unique career journey in tech, her involvement with the Lean In organization, her passion for D&I, plus gives tips on how you too can be successful in your application - and in your life goals. 

Resources: 

Scholarship Information

Lean In

Forte Foundation