B-School App Volume "Surged" in 2006, GMAC Says

2 out of 3 full-time MBA programs received more applications for 2006 entry than they did for 2005, the Graduate Management Admisssion Council (GMAC) reports.

This marks a sharp turn-around from the previous year, when only 21 per cent of full-time programs saw application growth.

Applications for part-time and EMBA programs grew from 2005 to 2006 as well. 62 per cent of part-time programs saw application volume grow in 2006, compared to 46 per cent in 2005. 69 per cent of EMBA programs saw an increase in applications, whereas only 38 per cent did the year before.

3 out of 4 U.S. MBA programs received more applications from international applicants in 2006, compared to just 28 per cent in 2005. International application volume was up at non-U.S. schools as well, with 62 per cent of international b-schools reporting an increase in international applications.

A growing number of women applicants are applying to MBA programs as well. Approximatley 64 per cent of full-time MBA programs received more applications from women this year. 47 per cent of part-time programs and 50 per cent of EMBA programs reported a similar trend.

If this trend continues this year -- and employers' continuing demand for MBA grads suggests that it will -- b-school applicants are likely to face more competition than they have in years for the limited number of seats in any MBA class. Increased competition makes it more important than ever to submit thoughtful, well-planned, and well-written essays that will persuade an admissions committee that you're the kind of student they're looking for.

Source: "Business School Applications Jump Across the Board in 2006" - press release, Graduate Management Admission Council (McLean, Virginia), 7 August 2006