Anisha has done MBA in Marketing from NMIMS And Executive Management(PMNO) from Harvard Business School. She has been instrumental in growing CATKing Digital with her experience with Marico and Henkel in the past.
Important things to remember for a successful admit to International Master in Business (IMB)
In this article, we will talk in detail about what it takes to get in the International Master in Business (IMB) programme at SDA Bocconi Asia Center Mumbai.
The prestigious triple crown accreditation – AACSB, AMBA, EQUIS puts SDA Bocconi School of Management in the top tier schools’ around the world, it is currently ranked sixth best business school in Europe by Financial Times.
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The program offers a blend of:
- Solid theory-based academia
- Case-study methodology
- International experiences
- Certifications
- Corporate exposure through live projects and internships
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It spans over two 11-month modules.
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One highlight is the 4-month specialization semester, which takes place at the SDA Bocconi main campus in Milan, Italy.
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During this specialization semester, students can choose their subject of specialization from a diverse pool of more than 70 subjects.
That being said, securing a seat at SDA Bocconi Asia Center is a different ball game altogether as the college follows a profile-based approach while shortlisting the candidates for its IMB program.
The process of shortlisting is based on an overall profile analysis. We’ve compiled a list of questions which will help you in securing an admit for SDA Bocconi’s IMB program.
What is the eligibility criteria?
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Applicants must have an undergraduate degree in any discipline, or they should be in their final year while applying.
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The academic eligibility criteria include:
- Minimum of 50% across 10th, 12th, and undergraduate studies.
- A minimum aggregate average of 65% combining scores from 10th, 12th, and undergraduate studies.
Do engineering or commerce students have an advantage?
- Unlike many other business schools, SDA Bocconi Asia Center values diversity in its student body.
- The school welcomes students from a wide range of academic backgrounds, including hospitality, fine arts, psychology, commerce, pharmacy, and more.
- A diverse pool of talent enriches the classroom environment, fostering varied perspectives and experiences.
- While academic background diversity is encouraged, candidates with a consistent academic record and a demonstrated ability to work under pressure are preferred in the selection process.
- This emphasis on diversity and meritocracy ensures that students bring unique insights and skills to the program while maintaining academic excellence and readiness for the challenges ahead.
What is a “safe score” to apply?
- Applicants are expected to perform well in various admission tests accepted by SDA Bocconi Asia Center.
- While the college does not specify any specific "cut-off" scores, there are typically safe score ranges inferred from previous year trends.
- Candidates scoring above the safe score range are encouraged to apply.
- However, it's important to note that the final selection is based on the overall profile of the candidate, not solely on test scores.
- This holistic approach to selection ensures that candidates with strong profiles, encompassing academic achievements, extracurricular activities, work experience, and more, are given due consideration during the admission process.
For students applying through CAT, a safe score of 90 percentile and above is considered favourable. Similarly, for GMAT- a score of 640 and above, for GRE -a score of 310 and above and for NMAT by GMAC -a score of 200 and above is considered favourable.
- If a candidate lacks scores from the accepted admission tests or if their scores fall outside the safe score range, they have the option to sit for the Bocconi Test.
- The Bocconi Test is an internal exam held by the institute and serves as an alternative assessment method.
- Even if a candidate already has scores from other tests, they can still opt to take the Bocconi Test.
- The best scores out of all available test results are considered during the evaluation of a candidate's profile.
- While a high score can enhance the likelihood of receiving an interview call, candidates with average scores can still be considered if they excel in other areas.
- This approach ensures that candidates have multiple opportunities to demonstrate their abilities and that their overall profile is assessed comprehensively during the selection process.
Are the academic scores the only major selection criteria?
- Extra-curricular activities, including relevant work experience, leadership roles, entrepreneurial ventures, communication skills, creativity, and involvement in sports or cultural arts, are important factors in evaluating a candidate's profile.
- Candidates with a diverse range of experiences and a well-rounded application have better chances of selection.
- The application process typically includes submitting three to four essay-type questions, a well-defined statement of purpose, and two references.
- Soft skills, combined with a high test score and demonstrated academic consistency, are highly valued and contribute to a strong profile.
- SDA Bocconi Asia Center takes a holistic approach to evaluating candidates, considering not only their academic achievements but also their personal attributes, leadership potential, and contributions to their communities.
- This comprehensive evaluation process ensures that candidates with a range of talents and experiences are given fair consideration for admission to the program.
How can a candidate prepare for the Personal Interview rounds?
- Interviews are conducted following an initial selection based on the submission of applications.
- Freshers can expect domain-specific questions relevant to their academic background, while candidates with work experience may be asked industry-related topics.
- It's advisable for candidates to prepare for basic hygiene questions in advance of the interview.
- Common interview questions may include identifying strengths, weaknesses, key challenges faced in personal and professional contexts, and steps taken to overcome those challenges.
- Supporting answers with real-life instances or examples can enhance the credibility of the candidate's responses.
- The personal interview is crucial in the admissions process and plays a significant role in extending admission offers to candidates.
- Overall, being well-prepared, demonstrating self-awareness, and showcasing relevant experiences can significantly improve a candidate's chances during the interview process.
It is advisable and fruitful for candidates to attend the webinars, info sessions, coffee sessions conducted by the SDA Bocconi’s admissions team to help get a better understanding of the school & it’s application process.
Round-3 Submission Deadline: March 22, 2024 - Apply here
This article is written by Arunima Lal who is currently pursuing IMB at SDA Bocconi Asia Center & is part of the Student Admissions Committee.
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