Improving Your Chances for Admission into ISB 2019 Batch

The Indian School of Business (ISB) is a renowned institution that attracts a diverse and talented pool of applicants each year. To assess your chances for admission into the ISB 2019 batch, several key factors need to be considered. Here, we will delve into each of these factors and offer guidance on how to enhance your application.

1. Academic Background

ISB places a significant emphasis on a strong academic record, particularly in quantitative subjects. For a dental applicant with a pre-masters GPA of 66.8 in the BDS and 78 in the MDS, it is essential to showcase your academic prowess. A high GMAT score of 308 is also noteworthy, but it is crucial to highlight your academic achievements, especially if you are a female dentist.

What You Can Do

Although your academic performance stands out, ISB prefers well-rounded candidates. Consider enhancing your support by:

Highlighting your expulsion of knowledge in dental research. The mention of three international publications underscores your academic excellence. Discussing your achievements in more detail in your application essays. Emphasize how they have contributed to your personal and professional growth. Securing additional endorsements of your academic strengths from supervisors or colleagues who can attest to your intellectual capabilities.

2. GMAT/GRE Scores

Competitive scores on standardized tests like the GMAT or GRE are crucial for ISB. The average GMAT score for the ISB is around 690, and a higher score can significantly improve your application. Your current GMAT score of 308 is above the average but is still lower than the ideal range.

What You Can Do

To better position yourself for admission:

Create a study plan to raise your GMAT score to the competitive range. Many online resources and tutorials can help you achieve this goal. Consider taking additional standardized tests if you haven't already. A higher score can provide a significant edge. Request testimonials from professors or previous test-takers who can vouch for the difficulty of the test and your preparedness.

3. Work Experience

ISB prefers candidates with a minimum of two years of work experience, and your 2.8 years of experience in the dental field is a strong foundation. Leadership roles, unique experiences, and career progression are also important.

What You Can Do

Emphasize your experience and achievements through:

Discussing specific leadership roles you have held. Explain how these roles have contributed to your professional development. Highlighting unique experiences that set you apart from other applicants. For example, have you led any projects that the ISB would find particularly valuable? Discussing any challenges you have overcome during your tenure and how these have influenced your career aspirations.

4. Essays and Recommendations

Your essays should reflect your motivations, future goals, and how ISB fits into your plan. Strong letters of recommendation, especially from supervisors or mentors in the dental field, can significantly bolster your application.

What You Can Do

Ensure your essays are:

Well-structured and clear in conveying your professional and personal journey. Focused on how ISB can help you achieve your career goals. Unique and authentic, showing your personal voice and experiences.

Recommendations

Seek strong letters of recommendation from:

Your dental supervisor or a senior mentor who can speak to your professional abilities and potential. A faculty member from your dental program who knows you well and can attest to your academic and professional acumen.

5. Extracurricular Activities

Involvement in extracurricular activities, community service, or unique personal projects can set you apart from other candidates. Your background in table tennis and tennis coaching is a unique aspect of your profile.

What You Can Do

Emphasize your extracurricular activities through:

Exploring how these activities have shaped your leadership skills and personal growth. Highlighting any achievements or impact you have made through these activities. Discussing how these activities align with your future career goals and how ISB can support them.

Conclusion

While your application to ISB 2019 batch is challenging, with strategic improvements in your academic background, GMAT/GRE scores, work experience, essays, recommendations, and extracurricular activities, you can significantly enhance your chances. ISB is not just looking for high-performing candidates but also for individuals who have a well-rounded profile and clear career aspirations.

By carefully considering these factors and tailoring your application accordingly, you can strengthen your candidacy for the ISB 2019 batch.