LIVE CHAT November 1, 2010, 10:25AM EST

Chat Transcript: IE Business School MBA Admissions

IE Business School's Lisa Bevill fields questions about applications, internships, and moving to Madrid

Lisa Bevill
IE Business School

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The International MBA (IMBA) at IE Business School (IE Full-Time MBA Profile, which is based in Madrid, accepted 31 percent of the 2,433 applicants to the full-time program in 2009. Recently, Lisa Bevill (screen name: LisaBevill), director of admissions at IE, responded to questions from the audience and Businessweek.com reporter Francesca Di Meglio (screen name: FrancescaBW) about everything from postgraduation job opportunities to dual-degree programs during a live chat event. Here are edited excerpts from the conversation:

soniazt: Is the selection process a first-come, first-served decision, assuming the candidate is eligible and meets other requirements? Are there still spots available for the IMBA April intake?

LisaBevill: At IE Business School, we have a holistic approach to admissions, evaluating the candidate, their experience (both personally and professionally), and motivation and fit with IE and the International MBA program. Applications are reviewed as soon as they are received, and the rolling admissions process allows us to work with applicants to have a final response as quickly as possible. Yes, there are still places available for the April 2011 intake. If admitted, you can join the program in the following two intakes.

PaulDowling: For the April intake, when would you advise students to move to Madrid?

LisaBevill: Students start arriving in Madrid about two months before the program begins, which allows them to get settled in the city and take advantage of the intensive Spanish course. The in-person, pre-program classes start in late March and last about two weeks. These classes can also be done online.

deshaun: What length and level of work experience do you look for in applicants?

LisaBevill: The average number of years of work experience is just over five. We look for career progression, increasing responsibility, and varied exposure.

lilhan: Typically, how long is the admissions review process from application submission to IE's final decision?

LisaBevill: The entire process lasts between four and six weeks, thanks to our rolling admissions process, considering you submit a complete application with all requirements fulfilled. We allow you to apply at any time; however, we recommend applying about a year in advance of your desired intake.

lilhan: Who makes up the admissions committee? Faculty, students, etc.?

LisaBevill: The admissions committee is made up of admissions officers, faculty, and program directors.

deshaun: Upon graduation, what fields do most graduates go into?

LisaBevill: The International MBA class is extremely diverse, with many industries and functions represented. Many of the 2009 graduates went into consulting and financial services (about 40 percent), closely followed by technology and consumer goods.

soniazt: I have been told that the quantitative method pre-program starts two weeks before the beginning of the course, either in-person or online. Would it be possible to do it sooner?

LisaBevill: The online format allows greater flexibility. All this information is provided within Campus Online, your virtual community as a student.

kauld: I am a non-European applicant. What challenges should I expect at IE?

LisaBevill: Actually, 93 percent of the International MBA class comes from outside Spain. Everyone should expect to face challenges within the MBA and while living abroad. This is one of the best parts of the learning experience.