With an application deadline this week and strong application volume, I thought it would be helpful to talk about application submission and Ivey’s file review process.
The first step is for our admission team to review a file to determine if this is complete and we essentially run through the same admissions checklist provided on our website: online application, essays, transcripts, GMAT score, TOEFL (when applicable), resume, and reference letters. If anything is missing, our team contacts the applicant – so no news is good news here. A tip – if you know that part of your file is incomplete, it is helpful to touch base with us and confirm when we can expect the missing information (ie. My application doesn’t include a GMAT score, but I’m writing the test on Dec. 12th) this is noted and your file and we appreciate the information!
If all components of your application have been sent to the school, they are compiled in one file for review. Ivey operates on an ‘invite to interview’ system: completed applications are reviewed to determine if an invitation to interview should be sent. Ivey actually interviews ALL candidates ultimately considered for admission, so a request to interview should be considered a good thing! Ivey has a unique approach to candidate interviews – we actually interview twice, once with a member of the Admissions team, and once with a member of the Career Management team. This process not only highlights how seriously we take admissions and what the caliber of the class will be like, but also provides applicants with two opportunities to showcase their skill-set and to learn more about the school and possible ‘fit’.
After interviews are conducted a file is complete, and it goes to committee review. The process is truly a holistic one with all components of a file discussed and considered. If an admission offer is made – the school feels our Program is the right fit for a candidate to achieve stated career goals, and a strong environment where students will be challenged, stimulated, and inspired – on an academic, professional, and personal level.
Ultimately – our admissions team, many members being Ivey grads (myself included), fully appreciate and sympathize with the agony of your application being ‘out of your hands’ – and that a week waiting on a decision can feel like a month…or two… We do everything in our power to get through files and issue decisions in as timely a manner as possible, so I hope the agony and anticipation should only be felt for a few weeks – not months.