What HBS & GSB Say When They Reject You

Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business

HOW STANFORD’S GRADUATE SCHOOL OF BUSINESS SAYS ‘NO’

Dear (real name removed):

Thank you for applying to the Stanford MBA Program. We have completed the review of applications, and I am sorry that we cannot offer you admission.

We evaluated your application along three dimensions: (1) intellectual vitality; (2) demonstrated leadership potential; and (3) personal qualities and contributions. We assessed the overall quality of your written application, including the essays and letters of reference.

The admission process is not one in which we merely separate out those candidates with weaknesses and admit all the rest. Were we to do that, we would have a class several times its intended size. We carefully evaluate each individual file, and then review it in the context of the entire applicant pool. In an effort to create an engaging student community, we select those applicants who, collectively, represent a breadth of background, talent, and experience.

Please be assured that our deliberations are neither quick nor effortless, and many involve difficult choices. We typically receive well over 6,000 applications for our class of 408 students. Because there are many more qualified and deserving candidates than places available in the class, there is necessarily a subjective element in the selection process. This is why there rarely are precise reasons for an applicant’s denial. The final results simply reflect our best efforts.

You have invested considerable time and effort in your application. We are sorry that we could not bring you better news.

We appreciate your interest in the Stanford Graduate School of Business, and thank you for the privilege of reading your application.

Sincerely,

Margaret Hayes

Interim Assistant Dean for MBA Admissions