Applying To Stanford’s Deferred MBA Program? Read This

Stanford Graduate School of Business’s Deferred MBA Program allows applicants to defer their enrollment to gain full-time work experience before starting B-school.

While Stanford GSB typically has a strict deferral policy, in 2020 the B-school opened the deferral program for international MBA admits. But what exactly does it take to gain acceptance to the deferred MBA program?

Stacy Blackman, of Stacy Blackman Consulting, recently interviewed a young professional who was admitted to Stanford’s deferred MBA program and offered insights into the application process.

BENEFIT OF DEFERRED MBA PROGRAM

The deferred MBA program isn’t for everyone. Some applicants may be better off choosing direct enrollment, especially if they’re coming from college.

But certain industries, such as private equity, biotech, and management consulting, tend to recruit MBA candidates with pre-MBA experience. For these people, a deferred MBA program may be a smarter choice due to the experience and network that they will gain.

“The great thing about deferred MBA programs is that you get access to an amazing network of the most interesting, smart people you’ll ever meet—years before you even start your MBA,” one young professional tells Blackman anonymously. “Connecting with these people early on has enabled me to jump-start that self-reflection process by learning from others. That’s a huge benefit of the deferred programs that I think isn’t discussed enough.”

HOW TO STAND OUT

Many applicants applying for the deferred MBA program will have strong experience. Thus, experts say, applicants should highlight certain characteristic traits in addition to their experience that they will bring to Stanford GSB.

“Maturity and self-awareness are key,” the young professional tells Blackman. “Ultimately, your experiences probably aren’t that unique, given the huge number of applications programs will get every year. But it’s how you frame them, reflect on them, and use them to showcase yourself that will set you apart from others.”

WHAT TO AVOID

Application season can be hectic, and it is helpful to remember a few key things that will make your application and candidacy stronger.

“Don’t go over the word limit on essays, send in additional materials/letters, etc.,” the anonymous professional adds. “These are simple rules to follow! But do fill in all the essay/mini-essay sections that are available. Each response is a portion of the larger kaleidoscope that shows how interesting and 3D of a candidate you are.”

Sources: Stacy Blackman Consulting, Stanford GSB, P&Q