Insider Insights: The Tepper School of Business

At a recent GMAC Conference, MBAGRADSCHOOLS spoke with Tony Gomez, the Senior Associate Director of Master’s Admissions at the Tepper School of Business, part of Carnegie Mellon University. Tony Gomez provided a candid and insightful look at the Tepper MBA application process, sharing valuable tips for prospective students who are considering an application.

Why the GMAT Admission Test Matters to Tepper

Tony explains that standardized tests, such as the GMAT, play an important role in the application process at the Tepper School of Business. He says, “We do require the submission of a standardized test, the GMAT being one of them, to examine or assess the student’s academic preparedness… we need to make sure that our students can handle that academic rigor.” (00:22)

This aligns with Tepper’s MBA emphasis on quantitative and analytical work. Applicants must demonstrate capability in their applications. The Tepper School Full-time MBA program accepts the GMAT, GMAT Focus, GRE, and Executive Assessment (EA). In some cases, they offer a test waiver option, but this is on a case-by-case basis.

If you are preparing your application to the Tepper School of Business, don’t overlook the importance of standardized tests. For optimal results, ensure that you are well prepared for tests such as the GMAT.

Qualities Tepper Looks for in MBA Candidates

Beyond test scores, Tony emphasizes that Tepper also highly values soft skills and leadership potential. He shares, “We definitely value those soft skills that students bring, too. Do they have the ability to be flexible and adaptable? Are they able to demonstrate leadership or that potential for leadership? We do believe that leaders are made, not born, at Tepper.” (01:00)

Tepper places great emphasis on leadership. Through the Accelerate Leadership Center (ACL) MBA participants gain personalized coaching. In the MBA program, candidates also undergo a leadership development journey. Through consulting projects, global experiences, internships, and team-based coursework, candidates hone strong interpersonal and leadership skills.

Tony elaborates, “We are looking for students who have an understanding of themselves through their level of emotional intelligence (EQ), and that also shows that they have an understanding of others too and are able to care for those people on the team.” (01:22)

Other important qualities they look for in MBA candidates are persuasiveness, leadership capabilities, and collaboration skills. In your Tepper MBA application, it is a good idea to showcase concrete examples of these skills and qualities.

First Steps When Applying to the Tepper School of Business

Are you considering applying for the Tepper School MBA program and don’t know where to start? Start with research. 

Tony advises, “Talk to as many people as you can, from similar backgrounds or professions, and see what their career trajectory was like. You can always reach out to alumni.” (01:45)

He highlights that Tepper’s alumni and student ambassadors are always more than happy to talk to prospective students. There are several ways to get in touch, from attending Tepper MBA admissions events to connecting with alumni or contacting the admissions team directly.

How to Submit a Strong Application

When applying for the Tepper MBA, Tony suggests a balanced approach. He notes, “Don’t overprepare, you want your authenticity to shine through because we want to bring you, your holistic self, into our program.” (02:31)

But he does suggest a few key pointers. Firstly, give it your best shot at the standardized tests. Make sure you prepare thoroughly, either through self-study or working with a guided program. 

Secondly, make sure you edit your essay. Take the time to work through several drafts, polishing your essay as needed. Moreover, ask a trusted friend, peer, or mentor to read your essay and give you feedback. Make sure the essay is clear and properly answers the prompt.

On the other hand, he cautions, “A good application is also a done application. Don’t let perfection become the enemy of good in these cases.” (03:06) Overall, try your best, but don’t get bogged down in perfectionism.

The Full-time MBA at Tepper requires:

  • Online application form
  • Current resume
  • One written essay and one video essay
  • One professional recommendation
  • Unofficial transcripts of all academic work
  • Official GMAT, GRE, or EA score, or approved test waiver
  • Official TOEFL or IELTS score (if applicable)
  • US$200 application fee
  • Official transcripts (once accepted)

For a full overview on how to apply, check their official webpage.

No STEM Background? No Problem

Tony further clarifies that MBA applicants don’t necessarily need to come from a STEM background. “The Tepper School classroom is not exclusive to just people from STEM backgrounds,” he shares. “Although we do have that quantitative edge to our program, it’s accessible to anybody who’s looking at bolstering their skills in those tech areas.” (03:18)

In fact, the Tepper MBA has had a varied mix of students, including teachers, piano instructors, PhD graduates, and even TV show hosts. The cohort comes from a diverse blend of industries and academic backgrounds.

For those not coming from a STEM background, there’s nothing to worry about. He reassures, “We give you a crash course on calculus, Python, and R… those hard skills that you’ll need to really need to succeed in the classroom.” (04:00)

The Tepper School of Business values diverse thinkers. While the Tepper MBA programs do have a STEM focus, they can accommodate a wide variety of applicants. 

Make Your Tepper MBA Application Stand Out

As you consider applying to the Tepper School of Business at Carnegie Mellon, remember that quality preparation matters. In summary, preparedness for the GMAT test, a strong essay, and an application that highlights your EQ and leadership skills are key.

Are you ready to join the unique Tepper MBA and gain crucial STEM-focused skills that prepare you for your future career success in a data-driven world? Reach out to the Tepper community and take those first Tepper MBA application steps; the rest will fall into place.

Want to study at Tepper School of Business? Take our eligibility quiz to see if you qualify!