Given the unique criteria that differentiates Rotman’s part-time programs from full-time programs, applicants often wonder about the factors that are most important in their application. While we take a holistic approach to the admissions process and consider all aspects to be important, this is still a good question. There are certainly ways to ensure that you have a competitive advantage, and here we offer our latest top 3 application tips.

Rotman Morning MBA Team Attollo, Hult Prize 2015 finalists, use their areas of professional and academic expertise to develop a system to delivery early childhood education for marginalized children. Here with UT – Mississauga Principal, Prof. Deep Saini. Image from @AttolloSE.

1. Exhibit your soft skills. Although a graduate program in business requires students to have strong technical skills, we cannot forget the importance of communication. Your ability to succeed in your career will also depend on such soft skills. Therefore, when reviewing your application, we will be assessing your ability to communicate effectively. You’ll first get a chance to showcase your writing skills in three essays. Remember that aside from grammar and spelling, we will be looking for a clear writing style that can tell us why you think an MBA or Master of Finance (MFin) is right for you.  If you are called to the interview stage, this will be another chance to show us your ability to communicate your story persuasively.
2. Demonstrate the value of your work experience. As programs for working professionals, the Morning & Evening MBA and MFin require applicants to refer back to their work experience. On average, our students have worked for 6 years. For your application, it is important to emphasize the relevance of this work experience to your studies and future career goals. So, when preparing your CV and statement, remember to refer to your achievements and progression during these years. Your resume should focus on results rather than job tasks.
3. Have great professional references. When asking for references, don’t focus on titles. Instead, a good professional reference is one that can speak of your track record and your potential for professional growth. Your two professional references will be assessing your ability to think, to work in a team, and your ability to work with integrity to positively impact your organization. Therefore, before including them in your application, make sure you are asking individuals who can effectively strengthen your application and that they can refer back to specific examples of your achievements.

Overall, remember that these programs are significant investments, so you want to make sure the program you choose is a good fit for you. While you prepare your application be sure to research the program, attend one of our Morning & Evening MBA or Master of Finance info sessions , or sign up for a coffee chat. Last, but not least, remember to start your application early! Bonus tip: the earlier you apply, the greater your chance of receiving an entrance award.