MBA on top: GMAC survey

The MBA programme remains top choice for prospective business school students despite the growing popularity of specialised master’s programmes.

A new report from the Graduate Management Admission Council reveals that among all prospective students surveyed, 55 percent indicated that they are only interested in attending an MBA programme (this has remained steady over the last three years), while 18 percent of prospective students are only considering a specialised master’s programme, up from 13 percent in 2009.

The mba.com Prospective Students Survey results for the first time offers insight into the reasons why prospects choose study destinations. Similar to GMAT score sending patterns, the top three preferred destinations were the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada. Reputation of a country’s educational system was the most cited reason for choosing a specific destination. Prospective students intending to study in the US cited better career preparation, whereas improved chances for an international career was cited for non-US destinations. Notably, affordability was cited among respondents selecting Canada, Singapore, and India.

“Prospective students have more information and more options with programme choice than ever before,” said Dave Wilson, president and CEO of GMAC. “But as the dark economic clouds continue to dissipate, the challenge of meeting the financial costs of a graduate management programme is very much on their minds.”

Fewer respondents cited economic reservations as a constraint to pursuing a graduate management degree compared with three years ago. Yet, when choosing a specific program to apply to, financial considerations have become more important. Potential students say they will rely more on personal savings and family support than on loans, grants and other aid.