Rotman School of Management, University of Toronto

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So you have done your research, you know what program you want to do to combine your passion for analytics with business applications. Now what? How do you put your best application forward?

Well, we are here to help. Below are some tips to help you showcase your great skills and accomplishments.

1. Familiarize yourself with the application

Something that students often forget is that they can actually go in and out of the application. Just because you may start your application today, it doesn’t mean you have to finish it on the same day. So, take your time to read all the instructions and requirements; after all, filling out a grad school application is a process that requires time and careful attention. 

2. Exhibit your soft skills through the video interview and timed-written response

Everyone applying is required to complete the video interview and timed-written response. Sometimes this aspect of the application can sound intimidating, but don’t be scared! All we want to see is that you can communicate effectively. Keep in mind that this is just one portion of the application and that we take a holistic approach when reviewing all applicants. Also, remember that you can click on the link and practice as much as you want before going on to the ‘real thing’. Practicing will allow you to get confident with the process and technical aspects of doing a video interview and timed-written response.

3. Communicate effectively through the essay question

The 250 word essay question is also a mandatory aspect of the application, where we are looking to see if you can communicate your ideas clearly and concisely. Keep in mind that you can always type it on a word document and then cut and paste into the application. Also, remember that the suggested word count is a good measure to ensure that you write an effective answer. In this exercise, less is more.

4. Have academic references that add value

When choosing your references, make sure you ask professors who know you well enough to explain why you are a good candidate for the program. We will be asking them about your quantitative, computational and communication skills. While both references should be academic, applicants with few years of work experience can submit one academic and one professional reference. Remember to also give your referees a heads up once you have submitted your request, as sometimes reference request emails get lost in the pile. Once you’ve sent it, keep track and don’t be afraid to follow up with your referees or resend the request.

5. If you are yet to graduate, don’t worry about your final official transcript right now

Many of you are probably in your final year of your undergraduate degree. As such, we certainly don’t expect you to have a final official transcript. As long as you have submitted your unofficial transcript to-date, you are on top of the game. You’ll only be asked to submit your final official transcript if you get a conditional offer.

6. GMAT/GRE is optional, but encouraged for applicants

While GMAT or GRE is not mandatory, it is encouraged for applicants who completed their degree outside of North America or applications with a degree that is not quantitative in nature. Although the overall score is important, we pay a special attention to the quantitative score.

We hope these tips are helpful as you complete your application. If you have further questions, first check out the Master of Management Analytics website. We hold application help webinars closer to each of the application deadlines. Please visit our events page to see if there are any upcoming sessions. If you still have questions, you can always contact us.

GOOD LUCK!!

This post was updated on Wednesday August 18, 2021.


The Master of Management Analytics is designed to give students the advanced data management, analytics and communication skills needed to become an analytics professional.

© Rotman School of ManagementThe Rotman School of Management is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AASCB)