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European B-schools Miss Out on Asian Talent

Lack of commercial experience works against Asian applicants

By  Sunny Li

Tue Dec 8 2009

BusinessBecause
Lack of commercial experience could reduce Asian applicants's chances of getting into top European business schools and, as a result, the schools are missing out on Asian business talent according to researchers at Germany's European School of management and Technology (ESMT).

The research, titled “How and Why MBAs Buy an MBA”, shows that the majority of Asian applicants - 82 per cent - tend to apply for an MBA within eight years of working, compared with 53 per cent of Europeans. And of the Asians applying for an MBA, 39 per cent have only three years or less work experience.

While 80 per cent of applications from candidates with over eight years experience convert to an MBA offer, only 65 per cent of those with less than three years’ work experience do so.

In May, Berlin-based ESMT partnered with Ruhr University of Bochum to survey 820 current and prospective MBA students. Researchers used direct emails, affiliations other European business schools, and posted threads in MBA forums and websites to conduct interviews.

Compared with the 82 per cent offer-conversion rate for European applicants, only 63 per cent of Asian students’ MBA of applications were accepted by European business schools.

Bülent Gögdün, co-author of the report, says lack of commercial experience among Asian applicants is “probably” a differentiating factor: “Many top b-schools think that work experience is more important than GMAT results.

“We observed that Asians have less [work] experience than American and European students, so they have more difficulties in getting into their favored programs.” 

Over the past decade competition between business schools for students has intensified. According to GMAC, a total of 3,710 new graduate management programs were launched between 1997 and 2007.

Former logistics expert Qin Liu, 28, met ESMT at an MBA tour in Shanghai last year, and she soon signed up for a year-long stint in Berlin.

Hunan-born Liu had 6 years work experience in Jade Cargo, an airline in south China, and decided it was time for a change.

Liu, one of 25 full-time MBAs in this year’s ESMT program, says it was important to meet school representatives in person: “Asia is very far away from Europe, so that’s why more schools make the trip and extra effort to do exhibition shows there.”

Business schools could also make an effort to consider a student with less work experience says Gögdün. Students with “great academic results” should be given more chances even if they lack experience.

Asians value links between school and industry and the quality of career services more than Europeans, he says. Schools can attract more Asian students by emphasizing their placement activities, inviting companies to campus and setting up real-life projects.

ESMT holds many of these attractions - it was founded in 2002 by 25 leading German companies and maintains string links with them for student recruitment.

Another difficulty facing Asian applicants is preference for full-time MBA programs. The ESMT study shows their success rate for less traditional degrees such as part-time, executive and distance MBAs are much higher - up to 96 per cent – than for full-time programs.

However, the research reveals that 88 per cent of Asian respondents opted for a full-time MBA program, compared with 50 per cent of European students.

“Asians seem to be mainly interested in full-time MBA programs,” says Gögdün, “If they could apply for more EMBA courses, they’ll have a better chance of getting in.”

Student Reviews

ESMT Berlin

Prithivi

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29/04/2019

On Campus

Well qualified professors and great connectons with the industry

Well structured programs, great facilities and very good career development team. The alumni relations with the school are great and well maintained and fostered. Overall a great school right in the middle of Berlin.

Yannick

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14/10/2024

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Memorable college life

The European School of Management and Technology creates a remarkable setting where students can excel. I admire this school for its dynamic community, which is filled with enthusiasm, pride, and countless opportunities. The campus, with its rich history and traditions, is truly beautiful, and the spirited atmosphere is invigorating. The social life and events on campus are fantastic, allowing for friendship and connections among students. Although the academics can be tough, they are incredibly beneficial and worthwhile. The encouraging faculty and involved student body foster meaningful connections and lasting friendships.

Student

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5/11/2024

On Campus

Enjoy every moment

The European School of Management and Technology has completely exceeded my expectations. I was blown away by the quality of education here and how much I have learned in such a short amount of time. Every class is made incredibly exciting by the passionate and knowledgeable professors who go above and beyond to ensure that we are fully engaged and learning. I never thought I would enjoy studying so much, but thanks to this school, I am constantly motivated and eager to learn more. The hands-on approach to learning and the challenging yet supportive environment have truly made my educational experience here far better than I could have ever imagined.

Student

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5/11/2024

On Campus

Bringing excitement to the class

Studying at the European School of Management and Technology has exceeded all my expectations. I thought I was just signing up for a solid business education, but what I got was so much more. Every class is dynamic, with professors who are not just academics but actual leaders in their fields, bringing real-world case studies and fresh insights into every discussion. They make even complex topics exciting and easy to understand by linking theory to what’s happening right now in the global business world. The interactive approach, combined with a diverse group of classmates, makes every class feel like a new challenge and opportunity. I never imagined learning could be this engaging and inspiring.

Student

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5/11/2024

On Campus

Impressed by quality

ESMT Berlin has been a revelation! I was drawn to its top-tier rankings and location in Germany's vibrant capital, but the experience has shattered my expectations. The education here is exceptionally practical, with professors who are renowned experts and industry veterans. Each class is a high-energy, interactive session that tackles real-world challenges, from strategic innovation to digital transformation. I'm constantly impressed by the diversity of perspectives and expertise among my classmates, who hail from over 50 countries. ESMT's focus on leadership development, entrepreneurship, and social responsibility resonates deeply with me.

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