QS Admissions Fair: Money, Information, Contacts

The QS MBA and QS World Fairs will take place at Eko Hotel in Lagos, offering professionals considering an MBA, MSc or PhD programme with opportunities to network with admissions officials, gather information on the application process and even source for financial aid.

Total Ascent has a few tips to help you get the most out of the experience of an admissions fair:

Do a Self-Assessment Beforehand:

Before attending an admissions fair, do a self-assessment. This exercise helps establish your goals and career objectives, and your abilities and aptitudes. If you have a stellar academic record and three or four years’ experience, you might be eligible for a top-tier school. If you only have an average record and little experience, then your chances are slimmer, and you might be better focusing on the next tier of schools. Understanding what your resources and budget are, and what you would need in terms of loans and scholarships is also helpful, and can open you up to schools you hadn’t considered before.

Compile a Targeted Graduate School List:

Schools have different strengths and specialisations and so, it helps to have an idea of what industry and function you want to work in. Also think about the geography of where you want to work – there are different benefits to studying in different regions. Once you’ve narrowed your location options down, you can begin to compile a shortlist of schools.

Do Your Research:

If you’ve done your research and can demonstrate some knowledge and explain why a particular school is of interest to you, it will be noted. The representatives from the different schools are equipped with means to take notes on candidates. They will want to know your fit with them, and see how you can make a contribution if you join. Some admissions officers are even authorized to make conditional offers at fairs.

Be Proactive:

Speak to as many schools as possible on the day. It may seem intimidating, but if you don’t speak to a school which later you realize was relevant, you may regret it. Gather as much information as you can, regardless of whatever stage of the application process you’re at and don’t miss an opportunity to learn something which could make a significant difference.

Tosin is the CEO of Total Ascent (www.total-ascent.com), a Leadership Development and Training Company. Services include Psychometric Assessments, Training, Test Preparation (GMAT/GRE/Job Prep) and Admissions Consulting.