I hear alot about how challenging it is to get into a top tier school, but in most cases, I am assuming the full time programs are the ones under discussion. I am in Chicago and have several choices of MBA programs, both top tier (GSB, Kellogg) and not top tier (UIC, DePaul, Loyola, IIT). I am not interested in leaving Chicago so I will inevitably choose from this group (preferably GSB above all).

My question is: are the overall requirements and selection processes for the evening/weekend/part-time programs as strenuous as the full time programs? Obviously, for the top tier schools, you will need the solid GPA as a part of a bulletproof package. It seems, however, having read a few of the forum posts, that even though one has a seemingly immaculate application, some schools might still be out of reach. Can the same be said for the part-time programs?

Thank you for your attention to this matter,
Sheldon

You're right. On the whole, getting into a part-time program is easier -- the GMAT/GPA averages are lower, and the range of work experience (in terms of years) is wider. Having said that, part-time programs such as Chicago's still aren't easy to get in (it still attracts extremely high caliber people who may normally have the ability to get into a top20 program, but for family/life/career reasons decided to do a part-time program).

Alex Chu
alex@mbaapply.com
www.mbaapply.com
http://mbaapply.blogspot.com