What if you don’t get into this school? Have you applied to any other school? Why/why not?

This question is meant to assess how strategic and thoughtful you are about your career planning. The panel wants to know whether you have considered alternative paths and how you plan to achieve your goals if things don’t go as expected.

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Your answer should demonstrate clarity, honesty, and preparedness. Show that you have thought through your options without sounding overconfident or indifferent about the school you’re interviewing for.

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You can talk about what your Plan B looks like if you don’t get into an MBA this year. For example, you might say that you would continue to build relevant experience in your current role, take on leadership opportunities, or strengthen your profile to reapply next year.

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If you have applied to other schools, it’s perfectly fine to mention them, as long as you communicate why this particular school remains one of your top priorities. Focus on what makes this program the best fit for your goals — its curriculum, culture, or specific opportunities that align with your aspirations.

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The key is to come across as realistic yet committed. You want to show that you are serious about pursuing your MBA, have a plan in place, and are adaptable enough to work toward your long-term goals through multiple possible routes.

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In short, use this question to demonstrate strategic thinking, self-awareness, and maturity — qualities that reflect well on your overall candidature.

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Step 1: Define Your Plan B

Think about what you would do if you don’t get into this school this year. Focus on how you’ll continue to work toward your long-term goals.

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If I don’t get into this school this year, my plan is to
How this plan helps me progress toward my long-term goals
How I will strengthen my MBA profile in the meantime

Step 2: Address Other Schools (If Applicable)

If you’ve applied elsewhere, acknowledge it honestly and explain your reasoning while reaffirming your preference for this school.

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Other schools I’ve applied to
Why I chose to apply to them
Why this school remains a top priority for me

Step 3: Reinforce Long-Term Commitment

Show that your goals remain steady regardless of timing or path.

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My long-term goal (5–7 years)
How both Plan A (this school) and Plan B help me get there
Why I’m confident I’ll achieve this goal regardless of the route

Step 4: Final Response

Combine all your points into a 1–2 minute answer that sounds genuine and strategic.

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