B-schools selection is a process where probability plays a major role. With a wide range of parameters influencing the selection process at ISB, it often becomes difficult to predict whether an aspirant would make it to ISB.

Another important fact is that selection is always relative. Hence it is not just about an ISB aspirant’s profile being good or bad, it is also about profiles of other applicants being better. Hence, if you have got a reject from ISB at either shortlist or post-interview stage, do not lose heart. Here is what you should do if you wish to reapply to ISB.

Break the myth – “Reapplying is bad!”

Most of the people think that reapplying is taken negatively by a b-school. On the contrary, ISB encourages people to reapply. Why? Because it shows that an aspirant is very serious about ISB and people who are willing work on their areas of improvement are always welcome.

ISB had also waived off the application fee for reapplicants at a point of time and similar acts to motivate reapplicants may be expected in future also.

Show how you have improved

The most important question that reapplicants are required to answer is “How has your profile changed from the time you last applied to the ISB?”

Please note that this answer should incorporate the improvements as suggested by feedback by the adcom. For example if adcom had stated that your experience was less, you did not show sufficient leadership/ team work etc. Please ensure that you provide this information. Talk about the facts, new projects, responsibilities and learning from all these in your reapplicant essay. Indicate that you have genuinely worked towards improving your profile basis the feedback given.

Sometimes the feedback indicates that essays need more work or GMAT score could be improved. In such cases, please ensure that you work on your essays/ get them reviewed (NOT WRITTEN) by a third person.  You may also decide to write GMAT again, if need be. And if you are writing GMAT again, please highlight the improvement in score in your essays.

Apply early

In order to indicate your genuineness as a reapplicant, you should ideally apply in R1. R2 should be targeted if you are not able to apply in R1 due to any reason. This also indicates that you are keeping ISB at priority vs other b-schools.

Talk to successful reapplicants, alumni or good admission consultants

A fruitful discussion with an experienced person always helps. This gives you the right tips and direction. So, try to find some reapplicant(s) who have been successful and have a word regarding your profile/ ISB feedback and what worked for them. Also talk to some ISB alumni and adcom members (you may attend ISB information sessions in your city). Another way to find alums (willing to volunteer to interact with aspirants) is www.goISB.com, which provides a phone connect feature.

You may also talk to some genuine admission consultants and seek professional guidance.