If you are considering pursuing an MBA and are wondering if a disability could complicate the admissions process, you are not alone. Whether you are navigating a physical disability, such as paralysis, or a hearing or visual impairment, or a diagnosed learning disability, such as dyslexia or ADHD, the application journey can feel uncertain. However, the entire admissions process—from testing and applying all the way through acceptance to an MBA program—is structured to provide accommodations when needed. And it’s important to remember that admissions personnel at all major MBA programs consider the whole person when reviewing applicants. Read on for more tips on applying to your dream MBA program!
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Visit your target schools and explore their resources.
Make sure you decide early what business schools are of interest to you. Like every student, you should visit as many schools as you can before applying. Check each school’s website to look for resources such as student and academic services. For example, Harvard Business School has an MBA Student & Academic Services team that can provide guidance to students about visiting campus and understanding the support resources the school provides. Stanford GSB also provides information for students with disabilities.
Sometimes the information you need will be available from the greater university community rather than just the business school. For example, Duke Fuqua refers students to Duke Access and Accommodation Services, while MIT Sloan students can access resources through MIT’s Disability and Access Services.
If your target schools have a disabilities coordinator (or staff with a similar title), contact them in advance to help maximize your visit. These people work collaboratively with current and prospective students to address their particular needs, both academic and non-academic.
Research testing accommodations.
The GMAT, GMAT Focus, GRE, and Executive Assessment allow accommodations for those who need them. To apply for an accommodation, you will need to submit a letter of diagnosis from a physician with your test application form. What kinds of accommodations might you receive?
- Extra test time
- Extra break time
- Allowance for medical equipment
- Sign language interpreter
- Test reader and test recorder (recording device)
- Monitor with a larger font
You might have heard that it is difficult to get these accommodations, but it really isn’t hard as long as you prepare early. Aim to obtain the required documentation BEFORE you even begin to study for the test. Candidates should not hesitate to utilize these resources in the application process.
Consider what information to share in your application.
MBA programs take a holistic approach to reviewing your application, and your test scores are just one component. Your academic and professional history as well as your essays also factor into the admissions committee’s decision.
Most business school applications ask for information about a physical disability. But if you have a learning disability, you do not need to disclose this information unless you want to. It’s your choice.
If you do mention your status, the MBA programs may be able to refer you to some excellent resources as you conduct your school research. For example, Stanford offers both a to help students explore their disability identity and a Neurodiversity Project to build community among neurodiverse individuals.
There’s no reason to let any disability deter you from applying to MBA programs. Our Stratus Admissions counseling team has worked with many MBA candidates with disabilities, and we will be there every step of the way to support you in this journey. To learn more about how we can help you in the MBA application process, sign up for a FREE 30-minute consultation!