1) Does Kellogg have a particular preference in terms of a candidate's background and age group?
There are no preferences in terms of background and age.
International students represent 36% of the student population; and women over 40%.
2) Rumor has it that Kellogg's on-campus interview, if conducted by adcom, is quite tough. Is it better to have an off-campus interview if given the choice?
All interviews are generally demanding since the interviewer is trying to assess your motivation for getting an MBA and the best time to interview is when you are ready to share your story on why Kellogg is a good fit for you and you are a good fit for Kellogg. As for applications, don't let rumors on best times to apply guide your choices, it is best to interview when you are clear on your "story" for why you want to be a Kellogg MBA. for having Kellogg as your first choice. In our experience, we did not observe a stark difference between on-campus or off-campus interviews. All interviewers have to follow specific guidelines that reduce variability and increase the fairness of the process. In addition, some on-campus interviews are conducted by current students, so interviewing on campus does not necessarily mean that the interviewer will be a member of the Admission Committee.
3) Do you have any suggestion for when it is better to interview? (Early or middle or late November or early Dec?)
The best time to interview is when you are ready to share your story on why Kellogg is a good fit for you and you are a good fit for Kellogg. As for applications, don't let rumors on best times to apply guide your choices, it is best to interview when you are clear on your "story" for why you want to be a Kellogg MBA.
4) I am applying in round 3? Do I have significantly less chances? Should I even bother or rather try next year?
International and 1Y applicants applying in Round 3 are at a disadvantage because the school typically admits all international and 1Y students from Round 1 and 2. For other candidates there is no evaluative advantage, however, to applying in Round 1 versus Round 2, but it is recommended that candidates apply in the first two periods. Admitted students from Round 1 and 2 can take advantage of the admitted student weekend - Day at Kellogg (DAK). Also, they may receive preference for certain grants and scholarships, as well as registration preference for the Kellogg School's on-campus housing at the McManus Living-Learning Center.
5) Does Kellogg offer scholarship to European students? What is the max amount?
Kellogg does offer scholarships specifically to International students, for example the Donald P. Jacobs International scholarship award $15,000 per year to outstanding students. Kellogg administers more than 95 corporate or individually funded scholarships overall.
6) My GMAT score is low (below 700) but I have a stellar working experience. Do you think Kellogg will consider me?
The admission process is holistic and takes into consideration many factors beyond data points, therefore the admission's office cannot surmise one's chances for acceptance based on test scores and work experience alone. Applications receive a thoughtful and thorough review by a committee of staff and trained students. Although test scores, scholastic ability and work experience are evaluated, the school is also interested in learning more about one's values and motivations. Other characteristics such as maturity, leadership, personal character and potential contribution to the Kellogg community are also assessed. As an FYI, Kellogg has no minimum requirements for the GMAT or GPA. The average GMAT is 732, with approximately 75 percent of our enrolled students scoring between 680 and 750.
7) I will be interviewed by an Alum in 2 weeks. Do you recall any questions from your interview? Would you provide some help and hints for me?
First, you must be prepared to summarize your academic and working experiences in a small amount of time (not more than 2 minutes). This is very important as in most cases this will be the first question you'll receive and nailing it will help you relax. It's almost certain that you will be asked the "standard" three questions: Why an MBA? Why now? Why Kellogg?. I would say that these are the answers you have to prepare the most, try to get a good story that fits and that naturally connects your experiences with the answers to this questions. You'll also be asked about your future goals (short and long term), so again try to come up with goals that require the MBA and specially Kellogg.
Another set of questions will be related to your work experiences: "tell me about a time when you…" you know, leadership, teamwork, failures or the success you are more proud of for example. Have stories prepared for these type of questions.
Further form the typical questions, Kellogg will be very interested to know what will you bring to the school and its community, how will you get involved. The best tip I can give is to come to Kellogg and meet our people and our culture, if you do so and you like what you experience it will make things much easier in the interview. If you are serious about the MBA I think the trip is totally worth it. Additionally you should know the different extra-curricular initiatives that go on in Kellogg (KWEST, CIM, GIM, Ski-Trip, clubs…). In summary, be prepared to answer how will you enrich the other students experience.
Finally your interviewer will always ask you if you have questions for him. Prepare at least 2 or 3 intelligent questions.
8) I cannot make the trip to the US. How can I learn more about Kellogg first hand?
You should regularly check on Kellogg's admission calendar website for Admission-led events in your country.
Alternatively, current Kellogg students may host presentations in your country, typically in late August/beginning September, or late December/early January or late March. Dates for these presentations will be posted on the same website.