In a surprising move, the prestigious Indian School of Business (ISB) has recently announced a significant change to its interview process. Aspiring candidates will now face an additional challenge: a timed essay-writing test. This development has sent ripples through the applicant pool, leaving many wondering about the implications and how to prepare. Let's dive into what this means for future ISB hopefuls.
The New ISB Interview Process: A Closer Look
Here's what candidates can expect in the ISB Interview for the 2025-26 intake:
Arrive 45 minutes before the interview start time
Complete a 20-minute test consisting of two short essays
Attend the regular interview (typically 25-30 minutes)
The entire process is expected to take about two hours. Importantly, candidates must bring their own laptop or tablet for the essay portion.
Why the Change in the ISB Interview Process?
While ISB hasn't explicitly stated their reasons, this addition likely serves several purposes:
Assessing Writing Skills: In the business world, clear communication is key. This test allows ISB to evaluate a candidate's ability to articulate thoughts effectively in writing.
Gauging Analytical Thinking: Short essays often require quick analysis and argument construction, showcasing a candidate's critical thinking abilities.
Evaluating Time Management: With just 20 minutes for two essays, applicants must demonstrate efficient organization and execution of their thoughts.
Reducing Preparation Bias: Unlike rehearsed interview answers, impromptu essays reveal more authentic thought processes.
Standardizing the Process: A uniform test component helps compare candidates more objectively across different interview panels.
What This Means for ISB Applicants?
This change adds a new dimension to the ISB application process. Candidates now need to:
Brush up on their writing skills
Practice quick thinking and essay structuring
Ensure they're comfortable writing on their personal devices under time pressure
How to Prepare for the ISB Interview Writing Test?
Practice Timed Writing: Set a 10-minute timer and write short essays on various business topics.
Read Widely: Expose yourself to different business concepts and current affairs to broaden your knowledge base.
Work on Structure: Learn to quickly outline your thoughts before writing to ensure coherent essays.
Familiarize Yourself with Your Device: Make sure you're comfortable typing quickly on the device you'll bring.
The Bigger Picture
This change reflects a growing trend in business education to assess candidates more holistically. By adding this writing component, ISB is looking beyond just interview performance and academic scores to gauge a candidate's potential.
As the business landscape evolves, so too must the methods we use to identify future leaders. ISB's new process, while potentially daunting, offers candidates a chance to showcase abilities that might not shine through in a traditional interview setting.
For aspiring ISB students, this change presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Those who can adapt and showcase their skills effectively will stand out in this new format. As always, thorough preparation and a positive attitude will be key to success.
Good luck to all the future applicants! May your essays be insightful and your interviews successful.
Ready to Ace Your ISB Interview?
Feeling overwhelmed by these changes? Don't worry – GOALisB ISB admission consultants are here to help! As experts in ISB interview preparation, we've quickly adapted our services to address this new challenge.
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Our updated program now includes:
Intensive essay writing workshops
Timed essay practice sessions
Expert feedback on your essays
Tips and tricks for quick thinking and structuring
Mock interviews incorporating the new format
Don't let this new process catch you off guard. With GOALisB, you'll walk into your ISB interview confident and well-prepared.
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Remember, your ISB dream is within reach – let GOALisB help you grasp it!
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