The MBA has become the degree of choice for employers looking for top-notch, highly educated employees. This means that if you are applying to an MBA program, you will probably have a lot of competition. Aside from the usual strategies--good grades in the bachelor’s program and a good work resume--there are some other things you can do to help your chances of getting accepted to a high quality Australian MBA program.

Tooting the Horn

Of course you have to showcase your talents. Tell them about your success in undergraduate years, your community service, and your work experience. Help them understand your strong points and how they relate to an Australian MBA program. Some things admissions counselors like to see: leadership, organization, problem-solving skills, and willingness to try new things.

However, do not toot your horn too loudly. Bragging is often a sign of compensation for a weak background, so be realistic. It is said that when something sounds too good to be true, it is--that goes for you as well. Be ready to back up every claim you make with facts and proof.

What Makes You Different?

You will be competing with hundreds of other applicants. You will need to stand out. Make a list of things that will set you apart. Do not tailor this to what you think their ideal student is--tailor it for outside that list. For instance, they may not list international relations as an important part of the admission criteria, but if you have successful experience in it, that will be a plus.

Here are just a few things that will set you apart:

• Professional and scholastic awards and honors
• References from others about unusual things you did for them
• Testimonials about your willingness not only to work hard, but work smart as well

Also, let the admissions committee know what you want you want to be doing five, ten, and twenty years after you graduate--in other words, the things that would make them proud to call you a graduate.

Also, remember that no matter where you take your Australian MBA, the degree is what you make it. You will only be in school for a couple of years at the most, so get everything you can out of it and prepare well for your future.