Once you submit your application to business school, the admissions committee will conduct a preliminary screening based on your CAT/ MAT/ XAT/ IIFT/ SNAP scores. If you meet a pre-determined "academic cutoff," you will likely be invited for a personal interview.

The important thing to keep in mind is that you already have the answers, because the questions will always be about you.

Interview tips and your questions.

Tell me about yourself.

Your answer should be 2-3 minutes long. Talk briefly about:

Your undergraduate education and why you chose the major you did
Your work experience and accomplishments
Your career goals

Why do you want to earn a graduate business degree?

Explain in detail your motivation for pursuing a graduate business degree and how the degree will further your career goals. Emphasize how this degree is a critical part of your career plan.

Why are you interested in this school/program?

List all the reasons the school/program is ideally suited for you, from location to faculty to coursework to the school’s connections with specific industries and companies that match your career goals.

Why should we admit you?

Talk about your academic and professional accomplishments and how they make you an ideal fit for the program. Then discuss how this specific program will help you achieve your career goals.

Talk about your accomplishments as a leader.

Have several leadership examples prepared, both from work and in your volunteer and community roles.

What are your strengths and weaknesses?

Addressing strengths is fairly easy. Pick three that you feel set you apart and that you can back up with examples. As for weaknesses, turn your shortcomings into strengths. for example, you could explain how your impatience allows you to get things done quickly.

Do you have any questions about the school or program?

Have a selection of specific program or school-related questions ready, which shows that you are a serious candidate and have done your research. Avoid questions that are easily addressed by reviewing the school’s website or print collateral.