Enquire to study in the UK 
Since leadership is the cornerstone of progress, there can never be too many innovators, strategists, and visionaries. Hence, Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management extends an invitation to aspiring leaders from across the globe. With an inclusive admissions process designed to attract a diverse array of talent, the school is committed to shaping the future of business, one Master of Business Administration (MBA) student at a time.
To start, the university assigns each candidate a personal recruiting manager who assists them throughout the application process until they arrive on campus. This dedicated support system ensures that students have a reliable point of contact for any questions or concerns they might have.
Alongside the recruiting manager, an advisor from Vanderbilt’s International Student and Scholars Services (ISSS) guides candidates in securing their I-20 form. The I-20 is a crucial document required to schedule a visa appointment at US consulates and embassies, ultimately leading to visa issuance.
The ISSS promptly processes all I-20 requests, adhering to government regulations and providing clear guidance to enrolling students. It even engages in advocacy efforts at both local and federal levels, addressing trends in visa approvals and processing to ensure smooth transitions for international students.
“ISSS was very helpful in providing all the documents so I could apply for the visa on time,” shares Nayab Liaqat from Pakistan. “In the application, I even submitted my advisor’s information as a contact in the US as I didn’t have an address back then.”
Source: Vanderbilt University
To keep international applicants well-informed about visa requirements, Vanderbilt’s recruiting managers prioritise discussing regulations during various engagement opportunities and webinars. One such webinar, “How to Navigate the Visa Interview,” was recently conducted by a former US consular officer and provided valuable insights into the process.
The university also partners with Argo Visa, a consulting firm specialising in visa applications. “I followed their YouTube channel, watched over 20 videos, and joined live sessions,” shares student Anthony Okolue from Nigeria. “Vanderbilt students from Nigeria also created a WhatsApp forum to share information, tips, and strategies.”
Okolue’s journey to Vanderbilt is often used as an example — specifically for how he strategically approached his visa interview. By highlighting his ties to his home country — his family remaining in Nigeria and his history of returning from previous international travels — he demonstrated strong reasons to return post-graduation, and this positively influenced his visa approval.
He credits his success to the myths he debunked prior to applying, such as the belief that the visa interview was designed to trick applicants. Instead, Okolue viewed it as an opportunity to clarify and expand upon his application, and he prepared for it by practising common questions and being genuine in his responses.
“A common misconception in the visa process is that supporting documents will matter more than the visa applicant being able to succinctly respond about their MBA and post-MBA plans,” explains Kim Killingsworth, Director of International Recruiting and Relations. “Visa interviews are very short, and consular officers are less likely to review documentation and are more likely to spend the time asking the applicant questions.”
Source: Vanderbilt University
Indeed, confidence is key and easily achieved by those who have Vanderbilt’s support, which persists long after international MBA applicants achieve acceptance. For example, the International Student Care Group comprises staff and faculty members who frequently interact with international students, ensuring they have the necessary resources and support. They organise monthly activities, typically informal gatherings over a meal, where students can connect and openly share their experiences.
Another significant resource is the student-initiated Buddy Programme, which pairs incoming international students with local students prior to their arrival on campus. Domestic students serve as mentors and resources, assisting their international counterparts with practical aspects of daily life in the US — think grocery shopping, navigating the housing market, and understanding local customs and activities.
With such comprehensive support on offer, MBA students need not worry over adapting to their new environment. Instead, they can focus on immersing themselves fully in the Vanderbilt MBA experience. Its curriculum is meticulously designed to provide a solid foundation in core business principles. What truly sets the programme apart, however, is the flexibility it offers — students can customise their education through various concentrations, specialisations, and emphases.
Regardless, all routes lead to outstanding outcomes. Vanderbilt MBA graduates excel across diverse industries and functions. In fact, the Vanderbilt MBA Class of 2023 reported a record average base salary of US$154,052. So what are you waiting for? Click here to learn more about applying.
Follow Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and YouTube
