The online MBA application for the Duke University Fuqua School of Business is now live for the 2015-2016 admissions season.  This means that the Fuqua MBA recommendation questions are available to Class of 2018 applicants and their recommenders.

The form opens with questions about the recommender’s contact information and some information on their educational backgrounds and relationship with the applicant.

Relationship to Applicant (drop down menu)

How long have you known the applicant? (text field)

Are you an alumnus/alumna of Duke University? (yes or no)
If so, please state the year you graduated and the degree received. Include name of program, if relevant.

Do you have an MBA from a school other than The Fuqua School of Business? (yes or no)

Recommenders are then asked to rate the applicant on a series of interpersonal and professional abilities on a scale of 1 to 5, with descriptive text provided for each score on each writing. Click on the image to the right to view an image of the Fuqua MBA recommendation grid.

Next, recommenders are asked to provide a letter of reference that addresses the applicant’s potential and the traits and qualities that will support them in realizing it. Recommenders are asked to write specifically and to provide concrete examples as they address the following questions:

Comment briefly on the context of your interaction with the applicant.

How do the applicant’s performance, potential, or personal qualities compare to those of other well-qualified individuals in similar roles?

What do you perceive as the applicant’s areas for growth? Describe the applicant’s awareness of these areas and his/her response to constructive feedback.

Please include additional comments you feel will be helpful to the Admissions Committee.

The adcom requests that recommenders limit their letters to two double-spaced pages.

Finally, recommenders are asked to provide an overall assessment of the candidate.

Based on your professional experience, how do you rate this applicant compared to her/his peer group? (drop down menu)

Overall, I…this candidate to The Fuqua School of Business. (Options: Do Not Recommend, Recommend with Reservations, Recommend)