Cambridge MBA Review

Cambridge MBA Introduction

Cambridge Judge Business School, formerly known as Judge Institute of Management Studies, is a renowned business school that attracts students from over 100 different countries. As a part of the prestigious Cambridge University and ranked #1 in One-Year Programs in the UK by the Financial Times in 2021, CJBS is recognized for its exceptional programs and academic excellence.

The Cambridge MBA Program is highly competitive, seeking applicants with outstanding academic records and comprehensive profiles. The school maintains a close relationship with Silicon Fen, a thriving technology cluster known as one of the most prosperous in Europe and the world. This connection provides students with unique opportunities to engage with cutting-edge innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystems.

Consistently ranking well in global rankings by reputable organizations, Cambridge Judge Business School stands out as a top destination for international students seeking business education in the UK. The institution leads Europe's prominent business development network, attracting talented individuals from around the globe who aspire to study and thrive in a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment.

Cambridge MBA Class Profile

The students of the Cambridge MBA Program are a diverse bunch of aspirational, multinational people who come together with their wide range of experiences and backgrounds to enrich each other's learning. Here are the demographics & Cambridge MBA class profile of the students: 34% of the students have an educational background in business/accounting/finance; 25% in STEM(Engineering); 14% in Economics; 9% in social sciences; 5% in Arts. With the average work experience of the class being 6 years, 26% of the students have a background in the finance sector, 8% have worked in the nonprofit/public sector; 17% in consulting; and 49% from industry.

Cambridge MBA Acceptance Rate

The acceptance rate for the Cambridge MBA program is not officially disclosed by the university. The program is highly competitive with thousands of applicants from around the world vying for a limited number of spots. The program typically admits around 200-250 students each year, with an emphasis on diversity and academic excellence. To be considered for admission applicants must meet the program's rigorous academic requirements and demonstrate exceptional leadership potential, professional achievements, and personal qualities.

Program and Curriculum Cambridge MBA

The Cambridge MBA program is a full-time 12-month program that is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to become effective global leaders. The program is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, case studies, group work, and practical projects with a strong emphasis on experiential learning and real-world application.

Core courses

Electives

Clubs & associations

The Cambridge MBA program offers a range of clubs and associations that provide students with opportunities to connect with peers, develop new skills and engage with the wider business community. Here are some of the clubs and associations available to MBA students:

• Consulting Club: This club provides students with opportunities to learn about and explore careers in consulting, through events such as case workshops, networking events and case competitions.
• Entrepreneurship Club: This club supports students interested in starting their own businesses, by providing access to resources and mentorship, organizing pitch competitions and hosting talks by successful entrepreneurs.
• Women's Leadership Initiative: This initiative promotes gender equity and diversity in business leadership by organizing events and workshops focused on leadership development and career advancement for women.
• Social Impact Society: This society focuses on promoting social and environmental impact in business by organizing events and projects related to sustainability, social entrepreneurship and impact investing.
• Finance Club: This club supports students interested in pursuing careers in finance, by organizing events such as guest speaker talks, finance career workshops and networking events.

Extra activities at Cambridge MBA program

In addition to the core curriculum and extracurricular clubs and associations, Cambridge Judge Business School offers a range of extra activities that provide students with opportunities to broaden their horizons and develop new skills. Here are some of the extra activities available to MBA students:

• Global Consulting Project: This project provides students with the opportunity to work on a real-world business problem for a client organization, typically in a developing country. The project involves fieldwork and provides students with the opportunity to develop their consulting skills in a global context.
• Cambridge Venture Project: This project allows students to work on a real-world business problem for a startup or early-stage company, typically located in the Cambridge ecosystem. The project provides students with the opportunity to apply their business skills to help a new venture succeed.
• Social Impact Challenge: This challenge provides students with the opportunity to develop and pitch a business idea with a social or environmental impact focus. The challenge involves working in teams and provides students with the opportunity to develop their entrepreneurship skills.
• Language Classes: The Cambridge offers language classes in a range of languages, including Mandarin, Spanish, and French. MBA students can take language classes as an extra activity to develop their language skills and prepare for international business opportunities.
• Leadership Development: The MBA program offers a range of leadership development activities, including coaching, workshops, and leadership assessments. These activities provide students with the opportunity to develop their leadership skills and reflect on their personal leadership style.

Scholarships

Eligibility and Requirements for Getting into Cambridge MBA

If you have set your sights on pursuing an MBA at a prestigious school, it is crucial to understand the eligibility & requirements for admission. The Cambridge MBA program is highly sought after, attracting talented individuals from diverse backgrounds who possess exceptional academic and professional qualities.

Eligibility

• An undergraduate degree or equivalent qualification
• With a morethan of two years’ work experience.

Application fee

A Cambridge MBA fee of £150 (GBP) is required to submit an application for the Cambridge MBA program.

Application documents

To apply for the Cambridge MBA program, applicants must submit a range of documents as part of their application. These typically include:

• Completed online application form: This includes basic personal information, educational and work history, and essays.
• Resume/CV: A detailed account of an applicant's work experience, educational background, achievements, and skills.
• Transcripts: Official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended.
• Standardized Test Scores: Applicants are required to submit either GMAT or GRE scores.
• English Proficiency Test Scores: International applicants whose native language is not English must submit an IELTS or TOEFL score.
• Letters of Recommendation: Two letters of recommendation from professional or academic sources who can provide insights into the applicant's potential for success in the program.

GPA

The Cambridge Judge Business School does not have a specific GPA requirement for applicants to the MBA program. However, applicants are expected to have a strong academic record, and their undergraduate transcripts will be reviewed as part of the admissions process.

GMAT

While there is no specific Cambridge MBA GMAT score required, the admissions committee considers the GMAT score as part of the holistic evaluation of the applicant's profile. The average GMAT score for the  MBA program is 690, and a competitive score is generally considered to be above 650.

GRE

While there is no specific GRE score required, the admissions committee considers the GRE score as part of the holistic evaluation of the applicant's profile. The average GRE score for the Cambridge MBA program is 162 (Verbal) and 160 (Quantitative), and a competitive score is generally considered to be above 160 (Verbal) and 155 (Quantitative).

Average work-experience

Applicants must have at least three years of full-time work experience, with a preference for candidates who have five or more years of experience. This work experience should demonstrate leadership potential and a strong track record of professional achievement.

English language proficiency test scores

Yes, international applicants whose native language is not English are required to demonstrate English language proficiency as part of the admissions process for the Cambridge MBA program. Applicants can demonstrate English proficiency by submitting scores from either the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) or the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) exam. The minimum IELTS score required for the MBA program is 7.5, with a minimum score of 7.0 in each section.

Cambridge MBA Deadlines

Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible to increase their chances of admission and to be considered for scholarships. The deadlines are typically in the mid-morning (UK time) on the specified date, and it is important for applicants to submit all required materials before the deadline to ensure that their application is considered for the current round. school typically has several application deadlines for the Cambridge MBA program each year.

Admission process

The MBA admission process at University of Cambridge  typically consists of several stages:

• Application: Applicants must submit an online application form, along with supporting documents such as transcripts, standardized test scores, and letters of recommendation. They must also pay the application fee.
• Review: Once the application is submitted, it is reviewed by the admissions committee, which assesses the applicant's academic record, work experience, test scores, essays, and recommendations.
• Interview: If the admissions committee is interested in a candidate, they may invite them to interview. The interview can take place in person, over the phone, or via video conference. The purpose of the interview is to get to know the applicant better and assess their fit for the program.
• Decision: After the interview, the admissions committee makes a decision on whether to admit the applicant, waitlist them, or deny them admission.
• Acceptance: If an applicant is admitted, they will receive an offer of admission and must confirm their acceptance by the deadline given. They may also be offered a scholarship or financial aid.

When do the admissions start?

The admissions cycle for the Cambridge MBA typically begins several months before the program start date. For the 2023-2024 academic year, the application opened on July 1, 2022, and the first application deadline was September 2024. It's important to note that application deadlines and requirements may vary from year to year, so prospective applicants should always refer to the official Cambridge Judge Business School website for the most up-to-date information on the admissions process.

Generally, it's a good idea for prospective applicants to start researching and preparing their application materials several months in advance of the application deadline to ensure that they have sufficient time to complete all requirements and submit a strong application.

Cambridge MBA Employment And Placement

The employment & placement for its graduates. The Career Development Centre (CDC) at Cambridge Judge Business School offers a range of resources and services to help students navigate the job market and find employment after graduation.

According to the most recent employment report, 96% of Cambridge MBA graduates secured employment within three months of graduation. Graduates have gone on to work for a variety of top companies in various industries, including consulting, finance, technology, healthcare, and more. The average salary for MBA graduates was over £60,00- £85,000, with some graduates earning salaries upwards of £150,000.

The CDC provides a range of resources and services to help students secure employment, including career coaching, job search support, networking opportunities, and access to job listings and recruiting events. Additionally, students have the opportunity to participate in industry-specific treks and workshops, where they can meet with recruiters and professionals in their desired fields.

Average starting salary

According to the most recent employment report, the Cambridge MBA salary for graduates was over £75,000. However, this figure can vary depending on factors such as industry, job function, location, and prior work experience, graduates from the Cambridge MBA program have gone on to work for a variety of top companies in various industries, including consulting, finance, technology, healthcare, and more. Some graduates have also started their own businesses or pursued other entrepreneurial endeavors.

While the average starting salary for MBA graduates is impressive, it's important to note that earning potential can continue to grow over time as graduates gain more experience and progress in their careers. Additionally, the Career Development Centre at Cambridge Judge Business School offers a range of resources and services to help students navigate the job market and negotiate competitive compensation packages.

Employment report

The Cambridge MBA Employment Report provides valuable insights into the post-MBA career paths of graduates from the program. According to the most recent report, 94% of Cambridge MBA graduates secured employment within three months of graduation, with an average salary of over £60,00- £85,000, graduates from the Cambridge MBA program have pursued careers in a variety of industries, including consulting, finance, technology, healthcare, energy, and more. Some of the top employers of MBA graduates include companies such as Amazon, McKinsey & Company, Google, and Deloitte.

In addition to the strong employment outcomes, the report also highlights the diverse range of roles and functions that graduates from the program have pursued. Some of the most popular job functions include consulting, finance, general management, marketing/sales, and entrepreneurship. Overall, the MBA Employment Report demonstrates the strong value proposition of the program and the positive outcomes that graduates can expect in terms of employment opportunities and compensation.

Top Sectors Hiring Cambridge MBA Graduates

Cambridge MBA graduates are highly sought after across a range of industries and sectors. Consulting firms are among the top employers of graduates, with prestigious firms such as McKinsey & Company, Bain & Company, and Boston Consulting Group regularly recruiting from the program. In addition, finance is another popular sector for graduates, with investment banks, private equity firms, and asset management companies among the top employers.

Graduates have also pursued careers in the technology industry, with companies such as Amazon, Google, and Apple hiring from the program. Other sectors that have hired Cambridge MBA graduates include healthcare, energy, and consumer goods, among others. With the program's focus on leadership, entrepreneurship, and innovation, graduates are well-equipped to succeed in a variety of industries and roles.

Companies recruiting from Cambridge MBA

Graduates of the Cambridge MBA program have excellent employment prospects, with top companies from a variety of industries recruiting from the program. The program's strong focus on leadership, innovation, and entrepreneurship prepares graduates for a wide range of roles and industries, making them highly sought after by employers.

Cambridge MBA Alumni Info

Cambridge University MBA graduates hold positions in a wide range of organizations and roles throughout the world. Each person created a route for themselves over the course of a year through their classes, real-world contacts with clients, extracurricular interest groups, college life, and social events. The Cambridge MBA Alumni community is a diverse group of professionals from various industries, including finance, consulting, technology, and more. 

Some famous alumni

Application Essay for Cambridge MBA

The Cambridge MBA essays typically requires applicants to submit several essays as part of the application process. Here is an overview of one of the essays:

Essay 1
What did you learn from your most spectacular failure? (up to 200 words)

In this essay, applicants are asked to reflect on a time when they experienced a significant failure or setback, and to describe what they learned from the experience. The admissions committee is interested in seeing how applicants respond to adversity, and how they use setbacks as opportunities for growth and learning.

The essay should begin with a brief description of the situation or failure, followed by a discussion of what the applicant learned from the experience. It's important to be honest and reflective in this essay, and to focus on personal growth and development rather than simply describing the failure itself. The essay should also demonstrate how the lessons learned from this experience will be applied in the applicant's future endeavors.

Letter of Recommendation for Cambridge MBA

A letter of recommendation is an essential component of the application process for the Cambridge MBA program. The letter should be written by a professional who knows you well, such as a supervisor or colleague, and should provide insights into your abilities, strengths, and potential as a business leader. The MBA application requires two letters of recommendation, and it is recommended that one of them should come from your current employer or immediate supervisor.

The letter should be written in English and submitted directly by the recommender through the online application system. It is important to choose recommenders who can provide specific examples and details that support the claims made in your application essays and highlight your leadership potential, problem-solving skills, and ability to work in a team.

Interview Questions for Cambridge MBA

The Cambridge MBA interview questions are an opportunity for applicants to showcase their qualifications, experiences, and motivation for pursuing the program. By preparing thoroughly, practicing answers to common questions, and demonstrating enthusiasm and engagement during the interview, applicants can increase their chances of being accepted into the program.

Set 1:
Q: Why do you want to pursue an MBA at Cambridge?
Q: What skills and experiences do you bring to the program?
Q: How do you see an MBA from Cambridge helping you achieve your career goals?
Q: What is your biggest accomplishment, and how did you achieve it?
Q: Can you describe a time when you faced a significant challenge and how you overcame it?
Q: What leadership experiences do you have, and how have they prepared you for the MBA program?
Q: How do you work in a team, and can you give an example of a successful team project you have worked on?
Q: What are your long-term career goals, and how does an MBA from Cambridge fit into those plans?
Q: Can you describe a time when you had to persuade others to adopt your ideas, and how did you do so?
Q: How do you plan to contribute to the Cambridge MBA community, and what clubs or activities are you interested in joining?

What Makes Cambridge MBA Unique

Is Cambridge MBA worth it? Among the very best colleges in the UK, Cambridge holds a different angle. It is one of the oldest institutes globally and students get to experience a part of heritage education at Cambridge. Here are some unique points that make the school worthwhile:

• Culture of Leadership: The Cambridge MBA program places a strong emphasis on developing leaders who are capable of navigating complex and rapidly changing business environments. Students are encouraged to challenge conventional thinking and develop their own perspectives on leadership.
• Focus on Entrepreneurship: The Cambridge MBA program also focuses on entrepreneurship and innovation, providing students with the tools and resources they need to turn their ideas into successful ventures. The program's network of alumni, investors, and other entrepreneurs is a valuable resource for students seeking to launch their own businesses.
• Collaborative Culture: Collaboration is a key component of the Cambridge MBA program. Students work in teams to tackle complex business challenges and develop creative solutions. This collaborative approach helps students to develop strong communication and teamwork skills, which are essential in today's global business environment.
• Social Responsibility: The program has a strong commitment to social responsibility, and encourages students to use their business skills to create positive social and environmental impact. The program offers opportunities for students to work on social impact projects and engage in initiatives focused on sustainability, ethics, and social justice.
• Global Perspective: The Cambridge MBA program attracts a diverse cohort of students from around the world, providing students with a truly global perspective on business. The program's curriculum and extracurricular activities are designed to help students develop a deep understanding of different cultures, economies, and business practices, which is essential in today's interconnected world.

Conclusion

Cambridge MBA is a highly competitive and prestigious program that offers a unique learning experience for students who aspire to study in the UK. With a focus on collaborative learning, a culture of leadership, and a commitment to social responsibility, students can gain a global perspective and build the skills needed to succeed in the business world. If you are considering pursuing an MBA colleges in UK, the MBA could be an excellent choice for you.