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Abstract
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Before
While MBA programs strive to achieve diversity in their ranks, there is little empirical evidence on how to effectively increase the share of some underrepresented groups who may be self-selecting out. We randomly vary the content of informational emails to potential candidates to highlight the diversity of profiles who pursue an MBA as well as the breadth of admissions’ criteria (other than GMAT scores).
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After
While advanced degree programs in Business strive to achieve diversity in their ranks, there is little empirical evidence on how to effectively increase the share of some underrepresented groups who may be self-selecting out. We randomly vary the content of informational emails to potential candidates to highlight the diversity of profiles who pursue a degree as well as the breadth of admissions’ criteria (other than GMAT scores).
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Last Published
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Before
August 29, 2019 08:38 AM
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After
August 30, 2019 08:30 AM
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Primary Outcomes (End Points)
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Before
Our key outcome variables are indicators for completing and submitting an application, for taking and reporting the GMAT, and GMAT scores (conditional on taking the test).
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After
Indicators for completing and submitting an application, taking and reporting the GMAT, and GMAT scores (where relevant).
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Experimental Design (Public)
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Before
The study is a randomized controlled trial implemented in collaboration with an MBA program. We look at all candidates who start an application. From previous cohorts, we know that among those who do not complete their application, there is an overrepresentation of groups underrepresented in the program. The study aims to understand what barriers are precluding these groups from completing and submitting an application.
Candidates who start an application are randomly selected to receive informational emails highlighting different pieces of information:
(i) that the school looks at applications holistically (and doesn’t focus exclusively on GMAT scores); and
(ii) that this is reflected in the diversity of profiles and careers of the students admitted to the program.
The email itself includes pictures from a diverse pool of role models. Candidates can also click on a link and access a webpage, which displays testimonies of the selected alumni together with their photos.
Candidates in the control group receive a shorter email, encouraging them to take the GMAT, and informing them that it is important that they fill out every information requested in the application.
To assign treatment, we stratify by gender.
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After
The study is a randomized controlled trial implemented in collaboration with a Business School. We look at candidates who start an application for an advanced degree program. From previous cohorts, we know that among those who do not complete their application, there is an overrepresentation of groups underrepresented in the program. The study aims to understand what barriers are precluding these groups from completing and submitting an application.
Candidates who start an application are randomly selected to receive informational emails highlighting different pieces of information:
(i) that the school looks at applications holistically (and doesn’t focus exclusively on GMAT scores); and
(ii) that this is reflected in the diversity of profiles and careers of the students admitted to the program.
The email itself includes pictures from a diverse pool of role models. Candidates can also click on a link and access a webpage, which displays testimonies of the selected alumni together with their photos.
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Field
Secondary Outcomes (End Points)
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Before
Other relevant outcomes come from a brief survey implemented to all applicants in which we elicit beliefs about class composition, the prestige attributed to an MBA and expected class norms.
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After
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