There is more to getting into your dream school than acing the GMAT, so this week we’re bringing you tips on your MBA interview from the UCLA Anderson School of Management’s MBA admissions director Mae Jennifer Shores.

• This is not a popularity contest. It does not matter how well you connect with the interviewer. They are assessing you for academic readiness and overall ability to contribute to the school’s MBA program.
• Advance preparation is not necessary. You will not be asked to prove your mastery of any particular subject. Questions asked will be straightforward involving topics you would have covered in your application.
• Over preparing could hurt you. These interviews are meant to be a dialogue, so follow the interviewer’s cues for tone. Excessively pre-rehearsing your speech can limit the ability for your personality to shine through.
• Length does not indicate success. Interviews are set to last 30 minutes, however as with most interviews, some will run longer and some finish faster. This is normal and not likely to be a reflection of the interviewer’s feelings towards the candidate.
• Your interviewer is walking in blind. Interviewers do not see application in advance in order to eliminate preconceived notions of the candidate. Your interviewer knows as little about you as you do them.
• All interviews carry the same weight. While interviewing on campus allows you to get a better feel for the school, it has no impact on your admissions decision.
• Do not see feedback where there is none. Interviewers are unlikely to provide you with feedback during or after the interview. Take care not to misinterpret any verbal or non-verbal communication from the interviewer.