Students are usually confused about what to wear to MBA interview. In this article, we have briefed about the ideal MBA dress code for men and women.
Once you are selected for a B-school interview, you start brushing up your knowledge, reviewing your strengths, preparing your profile, and more. The last step you would probably think of is the attire to adorn to the interview. And that is indeed crucial!
Why is MBA Dress Code Important?
- First impression is extremely important. A formal dress code asserts your commitment to a task.
- A comfortable dress gives you the confidence, and allows you to focus on the task at hand.
- It is a hygiene factor (everyone else will be well dressed). What this means is that this is the bare minimum expected from you; not dressing well will land you in a soup and dressing well only means that you have done what was expected of you.
- It shows respect to the interviewer.
What to Wear to MBA Interview?
The answer to this question is a simple one: the dress code should be comfortable as long as you take into account the protocol of the interview.
Male Dress Code
For males, the usual dress code is formal shirts, trousers, and shoes. A tie is also the general norm in the interviews and should be worn for the occasion. Some candidates wear a suit/blazer to the interviews - this is also preferred but it is important to keep the weather in mind. There is no point sweating outside the interview hall. The tie you wear, its color, the pattern should suit the protocol of the interview. Please note that wearing slippers, jeans, informal shirts, etc. gives the impression that you are not serious for the interview.
- Ideal Dress for Men:
Dark Blue Blazer, White shirt, Red or any Dark color Tie, Grey/Fawn Trouser, Grey Socks, Formal Lace Shoes.
Female Dress Code:
For ladies, the usual dress code is a salwar suit or a sari with suitable footwear. A western formal skirt or pant suit may also be worn. Here again, it is important that you feel comfortable with what you wear. If you are wearing a sari for the first time, you might feel very uncomfortable, trip over etc. It is preferable to wear closed-toe pumps or flats for footwear. It is important that you do not put too much of make-up and jewellery. Long hair should be groomed or tied and preferably, not left open.
Do's and Don'ts of MBA Dress Code
Keep the following things in mind while choosing what to wear to MBA interview:
| Do's |
Don'ts |
| Be aware of the brands you are wearing. |
Apply a strong or unpleasant fragrance. |
| Wear polished shoes / clean footwear |
Wear flashy / colourful clothes |
| Be clean shaven/support a properly trimmed beard |
Wear loose tie |
| Have your hair well groomed |
Too much oil in your hair |
| Carry a neat folder, with all your certificates and their photocopies. |
Carry a plastic bag into the Interview room. |
FAQs about MBA Dress Code
1. Is there any dress code for IIM interview?
IIMs don't generally specify a dress code for interviewees. However, it does state a broad guidelines for its MBA students, as in encouraging formal dress-up. So, if you are going for an IIM interview, it is expected that you wear formals.
2. What is the dress code for MBA students?
MBA students are required to wear casual business attire or formals shirt and trousers. While some B-schools follow a strict colour code too, most of them indicate a general guideline only.
3. Should I wear a tie for MBA interview?
It is not mandatory to wear a tie for MBA interview. Even a simple formal shirt and trouser would do, unless especially stated.
4. Is it okay to wear all black to an interview?
Yes, black is a quite popular colour choice to wear to the interviews. Besides, it is a neutral colour, which is why doesn't put any negative impression.
5. What colors should you avoid in an interview?
It is advised to avoid too bright colors like orange, neon shades, etc. Such colours do not give a good impression in a formal setting like interviews.
Other Interview FAQs
- How do I greet the Interviewer?
- What kind of Body Language should I use?
- What if I cannot answer the question being asked to me?
- Do I have to ask questions at the end of the interview?
- Significance of the time of the interview
- How should I handle myself in a "stress interview" situation?
- How to introduce yourself in the interview?
- How to handle questions based on family background?
- Tricky questions related to your academic performance
- Deal with questions based on strengths and weaknesses
- Tackle questions related to your hobbies
- State the right career objective
- Where do you see yourself five years from now?
- Tricky interview question related to MBA Admissions
- Which field of management would you like to specialize in?
- Why do you want to do management from this institute?
