What happens when someone who spent nearly a decade prepping MBA candidates steps into the adcom chair?
You get radically honest advice.
In this episode of The MBA Golden Buzzer, we sit down with Beatriz Campos, Admissions Director at ESADE Business School, and former admissions consultant, to talk about what actually separates a “yes” from a “no.”
From red flags she can spot instantly to the most underrated section of your application, this is your inside look at how ESADE really evaluates fit, effort, and authenticity.
The First Thing ESADE Reads Is Not What You Think
Spoiler: it’s not your GMAT score.
“The CV is the first thing I read,” Beatriz shared. “It sets the soundtrack for the application. It tells me where you’ve been, so I know how to read where you want to go.”
She looks for formatting, clarity, and most of all, accomplishments. Don’t just list responsibilities. Instead, show impact. “If you couldn’t submit essays, would your resume tell your story? That’s how strong it needs to be.”
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Generic = No. Always.
If your essays could be used for any school, ESADE can tell.
“The no candidate is the one who didn’t do their homework,” Beatriz said. “No research, no connection to the school, no specificity.”
The worst mistake? Copy-paste applications. If you don’t reference ESADE’s values, people, or programs, and if your goals are vague or feel padded, you’ll come across as disconnected.
“We read every application. So when someone gives us something generic, it’s not just disappointing. It’s a wasted opportunity.”
GPA Problems? ESADE Gets It
One of the most refreshing moments in this episode?
“I tell Brazilian candidates all the time: I know your GPA is probably low,” Beatriz said. “You were working a full-time job during college, even if it was labeled ‘internship.’ I understand.”
But don’t use GPA as an excuse. Use it as a starting point for context. And back it up with something stronger, like your career progress, your essays, or your test score if you have it.
And if you don’t?
Yes, You Can Get In With a Low GMAT—But Only If You Show This
ESADE takes a holistic approach, but you still have to show academic readiness.
“We’ve accepted people with low GMATs because they crushed our internal test,” Beatriz explained. “We’re not trying to ding you. But we have to know you’ll keep up once class starts.”
Especially in a small program (ESADE’s class is around 180 students), the pressure is on to admit people who will thrive, not just survive. That’s why context, growth, and effort matter.
Want to Show Fit? Show Up.
ESADE wants students who will love them back. That means putting in the work before you hit submit.
“We don’t expect you to fly to Spain,” Beatriz said. “But if you haven’t joined a webinar, talked to an alum, or attended a fair? That’s a red flag.”
Even worse? The “I’m too good” attitude.
“We’ve seen applicants who clearly think we should be pitching them. That’s not how this works.”
Fit Isn’t About Buzzwords. It’s About How You’ll Show Up.
“Do Good. Do Better.”
That’s ESADE’s motto, and it’s not just marketing.
“We want people who will contribute in class, outside of class, and after graduation,” Beatriz said. “You don’t just receive knowledge here. You give back. That’s what fit means to us.”
That includes being inclusive, humble, and excited to join a diverse, global cohort. ESADE isn’t looking for perfect resumes. It’s looking for real people who will grow and give.
GOLDEN BUZZER TIP: Tell ESADE Why They’re Your First Choice
“We want to feel the love,” Beatriz said. “We’re opening the door for you—but you have to show us that you’ll walk through it.”
Make it clear why ESADE is the school for you. Be specific. Be thoughtful. And above all, be genuine.
Want to Stand Out at ESADE? Be Authentic—And Be Strategic
At ESADE, connection matters. But that doesn’t mean you can wing it. You need to show the admissions team that you understand what makes the program unique, and why you belong there.
At Ellin Lolis Consulting, we’ve helped countless clients earn admission to ESADE, including candidates with nontraditional backgrounds or lower test scores. We know exactly how to position your profile to align with ESADE’s values, culture, and community.
Our 98.9% success rate comes from a proven process. We don’t just edit your work. We partner with you to find the story only you can tell, and then shape it into an application that admissions officers remember.
Apply to work with us here, and let’s build an ESADE application that’s personal, powerful, and strategic.
Real MBA Essays That Got People In
School-specific sample essays that got our clients accepted
