¶ … business schools take into consideration when determining what type of students are most likely to succeed at that school. The study found that "business admissions use different processes ranging from review of undergraduate grade point average (GPA); transcript analysis that reviews the type of courses taken, trends and progress over time; level of analytical and quantitative skill required in current and past professions; recommendations; and the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)" (Fish, Wilson, 2009, p. 146). The study also found that other factors, including age, were tested as well and that each factor "yields varying results" (p. 146). From a financial viewpoint, the older the student is when beginning the graduate program, the less time is available to recoup the dollars spent on the education. For example; if Ben were in his early 40's instead of late 20's the money spent on the graduate program would have to be recouped within a 20 -- 25-year time frame, instead of a 30 -- 40-year time frame that he currently is facing. 2. Other factors that could...

Ben would also likely receive promotions over other individuals without a MBA. An MBA might also provide Ben with additional information and educational expertise allowing him to accomplish goals and objectives that might not be possible without a MBA.
3. From a strictly financial point-of-view, Ben would be much better off spending the $130,000 for a two-year program. Since Ben will be earning an additional $15,000 per year, and he is only 28 years old, he has plenty of time to recoup the added expenditures of $55,000. He could recover financially within a 5-year time frame.

4. Ben is correct in his assertion that he needs to evaluate the future value of his choices. An evaluation can include financial as well as non-financial factors, and it is appropriate to include all the factors in the evaluation. Determining whether one can actually take the time and apply the discipline necessary…