Navigating an Incomplete MBA: How Should I Present It on My Resume?

Hi, I studied MBA for 2 years from 2005-2007 and then couldn't complete my MBA due to some medical problems. In late 2007, when I was okay, I joined a mid-sized market research firm as that firm was okay with graduates as well. I worked there for some time, then shifted to another company in 2010, and then a third company in 2011, where I worked until 2016. Throughout this period, my work was above average, and hence nobody asked me for an MBA certificate, and I was working based on my graduation (engineering) degree only. In 2011, the MBA college I attended got derecognized by AICTE and was closed. Hence, there is no way I can complete my MBA now. However, if I want to include it in the future, what should I do?

Options for Mentioning Incomplete MBA

a) Studied MBA but didn't pass - mention it in CV?
b) Mention MBA completed in 2007 and explain that I have not passed it during the interview (first round)?
c) Do not mention MBA at all?

I am personally not in favor of option (c) as I do not want those 2 years of study to go to waste. Please advise.

Thanks.

Nobody has any interest in knowing how many years you have wasted or not. If you don't have the certificate, you need not mention it in your profile. During the interview, you can verbally explain that you studied for an MBA for two years but were unable to complete it due to a medical problem.

Many people with an engineering background are still working in HR. Don't worry, there are many companies that hire candidates based on their knowledge and experience. Be honest about your situation. Just like your previous employers, other companies will hire you and may not require you to have a master's degree in MBA.

Educational Requirements in Different Countries

In India, companies often require degrees and references rather than real-time knowledge and skills. This trend is mostly followed by the political category. However, in America, you can complete your graduation whenever you are interested and free to study. Studies should not have age criteria.

Qualification is something that shows what you have learned through books and courses. Experience and skills acquired speak to what you can actually do. Be the confident personality to offer the best of your skills and experience to corporate Inc. However, I suggest keeping learning and adding value.

Unfortunately, you have not completed an MBA. There is no point in even mentioning it verbally during interviews, job discussions, etc. Forget about including it on your CV. It is a sad reality, but a completed degree with a certificate holds the true value.