Navigating the Stars: The Moderating Effect of Social Media Usage on the Admission Intention of B-schools

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the influence of social media on the perception and decision-making process of prospective students seeking admission to Business schools (B-schools) in the context of the increasing prevalence of social media in people’s lives. Specifically, it examined the perceived and actual utility of reviews posted on Social Networking Sites (SNSs) and the role of Social Media Usage (SMU) as a moderating factor in shaping admission intentions. Additionally, the impact of ratings and reviews on the overall perception of B-schools was explored. To gather data, a questionnaire was distributed via Google Forms to over 500 second-year post-graduate students studying Business Management in various B-schools. Out of the total responses received (201 usable responses), it was discovered that the respondents’ personal experiences either aligned with the reviews they read before admission or surpassed their expectations. Moreover, ratings and online forums had a positive influence on shaping a favourable perception among potential students, ultimately leading to their decision to enrol in a particular B-school. The study also confirmed the moderating effect of SMU. Admission officers should recognize that user-generated content holds greater trustworthiness among prospective students in comparison to content generated by vendors. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize social media in their strategies. Additionally, there is a need to investigate the usage of SNSs by college admission offices and the impact of social media strategies on students’ admission intentions. Consequently, this study focuses on an underexplored area, shedding light on its significance.