But the full entanglement begins long before business school graduation. So, since MBA students tend to be older, many women have to factor a partner or children into the graduate school decision, especially if it involves relinquishing a paycheck and/or relocation. But there is a potential double standard: husbands and boyfriends, especially those with careers, are often less willing to relocate on their female partner's behalf, than vice versa.

• No Urgent Matter
Another motivation for business school employment for women may be low is that an MBA is not a barrier to entry nor is it a requirement for success in business. It isn't a ceremony of passage in many fields that appeal to high numbers of women: marketing, publishing, fashion, and teaching. To compare, if your goal is to be a lawyer or doctor, you simply can't practice without the requisite degree. Business schools are basically different as the career path is one where the MBA can put you on any number of tracks. It can be banking, accounting, or management, but doesn't require a credential. With the lack of compulsory degree for business and the late starting age to enter a program, some women perceive a high opportunity cost for the MBA.

• Fear of Math?
Why most women aren't pursuing the MBA is a question the business schools have been asking themselves for years. The succeeding issues were recognized as key obstacles to business school for women: the MBA is still seen as a male domain. There is a lack of support from employers; a lack of career opportunity and flexibility; a lack of access to powerful business networks and role models; and a perception that b-school is overloaded with math.

According to the schools, on the math issue, math fears are just that - fears. Perhaps, math traditionally was considered a hurdle, but we see so many women who have strong skills coming from fields that are quantitative, such as banking and engineering, that we think the math fears are almost a myth. But it’s only a myth we want to work against. The applicants just have to know they can handle the math. To a certain degree the math phobia may be unfounded, and still it's a perception that has been long-lasting. Women come here and perform extremely well.

Once you're frightened by math, you need to know that a business school education does require a basic command of the subject. You do need to be comfortable with numbers. The most intensive MBA programs are going to be rigorous in math. Knowledge of how to influence and lead an organization requires understanding the language of business, which includes accounting and finance.

Potential MBAs with a math-phobia still need not panic; most programs will work with students who lack the necessary math background.