A Strategic Guide to Navigating Round 1 MBA Applications
September 16, 2023 :: Admissionado Team
We all know the MBA application process is a tough one. Between researching programs, writing essays, visiting schools, finding recommenders, and, oh yeah, holding a job simultaneously, it’s all too easy to get lost in the shuffle. Like most things in life, it helps to have a plan. And to stick to it. Because, trust us, the last thing you want to do is try and cram everything in the month before those deadlines. [It’s ugly. Very, very ugly.]
The good news is, if you’re targeting Round 1 or Round 2 or Round 3, we’ve got a plan for you to build your application efficiently. Today, we are focusing on Round 1 – where the majority of MBA hopefuls apply.
Why Round 1 Matters: Is Round 1 Better Than Round 2?
Applying in Round 1 gives you several advantages. Admissions committees have a fresh slate, and there are more available spots. For international applicants, applying early is crucial due to the competitive nature of these programs and limited spots. If you’re targeting top business schools, applying in Round 1 can significantly increase your chances of acceptance. With that said, don’t rush to finish your applications just to make the R1 deadline. It won’t benefit you much to submit a less-than-stellar application…in fact, it’ll hurt your chances. Apply in R1 if you’re positive that what you’re submitting can’t be improved further and you’re happy with it…otherwise, apply in Round 2.
Month One (Ideally, May): Preparation and School Visits
Visit Schools
Visiting schools is very important, not only so you can get a feel for the schools and make sure you actually, you know, wanna go there, but also to give you material to later use in your essays. And you are gonna wanna visit when classes are still in session so you can sit in on a few, talk to some people, and really experience the school. That means you gotta get those done by May, before classes end for the summer.
GMAT Preparation
Why May? Well, that will give you about a month and a half before the essays are released and, should you have to re-take the test, you’ll still have time to do so before you need to buckle down and write those essays.
Of course, if you can’t take the GMAT by May, it’s not the end of the world. Plenty of people have prepared for the exam while simultaneously working on their application essays, but it’s ideal to separate those two beasts so you can give ‘em both everything you’ve got.
Start Approaching Recommenders
Depending on how many schools you’re targeting, writing LORs can be a very timely task for a recommender. Be considerate and approach your recommenders early so they have some time to work on those letters. And if you’re still not sure what schools you want to target (and can’t actually have anyone start writing just yet), at least approach your recommenders and give them a heads up.
Month Two (June): Research and Networking
School Research
Between May and June, you should spend time researching your target programs. Just open up a separate Word doc for each school and write down the aspects of each school that you like (specific classes and professors, student groups, companies that recruit there, etc) and how that specific program will help you reach your career goals.
Reach Out to People
This is also an ideal time to contact students/alumni/professors/etc. from each school to get their take on the program to better inform your decision. (Bonus: you can name-drop….erm… mention these contacts in your application later, which will only help ya.)
All of this research will be mega-useful when it comes time for your interview and your “Why our school” essay, but will also help you be more sure about your choice of schools.
Resume Refinement
There’s a big difference between the resume you use to apply for a job and the resume you’ll use to apply to b-school. Take advantage of this time before the essays are released to tweak that sucker, and get it ready for the adcoms.
Organize Your Thoughts
Sure, you don’t know the essay prompts yet, but that doesn’t mean you can’t start preparing. Write down your short-term and long-term career goals. Start thinking of your greatest leadership experiences (or, as we call ’em, your ‘greatest hits’), both inside and outside the office. Ask yourself WHY you need an MBA, and why NOW? Get all those things down on paper. These are the foundation to any and all MBA application essays, and having some clear thoughts and ideas early is going to make for a much easier writing process.
Month Three to Submission (July to Deadline): Writing and Finalizing Applications
Essays
Essay questions are usually released in mid-June, marking the start of crunch time. Set internal deadlines to complete drafts, review, and edit your essays. Aim to finish early to leave room for unexpected work or personal commitments. The key is to give yourself ample time for multiple rounds of revisions.
Set Internal Deadlines
Break down the application process into smaller tasks and set internal deadlines for each. This could include completing specific essays, updating your resume, or submitting recommendation letters. Meeting these mini-goals keeps you on track and reduces last-minute stress.
Finalize and Submit
As you approach the deadline, review all components of your application. Ensure your essays are polished, your resume is updated, and your recommenders have submitted their letters. Double-check each application for completeness and accuracy before submitting.
Conclusion
Applying for an MBA in Round 1 requires careful planning and time management. By starting early, researching thoroughly, and setting clear goals, you can create a compelling application that showcases your strengths and aspirations. Remember, the earlier you apply, the better your chances of acceptance. Use this guide as a framework, adapt it to your unique situation, and take charge of your MBA application journey. Good luck!
