MBA Application: Which round to apply?

When to submit you MBA application ?

MBA Application: Which round to apply ?

Once you have decided to study MBA, have your test scores in line, have zeroed down on potential schools you wish to join, a very pertinent questions that comes to mind is when to apply?

Most of the schools have minimum 02 to up to 04 rounds of admission cycles. 

Which stage to apply? 

Round 1, Round 2 or Round 3.

We decode the pros and cons of each of the round for you to help you easier to decide:

Round 1: Best to apply as early!

a.     You have a very good test Score, you are confident of a very well-crafted application essays and want an admit confirmation at the earliest.

b.     Getting a secure admit call in this round may give you some time to manage other important things such as finances, visa formalities, accommodation among others.

c.     It is preferable to apply early in the admission cycle if you belong to an overrepresented pool of applicants, e.g, Indian male IT professional. Chances of rejection are higher as the admission cycle progresses.

d.     You have a greater chance of securing scholarship as most of the funds are available in early stages.

Round 2:

a.     Gives you more time to manage your essays, recommendation letters and even test scores!

b.     Its worth waiting if you aim to improves scores, awaiting a promotion or winning some remarkable recognition that adds value to your profile.  

c.     Admission committee tends to become more and more selective as they have fewer seats available.   

Round 3 or still later:

a.     You should be applying when you are ready.

b.     You belong to an underrepresented pool or you have an extraordinary profile.

c.     If you believe you can still bring something truly stellar before the admission committee adding diversity to the already selected cohort.    

To summarise, you should apply when you are best prepared. No need to rush just to meet a deadline.

Good Luck!