Fall is flying by, and the winter holidays are just around the corner. While many of us are looking forward to the upcoming holiday season, it is also a reminder that round 2 MBA application deadlines will be here before we know it.
The good news: With proper planning, there is still plenty of time to develop compelling MBA applications. While many of our clients are well into the editing phase, with finalized school lists and GMAT/GRE under their belts, if you are just getting started, we can help you get back on track.
Below, Personal MBA Coach shares a roundup of round 2 MBA application deadlines along with our advice on how to best use the next 5-8 weeks!
Personal MBA Coach’s Accelerated 5-week MBA Application Plan
Week 1: Finalize your school list and testing plans
If you have not yet taken the GMAT/GRE/EA or have yet to achieve your target score, you should schedule your test and begin your test preparation ASAP. While you can take the test at any time during this 5-week window (more if you are targeting schools with later deadlines), be sure to develop a concrete plan today.
Similarly, if you have not finalized your school lists, that should be priority number 1. Do online research, speak to current students or alumni within your networks and attend any school events or tours near you. There may not be adequate time to plan a campus visit before you apply, but do not let this deter you from applying this year if the time is right for you.
Week 2: Select and prepare your recommenders and develop your MBA resume
Next, you should be selecting your recommenders. We have written extensively on selecting and preparing your recommenders in case you need help deciding who you should ask to write on your behalf or determining what information to provide them. Remember, well-thought-out letters take time, and your recommenders are busy; do not wait any longer to ask them, especially with the holidays just around the corner.
In addition, all applicants will need an MBA resume. As an added benefit, developing this resume will force you to take stock of your accomplishments, helping you to determine what to include throughout your applications.
Weeks 3 & 4 (and beyond, if targeting schools with later deadlines and/or a large number of schools): Write, Write, Write
Ideally, you want to have at least one month for this process. However, if you are diligent (we suggest our clients send a new draft every 2 days and we return edits within 2 days), this timeline is possible (depending on the number of schools you apply to). First, get your thoughts on paper. Think through your career goals, why you want an MBA, what you hope to learn from the program and what makes you unique. Most accomplishments from your resume will not fit into your essays, and this is to be expected. Then begin drafting one question at a time. We advise you to begin with the easiest schools or questions, as your writing will improve throughout the process. However, if your timing is very tight, start with the application due first. If you find yourself stuck, make sure to check our Essay Writing blog.
Week 5: Do Short Answer Questions & Proofread!!!
Do not forget to leave plenty of time to answer the short answer questions. Read each requirement carefully (often candidates get thrown off by questions with character limits vs word limits) and minimize repetition. (At Personal MBA Coach, we provide clients with guides for the short answers for all top schools).
Finally, be sure to leave PLENTY of time to proofread. Whenever possible, avoid writing during the last week or two and get someone unfamiliar with your work to proof your application.
Looking for 1:1 support? Schedule a consultation today to find out how Personal MBA Coach can help you!
