Shortlisting Schools

[anb]

I'm planning to apply this fall for 2010 entry. I've begun researching schools and trying to find my "fit." So far I have 8 schools. I've heard that you should typically apply to 4-5 schools. But really, if I have the time, what's wrong with applying to 8 schools...or even 10? The only problem I see is how much more work it's going to be on my references for the LOR's.

Any thoughts??

Thanks in advance!

[beatthegmat]

The questions you have to ask yourself are (1) what do I want to get out of business school, and (2) which business school(s) offer a program/experience that cater to my career needs?

As you get into your research, I think you'll find that each business school is quite unique--featuring its own culture, programs, experiences. I doubt that more than 4-5 schools will really offer the total package that would fit you well, but I may be wrong.

Also, with regard to time--it takes a TON of time to complete even one application! You may be spreading yourself too thin by applying to so many places.

Good luck, I hope you keep the BTG community up to date as you proceed through this process!

All the best,

Eric

[mayonnai5e]

Following up on Eric's point - many schools = many, many essays. Consider that each school will typically have at least 4 essays. That's 32 essays for 8 schools and granted that some themes can be reused from one school to the next, it will still be a lot of work as each question will be phrased just a little bit differently and require more of this info and less of that info.

Also, yes the LOR will be a challenge. With that many schools, you'll probably need to find two sets of recommenders and spread them out amongst schools.

[anb]

Thanks guys for your reply! Great info!

I mainly want to get a really strong business education, because my background is engineering and I want to use the MBA to make this transition. As far as fit goes, I'm still having difficulty with establishing this. I have a lot more research to do, but my initial reaction to "fit" is that I am a pretty easy going person, and not too picky, haha. I guess that's why I want to apply to so many schools. I'm sure as my research continues I will be able to narrow schools down.

And yes, I will post to update on my progress!

[beatthegmat]

I think you'll definitely need to do some more thinking about how you would fit into each school's respective culture. You are going to have to make a compelling case for each school as to why it is perfect for you, and likewise.

Please do keep us updated, good luck!