When to start the application process for an MBA program
We at ARINGO MBA Admissions Consulting receive many questions regarding what is the ideal timeline to start my MBA admissions process.
Of course, this is all relative and depends on how many hours you are able to put in day to day, but hopefully some of these tips may be able to help. It is recommended to budget around 9-12 weeks, given that you have already taken the GMAT, however, this period of time may allow to be shorter or longer based on your current schedule.
You should start by creating a plan which embodies all the steps of the application process along with a timeline. Look at the due date and work backwards to plot out exactly when you will need to complete each step and master time management.
If you have not already taken the GMAT, this is probably the first thing you must take into consideration. Register at least two to three months in advance. You must give yourself ample time to study. In order to do this, you may need to take into account your employment or studying schedule when signing up for a test date.
It is advised to start researching universities and programs as far in advance as you can. Take your goals and your preferred field into consideration when you do this. If your resources allow you to visit universities, this is ideal, but you will need to start the process earlier. However, if you only are able to perform research based on the schools website, this is also sufficient. When the application information is released, examine them for any specifications. Check and double check the application deadline. Take into account that the time of the deadline may not be the same time zone that you will be submitting your application.
Once you have chosen which schools you will be applying to, (and have taken the GMAT if necessary) comes the time to create your CV. This process may take some time if it is the first time you are creating one. Admissions officers spend a relatively long time going over CVs, therefor it is important to spend the time making sure that yours is in top shape. There is plenty of information online about how to create a great CV, but ask a trusted friend or family member that has experience with CVs for tips and to go over yours.
The next step in the application process is the essay. There really are no shortcuts for writing an essay. There is no knowing how long you will need to write the essays, so allow yourself plenty of time for this stage in the process. It will also depend on how many essays you need to write. Sometimes whilst writing, you may need to take time to overcome a writers block or simply just to get your creative juices flowing. Many applicants say that the essay writing is the most difficult part of the process. So, allow adequate time.
Refrain from asking your references for letters of recommendation at the last minute. This does not reflect well on you and you do not want to write your recommendation in a rush.
Any additional time you have after this, dedicate to interview preparation. There are plenty of interview tips and techniques online, as well as the most popular interview questions.
In conclusion, take all aspects of the process into account, and it is always best to start too early than too late.
We would love to help you with this journey. Check us out at www.ARINGO.com and feel free to contact us to start the process.