The Application Process

(1) Is it presently too early to start sending the MBA programs that I know I will be applying to in Round 1 my GMAT score and official undergraduate transcripts?

(2) When do schools start releasing their applications and essay questions for Round 1 applicants?

As a general rule of thumb, yes it is too early. Schools are still dealing with the Fall 2012 application cycle. If you have yet to take the GMAT and you want to send your 5 free score reports to schools then feel free to list them when taking the exam. If you are past this stage then do not waste your money on score reports yet. You may change your mind about applying to some schools. Even if you don't change your mind schools won't even look at it. They don't review applications piecemeal.

As for your transcripts, most schools do not request official transcripts until AFTER you have been admitted. No point in sending them anything right now.

Thank you for letting me know that it is too early. Would you or anyone else happen to know at what point it time that it would not longer be considered to early?

On the official transcript... is what you said also true from a strategic perspective. I mean, let's say hypothetically you went to a good school and have a good history of grades? Would there still be no point on ever sending those transcripts until after a school has already accepted you?

--Russell

Thanks Jon!

I also found your article titled "Thursday Q&A: What Can I Really Do Now for my MBA Applications?" to be rather useful in this regard as well.

For, the benefit of other user I've posted the web address here: https://www.beatthegmat.com/mba/2012/05/ ... plications

And, your suggested "MBA Round 1 Application Timetable" very useful in this area as well. Url: https://www.precisionessay.com/2012/04/m ... -timeline/

All the best, Russell