Will an unsuccessful application harm you?

[yangxuandudu]

I really need some help here and I appreciate your inputs.

I have my mind set on two of the top ten schools. And I'm debating if I should apply this year (2009 admission) or next year (2010 admission)

My primary goal is to get into one of these two schools regardless the timing.

However, I would prefer to go to B-school in 2009 rather than 2010 due to personal reasons.

Yet I think I'll be a little better prepared if I apply for the 2010 admission, mainly because it should give me some time to add some community work experience.

My strategy is to apply this year and if I don't get in, I'll apply again for the same two schools next year.

Now my question is: if I don't get into my "dream schools" this year and reapply next year, will my unsuccessful applications actually harm my next year's applications?

Thank you very much!

[VP_MBA_Guru]

Hi Yang,
Great question - a reapplicant candidate is not looked down upon. In fact, many candidates get into their dream school as a reapplicant.

The thing to consider is if you dont get in and then reapply, AdCom will expect you to show some improvement in your application... in fact, many reapplicant essays ask you directly 'how did your candidacy improve since your first applied'. This can include higher GMAT score, job accolades (promotion, bonus, new responsibilities), additional training.

While you dont have to show significant improvement in all aspects of your candidacy, you should be able to point to a few enhancements in your candidacy. This may be difficult to do in one year (assuming you are declined admission in Winter of 2009 and then reapply in the Fall).

Regards,

N