So what happens after the application is submitted?

[andychoo]

hey everyone,

I submitted my application for HBS and Stanford last month and now I'm wondering what happens next. I'm a nontraditional candidate who will be finishing a PhD in Biochemistry this spring from Harvard University. Is the timing for notifying applicants for an invitation to interview based on the strength of your application? If I dont get notified by Dec, can I assume that I was rejected? thanks.

andy

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear Andy,

There is some variance by school as to how long between the time you submit your application and you receive an invitation to interview. Generally, it can take anywhere from 1-6 weeks depending on the volume the school receives. If you have not heard anything after about 4 weeks, I would suggest contacting the admissions office to make sure your application is complete and inquire on the interview status. If you do not receive an interview invitation and the deadline for decisions to go out is within 2 weeks, you can probably assume you will not be interviewed. But once again, it is always good to follow up with the admissions office with any questions on your status.

Good luck,
Lisa

[andychoo]

hey lisa,

Wow, 1-6 weeks? Man, I should follow up but HBS states not to inquire about your application via phone or email. Should I see email them?

best,
andy

[andychoo]

One last thing, HBS and Stanford's notification dates are in late January. Do you think following up now is a bit too premature?

andy

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear Andy,

I would still give it a little bit more time before contacting the schools. My guess is if you don't hear from them by early December, then it is possible you will not be interviewed. Whether or not to follow up is your decision; I think HBS states that because otherwise they would be inundated with calls/emails (but I'm sure some folks still contact them anyway).

Hoping you hear soon,
Lisa