Take These Steps After Submitting Your MBA Application

You’ve hit submit on your MBA application. Now what?

Catherine Tuttle, an expert coach at Fortuna Admissions and former Associate Director at Duke Fuqua, suggests several actions you can take to strengthen your profile during this interim period.

STAY CONNECTED

Showing continued interest in an MBA program is vital during the waiting period. Tuttle recommends keeping in contact with alumni and current students, especially if you mention these individuals in your application.

“If your essays mentioned specific students, which is common, know that admissions could reach out to them,” Tuttle says. “When this happens, admissions might say to your contact, ‘hey, I see you’ve been talking to some prospective students,’ and you want to be front of mind if, and when, this happens. A brief follow-up email saying – many thanks for your time and invaluable advice, I’ve submitted my application and hope to share good news in the coming weeks – is a great starting point.”

KEEP RECOMMENDERS UPDATED

Your recommenders spent time and energy in supporting your MBA candidacy. It’s important to keep them updated about your progress and show your gratitude.

“A recommender typically feels committed to your success,” Dr. Marlena Corcoran, founder of Athena Mentor and contributor at Forbes, says. “It is important to acknowledge that support, as well as the time it took to compose and submit the letter.”

STAY ENGAGED

During your interim period, be sure to stay engaged in your work and professional development. Interviewers will typically be curious about how you spent your time during this period.

“Often you’ll get an interview question such as, ‘What’s different since you applied?’ Or, ‘Have you had any developments? Has anything changed?’ It’s ideal to reply confidently, ‘Yes, the board I’m involved with has been able to do X, Y and Z, and it’s been really fulfilling for me’ or ‘Indeed, I’ve been very involved in this leadership opportunity at the office or ‘I’ve continued to master Spanish to prepare for an upcoming trip,’” Tuttle says. “Whatever it is that you do, you want to stay engaged and build new stories to share.”

VISIT CAMPUS

If you’re able to, try visiting the schools you’ve applied to. Tuttle recommends visiting during the summer, outside of formal campus tours, to get an authentic portrayal of the school’s atmosphere.

“You are more likely to experience the in-session culture, energy and overall vibe of the place, and you can audit a class,” Tuttle says. “This can also help you feel more confident and comfortable as you prepare for the interview.”

Sources: Fortuna Admissions, Forbes

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