Where to Maximize Your MBA Effort

Effort can go a long way in MBA admissions. From your GMAT/GRE scores to your school research, every stretch of the admissions process requires putting your best foot forward.

Jennifer Jackson, an admissions consultant at Stratus Admissions Counseling, recently offered a few tips on how to put your best effort into your MBA application.

START EARLY

Putting your best effort requires time and planning. Jackson recommends that applicants start working on their applications at least six months in advance of submitting.

“Every piece of the process requires time, be it writing essays that really sparkle or hunting down that final recommender,” Jackson says. “At a minimum, we recommend allocating 100 days to this process.”

ALLOCATE TIME FOR THE GMAT/GRE

One of the most time-consuming aspects of the admissions process is taking the GMAT/GRE.

“One of the first things an applicant usually starts with is the GMAT/GRE,” Jackson says. “Although we all know the higher the score, the better, how does this translate into what’s the best you can do? That point comes only after you have taken a prep course, possibly worked with a tutor on some particularly rough spots, and had a great test-taking day.”

GET TO KNOW THE SCHOOL

Fit is one of the most important factors in MBA admissions. Be sure to set aside time to research school-specific knowledge for each MBA program that you’re applying to.

“In real terms, this means exploring the curriculum, courses, and clubs; connecting with current students and recent alumni; and, in a perfect world, visiting the school to breathe the air,” Jackson says.

SPELL CHECK

A polished MBA application shows admissions officers that you care and have put the effort in to compile the perfect application. Jackson recommends spell checking your MBA application from start to finish and getting the right eyes on it.

“I don’t just mean making sure your spelling and grammar are right on; you should involve other people in your process who not only check syntax but also confirm that everything else makes sense,” Jackson says. “Although your parents or friends may be able to help you with some of this, be sure to have someone who actually went to business school take a look.”

Sources: Stratus Admissions Counseling, IvyWise

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