The Do’s and Don’ts of Applying to Business School

Although you need to be sure to check the specific entry requirements for each school you apply to, the GMAT/GRE exams are almost always necessary when it comes to applying to business school.

The GMAT is the most common entry exam for business school admissions and focuses more on your numerical and analytical skills, while the GRE is more versatile and assesses the way you think about business.

Wait, what? It may sound counter-productive, and we’re not saying the opposite and for you to leave your application until the last minute. What we’re saying is, don’t rush anything. Give yourself enough time to do the best job possible and make sure it’s the best it can be.

You’re going to want to make sure your application shines brightest when the admissions team filter through the myriad of other stand-out applications, so you need to make sure every possible qualification, skill and experience you have is on it.

However, you’re going to need to be strict and consider what are the most critical elements of your application that need to be kept in, and what can be chucked out.

You’d benefit from having some fresh eyes look over your application, so ask a friend or family member to go over it and see how it comes across to them. Does your application sound genuine? Are you playing down your achievements? Don’t give the admissions team any reason to doubt your application.

Which brings us on to our next point…

Your application is essentially the digital version of you as a person. If you can get your personality and positive attitude across in words before the admissions team have even met you yet, then you’re doing well.

But be careful! If you’re applying to several business schools, make sure you demonstrate your knowledge and understanding of what each school stands for. Make sure your admissions essay is honest and reflects your interest in that particular business school and the degree program you’re applying to.

Mark your calendar as deadlines can come around a lot quicker than you may realize, and most business schools refuse to give extensions.

This includes an up-to-date CV, degree transcripts (which may need to be translated depending on where you studied your undergraduate degree), admissions essay (see above), up-to-date TOEFL exam results, as well as GRE or GMAT scores.

Business schools all have their own checklist when it comes to what is required when you apply, so double check with each school before you send anything off.

If something goes wrong, or you weren’t successful the first time round, you may want to take a step back and think about what it is you could do to try and make your application even stronger next time. You haven’t missed your only shot at an MBA, so relax and start the process again.

This article was originally published on July 24th, 2019. 

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