Applying for an MBA is a significant commitment that requires careful planning and execution. The application process involves several components, including standardized tests, essays, recommendations, and interviews. With acceptance rates at elite programs often below 10%, having a clear strategy is crucial. This MBA Application timeline will help you stay organized, meet key milestones, and position yourself for success.

 

12–18 Months Before MBA Application Deadline: Research, Planning & Profile Strengthening

It may seem early to start preparing for your MBA application over a year in advance, but at Fortuna Admissions, we see time and again that the candidates who begin the process well ahead of deadlines achieve the greatest success. This phase is crucial for understanding your career aspirations, identifying the right programs, and laying the groundwork for a compelling application. At the same time, strengthening your profile early will ensure you present yourself as a strong candidate when application season arrives.

Key Actions:

• Reflect on and develop your career goals and how an MBA aligns with them.
• Research business schools, their programs, and admission requirements.
• Attend events such as MBA fairs, webinars, and campus visits. Look for events hosted by GMAC, The MBA Tour, and individual business schools, which offer virtual and in-person networking opportunities. Consider visiting school campuses. 
• Connect with alumni and current students to gain deeper insights into programs.
• Identify gaps in your resume and work on improvements (e.g., leadership roles, extracurricular activities).
• Cultivate relationships with potential recommenders (e.g. current and former bosses) to ensure strong letters of recommendation.
• Investigate financing options, including scholarships, employer sponsorships, and loan opportunities. 

9–12 Months Before Application Deadline: Standardized Test Preparation

With your school research and profile strengthening underway, it’s time to focus on standardized tests. A competitive test score can significantly strengthen your application and even potentially increase scholarship opportunities, so preparation is essential. Most candidates underestimate how long it will take them to secure their target test score, so allow yourself plenty of buffer time.

Key Actions:

• Take diagnostic tests for both the GMAT and the GRE to determine which test suits you best.
• Develop a study plan; many candidates take online test prep courses or work with a tutor.
• Register for a test date that falls about three months after the start of your preparation, to give yourself a deadline to work toward.
• Be prepared to retake the test; many candidates do, especially those aiming for top programs.

See our related articles, 7 Essential Tips for GMAT Prep and How to Get a Perfect GMAT Score. 

3–6 Months Before Application Deadline: Application Preparation

With a strong profile in place, now is the time to focus on crafting compelling application materials. This is also when working with a Fortuna Admissions coach can add a great deal of value. Our expert guidance can help you refine your application strategy, structure impactful essays, and ensure that your story resonates with admissions committees. To discuss how we can support you with your application development, reach out for a free consultation.

Key Actions:

• Finalize school selection based on program fit and application strategy.
• Double-check all application requirements for each of your target schools.
• Reflect on and define the key messages you want to convey in your application. 
• Start drafting your MBA application essays.
• Request letters of recommendation early, providing your recommenders with relevant guidance.
• Gather required documents, including transcripts.

2–3 Months Before Application Deadline: Application Refinement

As deadlines approach, focus on refining each element of your application. Attention to detail is crucial to ensure consistency and clarity across all components.

Key Actions:

• Refine essays with feedback from mentors or a professional coach.
• Draft your resume and application forms (which often contain mini-essays and should not be left to the last minute). Ensure you are highlighting leadership, impact, and achievements.
• Provide briefs to your recommenders and keep in touch with them to make sure they are on track. 
• Some schools have video questions; now is a good time to prepare for these. 
• Continue networking with alumni and attending school events to demonstrate engagement.

 

1 Month Before Deadline: Final Checks & Submission Strategy

This final month is critical for ensuring every aspect of your application is polished and complete. In our former roles in the admissions offices of top business schools, we often saw otherwise strong applications torpedoed by small errors. So it is important to stay focused right to the finish line!

Key Actions:

• Take a step back, review your applications holistically, and confirm they reflect your strongest candidacy.
• Conduct a final review and proof read of all application materials.
• Ensure recommendation letters have been submitted.
• Ensure test scores are reported to the respective schools.
• Check submission portals for any last-minute updates from schools.
• Submit applications well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.
• Congratulate yourself for getting this far: submitting your application is a major milestone! 

After Submission: Interview Preparation

A strong interview performance can significantly impact your admission chances. Preparation is essential, and not something you should leave to the last minute (or worse, assume that you can just ‘wing it’). 

Key Actions:

• Familiarize yourself with the interview format you can expect from the schools to which you have applied. 
• Practice common MBA interview questions and prepare compelling stories to showcase your experiences.
• Participate in mock interviews with mentors or a professional coach.
• Stay connected with the schools.

See our related article, The M7 Interview And How To Ace It.

 

Final Steps: Decision & Enrollment

Hopefully, when admission decisions are released, good news will be coming your way. Take a moment to celebrate! Then carefully evaluate your options to make an informed choice.

Key Actions:

• Compare admission offers, and any scholarships or financial aid packages.
• Use a decision matrix to assess program fit based on career goals, financial considerations, and long-term benefits.
• Attend admitted student events to gather final insights before making your decision.
• Plan for relocation, visa applications (if applicable), and pre-MBA coursework.
• Finalize financing, including signing loan agreements or confirm other funding sources.
• Celebrate your success and get ready for your MBA journey!

 

Let’s Get You In

The MBA application process is a marathon, not a sprint. Planning ahead, staying organized, and being strategic about each component will increase your chances of success. Need expert guidance to craft a standout application? Book a free consultation with a Fortuna coach today and take the first step toward your dream MBA program. We look forward to speaking with you!