Applying in Round Three? Shining Light on Three Myths Regarding (later) MBA Applications
There are many common myths surrounding the Round 3 MBA application deadline. Most include that you can’t or shouldn’t apply late in the admissions cycle. You may have heard, “the class is pretty much full,” or “you have to be a truly unique applicant,” and “only European programs admit people that late.” There are, of course, bits of truth in these myths, but only bits. In this blog post, we will demystify these myths and give you the facts so that you can make an informed decision.
“The class is pretty much full.”
It is true that applicants from Round 1 and Round 2 make up the biggest segment of the incoming class. However, in many cases, Round 3 applicants arrive before Round 2 admissions decisions are made. The admissions committee does this to generate enough wiggle room. One reason they do this is in case a spectacular Round 3 applicant comes in that trumps an applicant who is about to be admitted. So, the class may almost be full, but a lot of decisions are pending. The admissions committee is keeping open spaces in case a great MBA applicant floods in late.
“You have to be unique to get in.”
Firstly, this is not true at all. Secondly, you can only be as unique as you could have been in the previous round. It’s not an exotic species contest. Remember, what is relevant is whether you are A) qualified, and B) what the class mix needs. And you have no way of predicting what the class mix needs, only the admissions committee does. For example, you may have a low GMAT score, but you also may be exactly what that MBA program needs. Specifically speaking, let's say school X might be light on females, or marketers, or Canadians. You never know.
“Only European programs admit this late.”
European schools do tend to admit quite late. But many U.S. programs keep a sharp eye and/or hold back spots for later rounds too.
If you need help with Round 3, comprehensively or just want to stress test your ideas to make sure you are hitting the mark, contact us here. We have been doing this for a long time and our resultsspeak for themselves.
