Round 2 deadline is usually almost always around the first week of January and for some reason Round 2 always tends to feel more stressful. Maybe it’s the fact that it's essentially the last deadline for international students, that it’s around the end of the year and holiday times..whatever it is, time seems to fly by. With that being said, with some proper planning and scheduling out the process, we can hopefully mitigate some of the stress. Here’s my recommendation of how to timeline your R2 application.
If applying to 5 schools, I’d recommend starting early–as early as September if you can but no later than October (even if you have to study for GRE/GMAT still)
September: Work on Resume; Network
October: Start Applications - Application 1; work on resume if didn’t start in September
November: Application 2 & 3; Connect with and ask Recommenders regarding Recommendation Letter
December: Application 4 & 5; finalize Recommendation Letters
If applying to 3 schools, I’d recommend starting in no later than November, and ideally October to make December less stressed
October: Work on Resume; Network
November: Application 1; Connect with and ask Recommenders regarding Recommendation Letter
December: Application 2 & 3; finalize Recommendation Letters
In both these situations you’ll note that we are always allocating about a month for the first application. While some may finish this faster, it’s better to be safe and that’s why I give it an entire month. Additionally, networking can and should be conducted throughout the entire application period and because of that starting early is the safer bet here–so that one’s able to balance everything better. Finally, I cannot emphasize enough how stressful December and the first week of January can be between holiday festivities. To avoid being that person working on your essays during NYE, start early!!!
For those looking for further guidance in strategizing the MBA/Masters deadlines and improving their application–especially the essays, I invite you to schedule a free 30 minute consultation call with me here. It's 100% free and even if we don't work together, I provide a deep evaluation and advice on your application journey. Nothing to lose, and everything to gain. Let’s help you discover your story and get y’all into some top MBA and Masters programs (with scholarship!) 加油!
Comments