5 tips to help plan for a successful application
Congratulations on taking your first step towards your MBA. I know they say the first step is the hardest, but with some planning, it can be easier than you anticipated. The Emory MBA application process matches the program — it’s meant to be well-rounded and give you a chance to put your best foot forward. With several application deadlines, essays, a class visit and an interview, you might not know where to start.
Below are some tips to help you streamline and navigate the application process.
- Work backwards: The easiest thing to do is to give yourself a deadline and plan from there. If you know you’re applying for the Third Round, then you know when you need to complete all your tasks. This also ensures that you don’t wait to the last minute and miss that deadline.
- Make a check list: Create a spreadsheet in Excel (possibly the most cliché MBA recommendation ever) of to-dos, list due dates and whether they have been completed. Having all your progress listed in one place gives you peace of mind and momentum as you check off your items.
- Double up: Efficiency is the name to the game before and during business school, so find ways to make your efforts count. For example, schedule your class visit and interview or personal consultation on the same day. That’s one less visit to campus.
- Apply for a GRE/GMAT waiver: Taking a standardized entrance exam is a significant process. However, it may not be necessary. If you qualify, you may be able to apply and receive a waiver from the admissions staff. As an added benefit, many of the materials requested for the waiver are also needed for your application, including a copy of your transcript and a current resume.
- Account for tuition: Once you are admitted to the program you’ll be required to submit a deposit, and then your first term’s tuition payment. Take the time between to plan for how you’ll pay for school, whether it’s scholarships or loans. Outside funding assistance has its own application process and timeline. Don’t leave the critical part of the process of paying for school off your list.