Applying Round 1 VS Applying Round 2: What You Should Know
Deciding which round you should apply for is one of the first steps in the MBA application process. Many applicants toggle between getting the application finished early-on or waiting to perfect it in a later round. Although a great rule of thumb is to apply as early as you can with the best possible application, it is important to recognize the various pros and cons of applying round one versus round two.
Pros of Applying Round 1:
It shows serious commitment to the MBA program and the school you are applying to
You are only compared against other Round 1 applicants
If Round 1 does not go as you had hoped, you can apply for Round 2 as a back-up plan
You have more time to plan for the start of the program
Cons of Applying Round 1:
The first application that you submit may not be the best possible version after you learn more about the process
Typically, schools receive the strongest applications in Round 1
Pros of Applying Round 2:
You have more time to increase your GMAT/GRE and improve your application
You have more time to research and visit schools
Cons of Applying Round 2:
Most applications are submitted Round 2
You are compared against Round 2 applicants and a few waitlisted Round 1 applicants
Overall, if you are a candidate with solid GMAT/GRE scores who has spent a considerable amount of time perfecting your application, then you should apply round one to your top choice school. If you are a candidate who feels that your application still needs improvement, then you should apply round two to your top choice school. If you have time, you can apply to a couple of fall-back schools during round one that you would attend if not admitted to your top choice during round two.
Although MBA admissions is partially dependent on which round you apply for, the quality of your application as a whole plays the biggest part in deciding your admission status. With adequate preparation, you will have no problem landing the MBA program of your dreams! Book a free consultation with Ivy Advisors today and jump start your MBA application.
