Improve Your MBA Profile Before The Application Deadline

Crafting a distinguished MBA application requires a little bit of everything- solid GMAT/GRE scores, compelling essays and letters of recommendation, a flawless resume, and much more. All of these application components must work together to highlight the best version of yourself and convince the admissions committee that you are suited for their program. 

It is not uncommon, however, for an MBA hopeful to feel like their application is lacking in some aspect. Luckily, whether you’re applying this upcoming R2 or in a few years, there are many ways that you can boost your MBA profile before applying: 

Retake the GMAT/GRE

Although paying another $200+ and restudying for the GMAT/GRE is taxing, it may be what tips the scale in favor of your application. If you feel that your score is not an accurate representation of your strengths, enrolling in test prep may ensure you’re adequately prepared the next time around. For reference, the average GMAT score for the M7 programs is around 730. 

Community Service

It is never too late to make a change within your community! And it doesn’t have to be outside of work. There are endless opportunities that an applicant can partake in, whether it’s leading employee resource groups, teaching a teen algebra, creating panels at work, or volunteering for a nonprofit. Besides your day-to-day job responsibilities, seek to make an impact that demonstrates your leadership skills and global citizenship. 

Take a College Extension Course 

If your GPA isn’t the highest or your degree isn’t the most analytical, consider enrolling in a university extension course like Pre-MBA Studies (UCLA), Math for Management (UC Berkeley), or HBX Core (Harvard). Although these extension courses will not directly impact your undergraduate GPA, they will demonstrate your analytical aptitude, intellectual curiosity, and drive. 

Initiate Unique & Challenging Work Projects  

Your resume should highlight times when you went above and beyond what was asked of you. If you feel that your resume is focused more on your roles and responsibilities rather than your achievements, try initiating impactful projects at work that reveal your leadership capabilities. It will look even better on paper if the impact or result is quantifiable!

Communicate with Your Recommenders 

Are your recommenders up to date on all your work triumphs and career goals? If not, set up a meeting with them so you two can remain on the same page. Although your recommender will be writing the letter for you, you want to ensure that they are accurately portraying your abilities and highlighting your strongest accomplishments. Also, you’ll want to follow-up to ensure they meet all requirements and deadlines. 

Talk to Alumni / Current Students at Your Target Schools 

To succeed on your MBA application, you’ll need to establish that you are knowledgeable about the school's program and culture, and that you’ll be a positive addition. A great way to learn more about a school and the offered opportunities is by talking with alumni or current students. What classes did they enjoy most? How did the program help them reach their goals? What surprised them?  

This talk will prove extra helpful when completing the typical “Why School” essay question found on many MBA applications. 

Try Something New! 

Learn how to play the piano. Attend a conference that advocates for a social cause. Travel to a foreign country. Take a pottery class. Write haiku poems. Each unique experience will provide you with a new perspective or value that shapes who you are. The more YOU can bring to the MBA table, the better!

Work With Ivy Advisors

With a 95% success rate, we’ve helped hundreds of applicants get into elite MBA programs around the world. Our experienced coaches are here to guide you through every step of the process! Book a free consultation with us today. 

Even if you are only able to complete one or two of the tasks above, there will likely still be a significant positive impact on your application. Have a question about MBA programs or about working with Ivy Advisors? Please email courtney@ivyadvisors.com