Some candidates ask whether they can submit their applications for a certain round even if their recommendations come in a day or two late. Here’s the answer: most schools will consider the application incomplete if everything is not submitted by a deadline, including the...

It is important for MBA applicants to recognize that recommendations are just as important as the MBA admission essays. Recommendations help distinguish you for admissions committees through a third-party lens. You can be rejected from a top program on the basis of one unexceptional recommendation...

The way in which you present your long-term goals to the admissions committee can greatly influence your chances for admission. Use your long-term goals and distinct wording to set yourself apart and present yourself as a leader, an innovator, and someone who will be very...

With Round 1 admissions, each business school will have already admitted a diverse range of candidates. In submitting a Round 2 application, you are asking the admissions committee to integrate you into the mix. To show that you are a standout applicant, make sure to...

Every year, many qualified candidates approach me unsure about whether or not to apply in Round 2. There are several reasons for their concern. First, MBA programs will have already offered admission to some Round 1 applicants. Hence, there will be fewer overall seats...

What are some important steps to take that can help you secure better recommendations once it is time for you to submit your MBA applications? First, bear in mind what you need the recommendations to say – that you are a great performer and you have...

Many candidates fail to recognize that their recommendations are as influential in determining their admissions success or failure as their MBA admission essays. You can have a fantastic candidacy and application in every other way (application form, GMAT score, GPA, essays, resume, work experience...

Some candidates, particularly those who did not attend college where English was the primary medium of instruction, are concerned about the impact of a low TOEFL or AWA score on their admissions odds. A low TOEFL or AWA score can certainly have a negative...

For candidates just getting started in preparing for MBA admissions and for candidates choosing among business schools after gaining admission, many key factors should influence your choices. Of course, for the candidate just getting started, you must assess where you are competitive. But for both...

Instead of a clear “yes” or “no,” some candidates will find themselves on an MBA admissions waitlist. Some schools, such as the Wharton School or Harvard Business School, ask candidates not to provide additional material. Many programs, however, will accept new items of information and...