Harvard 2+2

Harvard's 2+2 program is not any different from any typical MBA program in terms of curriculum. The only difference is that you are applying when you're a senior in college. If accepted, you work for 2 years and then attend HBS for your MBA; effectively, the program gives you a guaranteed 2-year deferral with acceptance.

As everyone applying to 2+2 is a senior in college, that means almost no one has any full-time work experience. The way to differentiate yourself is to make sure you have a plan for why you need an MBA and how you know that as a college senior.

You can apply in Summer, R1, R2, or R3 -- pick the one that's best for you, knowing that if you apply in R2 or R3, your CGPA will include the grades from your first semester of senior year. That may help or hurt you depending on your performance.

You also have to keep in mind that you'll probably want to start your post-grad job search while completing this application. If you apply in R2 or R3, you won't receive a decision until March or May, respectively; if the result is not favorable, you might be scrambling to find a job before graduation.

Good luck!