School selection is as much a science as an art. Think of a Venn diagram where you are searching for the overlapping zone, based on:
- your GMAT/GRE and GPA scores
- your chosen target career post-MBA
- dependency on scholarships
- location/weather/class size (if relevant)
There is no escape from doing this - it is part of strategizing your applications
Build a shortlist of 12-14 schools. Then the next phase of further shortlisting begins, based on networking calls with students/alumni/adcom, research, etc., e.g., the inside culture of schools can vary significantly.
If you are aiming to apply for an MBA in R1 Sep’26 (i.e., starting the program in fall 2027), here’s a rough plan for your use:A. Independent of, and in parallel to B
- Developing/strengthening (read 'packaging') your profile by going through reflections*
- Finalizing CV*
- Developing pointers for Recommenders*
- Figuring out financialsB. Key Milestone*: GMAT/GRE - you needed to have gotten this done by end-June’26 latest, including any reattempts
- If you are an ORM, then please target 705+/332+
- Scores are just a defense to help you not get rejected (but that is not the same as getting selected)C. Dependent on B:
- Research & shortlist schools*
- Networking with students/alumni/adcom*
- Attending webinars/events*
- Drafting essays using the insights from reflections*
- Securing LORs** denotes time-consuming activityA job well done is 99% well planned.Of course, you are welcome to reach out if you wish to take help.
Best wishes.
TheYagami
Hi everyone! I am started giving mocks and one thing that’s currently overwhelming me is the entire college shortlisting/application process. There seems to be so much scattered information online regarding universities, rankings, profiles, placements, scholarships, ROI, country preferences, etc., that I’m not sure where to even begin.
How did you guys start building your college list? What factors should one prioritize initially? Also, is it advisable to talk to a counselor/consultant in the beginning, or is self-research enough initially?
Would really appreciate if someone could share a practical roadmap or resources for navigating the college search process in a structured way. Thanks!