Reapplying round 1 vs 2

Question

Hello, 

I am reapplying to couple of schools this year after getting rejected in last year round 3 for all schools. My questions is whether I am better off applying during the first round or the second round. The reason I am asking this question:

Given that I applied round 3 last year, would it make more sense to demonstrate improvement over approximately 8 months (in the case of round 2) as oppossed to only 5 months (in the case of round 1) 

Can someone please shed some light. Thanks.

kryzak · Answer

well, it depends on why you were rejected last year. Applying in R3 could have been the reason why you were rejected, as most schools have very few spots left by that time. In such a case, you should apply R1 just so the competition is not as fierce. 

If the reason you didn't get in last year was because you needed more leadership experiences (or extracurriculars), then I would wait till R2 to apply so you can get more "improvements" into your candidacy. 

hope that helps!

mNeo · Answer

I absolutely agree with kryzak's reasoning. 

However, a reapplicant has to write a "What improved since I last applied" essay for every school, right? In that case, applying in R1 will be difficult for you irrespective of the reason you were dinged, because you will have to show progress. You can't just say that since you had applied in R3 last year, you are applying in R1 this year. Or can you?

aaudetat · Answer

They definitely want you to have shown some improvement. Unfortunately, I don't think "learning how to better game the system" constitutes an officially sanctioned improvement, though I do think it's half the problem. I've met some solid people who simply didn't know how to apply. 

The longer time in between, the more valid your claims of further introspection, leadership experience, etc will sound. 

Do you need to apply to the same places? If at all possible, definitely throw in some fresh start schools.

g.matter · Answer

Thanks guys. Yes, I am applying to a combination of old and new schools. Based on the feedback and what I am hearing outside, I am leaning towards applying R2 for the schools that dinged me for fall 2007. 

thanks for all the info.

DJM · Answer

You might want to contact the school from last and ask them if they have requirement for re-applicants.

For example, I am 'almost' certain that Wharton requires re-applicant to re-apply in R1. Thats what I have head and thats what I am doing (I am a re-applicant as well).

So call em up and share with us what you find.

aceman626 · Answer

I don't think that's true...can you show me where they say that?

ncp · Answer

I read an extenuating circumstances essay in paul bodine's book in which a re-applicant explains why he is applying in R2.

FYI.

g.matter · Answer

Not sure if they have such requirements. I researched wharton alone. Please see attached

Reapplying round 1 vs 2

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