I'm planning to apply for Master in Management (MiM) programs for the 2026 intake, and I’m targeting B-Schools like HEC, ESSEC, ESCP, and a few others. Each school typically has 4 application rounds, and from what I’ve gathered, an applicant is eligible to apply only to one round per school per intake . I’m a bit unsure about how to best split my applications across these rounds. Here are a few questions I’d really appreciate input on: Should I apply to all schools in the same round (say Round 1), or spread them out across different rounds? Would it make sense to apply to dream schools (like HEC) in earlier rounds and safe schools in later rounds—or the other way around? Are there any risks of applying to most schools in the same round? (This might lead to no backup options, or timing issues, which is my primary concern) How do applicants typically approach this to maximize their chances and keep options open? Also, I’ve heard that Round 1 is generally better for scholarships and financial aid , but might be more competitive. What are the advantages and disadvantages of not applying in Round 1?I’d love to hear from those who’ve been through the process—your strategies, lessons learned, or any tips would be really helpful!

Hi, Here’s my take on splitting MiM applications across rounds: Don’t put all your eggs in one basket: I’d spread things out. If you apply everywhere in one round, a single delay (essays, recos, etc.) could mess up your whole cycle, and if things don’t go well, you’re stuck waiting a year. HEC and Round 1: For HEC, Round 1 is ideal since it’s Europe-focused, but don’t make it the first app you ever submit. Warm up with another school first, then go for HEC with your best work. Risk appetite matters: If you’re okay taking more risk, go earlier with your dream schools. If you want to play it safer, maybe apply to a slightly less competitive school first to build confidence and momentum. Biggest mistake in same-round apps: It’s not just the timing risk. A lot of people rush to meet Round 1 deadlines and send half-baked apps. Schools don’t reward speed they reward quality and thoughtfulness. Round 1 vs later rounds: Round 1 often has better scholarship chances, while later rounds give you more time to refine essays and boost your profile. Both have trade-offs it’s about balance. In short: spread them out, pace yourself, and focus on quality over speed.

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Seeking Advice: How to Split MiM Applications Across Rounds for 2026

EishH

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18 Aug 2025, 12:08

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I'm planning to apply for Master in Management (MiM) programs for the 2026 intake, and I’m targeting B-Schools like HEC, ESSEC, ESCP, and a few others.
Each school typically has 4 application rounds, and from what I’ve gathered, an applicant is eligible to apply only to one round per school per intake. I’m a bit unsure about how to best split my applications across these rounds.

Here are a few questions I’d really appreciate input on:

Should I apply to all schools in the same round (say Round 1), or spread them out across different rounds?
Would it make sense to apply to dream schools (like HEC) in earlier rounds and safe schools in later rounds—or the other way around?
Are there any risks of applying to most schools in the same round? (This might lead to no backup options, or timing issues, which is my primary concern)
How do applicants typically approach this to maximize their chances and keep options open?

Also, I’ve heard that Round 1 is generally better for scholarships and financial aid, but might be more competitive. What are the advantages and disadvantages of not applying in Round 1?I’d love to hear from those who’ve been through the process—your strategies, lessons learned, or any tips would be really helpful!

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Schools: Stern '20 (A) Darden '20 (S) NUS '20 ISB '19 (II) Schulich Sept 18 Intake (S)

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27 Aug 2025, 02:36

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Hi, Here’s my take on splitting MiM applications across rounds:

Don’t put all your eggs in one basket: I’d spread things out. If you apply everywhere in one round, a single delay (essays, recos, etc.) could mess up your whole cycle, and if things don’t go well, you’re stuck waiting a year.
HEC and Round 1: For HEC, Round 1 is ideal since it’s Europe-focused, but don’t make it the first app you ever submit. Warm up with another school first, then go for HEC with your best work.
Risk appetite matters: If you’re okay taking more risk, go earlier with your dream schools. If you want to play it safer, maybe apply to a slightly less competitive school first to build confidence and momentum.
Biggest mistake in same-round apps: It’s not just the timing risk. A lot of people rush to meet Round 1 deadlines and send half-baked apps. Schools don’t reward speed they reward quality and thoughtfulness.
Round 1 vs later rounds: Round 1 often has better scholarship chances, while later rounds give you more time to refine essays and boost your profile. Both have trade-offs it’s about balance.

In short: spread them out, pace yourself, and focus on quality over speed.