Here is a step-by-step approach to mission-MBA. This is designed by logically prioritizing each of the activities that make up the process. This will be of help to address each task in a timely manner.
- Identify your career goals and identify why you would want to have an MBA. (Read “MBA? Where do I Start?”)
- Choose an MBA program that make the best fit for you in terms of career goals as well as factors like the student body, class size, teaching methodology, placements, student clubs, location etc…
- Set a minimum target GMAT score (the highest of the averages of GMAT scores of the schools you prefer to study at). Remember this is the MINIMUM you must score.
- Prepare, attack and beat the GMAT. If you are required to take TOEFL too, get it out the way. (Be sure to check out my article “The Best GMAT Strategy“)
- Send out your score to schools.
- Make sure you post all of the supporting documents (schools don’t review an application until the file is complete).
- Start your online applications and register your recommenders.
- Make appointments with your recommenders and talk to them about your goals. Let them reinforce in the recommendations the ideas that you wish to project and showcase in your essays and interviews (it’s your duty to keep reminding your recommenders and get your recommendation letters in place before the deadline).
- Draft your essays and have them read by your family and friends.
- Submit your application and hope to get a call from all the schools you applied to.
- Schedule an interview if an applicant initiated interview is required. Rehearse all of your interview responses aloud and read my article “Facing the Interview Beast“.
These apart, ensure you have all of your undergraduate and graduate transcripts ready before you start applying. Also, connect with schools in whatever manner, whenever and where ever possible…attend MBA events, talk to alumni, current students and staff; visit schools (if possible)…show them that you make a good fit and would add to their community.
As a Freshman, I am always exploring online for articles that can help me get further ahead.
There is apparently a lot for me to study outside of my books. Thanks for the great read,