Top MBA application

Hello, 

Congrats on the internship and taking the step to prepare already for 2+2. 

- First thing is really to get the GMAT out of the way as it is a pain and cumbersome to do while in the application process. 

- Then I would reach out to the HR team in your MBB and ask them for resources to prepare to apply for MBA → They have LOADS of resources and guides to help you prepare everything and can probably provide you with some coaching as well. 

Best of luck! Let me know if you have any questions! 
Cheers,

Nicolas Vilmin

Hi,

Here are some thoughts based on my own experience applying + observations of my friends

1. Key things to do
   • Figure out specifically is needed for the Wharton & Harvard applications.
   • This will include deadlines, materials needed (e.g. GMAT scores, transcripts, recommendatinos
2. Timeline:
   • On average, I would say it takes 3-6 months to get to a good application
   • Do not underestimate the time it takes to craft and write a strong story
   • Also, your recommenders will need time to write - they will have other commitments etc, so better to budget some time and give them a deadline well before your application deadline
3. Coaching
   • There are dedicated coaching platforms that are targeted towards MBA prep - if you would like a coach I would suggest you start there

Lastly - there are plenty of more focused forums e.g. gmatclub that would be more useful as a platform for MBA specific information, do check that out.

All the best!

Hi there,

Take a look at each university's application deadline, then work backwards from there.

GMAT adds a lot of required time.

Personally, I took about 3 months to prepare, but I had a GMAT/GRE score I could use (which shortened the length) while I also created an edited video essay for my application (which extended the length).

> How much time do I need? What should I do first? 

• Preparing an MBA application typically requires 4 to 6 months.
• GMAT preparation is the most time-consuming part, depending on your math skills. You may need to take the GMAT twice.

> Do coaches here help with this as well?

You might find some. I would recommend to simply contact current MBA students on LinkedIn who might help you to start with the process.

The hardest part is the GMAT, and I would say that a very basic preparation takes 40 hours (just understanding how most sections work and doing a couple of simulations) and a thorough preparation would require some 120-160 hours, in some cases more, depending on where you start. 

Essays and applications for multiple universities can take another 80-120 hours.

Hi there!

I see you have received already several great answers, so just wanted to also make available this resource I put together on MBA programs and how to decide whether you even need one:

• Expert Guide: Are MBAs worth it?

Hope you find it useful!
Cristian