Landing a spot in a top MBA program is a fiercely competitive process- with thousands of applications submitted each year and only a small percentage resulting in admission. This is why having an edge in your application is crucial. ARINGO MBA Admissions Consulting is here to reveal some hacks and hidden advantages that can help you stand out.

Hacking the MBA Application: Deadlines and Waivers

Setting a clear timeline is the first step in your application journey. Some programs offer “early action,” which can grant you additional consideration for admission. Schools with these programs include the

  • University of Virginia Darden School of Business
  • Duke University Fuqua School of Business
  • Dartmouth College Tuck School of Business
  • Georgetown University McDonough School of Business
  • University of Toronto Rotman School of Management.

Submitting your application early may grant you additional consideration. For example, a binding early action agreement with Darden means that if you are admitted, you pledge to attend and withdraw your applications from other schools. Some schools, like Tuck, may even guarantee an interview if you apply by a specific early date. It is important to remember that all deadlines are based on past cycles, so always check for the most up-to-date information.

Another key hack is seeking fee waivers. Application fees can be anywhere from $100 to $250 per school, so finding waivers can be a huge advantage. Schools like Carnegie Mellon University Tepper School of Business, Cornell University Samuel Curtis Johnson Graduate School of Management, and Duke University Fuqua School of Business have been known to offer waivers for attending program webinars or events like the GMAT Club MBA Spotlight.

MBA Exam Hacks: Understanding Your Test Options

The GMAT and GRE are accepted equally by most MBA programs. However, if you are planning a career in MBB (McKinsey, Boston Consulting Group, Bain) consulting or investment banking, you may be asked for a GMAT score during the recruitment process. The GMAT and GRE test different skills, so if you’re struggling with one, consider taking a practice exam for the other to see if it’s a better fit for you.

The Executive Assessment (EA) is a shorter, condensed version of the GMAT, originally for Executive MBA applicants but now accepted by some full-time programs. This includes:

  • Columbia Business School
  • NYU Tepper School of Business
  • Duke University Fuqua School of Business
  • Georgetown University McDonough School of Business
  • University of California, Los Angeles Anderson School of Management
  • HEC Paris

Keep in mind that using the EA might limit the number of schools you can apply to, as top schools like Harvard and Stanford do not accept it.

Many schools also offer GMAT/GRE waivers based on a strong quantitative background, demonstrated through work or undergraduate performance. Historically, schools like Tuck, NYU, and MIT have offered such waivers.

For international students, Duolingo has become a more widely accepted English proficiency exam. Top schools like the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School, Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management, University of Chicago Booth School of Business, and Harvard Business School have accepted it in the past. Additionally, some schools, such as MIT Sloan School of Management, Columbia Business School, Yale School of Management, and Duke University Fuqua School of Business, do not require any English proficiency exam at all.

Letters of Recommendation and Networking

Letters of Recommendation (LORs) can feel outside of your control, but you can prepare your recommenders by meeting with them and sharing your goals and achievements. Many schools accept a common letter of recommendation available on MBA.com. Some schools, like MIT, Columbia, and Fuqua, only require one letter, which can be a relief for applicants who might have difficulty getting a second one. A notable exception is USC Marshall, which requires zero letters of recommendation. A useful tip is to set a deadline for your recommender two weeks ahead of the official application deadline to ensure your application is complete on time

Networking is a crucial part of the application process and can significantly improve your chances of admission. Admissions committees want to see that you have done your research and are genuinely interested in their program. Speaking with current students is a great way to determine if a school is the right fit for you. You can find current students on LinkedIn or through specific student clubs, such as those for consulting or entrepreneurship.

Make sure to track your conversations and mention them in your application, as some schools like Columbia may ask who you’ve spoken with or which events you’ve attended. Building strong relationships can even lead to endorsements from students, which can be a powerful factor in your admission decision.

By using these hacks and tips, you can transform your MBA application from a stressful process into a strategic one, significantly increasing your chances of getting admitted to a top program. This is where Aringo MBA Admissions Consulting can be an invaluable partner. Our team can assist you with every step of the process, including:

  • Strategy and Planning: Developing a clear application strategy, selecting schools, and creating a project plan with personal deadlines.
  • Application Materials: Preparing your CV, assisting with essay writing, and providing guidance for letters of recommendation and scholarship submissions.
  • Interview Preparation: Helping you prepare for your interviews to maximize your performance.
  • Expert Guidance: Providing support to help you overcome self-doubt and stay on track with your goals.

With over 20 years of experience, ARINGO team is ready to help you with the complexities of the MBA admissions process. Contact us today and take the first step towards you MBA dream.