Round3MBA application process is like running a marathon. Sometimes the best-laid plans go astray because you tend to miss the deadlines. It might feel like a huge setback to miss the R2 deadline, forcing you to decide whether to recover and try for R1 next year or take your chances with R3. However, there isn’t any universal solution to this problem. Your unique situation and level of application preparedness will decide what your next move must be.

If you should apply for R3 (This Year):

  • Momentum: Since you have already invested time and energy into your applications, you can take advantage of that momentum. If you’re familiar with the process and your recommenders are aligned, you will need little help with the next round.
  • Faster Timeline: If the clock is running by and you are eager to start your MBA sooner rather than later, R3 might offer the quickest path.
  • Testing Your Luck: If your profile is exceptionally strong, you might still have a chance in R3, however to be honest, chances in R3 are usually very slim. It is always better to apply in the R1 upcoming year.

If you should apply for R1 (Next Year):

  • Application Strength: R1 offers several advantages as compared with other rounds. Another year will give you more time to further strengthen your profile. This could involve improving your score, gaining more work experience, taking on further leadership roles and deepening your EC involvement. A stronger profile will always increase your chances of admission, be it any round.
  • Availability of more seats: Business schools have more available seats in R1 as compared to other rounds. This means better acceptance rates as compared to later rounds, as they are looking to fill a significant portion of their class.
  • Refined Essays: Rushing for R3 might lead to submitting essays that aren’t as polished as they should be. Another year will allow you to craft compelling narratives that resonate with adcoms.
  • Scholarship Opportunities: Usually top B-schools (HBS, Stanford, Wharton, Booth…) distribute a big portion of the scholarship funds to applicants during the early rounds.
  • School list: Many top business schools don’t have round 3 deadlines. So, applying next year will allow you to select all your target schools and not compromise on the school list. Also, it will give you a window to strategize your applications for different rounds.

Factors you should take into consideration while deciding:

  • The strength of your profile: Is your application strong or borderline? If your profile is already very competitive, R3 can be an option. However, if you think that your profile has significant weaknesses, addressing them before applying will be very crucial.
  • Timeline: How important is it for you to start your MBA as soon as possible? Can you wait another year? Age can sometimes play a crucial role in deciding this.
  • Application Materials: How confident are you with your essays and other application materials. Can you realistically polish all aspects to a high standard in time for the third round?
  • School-Specific R3 Acceptance Rates: Most schools have significantly lower acceptance rates in R3.

Whether you choose to apply in R3 this year or R1 next year, focus on submitting the strongest application possible. A well-prepared and compelling application will always give you the best chance of success. Still confused? Contact ARINGO MBA Admissions Consulting today for a free profile session.