If you want to get an MBA but aren’t sure where to start, Forté can help! We mapped out some suggested steps to get you into business school — from pre-application to acceptance. Applying to a leading MBA program requires preparation, commitment, strategy…and patience. So, pace yourself — and remember, you’ve got this!
January: Join MBALaunch
You don’t have to go through the application process alone — and having a posse to cheer you on is way more fun. Forté’s MBALaunch cohort program offers:
- A structured, step-by-step plan for applying to business school.
- A supportive community of peers who act as a sounding board, genuinely care about your success, and often become lifelong friends.
- Seasoned guidance and tips from business school admissions reps and MBA alumni advisors.
February – April: Attend a Forté MBA Forum
An MBA is a significant financial, professional, and personal decision. Forté’s MBA Forums are free events where you can:
- Connect with admissions reps from high-ranking business schools.
- Hear from successful MBA women who share their personal experiences.
- Explore the ROI of an MBA and what it can do for your career — whether you’re an undergrad, a career-changer, or a professional ready for advancement.
- Learn about MBA options — executive, full-time, part-time, or online.
March: Lay the MBA Groundwork
Once you’ve decided you want to go to business school, you need a thoughtful strategy before you begin applications. Plan your steps carefully, including:
- Prioritize your goals by making a list of what’s important to you in an MBA program. Academics? Location? Size? Community? Recruiting? Alumni network? Cost?
- Research schools to find the best fit that will meet your needs.
- Review class profiles to understand how competitive you will be against the applicant pool.
- Visit campuses to see if they feel right for you.
- Get in touch with students and alumni at schools of interest and ask questions that will determine your fit with the community and culture.
- Draft a realistic business school budget and explore MBA financing options. Researching loan options? Check out our partner, Juno.
April – June: Ace the GMAT
When it comes to the GMAT, preparation can make all the difference. To increase your score:
- Enroll in a prep course to refresh your knowledge, especially if you’ve been out of the test-taking game for a while.
- Take GMAT Practice Tests to feel comfortable and confident going into test day.
- Understand your strengths and weaknesses — and polish the areas where you need the most improvement.
- If you are looking for more application support, consider enrolling in Forté’s MBALaunch On Demand program.
June – August: Focus on Applications
After you’ve done your research, it’s time to work on your applications. Here are some tips to make progress during the summer months:
- Narrow your school list to 8-10 schools, including at least one reach school and one safety school.
- Connect with your top choices at a Forté MBA Forum.
- Draft your essays and get feedback.
- Craft your business school resume, highlighting examples of impact and leadership in one page, if possible.
- Reach out to colleagues who can write recommendations.
- Gather your transcripts.
- Determine any other information that will help your application stand out.
September – October: Hit “Submit” on Round 1 Applications
After incorporating feedback, fine-tuning your essays, and collecting other application materials, it’s time to “hit submit.” To reduce any last-minute stress, submit your applications at least a few days before the deadlines.
November – December: Reflect before Interviews
Up to now, you’ve taken a lot of actions to advance the application process, but this is a time for meaningful reflection. As you prepare for interviews, be sure to:
- Reflect on your unique talents and the specific traits that make you a good fit for each school.
- Consider what questions you may be asked and how you will respond distinctively and not sound canned.
- Come up with thoughtful questions that are tailored to specific MBA programs.
December: Look for Round 1 Decisions
As you begin to hear from schools with Round 1 notifications, you may feel some anxiety. That’s normal. If you’ve been rejected or waitlisted, remember:
- This is just Round 1.
- There is still a lot of time to have a happy outcome.
- Many people end up loving wherever they land, even if it wasn’t a top choice.
January: Hit “Submit” on Round 2 Apps
It’s easy to kick back over the holidays, but don’t relax to the point that you slack on your Round 2 applications. Spend some time over the holidays to make sure your Round 2 applications are ready to go in January.
February – March: Sail Through Round 2 Interviews
The thought of Round 2 interviews can be intimidating, but remember:
- Examples of your team and leadership experiences, goals, and background that can contribute to a school’s – and your own – success.
- You have prepared thoroughly, so lean into your confidence.
- You wouldn’t be there if you weren’t qualified.
- There is only one person on this planet exactly like you, so let your special light shine.
March – April: Hit Round 3 “Submit,” Watch for Round 2 Decisions
You’re almost at the finish line. It’s the last round of application submissions so make it count. As you hear about Round 2 decisions and waitlists, feel good about how hard you’ve worked to get to this point. Congrats, you’re in!
Want a visual of this timeline? We’ve got you! Download our MBA application timeline to stay on track.
Please note that the timelines for applying to business schools and individual preferences vary. This structured approach is just one way for candidates to stay on track. Good luck!
