Admission: Apply in the 3rd round vs waiting for the next year

There’s certainly no generic answer to this question, as it depends mostly on the specific situation of the applicants. But we have collected a few basic arguments that you should consider when weighing up the pros and cons.

Better to wait:

1. Unsatisfying GMAT score, based on 1-2 exams only, given that you are feeling you can do better if you spend more time and focus on the exam.  This is especially true for the GMAT score around the 600, as some top schools have cut off and will not even review your application if your score is below that range.
2. Expected promotion – if there are signs you are going to get your first or a significant promotion in the next year or so, you might want to wait. This is mostly true for younger candidates or candidates with limited work experience. The reason for that is that both Admissions Committees and potential recruiters are looking for people with proven leadership and successful track record.
3. Limited work experience – if you’re only been out of school for 2 years or your full time work experience is significantly below the range for the program, you might consider waiting. If you had multiple ideas for professional stories to write about your accomplishment, decision, progress etc for your essays this might be a sign that you have enough experience.

Better to apply now:

1. GMAT score might not be satisfying but you have already taken the exam multiple times, and you either feel that you cannot improve on it or that you don’t have the time and energy to do so.
2. Strong professional experience – if you’ve been working for multiple year and can show progress and growth, you might not want to wait another year.
3. Career switcher – if you have been working for a while and can’t wait to switch industries, you might not want to delay this transition in a year.
4. If you are approaching your 30’s, you might not want to delay your application and give the 3rd round a shot. You want to make sure you are within the age group of the class. Also, potential recruiters prefer students that have experience but will quickly adapt the workplace culture.

There are many more factors to consider when deciding whether to apply or wait of course, e.g. the results of your first and second round applications can play a major role. 

About the author:

Yael Redelman-Sidi is an MBA admissions consultant. She worked at the NYU admissions office and now provides customized guidance for prospective students about the MBA application process. You can visit Yael's blog, Admit 1 MBA, to learn more about her services. 

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