Understanding the MBA Application Process: Five Things You Can Be Doing Right Now

Originally published on January 18, 2024. Updated on January 21, 2026.

Yes, it’s only January, and it may seem like there’s plenty of time before the first round of MBA application deadlines. However, there are several crucial steps you can take now to get ahead and reduce your stress later in the fall.

Start by laying out a month-by-month timeline for the year. Assume everything will take longer than expected, because it often does. In the best case, you’ll be ahead of schedule. In the worst case, you’ll still be on track.

1) Schedule Spring Class Visit

Many applicants are surprised by how little time there is to visit schools in the fall before Round 1 deadlines. Spring is the ideal time to plan your visits, especially while classes are still in session (not during summer break).

If you’re aiming for Round 1, which is a smart move if you’re already thinking ahead, try to schedule your visits this spring. You’ll have the opportunity to speak with students when they are more available and less focused on recruiting. You can hear directly from both first- and second-year students about their experiences.

School visits are invaluable for assessing which programs are the best fit for you. They also provide specific details about clubs, classes, and culture that are hard to grasp from a website alone. In our experience, applicants who visit schools tend to write stronger essays than those who don’t.

2) Take the GMAT or GRE ASAP

Knowing your GMAT or GRE score early in the MBA application process is helpful for several reasons. While it’s only one component of your application, your score can help you shape your school list and begin your research.

If your score is lower than expected, you will have time to act. That may include retaking the test, switching exams, or taking supplemental courses to strengthen your academic profile.

Finishing the test early also frees up your schedule to focus on the strategic parts of the application process, such as defining your story and refining your career goals.

3) Get Those Coffee Chats on the Calendar

An MBA is more than an academic degree. It’s a holistic experience with many aspects that are hard to understand without having been there yourself. Reach out to people in your network who have earned their MBA and ask them about their experience.

These early conversations can help you gather insights that will shape your research and planning. They may also lead to stronger letters of recommendation later on, if any of these individuals end up writing on your behalf, especially if you remain engaged and demonstrate initiative.

For more on how to navigate these conversations effectively during the MBA application process, check out our article on networking.

4) Be Honest About Your Weaknesses

There is plenty of information out there about what MBA programs look for in candidates, but it is just as important to reflect on where your profile may fall short and take action early to strengthen it.

Common areas of weakness include:

• A low undergraduate GPA
• A lower than expected GMAT or GRE score
• Minimal extracurricular involvement
• Limited leadership experience

If GPA is one of your concerns, we created this guide with advice on practical steps you can take to strengthen your application.

5) Start Thinking About Your Goals Now

Being able to clearly explain why you want an MBA and what you plan to do with it is a core part of the application process. Programs are looking for candidates who will use the degree to achieve meaningful goals and make an impact.

For 75% of the people we work with, defining their goals is one of the hardest parts of the process. It takes time, conversations, research, and often a bit of soul-searching.

Start by reviewing employment reports for your target schools. Explore LinkedIn profiles of professionals with career paths that interest you. This kind of research will give you a clearer view of what’s possible and help you shape your own path.

From there, refine your goals to align with your background, values, and the strengths of your target programs.

If you’d like expert guidance on defining your goals or creating a personalized plan for your MBA application process, reach out to request an initial consultation. Starting early can make all the difference.