After making waves with its changed essay prompts last year, Wharton has settled into a new normal with only a slight tweak to its 2026-2027 essay prompts. And while the wording change is minor, we believe it gives applicants some much-needed flexibility in an essay set that is otherwise quite prescriptive....
Keeping yourself involved in extracurricular activities while also gunning for that next promotion or trying to learn Python for your day job is no easy feat. That said, MBA extracurricular activities are an important part of your overall story — they reflect your engagement beyond the office and can be a valuable way to demonstrate leadership...
When applying to business school, it’s easy to focus on perfecting your application—acing the GMAT or GRE, writing compelling essays, and crafting a standout story. But one critical factor that’s often overlooked? The actual cost of an MBA. ...
If you browse the “Our Team” pages of top private equity and venture capital firms, you’ll notice a trend—many senior investment professionals have MBAs from top business schools. An MBA provides the technical and leadership skills needed to excel in PE and VC....
Age is just a number, right? We’d like to think so. But if you’ve been researching business schools, you’ve probably come across the class profile for your target programs. These reports help you understand how the admissions committee might view your stats—like GPA and test scores....
If applying to a business school is on your radar (or perhaps you’re already in the process of doing so), you’ve likely come across the somewhat mysterious term ‘M7’ - what is this exactly, you may wonder. Generally speaking, the M7 business schools (also know as M7 MBA schools) are the US programs that are considered...
If you’re researching MBA admissions consultants, you might be wondering how MBA admissions consultants charge—and which type of service is right for you. We get it! The options can be confusing, so in this article, we’re breaking down the common pricing models and service structures to help you make an informed decision....
Originally published on February 16, 2023. Updated on February 17, 2026.
As an MBA admissions consultant, I often see clients, particularly those just starting their MBA journey, feel anxious and uncertain about standardized testing—namely the GMAT and GRE. Questions like “Should I take the GMAT or GRE?”, “When should I prepare and take the exam?”, and “What GMAT score do I need for Harvard?” come up frequently.
These are important questions to ask, but like most aspects of the MBA application process, the answers aren’t always straightforward. To help clarify, here are three commonly held beliefs about the GMAT and GRE that deserve a closer look.
According to GMAT/GRE experts in our network, the GMAT is a more rigorous exam, particularly when it comes to the quantitative section. For some applicants, especially those without a strong quant background, it might seem logical to take the GRE instead. However, the decision is not that simple.
If you have a lower GPA, a non-quant undergrad degree, or little quantitative experience, the admissions committee may wonder if you can handle the academic rigor of an MBA program. Achieving a competitive GMAT score can directly address those concerns. It also demonstrates your ability to rise to a challenge and excel in a quantitative setting.
That said, your ultimate goal should be to achieve the strongest score possible, whether you take the GMAT or GRE. If you have a liberal arts background, submitting a solid GRE score far better than a below-average GMAT result. Ultimately, choose the test that aligns with your strengths and circumstances, rather than assumptions about who typically takes each exam.
Many prospective MBAs assume they should study for and take the exam during the summer before applying. While this is possible, it’s not ideal. Schools typically release their applications, including essays questions, during the summer. By that point, you’ll want to have your GMAT or GRE completed so you can focus on the other components of your application, which require significant time and effort.
GMAT/GRE experts recommend beginning your test prep 10–12 weeks before your planned test date. It’s also important to leave time for two or three attempts, spaced at least 16 days apart for the GMAT or 21 days for the GRE, as required by the testing agencies. With this in mind, we recommend starting your preparation no later than early April.
Honestly, it’s never too early to get your testing out of the way. GMAT and GRE scores are good for five years, and many of our clients achieved their best results while still in college or shortly after graduating, when they were still in ‘study mode’.
If you’re working long hours or managing other commitments, starting early is especially important. Consistency and efficiency in your preparation will be key. Investing in a high-quality prep course or private tutoring can also make a meaningful difference. If you’re unsure where to begin, we’re happy to share resources that have been most helpful to our clients. Email us at vantagepoint@vantagepointmba.com to learn more.
Let’s get straight to it. A 685 (equivalent to 730 on the legacy GMAT exam) is an excellent GMAT score, and it’s close to the average for top MBA programs like Harvard. But does that mean you’re “done”? Not necessarily.
If your undergraduate GPA is below average or you’re part of an overrepresented applicant pool (bankers and consultants, I’m looking at you), you may want to consider whether a higher score is achievable.
How can you decide if it’s worth another attempt:
While a strong GMAT or GRE score is important, it’s only one piece of your application. Even a near-perfect score won’t guarantee admission. Instead of focusing solely on achieving a specific score, aim for a result that reflects your highest level of effort. Once you reach that point, shift your focus to crafting a compelling application.
If you would like help thinking through your testing strategy or developing a standout MBA application, request an initial consultation. Having the right plan in place can make all the difference.
We’re in the thick of Round 2 interview season! If you’ve made it this far, congratulations—you’re one step closer to securing a spot at your target MBA programs. While you’re likely focused on nailing your interview, remember that admissions teams still consider your entire application....
We’ve helped hundreds of applicants craft compelling applications, gain admission to top programs, and maximize the long-term value of their MBA experience. With former admissions directors and top-tier MBAs on our team, we know firsthand what an MBA can truly offer — not just in terms of career acceleration, but in shaping your leadership skills, expanding...
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....
If you considered applying in Round 2 but ultimately didn’t feel ready, you might be wondering whether applying in Round 3 is a better option. You’ve probably heard that acceptance rates are lower in Round 3, but many top programs still offer a third round. So should you consider it?...
If you're fortunate enough to finish Round 1 with multiple MBA acceptances, congratulations! That is a significant achievement. You may have entered the process with a mental ranking of your top programs, but when it comes time to make a final decision, things often feel more complex....
The final weeks leading up to MBA application deadlines can feel overwhelming, but the Vantage Point MBA team is here to guide you with our 7-step MBA Application Checklist, designed to streamline your process and ensure you submit a strong application....
You’ve probably heard the saying, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.” In psychology, this is known as the primacy effect, the idea that the first thing someone sees tends to shape how they view everything that follows. ...
Round 1 decisions are out, and if you got that admit, congrats! It’s an incredible moment, and one that opens the door to some big decisions. For many applicants, that includes evaluating potential scholarship offers....
If you’re applying in Round 2, you’re likely deep into refining your MBA application essays. As you put the finishing touches on your stories, it’s worth stepping back to make sure your writing avoids a few common mistakes that can weaken an otherwise strong application. ...
During the season of Thanksgiving, it’s the perfect time to take a pause and reflect on what we’re grateful for. If you’re applying to business school in Round 2, you may still be in the thick of applications. And if you applied in Round 1, you're likely anxiously awaiting your schools' decisions....
If you're starting to think seriously about applying to business school (maybe you even read our last article, 'Should I Get an MBA? Stuff They Tell You and Stuff They Don’t'), you likely have a multitude of questions swirling in your mind: ...
Preparing a strong MBA application takes more time and effort than most applicants anticipate. With over a decade of experience advising MBA hopefuls, we’ve witnessed firsthand the significant difference between well-prepared applications and those rushed at the last minute....
You were granted a Wharton interview, congrats! You’re one step closer to being accepted. At this point, you might be curious about Wharton interview acceptance rate. Approximately, half of all applicants receive an interview invite, but only about one in five are accepted...
If you’re exploring an MBA to accelerate your career in healthcare, you’re in the right place. This article highlights the top U.S. MBA programs offering standout healthcare-focused resources, networks, and pathways. Whether your goal is to work in healthcare or pharmaceuticals, invest in the sector, or build a career in one of its many adjacent fields,...
As MBA admissions consultants, we’re commonly asked, ‘what GPA do I need for a top MBA program?’ We get it – it’s easy to be concerned that a low GPA (which you have no ability to change at this point) will prevent you from being accepted to the MBA program of your dreams....
Receiving a Stanford GSB interview invitation brings a flood emotions. At first, you’re overjoyed, after all, you’ve been anxiously refreshing your inbox ever since hitting submit on your application. With Stanford’s rolling interview invitations, every ping from your email felt like it could be the one. And when the invitation finally arrived, excitement quickly mixed with...
Preparing for MBA interviews may seem straightforward at first. You might think that outlining and practicing your answers to standard MBA interview questions is enough to succeed, right? Hopefully so, but not always....
While online research and admissions events are helpful, nothing compares to speaking directly with someone who has lived the MBA experience. Student ambassadors, who are current students or sometimes alumni, can offer candid perspectives, share details about program culture and resources, and connect you with peers who align with your interests....
If you're applying to the Kellogg MBA program, you’ll need to complete three video essays. A link to record them will appear on your Application Status Page after you submit your application and payment, and the essays must be completed within 96 hours (4 days) of the application deadline. ...
The last few weeks before the MBA application deadlines can be a whirlwind! To make sure nothing falls through the cracks, here is our 7-step MBA application checklist to help you get across the finish line with confidence:...
“What is a good GMAT score?” is a question we field frequently from clients. Perhaps they have taken the GMAT or GRE at least once but aren’t sure if their score is “enough” to get them into their dream program....
This is the time of year when many applicants realize that the crazy work project, wedding planning, or some other major commitment has left them feeling pressed for time in what is a longer process than they originally thought. As such, this is also the time when many applicants start wondering...
MBA applicants often ask whether top programs offer GMAT or GRE waivers and if taking these tests is necessary. Preparing for these exams can be time-consuming, so it’s natural to seek alternatives....
The 2025–2026 MBA application season is underway. Schools have begun sharing deadlines and essays for the upcoming cycle. Many schools have kept their questions the same as last year. However, we still expect some marquee changes. Specifically, applicants should pay close attention to updates from top programs. Round 1 MBA Application Timeline Regarding the Round 1 timeline, applicants...
If you’re applying to MIT Sloan’s MBA Program, you’ve likely given thought to what you want to express in the required 300-word Cover Letter. Perhaps the trickiest thing about this unique application component is the word limit, which is incredibly short and forces you to have a laser focus on the elements...
After much anticipation, Harvard Business School (HBS) has released its 2025-2026 essay prompts with only minor wording changes from the prior year. Although the edits (deletions, mostly) are subtle, our team finds them to be a solid improvement from last year. For context, HBS overhauled its longstanding single essay prompt last year, replacing it with a trio...
As an applicant or prospective applicant to top MBA programs, you might be wondering about MBA program acceptance rates …and rightly so, applying to business school takes a ton of time and energy, you want to make sure all the effort pays off in the end!...
As another MBA admissions season wraps up, we’ve been connecting with applicants who didn’t get the news they were hoping for. These rejected applicants came to us for answers, hoping to understand what held their applications back and how they can improve their chances if they decide to reapply....
In a world where environmental consciousness and corporate responsibility are top of mind, sustainability has become more than a buzzword—it’s a driving force shaping the business world. At its core, sustainability reinforces the idea that businesses can thrive while protecting the environment, promoting social equity, and supporting economic resilience....
In past articles, we’ve discussed how MBA admissions consultants charge for their services and what to ask when interviewing them. But it dawned on us—we’ve never really shared why you should consider hiring an MBA admissions consultant in the first place....
With Round 2 interview invitations going out, many applicants are shifting their focus to interview preparation. This is a smart move—interviews can be a deciding factor in the admissions process. At Vantage Point MBA, we love conducting mock interviews...
Waitlisted for your dream MBA program? Understanding the MBA waitlist acceptance rate is only part of the equation. Developing a strong MBA waitlist strategy is key to improving your chances of acceptance. This MBA waitlist strategy should highlight what makes you a strong candidate and address any weaknesses in your original application....
Social media is where a lot of life happens. It’s how we share opinions, celebrate wins, jump into debates, and show up for the communities we care about. But how does that play out when you're applying to an MBA program? C...
Are you applying to Chicago Booth? If so, read on for the Chicago Booth MBA essay questions and tips to ensure your answers stand out from the pack. We’re also sharing ideas for how to structure your Chicago Booth essay responses based on what we’ve seen be successful in the past....
HBS and Wharton applications are due in less than 2 weeks. Kellogg, Stanford, Columbia - just one week later. If you've been planning to apply in Round 1, we know you're likely ready to ‘be done with it already.’ We get it. But let's take a pause. Feeling tired or frustrated isn’t a great reason to...
Originally published on July 13, 2023. Updated on July 3, 2024. The Wharton MBA essay prompts are confirmed for 2024-2025 and they remain unchanged from last year. The questions are direct. They allow enough word count. Paint a robust picture of who you are. Explain why Wharton is right for you. As such, this application can be...
You've spent months preparing for this moment. This is the culmination of countless hours of hard work. Soon enough, you will be hitting the submit button on your business school applications. And then the waiting game begins. But first, let's talk about one of the steps leading up to the moment you click submit. What can you...
HBS sent the MBA community reeling when it announced (after months of rumors) that it would be changing its longstanding, single essay prompt this year. The prior question, “As we review your application, what more would you like us to know as we consider your candidacy for the Harvard Business School MBA program?”, was introduced in...
Earlier this week, Stanford announced its application deadlines for the ’24-’25 admissions cycle and confirmed that its main essay questions will remain unchanged next year. Given the reflection and iteration required to craft a compelling Stanford application, it’s never too early to get started on the essays....
The 2024-2025 MBA application season is underway as schools have begun sharing their deadlines and essays for this upcoming cycle, with many more expected over the next month. While many schools have kept their questions the same from last year’s cycle, we do expect some marquee changes this year as well. Round 1 MBA Application Timeline Round 1...
A post caught my eye on the r/MBA Reddit thread this week. It posed a question: “Are there non-soul crushing careers out of MBA?”. The author, an M7 grad, was questioning their career choices. Despite landing coveted roles in management consulting and then private equity, they felt that neither had delivered on their promises....
As another MBA admissions season comes to a close, our team has heard from a number of Round 2 applicants who didn’t get the news they were hoping for on decision day. These rejected MBA applicants came to us looking for answers on where they went wrong and what they can do differently if they decide...
On April 9, 2024, U.S. News released its annual ranking of the best MBA programs in the U.S. We pay attention because the U.S. News MBA Ranking is typically considered to be the most credible and reliable of the various rankings publications (including Financial Times, The Economist, etc. LinkedIn even got in the game this year)....
A recent Fortuna Admissions article shared eye-opening data. It covered Stanford GSB and Harvard Business School (HBS) admissions. These programs tout diverse class compositions. However, the data reveals something else. There's a clear preference for specific professional and academic backgrounds. Who actually gets into Stanford? This is the million-dollar question for many applicants. Navigating Stanford MBA admissions...
DDIf you’re planning to apply to business school and looking for a partner in the process, your head might be spinning from all the firms you see on MBA forums, Poets & Quants, etc. It’s hard to cut through the noise and be confident that you’ve identified the best MBA admissions consultant for your needs. Why...
Yes, you read that right. Every year, our team coaches over 125 management consultants from leading firms. Our data reveals a surprising trend within this cohort. Applicants with a 720 GMAT are just as likely to earn admission to top MBA programs as those with a 780 score. Why does this happen? One might assume elite schools...
In a recent LinkedIn post, our Co-Founder and President, Melody Jones, shared the following: “On Friday last week, a prospective client asked me why I decided to get an MBA. I'm actually surprised that more people don't ask me that :) In case my story inspires you, I'm going to share why I made the decision over...
If you’ve been invited to interview Harvard Business School, congratulations — you’ve cleared one of the most competitive hurdles in MBA admissions. Only about 20% of applicants are invited to interview and from this point, 50-60% of interviewees will be admitted. The HBS interview is an important component of the evaluation process and a final...
If you are currently in your senior year of college or enrolled in a masters’ program that you began right after graduation, this article is for you. While it might be tempting to coast through to your final year, we urge you to consider whether you should apply to one or more of the top deferred...
Relieved that you've clicked submit on your Round 1 MBA applications? Congratulations!We know the hard work and late nights that go into crafting those essays. We understand the seemingly endless application questions. After you've taken a moment to breathe, you may be turning your attention to the next step: the interview.Don't worry—we've got you covered. This...
Kellogg’s Round 1 deadline is today! As you are likely aware if you are applying, the application includes three video essays that are due within 96 hours of submission. As such, today we’re sharing how best to prepare for and tackle the Kellogg video essays. Although Kellogg is not sharing their questions in advance this year, we...
What is MBA networking and why exactly is it important are questions we’re frequently asked by our MBA admissions consulting clients. In an already subjective and sometimes vague process, “networking” can seem particularly abstract or worse, can simply be another “thing” on your long MBA application to-do list....
If you’re interested in pursuing an entrepreneurial career, you’ve come to the right place. This applies whether you plan to launch immediately post-MBA or in the long term. In this article, we share the specific resources offered by top US programs. Furthermore, for those targeting this path, success is not just about the degree. Instead, it...
Aside from HBS and Stanford GSB’s open-ended prompts, MIT Sloan’s essay question is one of the most challenging. Many applicants struggle to decide what to write. Sloan uses a unique cover letter format. The tight word limit makes it more challenging. Focus only on experiences that clearly show your fit with Sloan’s culture. We share our...
Dartmouth Tuck is an ideal fit for those who thrive in tight-knit communities. It is especially suitable if you value experiential learning in an international locale. So, what exactly entails ‘fit’ with Tuck? Fortunately, they tell us! In fact, Tuck devotes an entire page on its website to ‘admissions criteria’ – the four characteristics it seeks in...
If you’re applying to Kellogg, the wait is over. The new essay questions have been released. The prompts have been reworked this year. They had remained unchanged for several cycles. Without further ado, here are the prompts for this year’s Kellogg essays: Kellogg Leaders are primed to tackle today’s pressing concerns everywhere, from the boardroom to their...
The MBA application season is in full swing! Most top business schools have released their MBA application deadlines for 2023-2024. Some schools have also officially opened their applications, and many have shared essay questions. If you are applying in Round 1, now is the time to get started. By July, we recommend that you solidify your test...
[vc_row el_class="chicago-post"][vc_column][vc_column_text css=""] Several key changes have shaped the 2023-2024 Columbia Business School application. First, Columbia Business School eliminated rolling admissions for the fall cohort and removed the early decision option. The school now uses a round-based system similar to peer programs. We see this as a positive shift because it reduces stress around submission timing. Second, the school...
MBA letters of recommendation can make or break your application. Specifically, these recommendation letters - crafted by trusted individuals who have witnessed the applicant's professional journey - validate what applicants assert about themselves and provide additional context about their accomplishments, character, and potential. However, many applicants feel unsure about this part of the process. Consequently, they...
When it comes to plotting out your MBA applications, knowing when to start and what to expect can feel like trying to solve a puzzle without the right pieces. You may be wondering, when do MBA applications open? Is there anything you should be doing now before applications are available? When is the optimal time to...
You must align your professional goals with a specific MBA program to create a competitive application. Relying on school websites is rarely sufficient for due diligence. Instead, you should seek qualitative insights. Specifically, these details help your candidacy stand out. One effective strategy is attending virtual events hosted by your target schools. Furthermore, these sessions offer...
GMAC’s announcement of the GMAT Focus Edition has sparked excitement in the business school community. However, since the test is new, MBA hopefuls are unsure what to expect. What will this new version of the GMAT be like and what will it mean for your MBA applications? Read on to find out and learn other essential...
To begin, let's answer the question of whether the rankings that are published year after year are reliable. The complicated answer is yes and no....
Think of Booth as just a ‘finance school’? Think again. Booth’s marketing and entrepreneurship departments are also fantastic. Marketing is distinguished by its focus on analytics and its recent exclusive partnership with Nielsen. The Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship is recognized as a highly influential incubator. These assets and more helped Booth retain the top spot on...
Recent headlines have highlighted findings from GMAC’s latest survey of prospective graduate business students (i.e., people who have registered for the GMAT and submitted a survey response). GMAC asked important questions around the types of graduate business education today’s students (Gen Z, that’s you!) are seeking and why they are motivated to pursue an MBA or...
To continue our ‘Insider’s Guide’ series, this week we’ll turn our attention to Kellogg. You may have heard of Kellogg’s reputation as a marketing school. Yes, it has a very strong marketing department with renowned faculty members and a strong recruiting pipeline into marketing roles. However, most students at Kellogg actually aren’t focused on marketing. The...
This week, we provide a peek behind the curtain at Wharton! You may think of Wharton as ‘the finance school,’ but that is not all this top ranked program has to offer. It also boasts a world-renowned curriculum in areas such as Real Estate, Healthcare, Entrepreneurship, and Marketing. Curious what else might surprise you? Read on...
Overview of For the second installment of our ‘Insider Guides’ series, we’re sharing everything you need to know about Stanford MBA Admissions. You’ve likely heard of the GSB’s reputation for helping graduates launch startups and enter the tech space, but is there a place for you if those are not your focus areas? Is the culture...
[vc_row el_class="chicago-post"][vc_column][vc_column_text css=""] This week we’re kicking off a new series! Follow along as we share ‘Insider's Guides’ for many of the top MBA programs, beginning with – you guessed it – Harvard Business School. We’ll go beyond the published facts and statistics, sharing what it’s really like to attend some of the most highly sought-after schools...
Selecting an MBA program to apply to is about more than just rankings and scores. Your fit with a particular program and school – both in terms of what you’re looking for and what they’re looking for – is extremely important. Use...
We often get asked a question. "How hard is it to get into Harvard Business School?" Applicants wonder if it's even worth submitting an application. You may have seen this recent article. It appeared on Poets & Quants. The article shared eye-opening data. It came from our peer firm, Fortuna Admissions. The data covers who gets...
MBA interviews can seem fairly straightforward at first. Preparing for them may feel simple. You just need to bullet out your answers. Then practice them. Focus on the standard MBA interview questions and you should be good to go, right? Hopefully so, but not always. Interviews with adcom members may show some consistency. This happens between candidates, this...
We recently came across this article. The Dean of Loyola Marymount's business school wrote it. He eloquently makes a case. Investing in employees' continuing education pays off. Employers can cultivate a higher-performing workforce. They can also build a more committed workforce. We agree and want to add our two cents. We are two women who have...
If you are currently in your senior year of college or enrolled in a graduate program that you began right after graduation, this article is for you. However, while it might be tempting to coast through to the summer, we urge you to consider whether you should apply to one or more of the top deferred...
There’s something about a new year, the promise of what’s to come and the thrill of possibility, that has our whole team feeling excited about 2023! The new year also shifts the conversations we have with applicants. Many move from finishing Round 2 applications to preparing for Round 1 in the fall. We love this question...
If the first two application deadlines for the top MBA programs got away from you, you’re not alone! Now you might be questioning if you should apply in round 3 or wait until next year. While we can’t make the decision for you, we can tell you the truth about round 3 MBA applications. How Top Business...
Being a week or so out from many Round 2 MBA application deadlines, we’re fielding a lot of questions from our clients on how to fill out the actual ‘application’, otherwise known as the application data form. It’s easy to stress that your answers won’t be ‘right’ or will negatively impact your chances of admission in...
Round 2 deadlines approach in less than one month. We're in peak essay iteration mode with many clients. Applicants often ask what distinguishes these two world-class, competitive institutions. What ‘type’ of applicant appeals to each program? Is it appropriate to use similar essay content for both of their open-ended prompts? As MBA admissions consultants, we've spent considerable time...
So, you’re on the waitlist for your dream school? It wasn’t the decision you were hoping for, but the good news is that you’re still in the running. Being on the waitlist means that the adcom really liked you and thought you would be a great fit for their program but, for any number of reasons,...
Are you deciding where to apply? Our newly updated tool can help. It's the Top MBA Program Comparison tool. This sortable table ranks top business schools. It covers dimensions such as class size. It also shows average post-MBA salary. Top recruited industries appear too. And more. It also includes key criteria. These include GPA and GMAT....
You’re probably aware that ambitious, yet realistic post-MBA goals are critical to a compelling business school application. In addition, you must understand how business school will accelerate or pivot your career path. This clarity helps justify the financial and time investment required to pursue an MBA. Many clients we speak with have a general sense of their...
If you’re one of the many who have been impacted by recent tech sector layoffs, you are likely pondering the next steps in your career. Change and uncertainty are scary, but they can also result in important reflection on what you want that next step to be. If business school has been in the back of...
Did you submit a Round 1 application to MIT Sloan’s MBA program? Or perhaps you plan to apply in Round 2? You may have felt surprised. You needed to write so little. Many of Sloan's peer programs require several essays. These are 400- to 500-word essays. Sloan requires only one thing. Sloan asks for a 300-word...
If you’re applying to business school in Round 2, you probably know that writing compelling MBA essays is the foundation of a successful application. In fact, in our experience, writing compelling MBA essays has become increasingly important to admissions success. There are a lot of candidates out there who are qualified on paper and can gather...
If you're applying to MBA programs in Round 2, now is the time to buckle down. Make sure you follow a realistic MBA application timeline. January may seem far away, but strong MBA applications require a lot of work. A timeline helps prevent procrastination. Ideally, you already developed a strong application strategy and personal brand. Use these...
As if the stress of preparing what you will say about yourself during your MBA interviews wasn’t enough, you’re likely also trying to think of questions to ask MBA admissions officers, if one (or two!) will be your interviewer. Not to fear, with a number of former MBA interviewers on our team, we can help you...
If you received an HBS interview invite or are just curious what the experience is actually like, you’re in luck! We got the scoop from two former clients who travelled to campus for their HBS interview (and were ultimately accepted). Note that HBS is still offering a Zoom option this year, but they are also returning...
If you've ever thought about starting a business, this story may inspire you. If you enjoy reading about entrepreneurs who took that leap, check out Vantage Point MBA Co-Founder Melody Jones's recent interview with digital magazine, GoSolo. In the interview, Melody explains how she and her Co-Founder (and best friend), Meredith Shields, turned their passion for coaching...
Congratulations on submitting your Round 1 MBA applications. You should feel relieved after the hard work required for those essays. We know the hard work and late nights that go into crafting those essays and filling in seemingly endless application questions. However, once you have taken a moment to breathe, you must turn your attention to...
With the Round 1 deadline approaching, many MBA hopefuls are currently drafting their Tuck essays. Do not rush these questions. Instead, you must demonstrate a nuanced understanding of the program to sell your candidacy successfully. In fact, Tuck devotes an entire page on its website to ‘admissions criteria’ – the four characteristics it seeks in successful applicants:...
With Round 1 deadlines closing in over the next few weeks, many of our clients are (smartly!) turning their focus to MBA interview preparation. We love mock interviewing with them in the lead up to the real thing and, over the years, we’ve gleaned a number of MBA interview pitfalls to which even the most impressive...
If you're applying to INSEAD, you've likely discovered the essay questions are numerous. Each one also allows for a robust word count. Be sure to plan for the time commitment involved in applying to this program! You'll also face video interview questions after hitting submit. Plan for this. When crafting your INSEAD essay responses, remember this program...
