If you want to get into multiple business schools, you’ll need an application strategy.
US News We recently spoke with experts about how to maximize your chances of being accepted into multiple top business schools, how to customize each application to reflect your unique goals and experiences, and more.
Set safety, goals and objectives
Applying to business school is a numbers game, and your application list should include a number of safety schools, goal schools, and reach schools.
“The more business schools an applicant applies to, the greater their chances of being accepted to multiple schools, which is why we encourage our clients to apply to at least six schools, if possible,” says Sam Weeks, MBA admissions consultant and founder of Sam Weeks Consulting.
Most experts agree that the optimal number of schools to apply to is five or six.
“Applying to five or six schools allows you to apply to a mix of affordable, competitive and safe schools and really puts you on the map,” says Erika Väätäinen of mbaMission. “Of course, every applicant has their own risk profile and timing to consider, but for most candidates, applying to too few schools increases the risk of rejection, while applying to too many schools can be overkill.”
Customize your application
It’s not enough to apply to multiple business schools — you need to make sure each application is specific to the MBA program you’re applying to.
Scott Edinburgh, founder of Personal MBA Coach, says each application should contain four elements: “ability to handle the academic rigor of the targeted MBA program, leadership potential, how you will add unique value on campus, and clarity of purpose.”
Secure your GMAT or GRE scores
Although many business schools have gone test-optional in recent years, experts say that a high GMAT or GRE score can only help your application: If your goal is to get into multiple business schools, make sure you do well on the GMAT or GRE.
“High test scores and a good balance of math and verbal skills will make it easier to get admission, and even multiple admissions,” says Candy Lee LaBalle, MBA admissions expert and founder of mbaClarity (formerly LaBalle Admissions).
Source: US News, mbaMission
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