If you’re planning to apply for an MBA in Fall 2025 or Early 2026, congratulations! You’re already ahead of most applicants, who will wake up in August 2025, open a blank Word document, and wonder why their personal statement sounds like a LinkedIn post gone wrong. To ensure that isn’t you, here’s what you should be doing now to set yourself up for success.
Step 1: Clarify Your Goals & Research Schools (Now – Spring/Summer 2025)
Figure Out Your Why. “I want to pursue consulting” is a popular answer, but admissions officers will want more than that. Be able to articulate why you need an MBA and how it fits into your long-term goals.
Find Your Best-Fit Schools. Think beyond rankings and look at class profiles, career outcomes, and school culture. Would you thrive in a tight-knit community or a massive global network? Would you rather be in a city or a place where “going out” means hiking?
Attend Events & Network. Sign up for school webinars, visit campuses if possible, and connect with students or alumni to get the inside scoop.
Take a Hard Look at Your Profile. Are your academics strong? Do you have leadership experience? Any glaring weaknesses you need to address before applying? Better to fix them now than panic later.
Step 2: GMAT/GRE—The Fun (Just Kidding) Standardized Test (Now – Summer 2025)
Take a Diagnostic Test. It might be painful, but it’ll tell you where you stand and whether the GMAT or GRE is a better fit.
Make a Study Plan. Most people need 2-4 months of dedicated prep. If you know you’re not great at self-studying, consider a tutor or course before you spiral into YouTube loopholes on “how to hack the GMAT.” If you want a few recommendations, please reach out.
Take the Test Early. Because life happens. Let’s be honest, nobody wants to be juggling essay writing and a retake in August.
Step 3: Strengthen Your Resume & Professional Impact
Take on More Responsibility. You don’t need a C-suite title, but showing leadership—whether through managing a project, mentoring colleagues, or driving impact—is key.
Position Yourself for a Promotion. Nothing screams “future business leader” like getting a well-timed step up before applying.
Do Something Outside of Work. Schools love well-rounded candidates. Volunteer, start a side project, or at least develop a hobby (ideally one that connects to your long-term vision).
Step 4: Cultivate Strong Recommenders
Identify Your Champions. Your direct supervisor is ideal, but if that’s not an option, choose someone who can speak specifically about your strengths. “Alex is great” is not the kind of recommendation you want.
Nurture the Relationship. Keep them updated on your work and goals so when the time comes, they’ll write something glowing instead of something generic.
Step 5: Start Thinking About Essays (Summer 2024)
Develop Your Story. Schools aren’t just looking for impressive résumés; they want compelling, authentic applicants. Think about what makes your journey unique.
Brainstorm Early. Even though prompts won’t be out until mid-2025, reflecting on your experiences and values now will make writing easier later.
Step 6: Consider School Visits (If Possible)
Visiting a campus can help you gauge culture and fit—plus, it gives you great material to mention in essays and interviews (beyond “I love this school because it’s ranked highly”).
If you’re interested in speaking about your MBA candidacy with a skilled and experienced admissions consultant, please fill out the linked form (https://www.amerasiaconsulting.com/contact) or email drewhoff@gmail.com.