Timing as they say, is everything, but is this true for when you choose to submit your MBA applications?

 You’ll hear plenty of theories when you begin to research the MBA application process.  Some of the most debated topics encompass when you should submit your application.  Most commonly, applicants worry about which round they should submit their application, but a more subtle discussion surrounds when you should submit within each round. 

 Submitting your application early is considered by some to give you an advantage.

 This can sometimes work in your favor, but only for schools who have a rolling admissions structure.  When schools consider applications on a rolling basis, they begin filling seats from the very first qualified applicant who gets everything turned in.  Does this mean you should rush through your application to take advantage of the rolling decision?  Absolutely not, because rushing though typically means you are also sacrificing quality.  You should only submit early if you and your consultant truly feel your application is ready.  Not one minute before.  Another myth:

 Submitting at the deadline hurts your odds of admission.

 No matter whether your target school has a rolling admissions deadline or a “regular round” submission process, submitting at the last minute will generally not hurt your odds.  A highly qualified applicant can get a seat in their target program no matter when you submit and unless your school has the rolling admissions process, they will usually consider all applications at once, after each round’s deadline passes.  In short, the admissions committee for a regular round school doesn’t even know when you submitted---it’s literally not a consideration for them at all. The final myth:

 Submitting in the middle of a round will get you lost in the shuffle.

 This is another mis-truth which was likely born from urban legend.  Submitting in the middle of the round has absolutely no impact on how they consider your qualifications.  So when should you submit?  There are two schools of thought.  One says you should submit whenever your application is ready.  The other says you should submit close to the deadline, to give you every chance to make improvements.  No matter which choice you make, however, you should only submit when you feel you have put your best foot forward.  It’s as simple as that.

 For information on how we can guide your business school application process, email us at mba@amerasiaconsulting.com or go to http://www.amerasiaconsulting.com/contact