You’re not alone if you’re staring down Round 3 of the MBA admissions season and wondering whether to hit “submit” or pause until next year. The short answer to your dilemma is: it depends. (You didn’t actually expect a straightforward yes or no, did you?)

The reality is that Round 3 can be tricky territory. Acceptance rates generally decline as rounds progress, but schools also receive far fewer applications in the later rounds. Scholarships and grants have become more common, and for international applicants, navigating visa requirements can add another layer of complexity.

So, what’s the right move for you? Let’s break it down.

Five Reasons to Apply in Round 3

1. You’re all in for the Class of 2027.
   If your mind-set is “Class of 2027 or bust!” – maybe because of a layoff or pressing personal reasons – then go for it. If your target school offers it, Round 3 (or Round 4) is still an option.
2. You’re an admissions dream candidate.
   If your profile shines with stellar stats, unique experiences, and strong diversity points, you could stand out even in the smaller Round 3 pool. After all, schools wouldn’t keep these later rounds if no one got in.
3. You have nothing to lose.
   Applying now can still be worthwhile if the potential rejection doesn’t bother you (and you’re okay with the extra expense, time, and energy). If you are ultimately denied, you could gain valuable feedback with which to create a stronger reapplication next year.
4. You have everything to gain.
   Getting admitted now means starting your MBA journey – and earning a post-MBA salary – a year earlier.
5. You’ve adjusted your strategy.
   If a Round 1 rejection has made you rethink your choices, applying now to more-realistic or less-competitive programs could yield better results.

Seven Reasons to Wait Until Next Year

1. Your essays aren’t ready.
   Rushed essays can torpedo an otherwise strong application. Waiting will serve you better if you need more time to perfect your story. And if you need help crafting polished essays, schedule a free consultation with an Accepted expert.
2. You plan to retake the GMAT or GRE.
   If you’re unhappy with your current score or want to try the new version of the GMAT, waiting to apply with a higher score could significantly improve your chances.
3. Your recommendations are subpar.
   Strong recommendations can make or break an application. If your ideal recommenders aren’t available or don’t have enough time to write impactful letters, hold off until they’re ready.
4. Your work experience needs depth.
   Use the extra year to enhance your professional profile, take on leadership roles, or gain achievements that will make your application stand out.
5. You’ve just accepted a new role or promotion.
   Applying next year gives you time to demonstrate your impact in a new position, showcasing more substantial accomplishments.
6. You’re unsure about your goals.
   Unclear career goals or a lack of direction in your MBA story can hurt your chances. Waiting will allow you to refine your aspirations and target schools more effectively.
7. You face international hurdles.
   Visa challenges or difficulties securing financing might make deferring your application to next year a wise choice.

By Natalie Grinblatt, a former admissions dean/director at three top business schools. Natalie has reviewed more than 70,000 applications, interviewed more than 2,500 candidates, and trained nearly 700 admissions directors and alumni volunteers to select outstanding candidates for admission. Her clients gain admission to top programs, including those at Harvard, Stanford, Wharton, MIT, Cornell, Columbia, Berkeley, Chicago, Northwestern, and NYU. Natalie holds an MBA from Michigan Ross. Want Natalie to help you get Accepted? Click here to get in touch!

Related Resources:

• Five Tips for Creating a Standout MBA Resume
• Four Ways to Show How You’ll Contribute in the Future
• Admissions Straight Talk podcast for MBA Applicants