The Early Bird Gets The MBA Worm

Aspiring businesspeople who are considering applying to an MBA program would benefit by applying early. While deadlines may be six months away, prospective candidates must not underestimate the competition they will face; early planning could give them the leg up they need. Applicants should research which schools can cater to their areas of interest and desire for specialization, then thoroughly prepare to meet the requirements for enrollment. It’s not just about displaying strong grades on a transcript; applicants will be tested further and require good references. Read on below to learn more about the process.

Probably the most important piece to consider prior to applying to an MBA program is the GMAT, or the Graduate Management Admissions Test. This evaluates a potential candidate’s quantitative skills; the best schools require a minimum score of 550, requiring applicants to be prepared to engage rigorously in academics. Booking the GMAT early allows prospective students to hone in on their statement of intent – this way they can form multiple drafts, then have them looked over and edited. Crafting a strong CV detailing relevant work experience is also essential to creating a tight package – most programs like their applicants to have two years going in, especially if they’re interested in co-op placement and internships.

The Lazaridis School of Business & Economics offers an esteemed full-time MBA program with co-op options, as well as the ability to specialize in nine different streams. The program is located in Waterloo – named one of Canada’s top startup cities; students will be immersed in its culture of innovation which also provides them space to put their new business skills to good use. Specializations that students can choose from include entrepreneurship, accounting, marketing, finance, human resources management, international business management, strategic management, operations management and supply chain management.

Thanks to the school’s holistic, integrated core teaching methodology, candidates are also encouraged to look at business issues from all angles – an important skill for future leaders to have. This is backed by the real-world experience students will receive should they pursue the co-op option; because they’re being paid to participate in placement, there’s also the added benefit of offsetting tuition costs. Furthermore, they’ll be able to participate in various Waterloo-based incubator programs to grow their own business ideas.

The early bird gets the worm, as the saying goes – there’s no reason to put off preparing that application. An MBA opens many doors to countless careers, increases earning potential and income opportunity, allowing graduates to find challenging, worthwhile and exciting jobs. Why risk losing out by waiting until the last minute to apply? Prospective applicants that start their research today are far more likely to send in polished, engaging applications they’ve thought out strategically – putting them ahead of the pack and making a strong first impression before they even begin.

—

We hope you enjoyed this promoted piece as much as we did!