“I Just Graduated. What Should I Do Before Applying to an MBA Program?”

As an early career professional, you may be aware of the outstanding value to be gained from a full-time or part-time MBA. What you may not know are the five key steps to take before you apply, and how each may impact your timeline for entering an MBA program. Start here.

1. Research programs. Consider factors such as location, reputation, and career outcomes to choose an MBA program that meets your personal needs and satisfies your professional goals.

The many things you should research include: application requirements and deadlines, financial aid opportunities, faculty, and reputation.

2. Register for exams (or apply for a test waiver). With an understanding of the business school’s admissions requirements, including Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) and Graduate Record Examination (GRE) score policies, it’s never too early to register for the exam.

Still, keep in mind that schools might offer GMAT/GRE waivers for qualified candidates (learn more about the BC MBA’s GMAT/GRE waiver policy).

3. Gain work experience. In many cases, work experience is required before you will be accepted into an MBA program. (See average full-time work experience in our full-time and part-time class profiles.)

It’s not just another admissions mountain to climb—you’ll leverage your work experience to maximize your MBA curriculum. Be mindful of this as you begin your post-graduate career, as the experience you gain now will be used both on your application and over the course of your MBA program.

4. Choose the right option for you. Following your undergraduate coursework, a full-time MBA program may be your preference.

However, there are a number of distinct advantages to earning a part-time MBA, such as the option to take online courses, qualifying for advanced standing (which saves time and money), possible tuition reimbursement from your employer, and the ability to apply what you’re learning in the classroom to your industry immediately.