It's summer: How to Utilize your summer (and the rest of the year) to apply for an MBA

Note: this guide was originally written in May 2023 but was updated in June 2025 for conciseness*

Here in the States, it’s Memorial Day Weekend—which, for us, is the unofficial start of summer. While most people are planning vacations and barbecues, if you’re applying for your MBA this year, summer is prime time to lay the groundwork for your applications. Whether you’re targeting Round 1 or Round 2, expect these months to be busy and filled with critical tasks.

Here’s my suggested timeline for making the most of summer, with Round 1 deadlines as the primary focus:

June: Final Push for Testing + School List Narrowing

June is what I call the “Final Stretch of Test Prep”—you want testing done so you can give yourself at least 2–4 weeks per MBA application. Ideally, you’ve already been studying for the GMAT/GRE and are wrapping up your final attempts. If you haven’t yet, it’s also a good time to prep for or take the TOEFL/IELTS (if required). Start narrowing your school list, aiming for at least 3 programs to maximize your odds. How do you narrow your school list? Begin researching and attending school events, and plan networking outreach to current students or alumni while thinking deeply about your story—what makes you unique? Begin polishing your resume and get early feedback.

July: Study Wrap-Up + Networking + Resume Time

At this point, testing should be finished. So unless you are okay with the double stress of testing and essay writing, this is your last chance to wrap it up—no more delays! It's also time to be serious about networking. You narrowed your list in June—now reach out to alumni, attend info sessions, and connect with programs as you start writing your essays. Also start brainstorming who to use for your Letter of Recommendations.

August: Draft, Write, Request Recommendations

By now you should have already started your essays and knee-deep in them. Each school will take longer than you think, so give this plenty of attention. Reach out to your recommenders now—early is best! Brief them on your MBA goals and give them helpful context for a strong recommendation letter. Keep networking; programs will notice if you stay active and engaged and it'll help you with your "Why this MBA Program". Finally, order your academic transcripts from your university—this process can take longer than expected, so don’t leave it for later.

September: Finalize + Polish

If applying to top USA programs you've reached most of the application deadlines and on the verge of submitting. But before doing that, revise essays based on feedback. Ideally, get someone who’s attended a top MBA program to review! Follow up gently with your recommenders—make sure they're ready to submit by the deadline and on your end, triple-check application instructions and details for every school. If possible, squeeze in a little more networking or online engagement with target programs.

October-December: Prep for Interviews until Decision Arrive

Hopefully by now you’ve submitted Round 1 applications—great work! Start preparing for interviews: research common MBA questions and begin crafting your answers. I highly recommend doing at least one mock interview to shake off nerves and sharpen delivery. Practice and refine your answers. Research your potential interviewers, if you have names. Keep networking—you might uncover valuable last-minute insights or connections.

Most schools will release Round 1 results by mid-December. If accepted—congrats! Celebrate this milestone. Waitlisted? Check out my other post on how to handle MBA waitlists. Rejected? You can still apply to other programs in Round 2. Take time to assess your weaknesses, improve essays, and adjust strategy.

But what if I haven't yet started studying for the GMAT/GRE or plan on applying for R2?

I always recommend Round 1 if possible (better acceptance chances, more scholarships), but if Round 2 fits your timeline, here’s how to shape your summer and fall:

July–September: Testing, Testing, Testing

Your priority: GMAT/GRE. This score is critical—give it full attention. It's also a good time to dust off your resume and make updates. Light school research and casual networking can happen on the side, but your focus should be on test prep ultimately!

October: Shift Focus

Ideally, you’ve hit your target score. If so, move into application prep and start the essays. Study TOEFL/IELTS as needed. and also start networking more intentionally while refining your school list.

November–December: Write Like Crazy

Essay writing, recommender outreach, transcript requests—all should happen now. Keep in mind that Holiday season = distractions, so work early to avoid end-of-year stress. Make sure to get get essays peer-reviewed at least two weeks before deadlines (given that's around Christmas, give your reviewers ample time!)

For Round 2 applicants your journey will spill into next year with interview prep and results. My advice from R1 applies here as well: practice and prepare for the interviews

And so as summer comes underway let's make good use of the time.  The work you put in now will shape your results later this year. Stay proactive and consistent.

If you want personalized help, I'm here! I offer a FREE 30-minute consultation call to discuss your MBA plans—even if you haven’t finished testing yet. My packages also include test prep coaching for GMAT/GRE planning and mindset support. Schedule your free call today—and good luck this season!