This post is OLD. Many schools are changing their admissions deadlines in 2013. Cornell in particular now has three rounds instead of four, as does Haas. Be sure to doublecheck the school's current policies and processes before finalizing your round strategy.
There’s often confusion at this time of year about whether it’s worthwhile applying to more schools for Fall admission or whether it’s too late. Many people wonder, “Why do schools have a Round 3 if you can’t get in then?” It’s a fair question. We know that HBS for one has considered doing away with…
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Pru says
Round 1: Oh sure, apply then, all seats waiting to be taken. BUT make sure your app is water tight, because you’ll be competing against solid applicants (7xx, 3.5ers and Mount Everest climbers), not to mention the re applicants
Round 2: Oh sure if your pitch wasn’t right, apply here. But lots of people apply in this round and so your application better be water tight and unique so you can stand out from the hordes, ja?
Round 3: Fewer applicants but most of the seats are taken, so you better be exceptional if you want to get in through here.
PLUS, there is the added danger of applying early and getting wait listed while someone who applied later gets admitted.
So the adcom really meant it when they said, ‘Apply when you’re ready’ haha 😀