Every MBA program and master’s program has a unique application, but most share the same major components:

• An application form
• A curriculum vitae (CV)
• A financial aid application (the FAFSA)
• A personal statement and/or other essays
• Letters of recommendation
• A personal interview (by telephone or in person)
• Transcripts from other schools
• Standardized test scores (GMAT, GRE)

Here are some application tips to help you get started.

◊ Complete the general application page carefully. Ensure that it is free of grammatical errors and typos. Carelessness would make a poor first impression! If you are filling out paper applications instead of applying online, make copies of clean forms in case you make mistakes.

◊ Your resume or CV should be up-to-date and appear professionally formatted. Your accomplishments should appear in chronological order or should be grouped by skill set.

◊ Request letters of recommendation and academic transcripts well in advance of your application due date. When requesting a letter of recommendation, it is customary to allow at least six weeks for it to be completed. Feel free to list some of your specific accomplishments to help jog the letter writer’s memory.

To find links to online program applications, see the MBA subjects list on our homepage.