From the Assistant Dean for Admissions: Is Round 3 Right for Me?

The general wisdom is that it’s best to apply to business school in Rounds 1 and 2 than to take your chances in Round 3. With our Round 3 deadline approaching on April 16, 2019, I wanted to separate the myths from the facts and set some clear expectations for candidates preparing their applications for submission.

It is true Round 3 is our smallest round; however, we still do have spaces available in the class. The number can vary from year to year, but we develop a model that allows us the room to admit applicants in Round 3. And if you are hoping to begin your MBA studies this fall, the reality is that this is your last chance to apply for the year.

While you may view a Round 3 application as risky, I believe it should be viewed as an opportunity. If you’re successful, you will be able to begin your MBA in just a few months. And if you happen not to be admitted in Round 3, know that the admissions committee offers feedback on request, which is a rare chance to learn how to fine-tune your application for next year. There is no stigma or bias against re-applicants, so a Round 3 application this year, if unsuccessful, can be a good “dry run” for a re-application next season.

The application itself is the same as it was for Rounds 1 and 2, and therefore my advice is relatively the same as it is for our other application rounds: In addition to reflecting on your career goals, recommenders, and essay, it is also a good idea to think through the reasons why this application round makes sense for you. You may have wanted to gain some additional work experience, or perhaps you just got the test result you’ve been aspiring to achieve–there are many reasons why you waited to apply in Round 3.

Finally, I would note that we do accept applications from non-U.S. applicants in Round 3. We’ve heard concerns about getting a visa in time to start the Yale MBA program in August, but we have not found that to be an issue in our experience.

To hear more advice and have your questions answered live, join us for our Application Tips Panel on Thursday, April 4, 2019.

As always, best of luck with your application, and I look forward to getting to know you better soon!