You have nine months until Round 1 deadlines. Most candidates will use that time to complete applications. The strongest candidates use it to position themselves as someone programs actually want.
The difference isn't just about submitting early. Harvard, Stanford, Wharton—they're all looking at what you did with your runway, not just what you accomplished by the time you hit submit.
Candidates who approach Round 1 strategically don't just get in. They get multiple offers. They negotiate scholarships. They choose between M7 programs instead of hoping one chooses them.
Here's what separates them: They know the timeline isn't really about essay deadlines; it's about positioning milestones. They're strengthening their profile in ways adcom actually notices. They're testing their school list before committing to it. And they're building applications that reflect genuine strategic thinking, not just strong credentials hoping for the best.
In this live YouTube event, we're mapping out:
The monthly strategy top candidates use to build applications that stand out, and why the generic timelines you'll find online leave leverage on the table
What to prioritize right now in January to maximize your competitive advantage, before you write a single essay
How Round 1 actually works at Harvard vs. Wharton vs. Stanford vs. Booth: which schools genuinely prioritize early applicants, which are testing class composition, and how to read these signals
Our goal is to help you work strategically, using the next nine months to become the candidate adcom doesn't just admit, but actively wants.
What we'll cover:
Strategic milestones that matter more than test prep timelines
How to use January through April to validate your school list (and pivot if needed)
The right timing for recommender engagement that strengthens your application
The summer window where strong candidates build real separation from the pack
Who this is for: You're already accomplished. You've built credibility in your career. Now you're planning your MBA application, and you want to approach it the same way you approach everything else: with strategy, intelligence, and the kind of preparation that creates real options.
Join our founder, Susan Berishaj live on YouTube for this 30-minute session. You'll get real-time Q&A in the chat, and the replay will be available if you can't make it live.
Ready to map out your Round 1 strategy?
Want to move forward faster? We offer one-on-one consultations for candidates building their application strategy with expert guidance, plus written profile evaluations if you want specific feedback on your positioning before you invest the next nine months.
Nine months will pass either way. The question is whether you'll use them to become the candidate top programs compete for, or blend in with everyone else who has strong stats and good intentions.
P.S. You have time that most Round 1 candidates waste. This timeline works only if you start with strategy, not urgency.