If you are comfortable with your GMAT score and are applying to an MBA program this year, here are a few tips for selecting an appropriate number of schools to apply to. Keep in mind that this is my personal opinion …
First, although there is no magic number, I would recommend a minimum of three schools. Look at the class profiles from each school that you are considering, and then select a “reach school,” a “competitive school,” and a “back-up” school.
Briefly, UCLA Anderson’s Mean GPA is 3.5, with a mid-80% range between 3.2 and 3.8; its Mean GMAT is 711, with a mid-80% range between 660 and 760; and it received about 3,700 applications for about 360 slots. (From the Class of 2010 Profile).
Also, apply only to schools that you would actually attend. If you are like most applicants, your time and resources are limited. Concentrate them on putting forth the best applications for the schools that you are seriously considering and would attend if you were accepted.
Finally, try not to let financial aid or the cost of attendance influence your application decision. If a school has accepted you, it wants you to attend and will likely work with you to put together a financial aid package to meet your needs. The package may consist of fellowships, grants, and/or loans. Again, focus on putting together the best application for the schools that you want to attend.
