Questions about R1 Versus R2 & Columbia Early Decision

[rajmago]

Hi,

I am getting ready to apply to Columbia Early Decission and also to Kellogg Round 1. I have roughly 5 weeks for Columbia and 6 weeks for Kellogg. Here are my concerns.

Columbia
1. Since Columbia has rolling admissions, is it worthwhile to still apply by the deadline (10/6) for Early Decision? or is the quota likely going to be mostly used up at this point?
2. Are the chances of getting in, perhaps somewhat better with Early Decission?

Kellogg
1. Does it matter much whether I apply to Round 1 or Round 2? I don't want to submit an application that's not solid-enough for Round 1.

Thanks for your help,
-Rajat

[mbamission]

Hi Rajmago,

1) If you are committed to attending Columbia (and willing to put up an early deposit if accepted), and you believe you will have your best application ready by the Early Decision deadline, then ED may be a good route for you. A good portion of the ED applications will arrive within a day or two of that 10/6 deadline, so I would not worry about being "too late" as long as you make that deadline.

2) While Columbia is vague about how ED impacts your admissions chances, applying in that round signals that you are committed to attending if accepted, which can only help your chances in my opinion.

3) As a general rule you want to put your best foot forward. So an "A" quality application in Round 2 is better than a "B" quality application in Round 1. Of course, a top-notch application in Round 1 is the best mix, since that means you will be reviewed when the class still has the most available open slots. Also, keep in mind if you apply Columbia ED and Kellogg Round 1, and get accepted to Columbia first, you will be expected to withdraw your Kellogg application.

Best of luck,

Jessica Shklar, Senior Consultant
mbaMission