15 May 2018
News About Rounds for the Class of 2021
After careful consideration, we have decided to focus our MBA application process on two rounds — with deadlines in September and January — and to focus our spring round on 2+2 applications.
Why are we making this change? We want to make the enrollment experience as smooth as possible for incoming students.
Getting a decision earlier will give admitted students better access to on-campus housing, more cohort options for HBX CORe, and more time for visa processing. For students admitted in Round 3 in the past, the timing has always been tight. We know it takes a lot to finish up a job and move to a new city (!) and we hope the additional time will be helpful to admits on a number of fronts.
And given that we’ve seen more applicants in Rounds 1 and 2 and fewer in Round 3 in recent years, this change feels consistent with the choices you are making about when to apply.
For these reasons, Round 3 will no longer be an option. The spring “2+2 Round” for college seniors seeking deferred admission will remain.
So, mark your calendars! To be considered for the Harvard Business School Class of 2021, you need to apply in either Round 1 (September 5, 2018) or Round 2 (January 4, 2019). We have no preference between the two rounds — truly. We hope that you will apply to HBS!