Given the current climate of uncertainty in the financial services community, we are getting some new questions:
Q: Is HBS going to increase the size of next year's entering class in response to a potential increase in number of applications?
A: No. The Class of 2011 will be roughly 900.
Q: If there is an increase in the number of applicants from financial services, will the number of admits from this group be greater than in prior years?
A: Not necessarily. Our goal is to compose a class which represents many different kinds of diversity, of which professional experience is only one element. We don't have fixed industry or geographical targets so the year-to-year class profile may change.
Q: Are candidates who are not currently employed at a disadvantage?
A: No. We realize that these are unusual times and that many strong contributors may find themselves in this situation.
Q: Can I apply in Round One (October 15 deadline) and submit my GMAT score later?
A: No. It is impossible to submit the application without an actual GMAT score.
Q: Do I have a better chance of being admitted if I submit my application in Round One?
A: Not if you are compromising the quality of your application in order to rush to meet the October 15 deadline. It takes a significant amount of time to complete the written application, not to mention allowing your recommenders enough time to be thoughtful and thorough in their assessment.
As usual, I hope this is helpful.
