MBA Application Deadlines for 2025-2026: Key Dates for Top US & European Business Schools
- Sadaf Raza
- Mar 26
- 2 min read
If you're planning to apply for an MBA in 2025 or 2026, staying ahead of the deadlines is crucial. Missing a deadline could mean waiting another year or settling for a less competitive round. This guide outlines the key MBA application deadlines for top US and European business schools, helping you strategize your application and maximize your chances of admission.
Why MBA Application Deadlines Matter?
Business schools typically have multiple application rounds:
Round 1 (R1):Â Best for scholarships and early decisions.
Round 2 (R2):Â Still competitive but with fewer scholarship opportunities.
Round 3 (R3) & Rolling Admissions:Â Suitable for late applicants but with limited seats and funding.
US Business Schools: MBA Application Deadlines 2025-2026
Business School | Round 1 | Round 2 | Round 3 |
Harvard Business School (HBS) | Sep 3, 2025 | Jan 5, 2026 | N/A |
Stanford GSB | Sep 9, 2025 | Jan 7, 2026 | Apr 7, 2026 |
Wharton | Sep 3, 2025 | Jan 2, 2026 | Apr 1, 2026 |
MIT Sloan | Sep 15, 2025 | Jan 13, 2026 | Apr 7, 2026 (Rolling) |
Columbia Business School | Rolling | Oct 3, 2025 | Apr 9, 2026 |
Chicago Booth | Sep 11, 2025 | Jan 3, 2026 | Apr 3, 2026 |
Kellogg (Northwestern) | Sep 5, 2025 | Jan 9, 2026 | Apr 2, 2026 |
Berkeley Haas | Sep 11, 2025 | Jan 8, 2026 | Apr 1, 2026 |
NYU Stern | Sep 14, 2025 | Jan 14, 2026 | Mar 31, 2026 |
European Business Schools: MBA Application Deadlines 2025-2026
Business School | Round 1 | Round 2 | Round 3 |
London Business School (LBS) | Sep 8, 2025 | Jan 5, 2026 | Mar 30, 2026 |
INSEADÂ (Sep Intake) | Sep 9, 2025 | Nov 5, 2025 | Jan 20, 2026 |
HEC Paris | Sep 14, 2025 | Jan 14, 2026 | Rolling |
IESE Business School | Sep 4, 2025 | Jan 8, 2026 | Apr 7, 2026 |
Oxford Saïd | Sep 19, 2025 | Jan 9, 2026 | Mar 27, 2026 |
Cambridge Judge | Sep 9, 2025 | Jan 4, 2026 | Mar 17, 2026 |
ESSEC | Rolling | Rolling | Rolling |
How to Plan Your MBA Application Timeline
Start Early: GMAT/GRE preparation takes at least 2-3 months. Plan essays and recommendations well in advance.
Target Round 1 or 2: R1 is ideal for scholarships, while R2 is good for most applicants. R3 should be a last resort.
Attend Webinars & Campus Visits: Many schools offer virtual or in-person events to help applicants understand the program.
Work on Essays & Recommendations: Give recommenders ample time to write strong letters.
Prepare for Interviews: Shortlisted candidates will receive interview invitations typically 4-6 weeks after submission.
Final Thoughts
Applying for an MBA is a strategic process, and knowing the deadlines is just the beginning. Aim for Round 1 or 2 to increase your chances of admission and scholarships. Keep track of deadlines, work on your profile, and submit a compelling application.
Get Started Today!
Are you applying to multiple MBA programs? Stay organized with a spreadsheet of deadlines and requirements.
Need help with essays or interviews? Reach out to us to get expert guidance from the leading MBA admissions consultant.