1) Take time for genuine reflection.

Attending any MBA program is a big decision personally, professionally, and financially. Take time to think about your professional path thus far, your long-term goals, and how a Wharton MBA can get you there.

2) If possible, visit Wharton's campus when school is in session.

You can learn a lot about the community and culture by experiencing it firsthand. This will help you determine if Wharton is a place you could see yourself thriving and what you would add to the community. WWIB hosts an annual Visit Day every fall! Note, you will not be penalized by Admissions if you do not visit.

3) Answer these essential questions: why business school, why now, and why Wharton?

Without answering these critical questions, writing essays and performing well in the team-based discussion (“TBD”) will be challenging. You should have clarity about these questions and be able to articulate them succinctly to anyone.

4) How do Wharton's resources align with your interests and goals?

Choosing which business school is right for you can seem daunting. Try to understand your interests and goals and how they align with existing Wharton resources and programs. These are also great things to talk about in your application and interview.

5) Establish a timeline.

Based on when you want to apply to Wharton, establish a timeline for completing the application's key components, and stick to it.

6) Consider thinking of your application in two phases: the GMAT/GRE and the application.

Both are time-consuming and need your full attention. Doing both at the same time can be done, but many applicants find it challenging. Make sure you leave sufficient time to do your personal best on all components of the application.

7) What will you uniquely add to the classroom?

Every application has a unique personal and professional story. Lean into the distinct aspects of your story that make you different. Wharton is looking to build a classroom of diverse perspectives, so think about what you bring to the conversation that others cannot.

8) Choose recommenders that can speak to different aspects of your candidacy and serve as third-party validators.

Recommenders can be very powerful and help reinforce the themes you write about elsewhere in your application.

9) Don't forget to thank the people who got you here!

If you are applying to a top MBA program, you probably had a lot of support along the way – family, mentors, professors, or an amazing boss who took an interest in you. Make sure you acknowledge those people and keep them updated on your MBA journey.

10) Trust the process.

It is extremely challenging during the application phase, but try to trust the process and know that you will end up where you are supposed to be.