The MBA application process is the point where you are taking a big leap into the unknown and it is a critical turning point for your entire career. The process can be quite overwhelming and most people don’t know where to start because there are a number of top-level MBA programs in different countries and this makes it difficult to choose. Luckily, you can follow the steps outlined below to go through the MBA application process a bit smoothly and make the right choice for your career:

Step 1: Why an MBA?

First things first, you need to be clear on why you are interested in doing an MBA. Are you thinking of a career change? Do you want to switch industries or job function or you just want to break through the glass ceiling? Another important factor that you need to reflect on is the location of a business school. Do you have any near you? After all, you will be interrupting a full-time career and going back to school so you need to be prepared.

Step 2: Where do you wish to work?

The next step of the MBA selection process involves you thinking about the places you want to work and live. There are a wide array of spots you can consider and you can choose any location that appeals to you. You should keep your career interests in mind when you are deciding on a place. For instance, if you are interested in the world of investments and finance, you can settle in countries like London, New York, Frankfurt, Tokyo or Paris. The choice of location can also be influenced by the industry you will be a part of.

Step 3: Consider your interests

Doing an MBA is a great way to achieve your goals when you know where your strengths are such as finance, entrepreneurship or general management. This will allow you to build on your strengths and choose the right MBA for yourself. You need to be careful when selecting modules to ensure you are staying true to your career goals.

Step 4: Full-Time or Part-Time

You want to advance your career in your chosen sector or firm, but you don’t want to become a full-time student again. This can be very confusing because now you have to decide between a part-time or full-time MBA. If you decide to do part-time, you are worried about how you will complete assignments. That’s not much of a problem these days because you can simply hire a writing company online and get them to do your assignments. These companies are often a big help in writing a term paper and other such assignments. You can go part-time if you don’t want to leave your thriving careers hanging in the balance, but a full-time MBA is a good idea if you want to launch your career in a different part of the globe.

Step 5: Local or International

Now, you need to decide whether you want to go to a local business school or a foreign country? If you are interested in enrolling in the top MBA programs, the location is going to make a whole lot of difference. For instance, if you have chosen to do an MBA in finance, it is a good idea to give some thought to London Business School. Also, the internet has opened up new opportunities and you can actually attend online classes in international schools without leaving your own country.

Step 6: Return on Investment

The million dollar question is how to get a return on investment on your MBA. If you want the quickest returns, you have to choose the right MBA i.e. one that’s in demand and has a lot of potential. 95% of the graduates who attend good MBA schools are able to get a job within three months of completing their studies.

Step 7: Rankings

Before you apply to business schools, it is a wise idea for prospective MBA candidates to consider the rankings of the business schools they are applying to. If you enroll in a highly ranked business school, your chances of landing a job are also higher. However, you should bear in mind that the rankings of at least five years should be checked instead of just relying on a year or two.

Step 8: Contacting Schools

Get the necessary brochures and other handouts so you can get as much information as possible about the business schools on your list. This includes key information like class composition, tuition, electives and other requirements you have to fulfill. It is also a good idea to visit the campus to get a better feeling about the learning environment.

Last, but not least, you should confirm the selection of your MBA. As long as you have made the right choice when choosing MBA, you will be able to reap the benefits in the form of career advancement.