2025-2026 MBA Application Deadlines of the Top 25 Business Schools

Applying to business school can be confusing with so many different application deadlines and rounds. Here is our guide to the 2025-2026 MBA application cycle for the top programs, to help you keep track of your MBA timeline. Please note that, as it is still early in the year, not all programs have released their deadlines for the new application cycle. This article will continue to be updated as the new dates are added. All programs will have announced their new deadlines by the end of the summer.

Read our more general guide to the MBA timeline here: A Comprehensive MBA Application Timeline–With Chart.

Overview of the Admissions Cycle

The MBA application is usually divided into several rounds with different deadlines for each round. Some schools offer an early decision round for students, which allows them to apply and hear back earlier. For most schools, the application cycle follows this general pattern:

• Round 1: September to early October 2025
• Round 2: Early to mid-January 2026
• Round 3: March to early April 2026

There are some discrepancies among schools; for example, HBS only has two rounds, whereas Duke Fuqua has an early action and then four rounds.

Interviews and decisions go out at different times depending on the round you apply to. Generally, though, interview invitations are extended 4 to 6 weeks after the deadline.

There are certain steps that need to be taken before beginning the application process. For example, many students start studying for the GRE/GMAT long before starting the rest of the application. It’s a good strategy to take the GRE/GMAT at least three months before applying because it gives you time to retake the test should you not get the target score. Starting early also gives you time to think about the essay and receive feedback, budget for application fees, polish your resume, and reach out to mentors for letters of recommendation.

While students can, and should, apply to different rounds, there is a strategy to maximize their chances of acceptance. For your top schools, it’s best to apply to either early decision or the first round, during which the least amount of places have been claimed. For safety schools, you can apply to the later rounds where your application will be more competitive. This division of rounds will also allow you to optimize your time so that you’re not overwhelmed by completing multiple applications at the same time.

After you have submitted your application, it is time to start preparing for the interview. Interview invitations are usually sent 3-4 weeks after the application deadline to about 20-40% of the applicants. The interview is the last step in the MBA application process. After it, all that’s left is to wait for decisions to be released.

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2025-2026 MBA Application Deadlines

This chart lays out the application deadlines for a fall 2026 matriculation timeline for the M7 and top 25 business schools.

See our article on the acceptance rates and class profiles of the top 25 US MBA programs here.

Deferred MBA Application Deadlines

Deferred programs have become a lot more popular in recent years. Now, almost every top program offers some alternative route to an MBA for college seniors. For more info on deferred programs, head to: Top 10 Deferred MBA Programs—and How to Get In.

Here are the 2025 deadlines for the best deferred programs in the US, along with their decision notification date.

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Read these next:

• The Different Types of MBA Programs—and Which One is Right for You
• What is an MBA Degree? An Expert Guide
• MBA Requirements: What You Need to Apply (and What Top Programs Really Look For)
• T25 MBA Acceptance Rates, GPA, & Test Scores
• The Top 25 MBA Programs—Acceptance Rates, Tuition, and More

FAQs

When do MBA applications open for 2025?

• Most Round 1 deadlines will fall between early September and early October 2025. Schools typically release their applications and essay prompts over the summer, so it’s smart to start prepping by June.

What’s the best round to apply to for MBA programs?

• If your application is ready, Round 1 is usually your best bet—it has the most open spots. But Round 2 is still strong. Avoid Round 3 unless you have a very compelling profile.

Do all MBA programs have three application rounds?

• Not all. Some, like HBS, only have two rounds. Others like Duke and NYU may have four or even five. Always check each school’s official admissions page to confirm.

How early should I take the GMAT or GRE before applying?

• Ideally, 3–6 months before your first deadline. That gives you time to retake if needed and focus on the rest of your application without test stress.

When should I apply if I’m a college senior aiming for a deferred MBA?

• Deferred MBA deadlines usually hit in April. Most programs only have one round for deferred applicants, so mark that date and plan well ahead.