Deciding whether to get help with your applications can feel overwhelming. When considering business school admissions consulting or other application assistance, you must know if it’s worth your time and money.
This guide walks you through figuring out if external help matches what you need.
Know What You’re Actually Looking For
Before spending money on application help, get clear about what you want:
Ask yourself these key questions:
- What specific parts of the application process confuse you?
- Do you need help with your personal statement, resume, or interview skills?
- Are you looking for someone to review your work or guide you through the entire process?
Knowing exactly what you need helps you avoid paying for services you won’t use. Be honest with yourself about your weak spots – this saves both time and money.
Assess Your Current Application Strengths and Weaknesses
A solid self-assessment helps you understand if outside help makes sense for your situation.
| Application Element | Questions to Ask Yourself |
| Personal Statement | Can you tell your story clearly? Have others given positive feedback? |
| Resume/CV | Is your experience presented effectively? Does it highlight relevant achievements? |
| Time Management | Can you meet deadlines comfortably? Do you need accountability? |
| Interview Skills | Do you feel confident speaking about yourself? Have you practiced with realistic questions? |
Your answers to these questions reveal where you might benefit most from external support.
Research What Services Actually Provide
Not all application services offer the same help. Some specialize in certain fields, while others provide general assistance.
When researching potential services, look for:
- Specific expertise in your target field or program
- Success rates and client testimonials
- The background and qualifications of consultants
- Available packages and à la carte options
- Communication style and availability
Remember: The most expensive option isn’t always the best fit for your needs.
Calculate the Real Return on Investment
Application assistance isn’t cheap, so you need to determine if the investment makes sense for you personally.
Consider:
- How much competitive edge might this give your application?
- What’s the potential lifetime value of getting into your preferred program?
- Could you achieve similar results through free resources or peer feedback?
If a service charges $3,000 but helps you secure a spot in a program that increases your earning potential by $20,000+ annually, the math becomes clearer.
Try Before You Commit Fully
Many services offer free consultations or sample sessions. Use these opportunities to:
- Assess the consultant’s communication style
- Determine if they understand your goals
- Get a taste of their feedback approach
- Evaluate if their personality meshes with yours
Your gut feeling after these initial interactions tells you a lot about whether this partnership will work.
Set Realistic Expectations
External help can improve your application, but it’s not magic. Even the best consultants can’t guarantee admission. They can help you present your best self, but the final decision remains with the admissions committee.
What good assistance actually does:
- Helps you highlight your strengths effectively
- Provides objective feedback on your materials
- Offers insights into what admissions teams look for
- Keeps you accountable to deadlines
Balance Professional Guidance with Authenticity
The most important consideration is ensuring your application remains authentically you. Good consultants enhance your voice rather than replace it.
Warning sign: If a consultant tries to completely rewrite your materials or suggests exaggerating achievements, this should raise concerns. The best assistance helps you tell your genuine story more effectively.
Final Thoughts: Making Your Decision
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your specific situation, budget, and comfort level.
Trust yourself to make the right call for your unique circumstances. Whether you go it alone or hire help, remember that your dedication to putting forward your best application matters most.
