Should I Take a Break to Prepare for the GMAT?

A common question we receive at Transcend Admissions Consultants is whether applicants should quit their jobs in order to prepare for the GMAT and create their graduate school applications.

There is no doubt that preparing for the GMAT and producing high-quality application materials is very difficult and time-consuming, especially when you have to balance your time with a very demanding job.  Because of this, many applicants believe that they must quit their job to effectively complete these tasks.   However, before leaving your job you must carefully consider the implications of this decision.  For a Fall 2012 graduate school applicant that quits their job in May 2011, there will be a 16 month gap before the programs begins, which is a considerable amount of time.  During this period you may be giving up potential promotions or management/leadership experiences that could be keys to your success in graduate school.  In addition, if you are not accepted by the schools you apply to you may face a difficult and uncertain job market.   

The applicant must also consider the fact that thousands of graduate school applicants have been able to successfully manage studying for the GMAT and preparing their essays while still thriving at work.  Those applicants who leave their jobs will certainly be at a disadvantage to applicants with similar credentials who continued to work during the application process.  The admissions committee will wonder why the applicant could not balance their job and GMAT preparation at the same time and may decide that they do not have the determination necesary to be a leader.  The admissions committee may also assume that the applicant lacks organizational ability - a key skill for graduate school.       

If you do decide that you must leave your job in order to prepare for the GMAT and do your applications, you should also find something else to work on in the meantime that will show skill development and enhances your resume, such as community service involvement.  In the admissions interview you will definitely be asked about an employment gap, and should be ready to discuss your recent activities, and how these experiences have made you a stronger candidate that can add uniqueness and value to the class. 

An alternative to consider is requesting a leave of absence from your employer.  This can give you the valuable time you need to prepare for the GMAT, but will allow you to return to work so you can continue to enhance your knowledge and skills.  We have found that many employers are open to this type of arrangement.