Ten commandments to get into a B school

GMAT is the gatekeeper - crush it, than move on .

GMAT is definitely not the end all, be all - a good score guarantees nothing! So many applicants just don't seem to understand this

Your story is what will seal the deal - this should be written into all aspects of your app. Essays are the most important, but it should also come out in your interviews, recommendations, transcript, etc.

Make sure to address all weaknesses - Sounds obvious, but most applicants do a poor job of doing this. Below avg. GMAT?, better prove you can handle the rigor, Low WE? Show the depth and breadth of experience you've had in that time in and out of professional environments. Go to a no-name undergrad? Give rationale reasoning as to why and prove that you received a top-notch education there.

Interview with passion - Prove to the adcomm that their school is #1 and that you're going to impact the world based on your education there

Apply early - Be a shark and go round 1 across the board, submit round 2 if your apps aren't quite ready. Regardless, never submit at the deadline - go at least 1 week earlier

Coach recommenders - Give them sample recommendations, your gameplan so they can tie into your story and make sure they tailor the reco to the school

Apply to schools based on fit and never apply to a school you wouldn't attend - There actually a fair number of people who will apply to a safety and decide not to go. Why'd you apply there in the first place? Figure out what schools fit with your needs and apply to those - don't get caught up in the race for prestige

Visit the campuses of your top schools - Nothing beats being able to write that you sat in class, talked to students/profs. It shows committment, plus you'll get a good feel for the school. Yes, there are differences.

Community service & extra-curricullars are a must - Some top schools are known to ding on this basis alone