***Get B-School Funding***
Most business schools offer fellowships that pay a large portion of a student's expenses, or even foots the entire bill.
Make no mistake. These fellowships go to top tier students, the cream of the crop. But it's more than just good grades that can put you in that exalted category. Your experiences and personal history count for a lot.
Don't assume there isn't a fellowship out there for you until you've done your homework
***Start Early***
Start your research a year, or even two years, before applying to business school Find out which schools offer fellowships, when the deadlines are, what the process is for applying, and what criteria the school is looking for.
***Look for the Best Fit***
Some fellowships are specially targeted. They may be aimed at those with demonstrated financial need. Or women. Or people from a particular country or ethnic background. Or a particular academic or industrial interest. Or any combination of the above.
Remember...not all fellowships are based on grades and academic achievement. Make sure to investigate all fellowship opportunities.
The Resources section includes links to more sources of information.
***Lead, and They Shall Fellow***
Leadership and vision are among the key qualities that will separate you from other candidates.
If you have had an impact on your community, created an innovative business of your own, published an important article, been a part of national public policy campaign, ran for public office, or otherwise demonstrated your leadership capabilities...then you're halfway there.
***Double Team 'Em***
Let a school know early of your interest in receiving a particular fellowship...even in your initial application. The admissions officer may well be influential in deciding who is considered.
When asking for letters of recommendation, also ask the writer to emphasize your interest in a fellowship, and the credentials that would make you a good recipient.
Application is no time to be timid. Let the school know who you are, what credentials you have, and what fellowships you are interested in.
***Use Your Good Sense***
If you're applying to a "stretch school" (one that's a bit beyond what your grades and experience would otherwise suggest) then your odds of getting in are small enough, much less your odds of getting a fellowship.
On the other hand, if you apply to a place where your record is above average, then your application for a fellowship is more likely to be favorably reviewed.
I'm not saying don't stretch. But be realistic about what's possible, and make sure to cover the bases as much as possible.
The Resources section includes links for more information on fellowship possibilities and strategies for getting them.