u/Left_Beat5413

Hey everyone, looking for some long-term MBA planning advice from people who’ve been through the process.

I’m currently 22 and working in investment banking in India (will have ~4.5 years of experience by the time I apply). My current role gives me pretty decent global exposure as well.

Background:

• B.Com + M.Com
• Cleared CA Inter but decided not to continue CA
• Cleared CFA Level 1
• Planning to appear for CFA Level 2 this November and ideally complete all 3 levels before MBA applications

At the moment, I’m looking at a 2029 MBA intake . Long-term, I’d ideally like to transition to the buyside and eventually settle outside India.

I wanted advice specifically on the timeline side of things:

• When should someone in my position realistically start GMAT/GRE prep?
• What does “starting early” actually mean? 2 years before? 1 year before?
• Is passive studying useful at this stage (quant foundations, vocab, reading, etc.)?
• Any resources you’d recommend for someone planning way ahead?
• Do people genuinely need MBA consultants and coaching classes for GMAT/GRE, or is self-study enough if started early?

Would also appreciate any advice from people who applied from finance/IB backgrounds internationally - especially things you wish you had done earlier. (p.s i will have to take out a student loan / financial aid)

Thanks!