I am applying for Fall 2010 and will be taking the GMAT in the beginning of May. When do you suggest I start contacting Veritas Prep admission consultants? How soon is "too soon"?

Now is the best time time to start preparing. Understanding that applicants who prepare early get an edge over the competition, Veritas Prep created Comprehensive School packages that have no hourly max and are good for a complete application cycle. Thus, if you were to engage in a Comprehensive School package now, it would be at no extra cost than if you were to engage in the same Comprehensive School package later on in the season.
More important, initiating a consultation now will allow you to better tailor your candidacy and increase your chances of success. During an initial consultation, one of our experts will evaluate your candidacy and provide strategic advice on what you can do early on the process. For example, if your consultant determines that you lack a specific type of community service activity, then you'll have 6 or so months to address this. Starting the consulting process closer to the deadline does not afford you this kind of flexibility.

Is the initial consultation free or do we have to pay? For example, it's hard for someone to know whether they will require a 3 school comprehensive consulting package or a 5 school package. Would the initial consultation help a candidate figure out the answers to such questions?

I think I remember my GMAT instructor saying that Veritas sometimes allows students to retroactively buy into one of the Elite packages. Is this true? If I've paid for the GMAT Full Course but now I want to be in the 'President' package could I simply pay the difference and upgrade?

The initial consultation is free but I think you're referencing a "Diagnostic Session". A Diagnostic Session will help you better evaluate your own situation and find the package that's right for you. Also, you can apply the cost of the diagnostic session towards any package that you purchase.

Learn more here: http://www.veritasprep.com/mba/programs

With regard to Elite Packages, I would recommend calling in and discussing your specific situation with an admissions consulting specialist. We offer huge discounts to former students!

Hope that helps!

Veritas Prep Admin
800/925-7737