The Application Process

Dear All,

I am an engineer with about three years of experience. I have a CGPA of 2.87/4.00 which is certainly not very promising. My GMAT score stands at 700.
At the undergraduate level, my CGPA was progressing at around 3.1 but in the sixth semester, one of the most important semesters, my SGPA fell to 1.8. This was because I had fallen ill. I had been an average student during my O and A-level years. My questions in this regard are:

1) Should I stop dreaming about top schools like INSEAD, HEC Paris and HBS.
2) Based on the above profile, which schools would be best for me?
3) Is there a way by which I can 'compensate' for my average profile?
4) What are the deciding factors in an MBA application to a top university

Awaiting replies

Thanks,
marsius

First of all, never stop dreaming. Otherwise what's the point? If you want to drop an application for your dream school, do it, it will only cost you a few hundred bucks and a few hours of work. However, you should definitely have some safety schools on your list. With your numbers I say you should focus on schools in the top 25. Check out schools like Indiana Kelley, UT McCombs and Georgetown. Great schools in awesome cities where you will get a good experience.