Chances of getting into Columbia or NYU?

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Chances of getting into Columbia or NYU?

by timrod22 » Wed Jan 21, 2015 2:28 pm
Hi how are you. I've decided to pursue an MBA and wanted an expert opinion on what my chances are of getting into NYU or Columbia's Finance program. Granted I haven't taken the GMAT yet, I would like your opinion with a hypothetical assumption that I break 700 on it. I know this is not easy at all, but for the sake of knowing how I would stand IF I broke 700, please just assume.

Here are my credentials:

Age: 22
Graduated with 3.70 GPA from Hofstra University (Not a top school, but I figure a 3.7 at Hofstra translates to a 3.4 or 3.5 at a school like NYU)
Worked as part time administrator for Medical Practice throughout undergrad
Worked on two startup companies throughout undergrad
Spending next 4 months studying 9-5 for GMAT, with a hypothetical assumption that I break 700.

Do I have a chance at getting in at age 22 if everything else is in place? I worked in leadership and entrepreneurial roles throughout my 4 years in undergrad.

EDIT: I accidentally posted this originally in the wrong section.. I meant to post it here. So if an admin notices the double thread, please leave this one and delete the other. Thanks
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by CriticalSquareMBA » Thu Jan 22, 2015 4:26 pm
Hey there! Let's say that you did crack 700 on the GMAT...you'd actually want to aim a bit higher even - 720 would be a great score...that would round out your academic accomplishments and get you over the first hurdle. But, a big aspect of your candidacy would be left open which is your work experience. Only a handful of students are considered for an MBA at top schools with limited work experience, and these are exceptions when they do happen. That said, I would strongly recommend 2-3 years of work experience at a top firm where you can demonstrate career advancement and maturity over time. Participating in volunteer work of some sort (anything outside of your 9-5 responsibilities) will be critical as well and can help you build up some skills and themes faster. What do I mean by that? Let's say you're not getting team leadership experience at work. Boom, go to a nonprofit and find a team to lead. Keep these things in the forefront as you develop a plan for the next three years and you should be in a great position to apply when it comes time.

TL;DR: even with a stellar GMAT you're probably not going to crack a FT admit right out of undergrad

Bhavik
Critical Square | MBA Admissions Services

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