gmat 710, 12+ yrs IT, chances in INSEAD and IMD

Dear nirvana2008,

Any program will certainly consider an application from you. Having substantial experience is not going to send you to the reject pile, nor will your GMAT score. What is important for you is to be mindful of your profile relative to the schools you are applying to and customize your application accordingly. For example, if you apply to traditional, full-time programs where your work experience is considerably above the 5 year average, then it would be advisable for you to directly address in your essays why you want to do a full-time program versus an executive program. Perhaps you want to switch careers and need an internship? or the break on your resume? There are a fair number of MBA candidates that matriculate to many US MBA programs with 8-15 years of experience. As for your GMAT score in relation to INSEAD and IMD, a 710 is in the competitive range. INSEAD, in particular, likes to see that you cross the 80% mark on both sections of the GMAT, but that doesn't mean if you do not have it you are not considered. For any MBA program, the key to a successful application will be the strength of the total package--making a compelling case for admission, presenting a solid rationale for an MBA, and demonstrating you can handle the rigor of the program.

Good luck,
Lisa