Dear Hayek33,

Your GPA is high and a strong indicator you will be successful in the classroom. While your GMAT is a potential concern, it is possible you can balance it out with other parts of your application. I encourage you to determine if any of of the MS programs you are considering accept the GRE instead of the GMAT--you might fare better on it as the GRE is more like other standardized tests you might be familiar with. If the GRE is not accepted or you would rather not take the GRE, then try to determine what the average GMAT is for your target MS programs. Perhaps your score is not that far out of range or even in the bottom of the range? Finally, you want to submit a solid, overall application where one piece will balance/mitigate another when necessary. So, use all of the other pieces to your advantage to give yourself the best chance for admission.

Good luck,
Lisa

If you are in the mid-80% range for the MS program, then you are in the competitive range. However, you do need to highlight your quantitative aptitude and skills in other application pieces. So, I would encourage you to use an optional essay to address this potential concern, using evidence in your background that shows you have the aptitude and skills to make your case (i.e., undergrad academic performance, professional experience, etc.).

Good luck,
Lisa