Dear Kiran,

Ivy League admissions will be extremely tough this year as applications are expected to increase. Regardless, it is always tougher for international applicants than domestic applicants at these programs. You will be put into the large subset of applicants from India and have to find a way to distinguish yourself from this group. A large percentage of this subset have GMATs greater than 700, graduated first class/first class with distinction, and work in the IT sector.

You need to identify what in your background makes you unique in a positive way. It is also important to have interesting recent community activities, especially where you have been a leader, to discuss in your essays. Finally, I strongly encourage you to retake your GMAT and increase your score. If you can get in to the 750+ range, it will help you to stand out a little bit more.

My last bit of advice: there are fabulous, strong MBA programs outside of the Ivy League. Many of these schools would welcome your application and 710 GMAT. I think it would be beneficial to apply to a few schools outside the top 20 to ensure you will be in business school next year. You never know--you might find one of these schools to be a perfect fit.

Best of luck,
Lisa

Hi Kiran,

My error--yes, your consulting role is a little different. I apologize. You definitely want to leverage that to your advantage and highlight the client management/project management aspect of your role.

Good luck,
Lisa