Dear omarjmh,
I'm glad to hear your courses are going so well--kudos to you! Combined with a strong GMAT, you will mitigate your GPA and demonstrate you have the academic aptitude and commitment to succeed in the classroom. The alternative transcript and 700+ GMAT will not completely mitigate your undergraduate transcript, but it should assuage any concerns the admissions committee might have on your academic aptitude. Your essays, interview and recommendations will also be key in further cementing the belief that you are committed to business school and approaching school differently this time.
I'm not sure if you are a career changer as you did not indicate your career goals, but assuming you probably are if you left Hollywood. Since over 50% of MBA applicants are looking to make a career change, there is nothing negative about wanting to make a change. The question is more about how realistic your career goal is from what you did before when combined with business school. Showing your transferable skills will be critical on your resume in this regard.
As for schools, I think you have to see where your GMAT score ends up being, but I'm not sure that a 750 GMAT will alter the list significantly. You need to consider your below average GPA and nontraditional work experience into your assessment of your profile. Depending on the quality of your experience in the entertainment industry, you might need to adjust your range slightly. It will also be imperative that you identify the right schools for your career goals in terms of curriculum and career connections to give your application the best chance.
Good luck,
Lisa
How to deal with a low GPA
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Lisa Anderson
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thanks Lisa!
one more followup question...
what range of schools are within reach assuming everything else application wise is up to par.
I'm pretty sure super elites are out but what about georgetown/nyu/indiana/UT-austin/Michigan state?
and what sorts of back up schools should i aim for?
Penn state? and others on that level?
I'm just stressing about the school selection because my credentials aren't as clear cut as a 3.5, 720 gmat and 4 years at Bain &co. I know that fit is important , NYU would be perfect for me, do i have a shot?
Thanks again
one more followup question...
what range of schools are within reach assuming everything else application wise is up to par.
I'm pretty sure super elites are out but what about georgetown/nyu/indiana/UT-austin/Michigan state?
and what sorts of back up schools should i aim for?
Penn state? and others on that level?
I'm just stressing about the school selection because my credentials aren't as clear cut as a 3.5, 720 gmat and 4 years at Bain &co. I know that fit is important , NYU would be perfect for me, do i have a shot?
Thanks again
GMAT/MBA Expert
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Lisa Anderson
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Once again, it all depends on what your career goals are, where your GMAT score ends up, and how the school views your career path to date. NYU might be an option--I can't really comment definitively on any school as I don't know enough about you. I think your thoughts on some great schools like Georgetown, Indiana and Michigan State are in the right direction as these are all solid programs that do not receive the recognition from the various magazines that they should. Depending on your GMAT, your safety options could be a school like Penn State. I encourage you to visit our sticky on school selection for some tips on identifying programs that are a good fit for you and hope you continue to do some research on the various options out there.
Best of luck,
Lisa
Best of luck,
Lisa
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streetpunkstar
- Junior | Next Rank: 30 Posts
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Hello,
Everyone keeps calling their GPA low, but my GPA is lower than 2.5 (that's low!) I had medical problems, blah blah, excuses excuses...
After 4 years working as an engineer for 2 years and then promoted to sales engineer, I've been wanting to go into an MBA Program. There's a few here (in Colorado) I'm looking at, but I'm being realistic, I just want ANY MBA program.
I don't have an idea about my GMAT, but I do plan on extensively taking prep courses as 4 years of working has turned my brain to mush. I know I'll have to work hard to get a near perfect GMAT score to offset my low GPA.
Realistically, whats the chances of getting into ANY MBA program with my obvious gimp in GPA....? And what do I need to do/score?
Regards,
Rich
Everyone keeps calling their GPA low, but my GPA is lower than 2.5 (that's low!) I had medical problems, blah blah, excuses excuses...
After 4 years working as an engineer for 2 years and then promoted to sales engineer, I've been wanting to go into an MBA Program. There's a few here (in Colorado) I'm looking at, but I'm being realistic, I just want ANY MBA program.
I don't have an idea about my GMAT, but I do plan on extensively taking prep courses as 4 years of working has turned my brain to mush. I know I'll have to work hard to get a near perfect GMAT score to offset my low GPA.
Realistically, whats the chances of getting into ANY MBA program with my obvious gimp in GPA....? And what do I need to do/score?
Regards,
Rich
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streetpunkstar
- Junior | Next Rank: 30 Posts
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- Joined: Tue May 25, 2010 12:59 pm
I feel a little more comfortable, tho slightly embarrassed to admit my GPA. It was 2.3 GPA overall, but my major Mech. Eng. was around 2.7.streetpunkstar wrote:Hello,
Everyone keeps calling their GPA low, but my GPA is lower than 2.5 (that's low!) I had medical problems, blah blah, excuses excuses...
After 4 years working as an engineer for 2 years and then promoted to sales engineer, I've been wanting to go into an MBA Program. There's a few here (in Colorado) I'm looking at, but I'm being realistic, I just want ANY MBA program.
I don't have an idea about my GMAT, but I do plan on extensively taking prep courses as 4 years of working has turned my brain to mush. I know I'll have to work hard to get a near perfect GMAT score to offset my low GPA.
Realistically, whats the chances of getting into ANY MBA program with my obvious gimp in GPA....? And what do I need to do/score?
Regards,
Rich
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Lisa Anderson
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Dear Rich,
There is an MBA program out there for you--and you might be surprised what kind of options you might have. While your GPA is not outstanding, it is not necessarily a deal breaker depending on what the rest of your application looks like. Are you looking at part-time/executive programs or full-time programs? That can also make a difference as the evaluation is a bit different. For any MBA program though, a strong GMAT score is the best way to mitigate your GPA. You definitely want to try to get a score starting with a 6 or a 7 (higher is better, of course). The fact your engineering GPA was a bit better and that engineering is a tough, quantitative major will also work to your advantage. Likewise, having a successful track record in your career with a solid rationale for why you want to go to business school will further alleviate concerns an admissions committee might have. In sum, use the rest of the application to your advantage so that the GPA is your only potential weakness. Identify and apply to a mix of programs--with a strong application package, you might end up in a program you thought was out of reach.
Best of luck,
Lisa
There is an MBA program out there for you--and you might be surprised what kind of options you might have. While your GPA is not outstanding, it is not necessarily a deal breaker depending on what the rest of your application looks like. Are you looking at part-time/executive programs or full-time programs? That can also make a difference as the evaluation is a bit different. For any MBA program though, a strong GMAT score is the best way to mitigate your GPA. You definitely want to try to get a score starting with a 6 or a 7 (higher is better, of course). The fact your engineering GPA was a bit better and that engineering is a tough, quantitative major will also work to your advantage. Likewise, having a successful track record in your career with a solid rationale for why you want to go to business school will further alleviate concerns an admissions committee might have. In sum, use the rest of the application to your advantage so that the GPA is your only potential weakness. Identify and apply to a mix of programs--with a strong application package, you might end up in a program you thought was out of reach.
Best of luck,
Lisa
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streetpunkstar
- Junior | Next Rank: 30 Posts
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Hi Lisa,Lisa Anderson wrote:Dear Rich,
There is an MBA program out there for you--and you might be surprised what kind of options you might have. While your GPA is not outstanding, it is not necessarily a deal breaker depending on what the rest of your application looks like. Are you looking at part-time/executive programs or full-time programs? That can also make a difference as the evaluation is a bit different. For any MBA program though, a strong GMAT score is the best way to mitigate your GPA. You definitely want to try to get a score starting with a 6 or a 7 (higher is better, of course). The fact your engineering GPA was a bit better and that engineering is a tough, quantitative major will also work to your advantage. Likewise, having a successful track record in your career with a solid rationale for why you want to go to business school will further alleviate concerns an admissions committee might have. In sum, use the rest of the application to your advantage so that the GPA is your only potential weakness. Identify and apply to a mix of programs--with a strong application package, you might end up in a program you thought was out of reach.
Best of luck,
Lisa
Thank you for giving me some hope for getting into grad school.
Its going to be an uphill battle...I figured a GMAT score beginning with a 6, probably 7 would be needed to offset my GPA. I applied to a GMAT prep course this summer (and I plan on taking at least 2 or 3.) I do plan on prepping for the GMAT at least 6 months before I actually take it. Anything below a 650 I won't bother applying anywhere.
Also, since completing my BS in Engineering, I've worked about 48 months. Would this be sufficient? Should I wait longer so it would mitigate my low GPA? I did receive one promotion 2 years ago (maybe that will help in the application.)
Could you also recommend me a part-time MBA program in the Denver area? I'm assuming to steer clear from those online colleges and "colleges" you see on TV during the 9a-5p hours. I was aiming for U of Colorado Denver or U of Colorado Boulder, though Boulder is a higher goal. Univ. of Denver may be too high of a goal for me. Colorado State sounds like you need much more work experience to get in (10+ yrs.)
Thanks Lisa, so glad I found this site! :mrgreen:
Rich
Hi,
I am Amit, from India.
I am B.E.(Information Technology) with low GPA(2.6), but having high GMAT score 740, is there any chance for me to get top 20 B- School.
Profile:-
B.E.(I.T.) 2003-2007
Having 3 years of Experience in Software Industry.(CMM Level-5 company)(India only)
GMAT-740
I am Amit, from India.
I am B.E.(Information Technology) with low GPA(2.6), but having high GMAT score 740, is there any chance for me to get top 20 B- School.
Profile:-
B.E.(I.T.) 2003-2007
Having 3 years of Experience in Software Industry.(CMM Level-5 company)(India only)
GMAT-740
GMAT/MBA Expert
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Lisa Anderson
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Dear Rich,
You have enough experience for a part-time program. The question is are you ready to start? I think UC Denver, UC Boulder and the Univ of Denver are all options for you. You will never know unless you apply. A strong set of essays and recommendations, combined with a great resume and interview, can do a lot to mitigate a GPA. These are also schools that will be known outside of the CO area if you ever decide to move. Colorado State is more of an executive program, hence the 10+ year experience requirement.
Best of luck,
Lisa
You have enough experience for a part-time program. The question is are you ready to start? I think UC Denver, UC Boulder and the Univ of Denver are all options for you. You will never know unless you apply. A strong set of essays and recommendations, combined with a great resume and interview, can do a lot to mitigate a GPA. These are also schools that will be known outside of the CO area if you ever decide to move. Colorado State is more of an executive program, hence the 10+ year experience requirement.
Best of luck,
Lisa
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Lisa Anderson
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Dear Amit,
Your chances of admission for a top 20 will depend on the strength of your overall application package. Your 740 is competitive, but your GPA is low. Since you are from an over-represented profile in the global MBA applicant pool, it is imperative you find a way to distinguish yourself from the other similar applicants and make a compelling case for your admission. I think it is possible you could gain admission, but I do encourage you (like any other applicant) to apply to a mix of schools if you want to be in business school in fall 2011.
Good luck,
Lisa
Your chances of admission for a top 20 will depend on the strength of your overall application package. Your 740 is competitive, but your GPA is low. Since you are from an over-represented profile in the global MBA applicant pool, it is imperative you find a way to distinguish yourself from the other similar applicants and make a compelling case for your admission. I think it is possible you could gain admission, but I do encourage you (like any other applicant) to apply to a mix of schools if you want to be in business school in fall 2011.
Good luck,
Lisa
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Masterspongebob
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Hello Lisa can you provide me with a little advice as I am so lost right now!
GPA: 2.8 Bachelor of Arts and Science
I took the GMAT in the winter, I got 530 the first time, 570 the second time, and then the third time I ended up with a 450!
I have 2 years of teller experience at a bank.
I applied at Universities for Masters of Economics at Hong Kong, HKU/HKUST/City of University, and got rejected by all of them! Is there any way to improve my chances to do my Mastes in Hong Kong, besides retaking the GMAT?
Thanks in advance Lisa!
GPA: 2.8 Bachelor of Arts and Science
I took the GMAT in the winter, I got 530 the first time, 570 the second time, and then the third time I ended up with a 450!
I have 2 years of teller experience at a bank.
I applied at Universities for Masters of Economics at Hong Kong, HKU/HKUST/City of University, and got rejected by all of them! Is there any way to improve my chances to do my Mastes in Hong Kong, besides retaking the GMAT?
Thanks in advance Lisa!
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Lisa Anderson
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Dear Masterspongebob,
It is really tough to comment on why you ended up with the results you did without seeing your entire application. Based on your post, I would have to say that the schools probably did have a concern with your GMAT and GPA as both would be on the below average. Since you can't change your GPA, one thing you can do is to retake your GMAT to try and improve it to 600+. I think another potential concern might be on your professional experience and how it relates to your career goals. It is imperative to have solid rationale for why you want to go to business school in relation to your long-term career plans. If you are not presenting this rationale effectively in both your essays and interview, then that can also hold you back. Likewise, you need to present the experience you do have in the best light possible. Many schools do not view teller experience as being something that requires a college degree. If you have additional responsibilities or can seek out greater responsibilities over the next year, then you need to reflect those in your application/resume. You might consider working for a couple more years, gaining a promotion and/or supervisory experience, before re-applying.
Good luck,
Lisa
It is really tough to comment on why you ended up with the results you did without seeing your entire application. Based on your post, I would have to say that the schools probably did have a concern with your GMAT and GPA as both would be on the below average. Since you can't change your GPA, one thing you can do is to retake your GMAT to try and improve it to 600+. I think another potential concern might be on your professional experience and how it relates to your career goals. It is imperative to have solid rationale for why you want to go to business school in relation to your long-term career plans. If you are not presenting this rationale effectively in both your essays and interview, then that can also hold you back. Likewise, you need to present the experience you do have in the best light possible. Many schools do not view teller experience as being something that requires a college degree. If you have additional responsibilities or can seek out greater responsibilities over the next year, then you need to reflect those in your application/resume. You might consider working for a couple more years, gaining a promotion and/or supervisory experience, before re-applying.
Good luck,
Lisa
Hi Lisa,
I will be applying to several top MBA programs this fall and greatly would appreciate your feedback on my candidacy.
Earned dual degrees in computer science and philosophy at an Ivy ranked in the top five nationally. Though overall GPA is a 3.2, my transcript shows an upward trend that culminated in a 3.4 over the last two years and a 3.6 in my senior year. A black eye: I struggled initially and received a handful of C-level grades in difficult, quant-oriented courses, all but one within the first two years; also had one withdrawal.
As an undergrad, I worked 15-20 hrs/wk to help pay for school expenses. Was heavily involved in community service-oriented extracurriculars in which I demonstrated significant leadership, initiative, and teamwork: was selected by faculty as one of the top ten student leaders on campus.
Post college, worked in software dev at a top investment bank for ~2yrs, then jumped to manage technology projects at a non-profit. Have made a significant impact and demonstrated leadership on the job, obtained increasing responsibilities, received excellent reviews, etc. I served on the young professionals board of a local non-profit for a year but left to begin duathlon training; am competitive in the sport.
I just took the GMAT and scored a 720 (Q49, V39), AWA 5.5.
How much of a liability is my transcript? Will the GMAT and optional essay mitigate any concerns? Re: the GMAT, I know that I am capable of a higher verbal score since I never scored below a 44 in my practice tests: do you think it'd be worthwhile to retake the test? In my case, will adcoms frown upon a lack of significant community involvement after college?
Can you please comment on how competitive I am for Stanford GSB, Haas, Sloan, Columbia, Kellogg, and Tuck? Any specific hurdles at any or all of these schools that make would make admission particularly difficult for me?
Thanks so much in advance!
I will be applying to several top MBA programs this fall and greatly would appreciate your feedback on my candidacy.
Earned dual degrees in computer science and philosophy at an Ivy ranked in the top five nationally. Though overall GPA is a 3.2, my transcript shows an upward trend that culminated in a 3.4 over the last two years and a 3.6 in my senior year. A black eye: I struggled initially and received a handful of C-level grades in difficult, quant-oriented courses, all but one within the first two years; also had one withdrawal.
As an undergrad, I worked 15-20 hrs/wk to help pay for school expenses. Was heavily involved in community service-oriented extracurriculars in which I demonstrated significant leadership, initiative, and teamwork: was selected by faculty as one of the top ten student leaders on campus.
Post college, worked in software dev at a top investment bank for ~2yrs, then jumped to manage technology projects at a non-profit. Have made a significant impact and demonstrated leadership on the job, obtained increasing responsibilities, received excellent reviews, etc. I served on the young professionals board of a local non-profit for a year but left to begin duathlon training; am competitive in the sport.
I just took the GMAT and scored a 720 (Q49, V39), AWA 5.5.
How much of a liability is my transcript? Will the GMAT and optional essay mitigate any concerns? Re: the GMAT, I know that I am capable of a higher verbal score since I never scored below a 44 in my practice tests: do you think it'd be worthwhile to retake the test? In my case, will adcoms frown upon a lack of significant community involvement after college?
Can you please comment on how competitive I am for Stanford GSB, Haas, Sloan, Columbia, Kellogg, and Tuck? Any specific hurdles at any or all of these schools that make would make admission particularly difficult for me?
Thanks so much in advance!
GMAT/MBA Expert
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Lisa Anderson
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Dear mba2013,
I don't think your transcript is a significant liability. Your cumulative GPA is not out of range and you showed improvement as your progressed through your degree program. Additionally, your GMAT is strong, especially on your quant score, so you have demonstrated your academic aptitude for business school. I don't know that it would be with your time and effort to retake the GMAT, but that is your call on what resources you feel you can expend. Boosting your score ~10 points is probably not going to make much difference and you don't want your raw quant to go down. As for the lack of community activities, that is a tough one as some schools are more concerned on this attribute than others. Since you work in the nonprofit industry, you are a bit different. Likewise, you did have the year on the board of the nonprofit before focusing on your training, which is reasonable. I think you might be ok on that point, but it will depend on the school.
I do think you have a shot at any of your target schools with an outstanding application package. These are all highly selective schools, so you might want to consider applying to 1-2 safety schools (perhaps in R2) as an insurance plan.
Good luck,
Lisa
I don't think your transcript is a significant liability. Your cumulative GPA is not out of range and you showed improvement as your progressed through your degree program. Additionally, your GMAT is strong, especially on your quant score, so you have demonstrated your academic aptitude for business school. I don't know that it would be with your time and effort to retake the GMAT, but that is your call on what resources you feel you can expend. Boosting your score ~10 points is probably not going to make much difference and you don't want your raw quant to go down. As for the lack of community activities, that is a tough one as some schools are more concerned on this attribute than others. Since you work in the nonprofit industry, you are a bit different. Likewise, you did have the year on the board of the nonprofit before focusing on your training, which is reasonable. I think you might be ok on that point, but it will depend on the school.
I do think you have a shot at any of your target schools with an outstanding application package. These are all highly selective schools, so you might want to consider applying to 1-2 safety schools (perhaps in R2) as an insurance plan.
Good luck,
Lisa
