Dear Dianars,

Don't let the GMAT get you down--it is not the most important variable. While your 580 is not where you want it to be, it might be enough with an otherwise outstanding application to the part-time programs. Your GPA is quite high and you have several years of experience. If you can demonstrate progression, secure good recommendations, and highlight your accomplishments, then your work experience will be an advantage for you. Likewise, demonstrating your leadership and teamwork experience is critical and can be done through professional experience as well as extracurriculars. Finally, having a great interview and well-written essays to make a compelling case for your admission can go a long way to moving your application closer to the admit pile. Visit the campuses and establish a rapport with an admissions staff member so there is more than a name associated with your application. While I think you should take the GMAT again to try to break a 600, I don't think you should be discouraged from applying with your current score either.

Good luck,
Lisa

Dear Diana,

I would not say it is "easier" to get into the part-time program, but the evaluation of applicants is slightly different. Work experience, your rationale for going to business school, and your career goals are critical in the process. While the other components, like GMAT and GPA, are equally important, the school's ranking does not hinge on the part-time statistics and thus the part-time class composition is different--usually the average work experience is higher. Since GW does not have an interview, then that is all the more reason to visit and make yourself known to the admission staff there.

Best of luck,
Lisa