low gpaa

Dear clmaqde,

Many applicants have a rocky academic start and then turn things around in their final two years of school. It is not an uncommon profile; however, you are right to be concerned if you are focused on the top 10 business schools where admissions is highly selective. You need to demonstrate that you are both able to academically succeed in the classroom and have the maturity, commitment and focus now that you did not then. Your GMAT score, improved performance in school, and successful professional experience will serve as evidence of these things. You should also write the optional essay to acknowledge your GPA, your rough beginning in college, and how you learned from the experience. The focus of that essay is how you are different now and the evidence to support your ability to excel in business school. If you can do that, then you do have a chance. But, I would also encourage you to cast your net a bit wider on schools as the top 10 are tough for any candidate to gain admission to, even those with no discernible weaknesses in their profiles.

Good luck,
Lisa