Need Realistic Eval of USC MBA.PM Chances

Hi there,

Thanks for posting. It sounds like you have clear goals and a plan to get there, and are very interested in the specific USC MBA-PM program for those who want to work during the MBA. Your profile generally seems to match well with the class profile of the MBA-PM program. Yes it's true that statistically speaking the acceptance rate is much higher for this specific program vs more standard MBA programs but they also get fewer, and likely mostly well-qualified applicants, and USC is still a very strong program with high standards.

So your GMAT will be important, I encourage you to at least take a realistic practice exam soon so you have a good estimate of where you'll score. Over 650 would give you a slight edge at this program, and do work on your quant side as, if anything, a lower quant score can be a potential flag (given the quantitative nature of business school).

Your work in the defense industry should actually help you stand out as more unique, so that is a plus and I'd encourage you to focus on show-casing what about your work experiences has shaped who you are and what you'll bring to the classroom so to speak. You also have some great international experience you should highlight.

At this point you should focus your time and energy on the things you can still change-- your GMAT and your essays! Do not underestimate the importance of strong essays, which are the main way the school gets to know YOU and your goals prior to an interview. Also be sure to include genuine and thorough reasons for why you feel USC and this program is right for you-- that can go a long way.

Most likely your admissions decision will be greatly influenced by your essays (as long as your GMAT is decent), that's the area you have the most potential to make an impression and get your point across as to why you want this degree.

Let us know what other q's you have and keep us posted on your progress!

So just to clarify, you still haven't taken the GMAT? Depending on your timeframe and schedule etc I'd suggest going ahead and taking it asap, then you can decide based on that if you should apply R1 or re-take for R2. Certainly yes places are already taken as you get later in the year, but you also want to apply when your personal application is the best it can be, and if that's Round 2 that's ok... I'd just recommend not waiting until R3 if you can help it !