Am I Still a Competitive (Sure Thing) Applicant?

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Looking for some help from those who know:

I just got a 730 - 47Q, 42V. 96th percentile. I got 760 on both on my GMATPrep exams, so I am slightly disappointed. I had had the attitude (right or wrong) that a 99th percentile score would all but guarantee me a spot in a top 5 program. I had a 3.76 GPA from a good undergrad school. Is that, with my 730, a good bet to get into the top schools? I appreciate the insight. I know I am in the ballpark, but should I feel extremely satisfied, just satisfied, or disappointed. Also, should I think about taking the exam again?

Finally, I will not be applying to BSchool for another couple of years (I just finished undergrad and am starting my first job next week!). Are there things that are commonly suggested to prospective candidates to do in the years leading up to the BSchool application process that can help bolster an application? Any general advice here is, of course, very appreciated.

Thanks - just looking for a little perspective.

Jake
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by Lisa Anderson » Tue Jul 07, 2009 11:55 am
Dear Jake,

There are no "sure things" or guarantees when it comes to business school admissions. It is not enough to have a high GMAT and GPA; you must also have a solid rationale for going to business school in relation to your past experience and future career goals. Likewise, you must have demonstrated leadership potential and present an overall, strong application. Your 730 is a great score, so I'm not sure it is necessary to retake the exam. You certainly can as a higher score will never hurt you, but it is unclear if a higher score will make any difference in the ultimate admissions decision.

The best thing you can do to strengthen your future applications is to seek out opportunities in your career to broaden and deepen your skill set. Additionally, seek out leadership opportunities both at work and outside the office. Then, when you start writing your applications, you will have some great examples to write about in your essays.

Good luck,
Lisa
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