Dear Holly,

Generally speaking, you want your GMAT score to be close to or above the average for the program you are targeting at the school to be in the best competitive position on the GMAT. However, admissions decisions are made on more than a GMAT score and it is not the most important factor. Your resume, essays, recommendations and interview are critical to the process and give you a chance to really shine and make your compelling case for admission. As long as you are within the mid-50% range of GMAT scores for the NYU part-time program, then I think you have a shot if the rest of your application is strong. In terms of conveying your rationale for business school, you want to be sure to connect the dots from your past experience to the MBA program to your future goals. Add in the flavor of why NYU and why the part-time program to further strengthen your position and demonstrate your thoughtfulness. Finally, I highly encourage you to visit the campus if you have not already done so and attend a class. Be sure to meet someone in the admissions office so you can establish a relationship and put a face to your name.

Good luck,
Lisa