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Low GPA Question - wasn't mentioned in the sticky post above

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Low GPA Question - wasn't mentioned in the sticky post above

by 7jai » Tue May 20, 2008 5:56 am
So my profile goes like this...

I'm a Canadian Undergraduate in Communications (minored in business). I received a CGPA of B- (so that would be around 2.8, I would assume). I am currently doing my CMA in Canada, and working as an accountant, while doing volunteer non-profit consulting work on the side. I'm interested in applying to both Canadian and US MBA schools.

Assuming I receive a GMAT score of 670, my question is this. Since I do have a low GPA score, would my CMA have any big impact on MBA school admissions? Or would I have to address my low GPA score directly (like you mentioned in your "sticky post") and mention how I overcame that low GPA struggle by achieving a designation like the CMA and did volunteer NPO consulting?

What would be the best way to use the CMA designation to its upmost advantage when applying to a MBA school?

Thanks very much for your advice,


Chuck
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by Lisa Anderson » Tue May 20, 2008 7:31 am
Dear Chuck,

I do think you will need to address your GPA in the optional essay. It is best to give some explanation as to why your grades were not higher and then point out examples which demonstrate your ability to succeed in the MBA program. You should be able to use the CMA as part of your rationale that you can handle the academic work. Likewise, your GMAT score being at 670 or higher will also demonstrate your academic aptitude to succeed in the classroom.

Best of luck,
Lisa
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by 7jai » Tue May 20, 2008 7:41 am
Hi Lisa,

Thank you for your swift and helpful response. Your advice is appreciated and helps alot!

When MBA graduate schools (such as Schulich and Rotman) set minimum academic requirements (at least a B in your final two years in order to apply); should I even bother trying b/c they will pre-screen all applicants with those minimum requirements and kick out those who don't have them? Or do they take all applicants into consideration, regardless if they met the minimum admission requirements?

I was always confused about that, since I know I do not have the minimum admission GPA requirements, so I look the other way. Should I still apply anyways?

Thanks Lisa,


Chuck
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by Lisa Anderson » Wed May 21, 2008 4:48 am
Dear Chuck,

That is a good question as some schools are more flexible on those things than others. If Schulich and Rotman specifically state that requirement, then they probably do honor it. However, it might be worth contacting them just to clarify. When you do speak with them, I would suggest asking to speak with the Admissions Director or an Assistant Director--not just whomever answers the phone. Also, when you pose the question, you will want to give them what your GPA was in the last two years and also how your professional success and CMA indicate your GPA does not reflect your true aptitude.

Best of luck,
Lisa
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by MBAwesome » Sun May 25, 2008 8:52 am
Hey Chuck,
I'm curious about the minimum GPA requirement as well, if you find out would you kindly post your findings? I'm in a similar situation where I have a B average in my final year, but not in my final two years (which makes the cut for some programs, but not others).
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