Ask Stacy Blackman

Dear allbusiness4,

Based on the information posted, I would say you have the foundation for a competitive application to the Langone program. Your GMAT score should be at or above the average to be competitive, but if you score within the mid-50% range, you should still have a chance with an otherwise strong application. In terms of your years of work experience, the number only includes full-time, professional experience post-bachelor's degree. So, if your internships were during college, then that time does not count in the number of years--but it does count in terms of your evaluation as an applicant.

Most business schools still prefer the GMAT. You might check with the admissions folks at NYU to see if there is a preference there; if not, then I think you should pick one versus trying to prepare for both. If you plan to apply to more than one business school, the GMAT is probably your better option as many schools only take the GMAT.

The earliest you can apply is the first day applications are accepted for the Spring 2011 intake. If the application is available, then usually it is also being accepted.

I highly encourage you to visit the campus and attend a class if you have not done so. I think it is a valuable experience and will help you as you write your essays. Likewise, it will allow you to introduce yourself to the admissions office and hopefully make a favorable impression.

Good luck,
Lisa

As I noted previously, for NYU it might not matter which test you take, but if you plan to apply to other programs, then you might want to take the GMAT as it is the one accepted by all business schools. There is a perception that the GRE is "easier" than the GMAT, but I don't know that "easier" is the right descriptive term. The tests are simply different. If you have done some research and feel that one test is better suited to your strengths, then that is probably the one to take.

All of the applications components are equally important and are not really given numerical weights. There are variances based on the individual. For example, you might have a really high GMAT which will then mitigate a below average GPA. Ideally, you want your GMAT at or above average to be in the best position. Since your GPA is at or slightly above average, then you will still be academically competitive with a GMAT in the mid-50% range. In essence, you want to shoot for a GMAT over about a 650/660 with your ideal zone over a 680.

Best of luck,
Lisa