Hi there!
Your very high GPA and foundation in business coursework is definitely a strength. Impressive! I consider your GMAT to be a strength too -- it's not going to be above average at a school like Harvard but it's definitely high enough to demonstrate you can handle a top b-school curriculum. Plus you've got that high GPA and CFA too. Your work experience seems very strong too, hopefully you've got a nice story you can tell about how that experience relates to your post-MBA goals.

Is it possible to increase your volunteer activities? Or do you have other interesting hobbies / unique experiences that might help you stand out on a more personal level? That could help.

I would give Harvard a shot, but it is going to be a reach, it is for pretty much everyone, even applicants like you who are very qualified. I feel better about your chances at MIT and Tuck, and Fuqua should be a good fit.

Keep us posted if we can help with anything else!

TopMBAHopeful26 wrote:Hello! I'm hoping to get input on my MBA application strength. Below are my stats:

GMAT: 720 48Q/41V

GPA: 3.95 from Top 20 undergrad business school. Top 1% of class

Work experience: 5 years @ matriculation. 2+ years in Big 4 transaction services practice. Currently working at large private equity shop working in valuation/strategy group.

Certifications: CFA, completed all 3 levels on first attempt

Age: 25, planning on applying R1 for 9/17 start

Some volunteer experience

Solid recommendations

Target schools:
Harvard
MIT
Dartmouth
Duke

Harvard and MIT are by far my top 2 choices, but trying to gauge how realistic these are.

Thanks so much for the help!