Good shot at my target school?

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Good shot at my target school?

by dubc1982 » Sat Jun 28, 2008 10:57 am
GPA: 3.45 cumulative/4.0 in all major courses. I also did a paralegal diploma program at a top university with a cum. GPA of 3.85

Work Experience: at matriculation, slightly more than 3 years. 1 1/2 at a top 5 corporate law firm and a little more than 1 1/2 at a top 3 investment bank. My position at the bank was a big step up from my previous position, so I've been progressing a lot.

GMAT: Scored a 590 on my second practice test (GMAT Prep.)

I also have great letters of recc., will have a great essay (I feel I have a very clear idea of what I want to do, how the school fits me perfectly, etc.) and will be applying very early. I've also met with school representatives and have tried to keep good contact.

I'm applying to the University of Hawaii (unranked, small regional school. They only received 193 applications for all MBA programs). Their numbers:

Av. GPA: 3.30
Av. GMAT 630 (however, its says "middle" 80% range is 570-700, which I don't fully understand).
Work Exp. 3.4 in main MBA, 5.2 in my specific program, a range of 2-21 years

I think my overall package will be very strong, with my weakest part being my GMAT. I feel they have a great program and am very excited, but they do not compare with any top 25 schools. I think even with my above credentials I would have a shot at bottom top 25 school, so I'm optimistic I'll get into the program I'm applying to.

Any advice on what else I can do? Any comments/advice is greatly appreciated!
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by Lisa Anderson » Sun Jun 29, 2008 8:40 am
Dear dubc1982,

The middle 80% range is the range that 80% of the class falls in, with the bottom 10% being below 570 and the top 10% being above 700. If you score within that range, then you should have a decent shot of admission. I do think the GMAT could be your weakness in your application if you score below 630.

It sounds like you are doing all you should be and have done your due diligence. Put together a strong application package and do great on your GMAT--you'll be fine.

Good luck,
Lisa
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