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Concern of low master's degree GPA [Need Help!!]

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by jssung80 » Sun Dec 13, 2009 2:39 pm
Dear,

Always thank you so much for delivering wonderful answers to numerous questions everyday.
Here, I desperately need your valuable views.

I am wondering if I have a good chance to get admitted to top-tier MBA programs with low master's degree GPA.

- Profile:

1) *Master's degree: one of top 1 universities in U.S., Statistics, 3.4/4.0, Top 60~70%
2) Undergrad: one of top 1 universities in Korea, Statistics, 3.6/4.0, 3.9/4.0(Junior and Senior)
3) GMAT: 710
4) Korean, 31 (32 when apply)
5) Working experience: 2.5(when apply), Buyside analyst at one of top 1 asset managers in Korea.

I am thinking of applying only to HBS, Stanford, Wharton, Columbia, MIT, U of Chicago, and Northwestern, since I am able to get financial support only if I get admitted to them.

My questions are
1) Would my low master's GPA negatively affect my admission? If so, is there any way to deal with this problem?
2) With my profile, what is your opinion of my chance to getting admitted to them?

Would you kindly enlighten me on this matter? I appreciate it in advance.
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by Lisa Anderson » Wed Dec 16, 2009 2:26 pm
Dear jssung80,

Your master's GPA is not "low" and would not be enough to result in an automatic rejection by any school. It is simply one data point amongst many in your application that will be evaluated. When taken in context with your undergraduate performance and GMAT score, I don't think you should be overly concerned about it nor should you write an optional essay on your GPA. If you failed a class or were on academic probation, then you would want to address that however.

Based on the very limited information you posted, it is difficult to comment on your chances at any school. Generally speaking, you are applying to seven of the most selective MBA programs in the world. As such, it is difficult for any applicant (regardless of profile) to gain admission. I think you have some notable data points that are competitive for these schools, but it will be the whole application package that will determine the ultimate decision.

Good luck,
Lisa
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Stacy Blackman Consulting

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by jssung80 » Wed Dec 16, 2009 6:27 pm
Hi Lisa,

I greatly appreciate your views. Here, I'd like to ask of my age. Am I too old? I spent 2 and half year for Master's degree and another 2 and half years for military service. Can this periods be a good excuse for the late application with just 3 years of working experience?

Thank you so much.

-June-
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GMAT/MBA Expert

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Thanked: 442 times

by Lisa Anderson » Wed Dec 16, 2009 7:34 pm
Dear June,

There is not an age limit for an MBA program. The majority of MBA students in traditional, full-time programs are between 25 and 32 when they enter. So, while you are on the upper end of that range, you are by no means going to be the oldest person in the class.

Good luck,
Lisa
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Stacy Blackman Consulting

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