Ok to apply this late in the game?

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Ok to apply this late in the game?

by kevch25 » Fri Mar 09, 2007 2:11 pm
Hi Stacey,

I'd like some advice before I start something I may regret.

I took the GMAT yesterday and scored a 650 (not sure on writing, but I feel I did well, atleast above a 4). I planned on enrolling for B-school in Fall 2008. I originally wanted to go top 10, and I know my GMAT is a bit low. I was going to consider classes or possible private tutoring to try to take the GMATs again in a month or two to crack into the 700s.

Last night, I had the last minute idea of trying to apply into the McCombs school of Business at the University of Texas at Austin. I am a UT alumni with a degree in Computer Science. I graduated with a 3.0 GPA and currently work with IBM (4 years).

McCombs has an application deadline of April 1st, but I feel I would be able to complete the application, essays, and also obtain the letters of recommendation by then. I know it seems rushed, but I am confident in my ability to complete it and complete it well.

I know I am not the strongest candidate (avg GMAT for McCombs is 670), but do you feel I stand a chance at getting accepted this late in the application process?

If I get rejected, or choose not to apply, I will most likely attempt the GMAT again to grab that 700+ score and wait my time for the Fall 2008 cycle. McCombs has always been on my list, so if I could sneak in now that would be great even though it was unplanned to try this early.

So I guess the best outcome would be getting accepted to McCombs, avoiding having to take the GMAT again, and getting started on the MBA track a year earlier than expected.

Cons would be getting denied and having that mark on me for next year when I try to apply again.

Thanks for the input Stacey,

-Kevin
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by Stacy Blackman » Fri Mar 09, 2007 11:32 pm
I don't feel I know enough to accurately assess whether you would be admitted. However, even if you need to reapply, this is not a bad thing. I would not necessarily consider it to be a black mark on your record. So you might want to go for it and if it does not work out you can try again. The biggest challenge for you may be putting together a truly strong app in such a short time period.
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by kevch25 » Sat Mar 10, 2007 1:48 pm
Thank you for your reply Stacy.

What addtional information would you require to help make a better assessment on my chances? I'd be happy to provide anything that may help.

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by Stacy Blackman » Sun Mar 11, 2007 8:33 pm
Hi there,
See the sticky entry "what info does Stacy need"
https://www.beatthegmat.com/viewtopic.php?t=129
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by kevch25 » Sun Mar 11, 2007 9:31 pm
Here's some additional information Stacey:

- GPA, major, school
3.0, Computer Science

- GMAT with breakdown
overall 80%

- resume highlights, including company name, job titles and promotions
<removed>


- extracurricular involvements
Particpate in E-mentor's with local elementary 5th graders. Help with ARCH which serves food to the homeless on the weekends.

- awards, patents, publications, etc...
N/A

- interesting personal facts - countries lived in, challenges faced, unusual interests
Lived in Hong Kong for 2 years of high school, and attended an international school. Challenging because first time living overseas, had to adjust and readjust quickly since I was overseas for first two years of high school, and finished up my last 2 years back in the States.
Last edited by kevch25 on Thu May 31, 2007 1:40 pm, edited 1 time in total.

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by Stacy Blackman » Sun Mar 11, 2007 10:00 pm
I would go for it! It is never a sure thing, but from what you have told me I believe you are a competitive applicant for McCombs. If it did not work out this year, I believe they would look kindly upon your reapplication.
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by kevch25 » Mon Mar 12, 2007 5:07 am
Thank you for your advice Stacy. I will try my best to make the deadline.

-Kevin

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by kevch25 » Thu May 31, 2007 1:39 pm
Stacy,

I just wanted to give you an update on my situation since you were an intregal part in my decision to apply for Fall 2007.

I took my GMAT early March 2007, and applied just before the March 31, 2007 deadline. UT McCombs MBA is on a rolling admission and I was just notified today that I was accepted into their incoming Fall 2007 class.

I just wanted to say thank you for giving me the reassurance to proceed based on my experience and GMAT score.

Cheers to you, and I can't say thank you enough.

-Kevin

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by Stacy Blackman » Thu May 31, 2007 10:25 pm
That's wonderful news! I am really happy for you. Congratulations!
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