What is the best plan for me to get into a top MBA?

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I am graduating this semester with a 3.4 GPA. My school is ranked around the 80s by the US News for its undergraduate business program. I double majored in Accounting and Finance. My goal is to get into a top 10 MBA program, not necessarily Harvard, Stanford, or Wharton, but Kellogg, Chicago Booth, MIT Sloan, Columbia, or UCLA will do the job. Now, what can I do right now to land such an admission?

I am contemplating a couple of options:
1) One option is to get an MSF (Masters of Science in Finance) right now and then work for a couple of years, then go back and apply for the MBA;
2) Another option is start working right now and then apply for the MBA.

So, would an MSF + 2 years of experience be better (or same as or less advantageous) than 3 years of experience?

Please tell me how can maximize on my chances on getting into a Top MBA? Would passing 1 or 2 levels of the CFA help?

Also, what kind of work experience would help me the most? I can land a job in a Sovereign Fund, but also have the chance to work in PWC or E&Y on the advisory side. Which would be better for admission folks at the top schools? Are there other better types of jobs that can help out more? What are the preferences of admission committees?

Side Notes: During this time, I will work hard to ace the GMAT and get a score above 680. Additionally, I will not have to pay for either degrees for I have a scholarship.

I realize that, if getting into a top MBA is a goal, preplanning is needed so that later I would not be going: "Oh, I wish I had done that!" Please advise me on which route that would best serve me to reach my goal.
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by Lisa Anderson » Sun Sep 27, 2009 1:20 pm
Dear mushinkhan,

There is no preferred background in business school admissions. It is what you have achieved and accomplished in your career that matters. Whether or not you should get a MS in Finance depends on whether or not you believe you need it for the career path you wish to pursue at this point in time. Getting a MS in Finance is not necessarily an advantage or disadvantage in relation to MBA admissions. You need to pursue a career that truly interests you, where you believe you will excel and add value, and where you believe you will progress in the 2-3 years you plan to work prior to applying for your MBA.

Good luck,
Lisa
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