mrxalex319 wrote:Hi everyone,

I have started studying for my Gmats but before I get into anything, let me share my profile.

Gmat: XXX (targeting mid to high 600's)
GPA: 3.0
Work Experience: 3 years (4 years at time of enrollment)
Target Date: Fall 2011

I know my GPA isnt that great but I am hoping that my GMAT score will make up for it. What are my chances of going to the following schools with a Gmat score of 610.

1. USC
2. Claremont University
3. Santa Clara University
4. Rutgers University
5. Syracuse University
6. San Jose State
7. Pepperdine University
8. UC Irvine

Thanks!

Well mean GPA and GMAT for USC is 3.3 and 690 [but do remember that your application will not be thrown away because of a 3.0 gpa; they will study your transcript and look for strengths/weaknesses, trends, and so on]
so I would say for USC you need a better than average package of essays and recommendations. It will also depend on your sectional score, say if you are a quant person, but scored 35 on gmat quant, you will have to make up by taking calculus stat classes or writing optional essay.

Pepperdine I believe the mean GMAT is 650 and their mean age of entry is 25, which is relatively low. So I assume it is less competitive than Marshall.

UCI merage: 675 & 3.4

I think analyst218 has given you a great framework for evaluating your chances of getting into your aforementioned schools. I suggest making a spreadsheet and inserting the GPA, GMAT score range, age range, and other profile stats of each school and see how you measure up.

Just like analyst218 said, they aren't going to throw away your application if you don't fit; you just need to step up your game when it comes to the essays. You can't really change your work experience, so you should REALLY focus on writing outstanding essays.

Best of luck! I went to Pomona College (one of the Claremont Colleges) for undergrad, so I love to see Claremont's business school on the list!

Kaneisha