Question: 3rd Round Admissions

[The Apprentice]

Thank you for taking the time to read my post.

I appeared for GMAT a couple of times last year and scored 650 and 660 in my attempts. AWA score was 5.5 in both attempts. I am appearing for my 3rd attempt at GMAT in late February to achieve my goal (750). However, after reading the posts here and other forums, I found that 3rd round is very very tough to get into, especially when people with 720+ scores are being waitlisted. I know that comparisons don't make sense as everyone's different, but that kind of weighs on your mind. I have 7 years experience in an IT MNC and have done consulting assignments internationally; I am also involved with a charitable organization to raise funds for poor children who can't afford schooling. My work and constant travel leaves me no time to work with more voluntary organizations even though I want to.

With this backdrop, I am wondering if it would make sense for me to apply to US business schools in the 3rd round or just apply earlier this year for next year admissions. My target is Top 10 B Schools in US. I have to make a decision soon and would really appreciate your insights.

Thank you.

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear The Apprentice,

If I were you, I would wait to apply in R1 for fall 2010 entry. R3 is highly competitive for any applicant, but is especially tough for folks with profiles similar to a large percentage of the applicant pool. As an IT professional, you would fall into this large percentage. However, you might have a higher risk tolerance than me and believe you can distinguish yourself from the other applicants. So, you just need to weigh your background and overall package against what you feel the rest of the applicant pool will look like for your target schools.

Good luck,
Lisa

[The Apprentice]

Thank you Lisa. I really appreciate your quick response.