Part-Time Houston Program With a 550 GMAT?

[Houston_Part_Time]

Hello Lisa,

I'm in the process of applying for the part-time programs at UT in Houston and Rice, or I should say I was in the process until I took my GMAT last Friday and scored a 550. The deadline is early June and I won't be able to take the GMAT again. It looks like a 550 is at the lower end of mid 80% range for the Rice part-time program. Is a 550 even in the ballpark for UTs Houston program? Below I've listed some personal information to help in the basement.

- 6 years experience, currently in a management role in Supply Chain/Manufacturing with a very large Energy company well known in the Houston area
- I can demonstrate career progression
- ~2.9 GPA low 80% in Industrial Engineering From a mid level Northeastern state school, achieved this while working 20-30 hours a week
- I can clearly show how obtaining an MBA will open doors for career progression within my current company that will not be available otherwise
- I have from what they told me, excellent evaluations from my manager and N+2
- I'm an American, my parents immigrated to the US from Eastern Europe. I'm the first in my family to attend college and actually the first male family member from my Mothers side to graduate from High School

So should I apply this year? Another thing is I would like to use Stacy Blackman Consulting for editing on my essays and resume. If I where to submit them next weekend is it to late?


Thanks

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear Houston_Part_Time,

If you are applying to start in July/August, then I think you might not make the cut with the 550, particularly at UT Houston. However, it depends on what the applicant pools look like at the two programs and how many folks have accepted the offers of admission that already went out. It is possible--but it will mean your essays, resume, recommendations, and interviews are outstanding. If you want help on your essays and resume, then you need to get set up with a consultant as soon as possible as you need to allow a couple of days for the consultant to review your documents. If you want more than one review, then you will need to allow more time for the consultant to work with you.

Good luck,
Lisa