Please Evaluate Applying R1 in Fall

[MBABound?]

Hi! What are my chances for Top 15 programs applying R1 this fall.

Here is my profile

Education: Double Major Economics and Government from a top 30 university in US
GPA: 3.3
Age: 27 when applying
Work Experience: 6 years of Strategy Consulting focus on public sector (big firm)
GMAT: 690 ( 42V / 42Q/ 5.0 AWA)
Future Plan: Short term (5 yrs): Public Strategy Sector Consulting
Long term: Transition into Public Service

[Brett N]

Hi MBABound,

Have you taken the GMAT once or twice? If only once, I would recommend taking it again. This second time will not only hopefully improve your score but also demonstrate your desire for admittance into a top school.

For your long-term goal, I would put something in that's a bit more exciting than transitioning into PS. Otherwise, I believe you have good credentials for a top program...now you just need to work on that wow factor.

[MBABound?]

Thanks Brett...

GMAT Taken only once. My job does not lend a lot of time to study for the test. My concern is with my low Q score will my Undergrad As in Statistics and Econometrics help offset that?

[Brett N]

What schools are you trying to get accepted into? If it's top 5/10, you are going to have a hard time using time constraint as an excuse for not taking the GMAT twice, particularly if a lot of other applications, who also work long hours, will be figuring out a way to take a twice.

I think you will be able fine if you are not shooting for the top programs...it all depends on your goals.

[MBABound?]

Looking at Darden and Fuqua right now (I work for alumni that will write me letters)

But open to suggestions on other schools. I am still relatively early in my search.

[Brett N]

I think you should take the GMAT again since you have so much time before the 1st round or 2nd, depending on when you choose to apply.

I do not know enough about you to effectively suggest schools.