Should I mention this? - LSE Alum

[kushagra452]

Hello

I will be applying to various b-schools for fall 2011. I joined the MSc Economics program (2 year track) at the London School of economics in 2009. LSE requires a minimum 60 in each subject in order to continue into the second year of the program. Unfortunately, I was not able to fulfill this requirement in Microeconomics and Econometrics (even though my progress in the weekly homework was above average/good). I was awarded a 'diploma in economics' from LSE in July this year.

Should I mention this in my application? Can I just mention 'diploma in economics' and save myself from explaining this awkward situation?

I would like to mention that I have 3.5 yrs of FT work ex in consulting (pvt as well as public sector). I have an overall distinction in my undergrad and was also accepted to engineering masters at Cornell, Columbia, Dartmouth, Penn State and Georgia Tech.

Thank You

[kushagra452]

Experts please reply. Thanks.

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear kushagra452,

It depends on what your transcript says. If your transcript notes you were admitted to or in the MSc Econ program, but then you were awarded a Diploma, then you should write the optional essay on why you did not finish the MSc program. A diploma is usually not a degree, so it is possible your transcript will show you started off in the MSc program. If the transcript does not show the MSc program, then I don't think you need to explain how you could not complete the MSc program due to your performance in a couple of classes. However, your grades will show on your transcript and that might be something you should address in the optional essay.

Good luck,
Lisa