Do I have a chance for USC's Part time MBA?

[KingsDude]

Hi Lisa,

I have a quick question. I graduated UCI in 2009 with a BS in Biomedical Engineering and a GPA of a 3.27. I worked for a very large biotech firm for a year and then went to work as a business development consultant for a local company. Last year, I started my own business and its been more than successful. I took the GMAT over the Summer and got a 620. I was planning on retaking it, but my business has been doing so well, I didn't want to put the time and energy necessary to really increase my score. I was looking at the USC program the other day and their night program matches VERY well with most of my scores. The one huge setback is I have 2 years work experience (minimum) and I'm only 23 (minimum). I have 2 amazing letters of rec (1 from my old boss at the big biotech company and the other from one of the vendors I work with in my business) and have pretty good essays. What are my chances? What can I do to improve my chances?

[Stacy Blackman]

Hi KingsDude,

Thanks for posting. With regards to USC, the most recent study by BusinessWeek found that the medium GMAT score was 620 and the mean number of months of postgraduate work experience was 72 (6 years). Your numbers (GMAT and GPA) are certainly very similar. The largest hurdle you will face will be in showing that you have enough experience to contribute to the incoming MBA class. The most important part of your application should be focusing your personal essays and letters of recommendations to show that not only is the USC program right for you, but that it is the right time now. The best way you will be able to show this is through your essays and recommendations.

I hope this was of help. Please let me know if I can answer any other questions.

Best,

Conrad and the Stacy Blackman Team