Advice regarding undergrad quant record

[ljordanf]

Clear Admit Team,

My goal is to apply to several top tier MBA programs no later than R2 for Fall 2012 matriculation. One of my greatest concerns relates to my undergrad record, particularly quant courses. I have considered taking an additional math class, via distance learning, to demonstrate that I can handle the MBA program curriculum. Would this be a worthwhile use of my time or does my professional experience and pursuit of the CFA designation provide enough evidence? Thank you in advance for your advice.

Overall GPA: 3.36 ; Major: Finance from a state university
GMAT: Expect to score between 680-700, based on my diagnostic CATs
CFA Level II Candidate
3 years spent working as a research associate for large bond fund (quant modeling, etc.)

MATH :: Business Math I: B; Business Math II: C; Statistics: C
ECON :: Micro Econ: A; Macro Econ: B
ACCT :: Financial Accounting: C; Intro to Managerial Accounting: C; Intermediate Financial Accounting: C
FINANCE :: Core Finance Courses: B average

[Stacey Oyler]

Hi,

Thanks for your post. When adcoms review academics they look at GMAT score, undergraduate performance as well as difficulty of major and quality of program, graduate courses and work experience. Your GPA is right below average for most top MBA programs, however, you do seem to have a fair amount of quantitative experience given your job and CFA. At this time I would encourage you to put all your energy into preparing for the GMAT (perhaps take a course) with a goal of scoring 720 or higher. This would nicely round out your academic profile and eliminate any potential concerns about your ability to handle the curriculum at a top program. However, should you not score above 80% on your quant you should consider either retaking the exam (it is not uncommon to take the GMAT more than once) and/or to take a quant course or two.

Regards,

Stacey

[ljordanf]

Thank you Stacey- very helpful advice!

[Stacey Oyler]

You're welcome!

Stacey