High GPA, low/medicore GMAT, what are my chances?

[aringmat]

Hi,

I just took the GMAT and am now ready to complete the MBA application process. Hoping for your opinion on my profile.

White American Male
Age- 27
GPA- 3.9- University of Massachusetts- Finance major
GMAT- 600 (Q-42, V-31)
Work Experience- 4.5 years working for the US Department of the Navy(government job) which began in a competitive, fast track 2 year development program. I have progessed just about as quickly as you can in a government capacity to this point.

Outside of work- 2 years volunteering teaching English, All-American triathlete

I think my GMAT prevents me from applying to any top 10's. I hoped to include at least one as a stretch school. I'll save my $200. My top choice right now is University of Colorado.

My long term goal would be to make my primary living in Real Estate working independently. In the short run, I would like to continue working for the federal government with increasing capacity while developing a small Real Estate business.

What strong(stretch) MBA programs could I add to the below list?
What GMAT would give me a reasonable chance of admission to a top ten knowing my background and Stats?
What are my chances for the following schools?

Applying to:
University of Colorado
Syracuse
BU and Northeastern- Part Time

Thanks!

[Stacy Blackman]

You seem to have a great background, with the exception of that GMAT score. Scoring 650-680 would make a huge difference for you. I would be optimistic that with the right application package you could gain admission to a very good school - perhaps even without improvoing your score. Do you have any extracurriculars? This is an area that you did not mention that could be important to your story.
Some other schools for you to consider:
Georgetown
UVA
McCombs
Pepperdine
UCSD

[aringmat]

Thanks for your advice.

My extracurriculars include teaching English as a Second Language for a few years and I'm also an All-American triathlete.

I did have Gtown, UVA, and McCombs on my list before taking the GMAT, but my 600 changed that. I think it's a little late in the game to finish my applications for round 2. Would I have a reasonable shot in the final application round at those schools?

One more question-assuming I retook the GMAT and scored 650-680, would that give me a good shot at a top 10?

Thanks again!

[Stacy Blackman]

I was thinking you were looking at next year... Final rounds are generally more challenging than the earlier rounds but I certainly think it is worth a try. They do admit in the final round and what do you have to lose? 650-680 is still a bit low for top 10 but would certainly not keep you out if the rest of your app was strong. (Actually, technically 600 would not keep you out either, but would make it tough.)

My best advice - wait a year and do it right. If you do it this year, go for some stretch schools - the worst that can happen is they deny you. But I believe you will do well.