low gpa?

[LYNNE.SOMERS]

I finished my undergrad from your average every day state U with a 2.89 about two years ago. I have several years of work history but limited management experience, though I have great references. I have a varied background from being president of a student organization to serving on the board of trustees for a non-profit organization, but no more than a few years at any one thing. I am aiming to get into a decent school, more one that is regionally well regarded than nationally, as obviously my background doesn't warrant any top tier school. I intend to get the highest GMAT score I can, but is there a range I should be shooting for to make this happen?

Any suggestions would be helpful. I take the test in a week and a half, wish I found this site sooner. My practice tests have been running in the 690 range so far, but I'm going to be fine tuning between now and the exam. I am going to be starting graduate level business classes in the fall at a local university to help boost my application (so that schools know I can perform well at the graduate level) and plan to "really" apply for next fall, so if I need to retake, I have the time. But, it would be nice not to have to!

*edit: by "decent school" I don't mean any that's ever ended up on the ranking. I am aware that those are out of my range.

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear Lynne,

Based on the limited information you posted, I think if you score in the 600s you will be in a competitive position for many solid, regional programs. If you get closer to (or in) the 700s, then it will open up more possibilities. I actually think you could be looking at a top 50 school with a 620+ GMAT as long as the rest of your application is strong. My guess is you are a better candidate than you think.

Best of luck,
Lisa