caiocoliveira wrote:
Hi guys!
I am an applicant from Brazil and I have a question about my college education. In search for a better fit, I have transferred from one college to another twice, so I ended up with three different transcripts. Do you believe this hurts my chances with top 10 MBA programs? Any thoughts on that?
My second question is how will they calculate my GPA? Since we use an 1-10 scale, how will they evaluate my GPA against an american regular student? Brazilian averages are usually lower than americans, with most good students fluctuating on a ~80% average. Also, many Brazilians work while at school, on internships and such. Do they take all of this into consideration?
Thanks!
Caio
So to address each one of your queries separately:
1) Three transcripts - you should address this in your optional essay because two transfers are quite unusual. You should explain the reasons behind the transfers to the adcoms. I don't think it necessarily hurts you unless you transferred to an "easier" college or because you were flunking out.
2) International GPA - don't worry they see plenty of Brazilian applicants so they will understand the local grading scales. Each school usually have their own comparison charts. Do not try and convert your own GPA or anything like that. However if you have any additional information such as "graduated top 10% of class" then that will help them note that you are a high performer and should be included somewhere in your application.
3) Working during school / internships - Depending on the application, there may be space to include details about working during school. Internships (if full-time, meaningful, and relevant to your goals) can be included under the work experience sections. If your grades suffered due to you working during school to support yourself, you should add a note within the optional essay.