Hi Abrar,
Thanks for sharing your dilemma with us! As an MBA second-timer, I think you’re absolutely doing the right thing by targeting one-year and other accelerated programs. To answer your question, I think it really depends. If you think you have true upside in your score based on how you performed on practice tests and think you could achieve a 20+ point improvement with minimal effort then sure, it can only help you to have a higher score. However, if you would have to kill yourself in order to eek out a 10-point improvement, then it’s probably not worth it and your efforts are better directed elsewhere – i.e. on writing awesome essays and developing an air-tight story around why you’re seeking a second MBA. (And unfortunately, access to a new job market alone won’t be a strong enough argument. You’ll want to show you’re being more thoughtful about the entire journey and experience.)
In terms of other programs, are you focused solely on Europe? If so, Cambridge (Judge) and Oxford (Said) are two programs that I’m familiar with that could be a good match for you. HEC Montreal could be another great option for you as the average age is a bit older and obtaining work authorization in Canada may be easier than in Europe in the current environment. There are a lot of great one-year programs in the US as well – Kellogg, Cornell, Emory, USC all offer one-year MBA options. They’re definitely worth looking into. If you have specific questions about financial aid, I suggest reaching out to the Fin Aid offices at those respective programs for the most accurate information.
Best of luck to you! Let us know if we can be of further help with your applications.
Best,
Melody
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