sdirico wrote:
Hi,
I would really like to get your advice on how to approach my quest for a part-time MBA.
My target school is Temple University (Fox) mainly because it is the best part-time program in Philly, reasonably priced and convenient to work. Quick background: 3.0 overall GPA from Boston College (3.7 in my major: marketing), 5 years work experience all in the banking industry specifically in the area of fraud management as an analyst, project manager and investigator. Some volunteer experience.
1. Is it fair to say that to have a good shot at Temple, I need to score better than their average GMAT (620) especially considering my GPA is less than their average (3.2)?
2. I have not taken the GMATs yet - should I take a
Kaplan classroom prep course or wait to see how well I do on the first try studying on my own? I would like to take the course right off the bat with the intention of scoring well on my first attempt.
Thanks for your time and I look forward to your response!
You're welcome.
1) The difference between your GPA and Temple's average is not significant, expecially since your major GPA is a 3.7 and hopefully your grades had an upward trend. I don't view it as a significant obstacle to overcome. Obviously. you want to get as high a GMAT as you can and above 620 is certainly better than below, but anything above a 600 should keep you in the running. Obviously, you also have to have good essays, recs, etc.
2) Some of the answer depend on your ability to discipline yourself andprepare on your own. First take a practice exam. There are lots of places you can obtain them. I think you can get them from GMAC. Certainly on this board if you ask someone will tell you where to obtain a practice exam. See how you do. Then you can determine whether you need a course or not. To be sure, if you want to make your first sitting for the GMAT a good one and your only one, take a course.
Good luck!
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