Key insights from EMBA and MBA admissions Expert Dr. Shelle, MBAAdmit.com. When some people consider applying to top Executive MBA (EMBA) programs, they often reflect on their undergraduate years with regret, wishing they had been more focused on their grades and studies. They recognize that, despite earning multiple promotions that underscore their professional success, their undergraduate GPA does not reflect their abilities or current-day achievements. Whether that GPA is 1.9, 2.4, 2.8, 3.0, or simply lower than the average GPA of admitted students, the pressing question for these applicants becomes: “Will my poor undergraduate record end my chances of admission?”

If you have at least five to six years of work experience, overcoming a low GPA with a well-crafted application is often possible in EMBA admissions. While your GPA may be a weak point in your overall profile, you can address this through your application. However, addressing it doesn’t mean simply writing a paragraph about it in the “optional” section. Rather, you should indirectly address your GPA by highlighting your other achievements since college, showing the admissions committee that your professional successes, rather than your undergraduate academic performance, define you today. This should be the focus of your essays, resume, and recommendations.

With valuable work experience, you can write essays showcasing the depth and breadth of your professional skills, knowledge, and talents, reinforcing the idea that you are no longer defined by your undergraduate years. Your recommendation letters should emphasize your excellent analytical skills and potential to excel in business school. A strong standardized test score – Executive, Assessment, GMAT, or GRE – can further demonstrate your current-day analytical and academic capabilities. Some candidates earn certifications or take additional business courses at a respected institution to create an “alternative transcript.” Finally, if there was a specific reason for your less-than-ideal undergraduate performance that merits a mention, you can discuss it in the optional section.

Just bear this in mind: what matters is your complete application package. I’ve seen candidates with GPAs around 2.4 gain admission to business schools like Stanford, Harvard, and Wharton with a well-honed application.

 

New Video Short Release: "How To Override a Low GPA: Extenuating Circumstances, Part 1 of 4"

 

 

New Release: "Is an Executive MBA Worth It? ROI: Skills"

Do you need assistance with your applications? Feel free to reach out to Dr. Shelle at info@mbaadmit.com.

 

Enjoy Our Popular Executive MBA Webinars

"EMBA Return on Investment" Webinar, presented in the GMAT Club YouTube Channel -- 8500+ views!

 

"Applying for an EMBA: 8 Mistakes to Avoid" Webinar, presented in the GMAT Club YouTube Channel -- 8000+ views!

 

About Dr. Shelle and MBA Admit.com

LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/drshelle

MBA Admit.com was established in 2001 by Dr. Shelle Leanne, a graduate of Harvard and Oxford who has experience with Harvard admissions and served in Stanford University’s Office of the President. Dr. Shelle, who has over 30 years of admissions advising experience, works one-to-one with clients. She is an accomplished writer whose works have been translated into 25 languages worldwide, and she has previous work experience with McKinsey & Company and Morgan Stanley. Her clients rave about her services and impact. Each year, nearly 95% of her clients receive scholarships, totaling over $10 million last year.

More about Dr. Shelle here:

https://mbaadmit.com/about/about-dr-shel/

LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/drshelle

Dr. Shelle (Shelly Leanne)
President, MBA Admit.com
http://www.mbaadmit.com
Email: info@mbaadmit.com­
­­