As a former AdCom, I’d often come across a prospective applicant with an outstanding GMAT score, great work experience and extra-curricular involvement, in other words, the perfect MBA candidate…until I’d look at their transcripts and realize that they have a less than stellar GPA.
For B-Schools, there are 2 options in this case: If they are having a good recruiting season, they will simply deny the applicant based on their low GPA, but in this contexte of declining numbers in MBA applications things might not be as clear cut. If they are seeking to fill out the last seats in their program or if they are looking to bring diversity to the class (more likely scenario for a top 10 B-School) then they are more likely take a deeper look into the application to find redeemable qualities.
Contrary to popular belief a lower GPA is not necessarily of showstopper, not even in top 10 business schools, especially if you build an otherwise strong application.
Whether your application is redeemable will depend on several factors:
- How low is too low? Typically, anything above 2.5 might be redeemable under certain circumstances.
- Where did you graduate from? A degree from a top tier institution will definitely play in your favor.
- What was your major? A STEM background is more likely to get some leniency when it comes to a low GPA.
- Did you start low and increased your GPA over time? An upward trend is more likely to play in your favor.
- Factors out of your control? Life is unpredictable; if your performance is the result of health or family issues, make sure you articulate this clearly in your essay or interview without getting into too personal details.
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What’s your game plan?
- Strategic planning: If your goal is to gain an MBA to get that promotion, switch careers of just build a professional network there are many schools out there with outstanding programs and alumni networks that will allow you to achieve your goals. Keep you options open. Do your research and create what I call a three-tiered list of schools: 1. Aspirational schools, 2. Target schools and 3. Safety schools.
- GMAT/GRE:This is probably the most important redeeming factor in your application. There are no secrets here. Prep, prep, prep and aim at a minimum of 730 for GMAT and 320 for GRE. According to Kaplan, it is estimated that 100 to 150 hours of studying are necessary to score well. If necessary, postpone your application to the following year. Don’t rush into submitting a weak application.
- Work Experience/Resume: Make sure your resume is extremely well crafted and highlights your leadership, analytical and entrepreneurial skills. In other words, make sure that your resume shows your achievements as opposed to a list of responsibilities. Run it by an MBA admission professional if necessary. Your resume should also show a logical progression in terms of responsibilities and titles. This is your chance to showcase your motivation to achieve great things in spite of a rocky start. Don’t forget to highlight extra-curricular activities. Mention any outreach activities you were involve in, the goal here it to feature your passion and willingness to impact your community.
- Essay: This is your chance to address your low GPA, be straightforward and truthful about your situation at the time. AdComs understand that life happens, as long as you own it and are able to show that you have redeeming qualities that enabled you to have successful career path. As a matter of fact, according to a Kaplan study, among 265 admissions officers surveyed (including in top 10 B-Schools) only 24% said that a low undergraduate GPA was an “application killer.”
- Ace the interview: This is your second opportunity to address your low GPA but don’t spend too much time explaining yourself, be concise in your response and move on. If the Adcom wants more details, they will ask. Make sure you prepare your response not to be caught off guard.
With a solid strategy and good preparation, you can overcome a low GPA. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional if needed!
Loubna Bouamane,PhD
The Admission Concierge
www.admissionconcierge.com
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