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jygawali
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35+ age, 10+ year work experience, low-average GPA, targeting 700 GMAT 16 Jul 2023, 03:55
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Hello there, the topic line pretty much sums up my current standing. I'll add more details below for the complete picture.

I want to understand my chances of getting admitted to an above-average MBA school, perhaps in Canada as it offers flexible post-graduation work permit after graduating. My ultimate goal is to run a restaurant business outside of my native country (India). An MBA in Entrepreneurship or International Business will get me closer to my goal and help me learn the ropes of the business (business principles, operations, finances, and so on) and allow me networking opportunities. I'm looking to hopefully secure a job in hospitality to get practical business knowledge and insights and apply those to my own business.

About myself:
I will complete 37 years this August. I've 10+ years of professional experience in India –– 1st year in digital marketing; next 2 years in a UK-based IT publishing company in online marketing/relationships; the remaining 7 years working in for an e-commerce agency as content writer and progressing through different roles including subeditor, editor, and senior editor, and assistant operations manager (current). I haven't yet socially volunteered, nor do I have any extracurricular activities in my resume.

I completed my bachelor's in engineering with a one-year break. I've not yet calculated my GPA, but it can be assumed to be 2.5. As for GMAT & IELTS, I will be targeting respectively 650+ and 7+ by Oct.

Again, my primary question is, whether I am qualified to get an admission in a reputed MBA school (practical learning, scope for getting placed).

Thanks -
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35+ age, 10+ year work experience, low-average GPA, targeting 700 GMAT 18 Jul 2023, 00:22
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jygawali
Hello there, the topic line pretty much sums up my current standing. I'll add more details below for the complete picture.

I want to understand my chances of getting admitted to an above-average MBA school, perhaps in Canada as it offers flexible post-graduation work permit after graduating. My ultimate goal is to run a restaurant business outside of my native country (India). An MBA in Entrepreneurship or International Business will get me closer to my goal and help me learn the ropes of the business (business principles, operations, finances, and so on) and allow me networking opportunities. I'm looking to hopefully secure a job in hospitality to get practical business knowledge and insights and apply those to my own business.

About myself:
I will complete 37 years this August. I've 10+ years of professional experience in India –– 1st year in digital marketing; next 2 years in a UK-based IT publishing company in online marketing/relationships; the remaining 7 years working in for an e-commerce agency as content writer and progressing through different roles including subeditor, editor, and senior editor, and assistant operations manager (current). I haven't yet socially volunteered, nor do I have any extracurricular activities in my resume.

I completed my bachelor's in engineering with a one-year break. I've not yet calculated my GPA, but it can be assumed to be 2.5. As for GMAT & IELTS, I will be targeting respectively 650+ and 7+ by Oct.

Again, my primary question is, whether I am qualified to get an admission in a reputed MBA school (practical learning, scope for getting placed).

Thanks -
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Hello jygawali,

Thanks for writing in.

Yes, you are definitely qualified. It is not going to be straightforward considering your age and years of experience; however, it is possible if you showcase strong intent through your essays and focus on applying to schools that value high years of experience (there are a couple of top ~10 Canadian schools that value high years of experience).

Two very important aspects that you must consider addressing in your essays are:
a) Why you need an MBA to achieve your career goals?
b) Why an MBA at this point in your career?

Additionally, the gap in your undergrad degree, as well as the low GPA, will need to be explained.

If you wish to discuss your profile in greater detail, please feel free to get in touch with us for a profile evaluation session. We will be happy to help!

All the best!
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35+ age, 10+ year work experience, low-average GPA, targeting 700 GMAT 18 Jul 2023, 00:49
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ExpertsGlobal


Hello jygawali,

Thanks for writing in.

Yes, you are definitely qualified. It is not going to be straightforward considering your age and years of experience; however, it is possible if you showcase strong intent through your essays and focus on applying to schools that value high years of experience (there are a couple of top ~10 Canadian schools that value high years of experience).

Two very important aspects that you must consider addressing in your essays are:
a) Why you need an MBA to achieve your career goals?
b) Why an MBA at this point in your career?

Additionally, the gap in your undergrad degree, as well as the low GPA, will need to be explained.

If you wish to discuss your profile in greater detail, please feel free to get in touch with us for a profile evaluation session. We will be happy to help!

All the best!
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Hi Team ExpertsGlobal,

Can you share the list or some colleges the Canada / US / UK that are accept candidates with higher age group or that has relatively higher cohort. I am also in the similar age bracket hence the information will be helpful.

Thank you.
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35+ age, 10+ year work experience, low-average GPA, targeting 700 GMAT 19 Jul 2023, 02:28
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jygawali
Hello there, the topic line pretty much sums up my current standing. I'll add more details below for the complete picture.

I want to understand my chances of getting admitted to an above-average MBA school, perhaps in Canada as it offers flexible post-graduation work permit after graduating. My ultimate goal is to run a restaurant business outside of my native country (India). An MBA in Entrepreneurship or International Business will get me closer to my goal and help me learn the ropes of the business (business principles, operations, finances, and so on) and allow me networking opportunities. I'm looking to hopefully secure a job in hospitality to get practical business knowledge and insights and apply those to my own business.

About myself:
I will complete 37 years this August. I've 10+ years of professional experience in India –– 1st year in digital marketing; next 2 years in a UK-based IT publishing company in online marketing/relationships; the remaining 7 years working in for an e-commerce agency as content writer and progressing through different roles including subeditor, editor, and senior editor, and assistant operations manager (current). I haven't yet socially volunteered, nor do I have any extracurricular activities in my resume.

I completed my bachelor's in engineering with a one-year break. I've not yet calculated my GPA, but it can be assumed to be 2.5. As for GMAT & IELTS, I will be targeting respectively 650+ and 7+ by Oct.

Again, my primary question is, whether I am qualified to get an admission in a reputed MBA school (practical learning, scope for getting placed).

Thanks -

Hello jygawali,

Thanks for writing in.

Yes, you are definitely qualified. It is not going to be straightforward considering your age and years of experience; however, it is possible if you showcase strong intent through your essays and focus on applying to schools that value high years of experience (there are a couple of top ~10 Canadian schools that value high years of experience).

Two very important aspects that you must consider addressing in your essays are:
a) Why you need an MBA to achieve your career goals?
b) Why an MBA at this point in your career?

Additionally, the gap in your undergrad degree, as well as the low GPA, will need to be explained.

If you wish to discuss your profile in greater detail, please feel free to get in touch with us for a profile evaluation session. We will be happy to help!

All the best!
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Thanks for your response. I will be interested in contacting you post my GMAT exam especially to understand the list of schools for my applications.

I've just two questions if you can answer those:

1. Given that at the time of application I will have more than 10 years' experience, why is age a barrier to getting admitted for MBA considering that B-schools usually benefit from people who have professional experience?

2. If age IS a barrier, would I stand a better chance at admissions if I apply for an executive MBA abroad?
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35+ age, 10+ year work experience, low-average GPA, targeting 700 GMAT 19 Jul 2023, 05:44
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jygawali
Hello there, the topic line pretty much sums up my current standing. I'll add more details below for the complete picture.

I want to understand my chances of getting admitted to an above-average MBA school, perhaps in Canada as it offers flexible post-graduation work permit after graduating. My ultimate goal is to run a restaurant business outside of my native country (India). An MBA in Entrepreneurship or International Business will get me closer to my goal and help me learn the ropes of the business (business principles, operations, finances, and so on) and allow me networking opportunities. I'm looking to hopefully secure a job in hospitality to get practical business knowledge and insights and apply those to my own business.

About myself:
I will complete 37 years this August. I've 10+ years of professional experience in India –– 1st year in digital marketing; next 2 years in a UK-based IT publishing company in online marketing/relationships; the remaining 7 years working in for an e-commerce agency as content writer and progressing through different roles including subeditor, editor, and senior editor, and assistant operations manager (current). I haven't yet socially volunteered, nor do I have any extracurricular activities in my resume.

I completed my bachelor's in engineering with a one-year break. I've not yet calculated my GPA, but it can be assumed to be 2.5. As for GMAT & IELTS, I will be targeting respectively 650+ and 7+ by Oct.

Again, my primary question is, whether I am qualified to get an admission in a reputed MBA school (practical learning, scope for getting placed).

Thanks -
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Hi jygawali hope you are doing well

I would like to share my two cents:

1. Do you truly need an MBA to secure a job in the hospitality industry in Canada?
Given the specificity and niche nature of your goal plan, I strongly advise conducting thorough research on the prospects of entering the Canadian hospitality industry with or without an MBA. One lesser-known aspect for B-school applicants is that schools deeply consider the feasibility of your short-term goals (in light of long-term goals) and their financial implications. Pursuing an MBA can be costly, so ensure your goals in entrepreneurship and the path leading to it are meticulously thought through. Additionally, your post-MBA goals should not be the first instance where you demonstrate stepping out of your comfort zone. Admissions committees will seek this trait in your career decisions and history to evaluate your candidacy. Highlight how you have taken calculated risks in your career and achieved success.

2. There isn't a specific age requirement for pursuing an MBA, but I believe older MBA aspirants need to actively engage with the schools' admissions committees to gain strong consideration. We have worked with numerous applicants in the 34-37 age bracket and have observed that networking can work wonders for this group. You may even receive internal referrals through networking. This is also an opportunity for you to gain firsthand insights into the strengths of each school you are considering and how they can align with your aspirations. Since you are open to relocating your life and career to another continent, it's crucial to thoroughly understand what each school offers before investing your time and money. You owe it to yourself to do so.

While I would consider placing my bets on schools ranked in the 25-40 range in the US and the top 15 range in Canada, it's essential that you conduct your own research to make an informed decision.

Personalized advice tailored to your specific situation is just a phone call or message away. Do not hesitate to reach out to us if you need help navigating your unique circumstances in the B School admissions process.

Aanchal Sahni (INSEAD alum, ex admissions interviewer)
MBAGuideConsulting
LinkedIn |WEBSITE: https://mbaguideconsulting.com/ | Message: +91 9971200927| email- mbaguideconsulting@gmail.com
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35+ age, 10+ year work experience, low-average GPA, targeting 700 GMAT 21 Jul 2023, 01:00
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Hi Aanchal, thanks for your insightful advice :please: I do understand the importance of research at the time of application to ensure that the universities that I apply to align with my short-term and long-term goals. When applying, I will remember to connect with you for a tailored solution to my situation.
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35+ age, 10+ year work experience, low-average GPA, targeting 700 GMAT 24 Jul 2023, 01:52
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jygawali
Hello there, the topic line pretty much sums up my current standing. I'll add more details below for the complete picture.

I want to understand my chances of getting admitted to an above-average MBA school, perhaps in Canada as it offers flexible post-graduation work permit after graduating. My ultimate goal is to run a restaurant business outside of my native country (India). An MBA in Entrepreneurship or International Business will get me closer to my goal and help me learn the ropes of the business (business principles, operations, finances, and so on) and allow me networking opportunities. I'm looking to hopefully secure a job in hospitality to get practical business knowledge and insights and apply those to my own business.

About myself:
I will complete 37 years this August. I've 10+ years of professional experience in India –– 1st year in digital marketing; next 2 years in a UK-based IT publishing company in online marketing/relationships; the remaining 7 years working in for an e-commerce agency as content writer and progressing through different roles including subeditor, editor, and senior editor, and assistant operations manager (current). I haven't yet socially volunteered, nor do I have any extracurricular activities in my resume.

I completed my bachelor's in engineering with a one-year break. I've not yet calculated my GPA, but it can be assumed to be 2.5. As for GMAT & IELTS, I will be targeting respectively 650+ and 7+ by Oct.

Again, my primary question is, whether I am qualified to get an admission in a reputed MBA school (practical learning, scope for getting placed).

Thanks -
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Hi there,
It’s true that you are never too old for more education, but there are several things to consider when preparing an MBA application for senior candidates. Older applicants don’t always contribute to positive outcomes, which are based on factors such as job placement and salary increases. Review your profile to determine how YOU can help boost these statistics, and be sure to highlight these points. To learn more about your chances at top MBA programs as an older candidate, please visit: https://aringo.com/mba-over-30/

At your age, another thing you should probably consider is EMBA Programs, and maybe even programs that are suitable for older candidates: https://aringo.com/full-time-senior-emba-programs/

Good luck! and feel free to reach out if you need help with your applications.