Apply in R1 next year or this year R2

Question

Hi, I’m a non-engineer female from India. I am a CA by profession and have been working for 5 years now (6 at the time of matriculation) with good ECs

I have my GRE score of 315, I’m preparing to take a reattempt and my target schools are T15-25.

Im in a quandary. Please help if I should defer my application to R1 next year or apply in R2 this year? I am going to re attempt in Nov 2024.

Please help!

MBAGateway · Answer

Hey Srisht,

Generally speakinng, I would definitely try and apply in R2 this year because that gives you a chance at pursuing an MBA sooner than later. Worse case, you would get a headstart for next year.

Let me know if you want to chat through the nuances and brainstorm a more concrete plan.

Best,
Nishanth

SrishT · Answer

I would just want to ask how low are my chances at these schools?

MBAGateway · Answer

The score 315 is slightly on the lower end, but still high likelihood for you to convert something. Would caveat that with the fact that this depends on your overall profile strengths and gaps.

admitStreet · Answer

SrishT  - Some more details can help assess your profile better: your undergrad pedigree/ GPA, professional experience (which companies did you work in, roles/ functions etc.), Q/ V split of your GRE score, and Extracurriculars.

Broadly, a 315 score is a bit on the lower side, and a higher score will increase chances for T25.  This article would help you gain some perspectives on considerations for R1 vs R2.

Feel free to reach out for a deeper chat.

Regards,
Arvind

TheRedPen · Answer

Hi  SrishT ,

If you believe you can significantly improve your score, retaking the GRE in November 2024 is a reasonable strategy. Aim for a score that aligns with the average GMAT/GRE scores of your target schools.

Evaluate your current application materials and assess your readiness to apply in R2. If you feel confident in your ability to submit a strong application, you can proceed with R2.

We would like to discuss your target schools and your overall profile in detail. Feel free to  schedule a free consultation  with our MBA experts as that will help you better clarity to take a decision. You can also connect with the team directly via call at +91 7780769732.

MBADecoder · Answer

If you can manage a higher score, you must absolutely apply this year. With 6 years experience, you will be at the prefect age/work exp level to join b-school. You could possibly work on some aspects of your application from now onwards. These include your resume, creating a document of all your life stories that can make the essay materials, researching on and refining career goals and researching b-schools. Together these activities are time consuming and if you can get them done by the time you start your essay writing, you can dive into essay writing as soon as you are done with the GMAT. Namita Garg, Founder, MBA Decoder Email: contact@mbadecoder.com Reach out to us for a Profile Evaluation Helping applicants achieve their MBA dreams since 2011

MBAandBeyond · Answer

Hi SrishT , I hope you are doing well. Your profile seems to have a good potential, especially as a Chartered Accountant with 5 years of experience. While your GRE score of 315 is slightly on the lower end for T15-25 schools, by targeting a higher score (320+), you’ll significantly enhance your chances of admission. You should start working on your application. Tailor your essays to reflect why you are a good fit for each program. Try to bring a good blend of professional and personal aspects in your applications. What’s going to matter most in your application is how you connect all the dots and build an impactful story. If you get 320+ after retaking your GRE, you can apply in R2. Apply only when you feel your profile is complete in every aspect. As we have very little information now, we would like to discuss more about your work experience, skills, teamwork, impact creation and extracurriculars. If you’d like, we are happy to hop on a call sometime this week to discuss your profile in depth and your chances further. Feel free to book a free session with us as per your convenience. Cheers! Shantanu Sharma Founder and Admissions Consultant, MBA and Beyond You can have a look at these success stories Email: valuecreation@mbaandbeyond.com

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