Calling All Duke Fuqua MBA Applicants: 2025 intake Class of 2027

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Hi everyone! Can anyone answer how can I juggle filling applications for round 1 MIM ’25 with full time work experience?My GMAT and gpa are done. Resume is almost done. For essays I am thinking to take a leave from work for few days. Can anyone share their insights on this? How are most of you planning to fill the applications with long working hours?

Everyone’s got to do it this way, even those applying for FT MBA. Work on your essays before and after work hours (maybe at work, hope your recommender doesn’t find me giving this advice). You can double down on the work during weekends. If you still feel stressed and in need for more time, take a few days off work here and there. Even those 1-2 days of break help in catch some speed.
Namita, MBA Decoder

Hey chat,

Ill be applying in R1 for 2025 intake, can some kindly give me any insights regarding the average GMAT FE scores. I got GMATFE score of 645(89th percentile). I have approx 4 years of work experience. I have been working as a navigating officer in merchant navy. I’ll be happy to hear any tips and suggestion from you guys.

Hey, Prtkmjn

For the Duke Fuqua School of Business, a competitive GMAT score typically falls within the range of 690 to 740, with an average of approximately 715 for recent classes. While your GMAT FE score of 645 reflects strong potential, it may be beneficial to consider retaking the exam to align more closely with Fuqua’s averages, as scoring above 655 is crucial for a strong application.

Your four years of experience as a navigating officer in the Merchant Navy add unique value to your profile, showcasing leadership and teamwork skills. To enhance your candidacy, focus on crafting compelling essays that articulate your career goals and experiences, secure strong recommendation letters, and prepare thoroughly for interviews. Highlighting your unique background through extracurricular activities and community involvement can further strengthen your application.

Can you suggest a tip on how to reach out to current students to get more insights about the college experience?
I am reaching out to students on linkedin but not very successful so far.

^to chime in, you should go to a Duke event that they have in some cities, or at an MBA conference. From there you can personally connect with a Fuqua student or alum.

yes, attend Duke events. You will also get a app fee waiver.
for connecting with students:
1. Linked in. reach out to 10-15 people. you will hear back form some
2. Club leadership- their emails are normally given on the Club pages
3. Student ambassadors- names mentioned on school website.

Namita, MBA Decoder

­Hi Everyone,I'm planning to apply for Duke's MBA program in the Early Action round next month and would love some feedback on my profile to gauge my chances.

Here's a bit about me:

• Education: ECE Graduate, PEC Chandigarh, Class of 2022
• Work Experience: Currently working as a Software Engineer at UKG, where I've been working since graduation. I was recently promoted to the role of Senior Software Engineer, reflecting my career progression and increased responsibilities. In all, I completed 2 years of work ex. this July and will be completing the 3rd by the start of the programme.
• Post-MBA Goals: I'm aiming to transition into product management.
• Volunteer & Extracurriculars: I've been actively involved in volunteer work, both through a startup and my religious community. Additionally, I have notable achievements in extracurriculars, including drumming, public speaking, and participation in international competitions like CANSAT.
• Application Details:
  
  • Undergrad GPA: 9.16/10
  • GMAT FE: 665

I'd really appreciate any insights, reviews, or suggestions regarding my profile. Do you think I should go ahead with my application, or are there areas I should strengthen before applying?

Thanks in advance for your help!­

­Hey, Runawaybon


Your profile for Duke's MBA program has a lot of strengths that can make you a strong candidate. Your undergraduate GPA reflects solid academic abilities, which is a plus for admissions. While your GMAT FE score of 665 is good, it might be worth considering a retake to boost your score, especially in the quantitative section, since this area is often important to the adcoms.

In terms of work experience, you've shown impressive growth, moving from Software Engineer to Senior Software Engineer in just two years. It's important to emphasize the specific projects or leadership roles where you've had a significant impact at UKG, as Duke highly values leadership and teamwork. By the time you start the program, you'll have nearly three years of experience, which fits well with the typical applicant profile. Clearly articulating why you want to move into product management and how Duke's program can help you reach that goal will be key to showing your career direction and how the MBA aligns with your plans.

Your involvement in volunteer work and activities like drumming and public speaking adds a unique dimension to your profile and shows your commitment to giving back. Mentioning these in your essays can help set you apart from other applicants. As you get ready for the Early Action round, make sure your application is well-prepared and highlights what makes your experience unique. Choosing recommenders who can provide specific examples of your skills and leadership will also strengthen your application. If you feel confident about these points, moving forward with your application is a good idea.

Let's connect and have a detailed discussion of your profile. Click here to schedule a complimentary profile evaluations session with our experts . We match you with the students and alums of top B-Schools according to your background and target schools.­

Hello, does anyone know if you apply in the early action, you can self schedule the interview or it is by invitation only at Duke?

This year, they changed it to invitation only.

can anyone share insights on structuring duke impact scholars essay?

Hi, is anyone here applying to Duke with a background in family business? If so, please reach out to me.

yes pls

anyone going to be at the Fuqua workshop in nyc tonight?

Hi all. is it okay to extend the contribution essay word limit by 10 words?