Hi, Hope you are doing good. Do you know when shall Kellogg revert on decision ?

Hello Aryaa, your GPA of 9.5/10 is a clear strength, but for MiM programs, strong academics alone will not be enough. With no full-time experience, you must rely on internships, academic leadership, and high-impact extracurricular projects to prove readiness.

Your interest in consulting is fine, but schools will expect you to show analytical ability, teamwork, and problem-solving through concrete examples.

Without this, you will look like thousands of other high-scoring fresh graduates.

You should also aim for a GMAT Focus score of at least 680–700 to be competitive at HEC, ESSEC, LBS, and INSEAD. Use the next year to build internships and case competition experience.

Ameer Khatri, Admissions Consultant
Schedule 1-on-1 call with me for detailed profile review
https://admitportal.ameerkhatri.com/pro ... n-calendar

Now is the time to build your profile and come across as a very strong applicant next year when you apply. Think of building it on 3 fronts:
Academic (A combination of high GPA + a high GMAT score),
Work experience (strong achievements and career progression. Take initiatives at work, become aware of eth business impact of your technical work as you will need to put quantifiable achievements on your resume).
Extra curricular activities- While what applicants do in college holds importance, but having ECAs after college is a big plus point. It enhances your resume and gives leadership/impact stories for the essays.

Namita Garg,
Founder, MBA Decoder
Email: [email protected]
Reach out to us for a Profile Evaluation
Helping applicants achieve their MBA dreams since 2011

Hello Miraj, three years in IT is a common background in the Indian applicant pool, which makes differentiation difficult.

Your lack of a GMAT score is a significant gap. Without at least a 720+ equivalent, the M7 list you are targeting is not realistic.

Your pivot to consulting must be supported by evidence of client interaction, leadership roles, and measurable business impact.

Generic delivery work will not be enough. You should identify and highlight experiences where you led teams, drove revenue or cost savings, and solved business problems.

You also need to secure leadership positions at work or in extracurriculars before applying.

Ameer Khatri, Admissions Consultant
Schedule 1-on-1 call with me for detailed profile review
https://admitportal.ameerkhatri.com/pro ... n-calendar

Thanks for sharing your profile @asingh22! You’re a 5-year operator from a quick-commerce unicorn with cross-functional product/ops experience, the kind of real-world builder. Two big flags: GPA 2.5 (low for US top programs) and GMAT 655 (okay for many strong programs but below median at M7). These aren’t impossible, but you must neutralize them with quantified impact, credibility signals, and a crisp narrative.

AdComs would want to understand three questions: (1) Can you handle the academics? (GPA + GMAT risk), (2) Why MBA now? (show the skill gaps MBA fills), and (3) Are you differentiated? (Many ex-founders/PMs apply.) If you answer these cleanly with evidence, you turn curiosity into interviews.

(MIT Sloan, Kellogg, Yale, Haas, Ross, Stern) can be reached. Not impossible, but you need exceptionally strong essays, recommendations that testify to leadership/analytical ability, and ideally a stronger GMAT 695, 705+.

Can be Realistic choices: Kenan-Flagler, Goizueta, Darden, Anderson, Foster, Scheller, Marshall). Your startup trajectory and product/ops skills put you in play. 655 is within range for many of these schools, but again, a 675+ score, stronger narrative, and recommenders matter more.

Career narrative & “why MBA”: Be explicit: which PM/strategy roles do you want post-MBA, at which companies or functions, and which skills you lack (finance, stakeholder management in matrix orgs, structured strategy frameworks). Tie those gaps to specific courses/clubs/internships at your target schools.

If you need time to retake GMAT/ take the GRE / finish a course/project, apply Round 2, but try not to delay beyond R2 unless you plan a major profile upgrade (another year of leadership/role change).

Some questions for you to reflect on:
1. What were your top 3 measurable impacts at the quick-commerce startup (numbers, %s, timelines)?
2. Are you willing to retake the GMAT/ considering the GRE?
3. Who are your potential recommenders (titles + relation)?
4. Do you have any pre-MBA projects/certifications in analytics, product, or finance?
5. Which 2 schools are must-get admits, and which are “nice to have”? That helps prioritize effort.

Last week, we hosted a Coffee Session with one of our Applicants who got into Berkeley Haas and Georgetown. You can watch the VIDEO(HERE) on our YouTube channel.

We would love to learn more about your academic background, extracurricular activities, professional experience, and personal journey so we can offer a more tailored assessment of your profile and evaluate your chances at your target schools more accurately. If you'd like, feel free to book a profile evaluation session.

Cheers!
Shantanu Sharma
Founder and Admissions Consultant, MBA and Beyond

Hi @clizzy! We would love to learn more about your academic background, extracurricular activities, professional experience, and personal journey so we can offer a more tailored assessment of your profile and evaluate your chances at your target schools more accurately. If you'd like, feel free to book a profile evaluation session.

Cheers!
Shantanu Sharma
Founder and Admissions Consultant, MBA and Beyond

Hi @Niki_k. 705 GMAT FE is a great score! We would love to learn more about your academic background, extracurricular activities, professional experience, and personal journey so we can offer a more tailored assessment of your profile and evaluate your chances at your target schools more accurately. If you'd like, feel free to book a profile evaluation session.

Cheers!
Shantanu Sharma
Founder and Admissions Consultant, MBA and Beyond

Thats a fantastic GMAT score. Congratulations

WK_W
For a good profile review, a lot more is required, including your standardised scores, your College & CGPA, your employer and broad level accomplishments, and your extracurriculars. To connect for a free, 1-to-1 profile review over the phone, please submit your profile on TheIvyLeagueEdge(dot)com/index(dot)php/contactus/

_________________
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Bala
The Most recommended Admissions Consultant on Linkedin, WORLDWIDE
Coaching success for admissions and scholarships to the World's best - MBA and MS
Linkedin.com/in/balkrishna/

www(dot)TheIvyLeagueEdge(dot)com/index(dot)php/contactus/
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Hello @WK_W, some thoughts and clarifications on your profile:

1. Your GPA looks alright - which university did you attend, and is there precedence of undergrad alum in your target programs? Do you have target/ mocks scores for GMAT or GRE?

2. Your professional arc looks interesting given the consulting experience. Which companies have you worked in, and has there been any promotions and/ or progression in your roles so far? I'd like to understand the nature of your role and projects more to assess better.

3. Any extracurricular activities that you're involved in?

The list of schools to prioritize would depend on your score, short-term/ long-term career goals and other aspects of your profile including the above details.

Hope this helps some. Feel free to reach out through the link below for a deeper discussion.

Regards,
Arvind (Founder, admitStreet)
Testimonials: https://admitstreet.com/testimonials/ | Free profile evaluation­: https://admitstreet.com/#contact

Thank you for sharing your profile, @WK_W. You bring a unique blend of Big 4 consulting experience, international academic exposure, and entrepreneurial healthcare initiatives, which collectively form a strong narrative for top-tier MBA programs. Your consulting background, especially within deal advisory, demonstrates analytical skills and strategic thinking, while your initiative in piloting an internal rotation program points to a proactive and solutions-oriented mindset.

Your extracurricular contributions, particularly your work in digital transformation for your family’s dental clinic and the development of a platform addressing workplace health, reflect a genuine commitment to impact. These efforts underscore your long-term interest in healthcare and highlight your leadership potential in driving operational innovation. You can take a look at these blogs on MBA Applicants with a Family Business Background and Collinearity in your post-MBA goals. Coupled with your semester abroad at UC Berkeley and your academic foundation from a Tier 1 school in Thailand, your global readiness and ability to adapt across cultures are evident, an important trait for international programs like LBS and INSEAD.

However, a key area of improvement lies in the GMAT. While your academic and professional background is strong, the GMAT remains a crucial metric for many top U.S. and European MBA programs, especially given the competitive pool. Since you’re still preparing, it’s essential to target a high score of 665+ to remain competitive at your target schools. Stanford, Sloan (need a higher GMAT score), Haas, and LBS all tend to admit applicants with strong standardized test performance, particularly from consulting or Asian applicant pools.

In terms of school fit, your profile seems to align well with Berkeley Haas and MIT Sloan, both of which prioritize innovation, impact-driven leadership, and entrepreneurial thinking. Stanford GSB could be a long shot due to its exceptionally competitive nature, but your healthcare vision and personal drive to lead systemic change may resonate there, especially if you craft a compelling story. Stern and LBS also stand out as fits, offering opportunities in both entrepreneurship and healthcare innovation. You can also explore programs such as Duke Fuqua (with its healthcare sector management focus), Emory Goizueta, and Yale SOM.

To further strengthen your application, consider quantifying the impact of your clinic project-metrics like patient volume growth, operational efficiency improvements, or increased revenue could bring your story to life. Expanding your healthcare initiative or partnerships could also demonstrate continued leadership momentum. Additionally, ensure your recommendations reflect not only your technical abilities but also your interpersonal, leadership, and ethical qualities, especially relevant to healthcare and entrepreneurship.

In summary, your profile has the depth, mission alignment, and cross-sector versatility to make an impression. Focus on your GMAT score, continue driving impact through your healthcare work, and strategically tailor your school list to include both aspirational and target-fit programs.

We would be happy to learn more about your profile. Feel free to book a profile evaluation session.

Cheers!
Shantanu Sharma
Founder and Admissions Consultant, MBA and Beyond

Hi
Priyanka here from ARINGO. Speaking about your profile, with 4 years of consulting experience, advising clients across diverse sectors and taking initiative to launch an internal rotation program, you demonstrate both impact and leadership. Your GMAT FE score and GPA look decent. What makes your profile truly stand out is your entrepreneurial initiative in supporting a family-run dental clinic’s digital transformation and managing a health-focused digital platform. This, combined with your long-term goal of enhancing healthcare delivery and access in Thailand, shows mission-driven clarity and authentic motivation.

You will have to clearly link your consulting experience to your healthcare venture goals. It will also be crucial for you to quantify the impact of your initiatives to strengthen your leadership story.

I’d be happy to offer you a free profile review for top MBA programs to see where you stand and how to boost your chances— happy to help!
No pressure, no strings—just helpful insights on where you stand and how you can strengthen your chances.

Feel free to connect- Click here

You can also email me at: [email protected]
Good Luck!

Hello WK_W,

Your consulting experience at a Big 4, especially leading internal rotations and working with senior stakeholders across diverse sectors including healthcare is commendable. A 675 GMAT Focus is nice too.

You've shown strong entrepreneurial initiative in healthcare transformation. That’s the kind of real-world impact schools love.

Now, to strengthen your candidacy for founding a healthcare venture, add quantifiable metrics (e.g., X% increase in efficiency, Y users engaged).

Also clarify your post-MBA path: are you aiming for consulting in healthcare, or launching a startup? Sharpening that narrative will help.

A call could help structure your retake plan and narrative arcs between consulting, healthcare operations, and entrepreneurship.

Ameer Khatri, Admissions Consultant
Schedule a free ‐on‐1 call with me for a detailed profile review
https://calendly.com/ameer-khatri/profi ... th=2025-06

Hey
Priyanka here from ARINGO. Speaking about your profile, with 6+ years of experience in a cleantech firm and 4 years in team management, you bring a rare and relevant profile to the table. Your current role leading Brand & PR adds a strong leadership and communication dimension. A 325 GRE and 3.41 GPA make you academically competitive for your target schools.

Schools like Ross and Goizueta value impact-driven work and leadership, your cleantech background fits beautifully, especially with the global push toward sustainability. Kellogg and Anderson will appreciate your people-leadership and storytelling strength through PR. That said, your application must clearly connect the dots between your work in clean tech, brand leadership, and your future goals in technology post-MBA.

Can you highlight the specific role or domain in tech are you targeting post-MBA and how are you positioning your PR/Brand experience as a leadership lever rather than just a communication function?

ARINGO is currently offering a free LinkedIn profile optimization to help you sharpen your personal brand for top MBA programs, definitely worth taking advantage of.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY FOR FREE LINKEDIN OPTIMIZATION.

I’d also be happy to offer you a free profile review for your target MBA programs to see where you stand and how to boost your chances, happy to help!
No pressure, no strings - just helpful insights on where you stand and how you can strengthen your chances.

Feel free to connect- Click here
You can also email me at: [email protected]
Good Luck!

Hi, you’ve built solid experience in a compelling and mission-driven industry: clean tech and circular economy in India. With 4 years as a team manager and current leadership in Brand & PR, you demonstrate both operational and strategic acumen.

Your GRE score of 325 (~650 GMAT equivalent) positions you in a competitive range for schools like Ross and Kelley, especially when paired with credible leadership. However, Ross and Kellogg are stretch targets; consider these as aspirational based on essay execution. Schools such as Anderson, Marshall, Tepper, and Goizueta feel like strong matches given alignment with sustainability, tech innovation, and leadership.

With a sharper narrative around results e.g., waste reduction metrics, community impact, or brand growth, you can enhance your fit at even higher-tier programs. I’d recommend reinforcing quantitative impact and exploring GMAT if you're open to a boost.

You're well positioned with a meaningful domain story. Let’s elevate it with clear impact metrics and strategic positioning.

Ameer Khatri, Admissions Consultant
Schedule a 1-on-1 review
https://admitportal.ameerkhatri.com/pro ... n-calendar

Hi @nash08,
Strong WE, though including the brand name/ size of your employer would have helped further. Your promotions/ career trajectory would have helped further in assessing the differentiation you bring with your WE in clean tech. At this point backing your application with a strong passion for clean-tech/sustainability would help show demonstrable evidences of differnatiable strengths.

Your schools listed above however do not seem to be aligned with a particular strategy or fit with your past. With strong LORs, and a differntiated application, you could also take dream shots at some top M-7 schools. A GRE score of 330 would further strengthen your chances, both at admissions and scholarships, and would therefore be strongly recommended.

Hope that helps. For a free, 1-to-1 profile review over the phone, please submit your profile on TheIvyLeagueEdge(dot)com/index(dot)php/contactus/

_________________
Regards
Bala
The Most recommended Admissions Consultant on Linkedin, WORLDWIDE
Coaching success for admissions and scholarships to the World's best - MBA and MS
https://www.linkedin.com/in/balkrishna/
https://gmatclub.com/reviews/admissions_consultants/?/b ... na-shukla/

www(dot)TheIvyLeagueEdge(dot)com/index(dot)php/contactus/

Thanks for sharing your profile @nash08!
You’re not the “typical Indian tech applicant” because:
Your work is in clean tech + circular economy, highly relevant to global ESG, sustainability, and corporate responsibility trends.
You have people leadership + brand management experience, a good combo in a tech/engineering-heavy applicant pool.

However, GRE 325 is competitive but not exceptional for the likes of Kellogg; you may need to offset this with stronger leadership stories, impact metrics, and community involvement. The Indian male pool is hyper-competitive; schools will compare you with others who might have higher scores but less unique impact. Your advantage is in distinct industry positioning.

Strengths to leverage: Unique industry + purpose-driven work > Clean tech aligns with many schools’ increasing focus on sustainability and ESG. Cross-functional skill set > Tech, team leadership, and now PR/branding, shows adaptability. Clear upward trajectory, from manager to vertical lead in ~6 years, is good progression.

If your work hasn’t had global client/stakeholder engagement, emphasize any international projects, partnerships, or cross-border initiatives.

AdComs love sustainability-focused candidates who also show impact beyond their jobs. Build a visible volunteer leadership in aligned causes before deadlines.

Replace generic leadership statements with specifics: revenue growth, cost savings, market share gains, PR reach in numbers, tons of waste diverted from landfills, and carbon offset metrics. Strengthen ESG/Tech credentials with some short courses. If you haven’t, lead a high-visibility sustainability initiative outside work.

Questions for you to sharpen your narrative:
1. In your clean tech career, what’s the single most impressive measurable impact you’ve had?
2. Have you led cross-functional teams across countries or worked with international clients?
3. What’s your post-MBA specific role and company target in tech? (like sustainability lead at Google, ESG strategy at McKinsey)
4. Any extracurricular/community leadership aligned with sustainability?

We would love to learn more about your academic background, extracurricular activities, professional experience, and personal journey so we can offer a more tailored assessment of your profile and evaluate your chances at your target schools more accurately. If you'd like, feel free to book a profile evaluation session.

Cheers!
Shantanu Sharma
Founder and Admissions Consultant, MBA and Beyond

@nash08 - Your GRE score is good, what was the sectional split? The GPA is on the lower side, which university was this from, and any particular reason for the drop e.g. was it low during certain semesters?

Try to bump up the GRE if you can (ideally to a 330+), as it'd help offset the GPA and make your profile competitive for USTop-15 programs.

Check out here for stats on average GRE scores at top B-schools: https://admitstreet.com/blog/average-gr ... -programs/. As a rule of thumb, aiming for 4-5+ points higher than the average would help, if you belong to a highly competitive demographic pool.

On the professional front, your profile has some differentiating factors, given the clean-tech/ waste management angles and managerial role. I'd like to understand more about your roles to assess better. It'd also be crucial to have a strong narrative covering your experiences, transferable skills, career goals, and how the MBA fits in now.

Hope this helps some. Feel free to reach out through the links below for a deeper discussion.

Regards,
Arvind (Founder, admitStreet) | Testimonials: https://admitstreet.com/testimonials/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arvindkvenkat/ | Free Profile Evaluation: https://admitstreet.com/#contact

As you've mentioned, the score would likely pose a challenge for ISB. What is the sectional split of the score, and did you score higher in mocks?

Overall, your profile looks interesting, given the consulting/ L&T brands and healthcare exposure. Aim to bump up the score (or switch to GRE), and accordingly look at R2 if needed.

Regards,
Arvind (Founder, admitStreet) | Testimonials: https://admitstreet.com/testimonials/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arvindkvenkat/ | Free Profile Evaluation: https://admitstreet.com/#contact

Thanks for sharing your background @AbhilashaShikhar004! Tech consulting at Google: Major brand value. The Google experience signifies strong problem-solving skills and a familiarity with innovation-driven work. Transition into PM is both achievable and logical, especially from consulting. A competitive 3.7 GPA reflects academic performance, especially for U.S. and European schools. As an Indian woman in tech, you are in a relatively less saturated pool than Indian male engineers. Good balance of U.S. and EU schools with strengths in consulting and tech (IESE, Darden, Said, etc.). A 322 GRE Score is acceptable for schools like Foster, McCombs, and Goizueta. But for Darden, Tepper, and Said, it’s at the lower end of the average range. If the quant is below 160, consider a retake if time permits. If you're not already working with product teams, try to highlight PM-adjacent work, collaboration with engineering, user research, data analytics, etc. B-schools want more than brand names. Emphasize any leadership initiatives, side projects, or cross-functional impact you’ve made at Google or elsewhere. PM and top MBA programs both value narratives. What motivates your move into product? Do you have any unique tech-for-good, community-driven, or startup initiatives to showcase? You can take a look at this blog and the success story1 and story2

To further sharpen your application, consider reflecting on:
1. What sparked your interest in PM, and what unique edge will you bring as a PM post-MBA?
2. Have you led cross-functional teams or projects at Google that mirror PM responsibilities?
3. Any experience working on user research, product roadmaps, A/B testing, or stakeholder alignment?
4. Have you mentored junior team members or initiated new projects?
5. Any exposure to global teams or projects with multicultural dynamics?

We would love to learn more about your journey so we can offer a more tailored assessment of your profile and evaluate your chances at your target schools more accurately. If you'd like, feel free to book a profile evaluation session.

We are hosting a Coffee Session: “Candid conversation with successful MBA Applicant to US & EU schools!” on August 7, 2025 | 9:00 PM IST | 11:30 AM ET. Click here to know more details. Register for the session now!

Cheers!
Shantanu Sharma
Founder and Admissions Consultant, MBA and Beyond

Hi, strong domain and early‐years in tech consulting with Google build real credibility for a PM switch into tech.

A 322 GRE (~650 GMAT equivalent) is below average for your target schools (Darden, McCombs, Tepper, IESE), so to strengthen your application, retaking to reach ~325+ (ideally ~680–700 GMAT) would significantly boost admissions chances.

If retake isn’t feasible, sharpen essays around domain expertise, client impact, product-related thinking, and your early leadership scale. Darden and McCombs may still be realistic if the narrative is crisp. IESE and Tepper feel within range if stories align.

You have a strong PM-relevant foundation, focussing on product logic and quantitative insight will help tell your story.

Ameer Khatri, Admissions Consultant
Schedule 1‐on‐1 review
https://admitportal.ameerkhatri.com/pro ... n-calendar

Hey @AbhilashaShikhar004,
Low GRE;
A 326+ (Or try GMAT with 685+) would improve your chances at admits and scholarships to the schools above significantly. This is required even more with your ORM pool (Indian Engineer), and your low GPA. Without going deeper into your specific roles (and achievements) as consultant (even at Google), any comments into your competitiveness can be unfounded.

Also, for good post MBA employability, would avoid Said/ Judge, IESE and Emory

Hope that helps. For a free, 1-to-1 profile review over the phone, please submit your profile on TheIvyLeagueEdge(dot)com/index(dot)php/contactus/

_________________
Regards
Bala
The Most recommended Admissions Consultant on Linkedin, WORLDWIDE
Coaching success for admissions and scholarships to the World's best - MBA and MS
https://www.linkedin.com/in/balkrishna/
https://poetsandquants(dot)com/consultant/bala-bal-krishna-shukla/

www(dot)TheIvyLeagueEdge(dot)com/index(dot)php/contactus/

Hi @AbhilashaShikhar004, your profile shows good strengths, including the GPA (which undergrad uni was it from?) and Google work-ex.

However, your GRE is a bit on the lower side of your target programs. What was the sectional split, and any scope to improve it e.g. did you score higher in mocks?

I'd also like to understand more about your work-ex e.g. achievements/ impact, any promotions, leadership roles, or international exposure. Your goal of moving into a PM role is a logical pivot from your current role, but in your narrative, make sure to articulate how an MBA is necessary now to make that transition, and what are the transferable skills you bring.

Hope this helps. Feel free to reach out through the links below for a detailed discussion.

Regards,
Arvind (Founder, admitStreet) | Testimonials: https://admitstreet.com/testimonials/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arvindkvenkat/ | Free Profile Evaluation: https://admitstreet.com/#contact

Hi, this is a highly entrepreneurial profile with a global edge.

Eight years spanning early-stage tech, a startup acquisition, $5M+ funding raised, and crypto/blockchain experience makes you stand out for Booth, Sloan, and INSEAD. The 705 GMAT Focus is okay HBS/GSB medians, so execution needs to lean heavily on your entrepreneurial spike and vision for decentralized finance. Stanford will particularly value the mission-driven aspect of democratizing access to finance.

Your early exposure in Indonesia/Singapore and 30-country travel history add a global mindset schools like LBS and INSEAD prize. Post-MBA entrepreneurship is credible; make sure to articulate learnings from your past ventures and how the MBA bridges to your next one.

This is a differentiated profile; with stronger positioning and possibly a retake to ~735 Focus, M7 odds go up significantly.

Ameer Khatri, Admissions Consultant
Schedule 1-on-1 call with me for detailed profile review
https://admitportal.ameerkhatri.com/pro ... n-calendar

Thank you for sharing your profile @kbsama! Your trajectory as a repeat entrepreneur with multiple startup roles (founder, chief of staff, global BD lead) is valuable: Built, scaled, and exited at least one venture. Raised $5M+ funding. Demonstrated grit: including winding down a startup, a real-world leadership experience many applicants gloss over but schools appreciate when narrated authentically. This will be a differentiator. 6+ years spent abroad, around 30 countries visited, and BD roles across geographies demonstrate intercultural fluency and adaptability, highly aligned with INSEAD, LBS, MIT Sloan, and increasingly even US schools looking for global leaders. Wanting to work in DeFi/fintech with a goal of “taking finance to every person’s fingertips” is ambitious but values-driven and future-oriented, and this resonates well with programs like Wharton (fintech), MIT (digital economy), and Stanford (purpose-driven leadership). While 705 is a good score on the GMAT Focus, it will be slightly low for schools like HBS, GSB, or Wharton, especially for Indian male applicants (an overrepresented pool). If time allows, retaking for 20+ points would be good, especially to position strongly at HSW/MIT. If not, double down on differentiators in your essays and recommendation letters: communicate why your experience is rare and how you’ll add unique value.

"Entrepreneurship in DeFi" sounds exciting, but make sure you define the “how” and “why now”. Adcoms are increasingly cautious about “buzzwordy” goals.

You can structure it as:
What problem are you solving?
Why is DeFi the solution?
Why now, and why MBA is the catalyst?
How have past experiences already laid the foundation?

QUESTIONS TO REFLECT & STRENGTHEN YOUR APPLICATION
1. What was the most difficult decision you had to make as a founder? How did it shape you?
2. Which leadership experience best shows your ability to influence without authority?
3. How have your failures or setbacks contributed to your personal growth?
4. Why is now the right time for an MBA, given your rich experience already?
5. How do you plan to scale your DeFi vision, and how is it inclusive?

We’d love to learn more about your professional experience and personal journey so we can offer a more tailored assessment of your profile and evaluate your chances at your target schools more accurately. If you'd like, feel free to book a profile evaluation session.

We are hosting a Coffee Session: “Candid conversation with successful MBA Applicant to US & EU schools!” on August 7, 2025 | 9:00 PM IST | 11:30 AM ET. Click here to know more details. Register for the session now!

Cheers!
Shantanu Sharma
Founder and Admissions Consultant, MBA and Beyond

@kbsama,
Great to see your profile check nearly every box.
Going against a few opinions here, does your profile present an oustanding case? NO
That said, presented well, your decent GPA at a reputed college does check their academic capability box; GMAT is also decent enough to get you invites; the key part is to convince the adcoms of the passion in you that can assure them of the replicability of your success. That is largely where Stanford, MIT and Harvard will bite the bait. LBS & Wharton will also place due emphasis on your entrepreneurial journey (though the why and the how will define the importance that your stories can command. Your LT goal of democratizing Finance can also be very helpful in convincing Booth, Stanford and LBS, the most important part continues being the how and the passion behind your journey...

Hope that helps. For a free, 1-to-1 profile review over the phone, please submit your profile on TheIvyLeagueEdge(dot)com/index(dot)php/contactus/

_________________
Regards
Bala
The Most recommended Admissions Consultant on Linkedin, WORLDWIDE
Coaching success for admissions and scholarships to the World's best - MBA and MS
https://www.linkedin.com/in/balkrishna/
https://poetsandquants(dot)com/consultant/bala-bal-krishna-shukla/

www(dot)TheIvyLeagueEdge(dot)com/index(dot)php/contactus/

Hi, you’ve built a quant and finance-forward foundation with CFA L2 and advisory/strategy roles, that’s strong for Masters in Finance paths.

LBS offers GMAT waivers for CFA L2 holders, making it an accessible match. A GMAT threshold of ~565 is needed for Rotterdam MSc; if your score lands above that, it opens you up nicely.

Your prior experience plus finance credentials help offset any concerns around institutional depth. Essays should emphasize your CFA aptitude, client exposure across geographies, and ability to transition quickly into capital markets roles.

You’re on track for both the LBS and Rotterdam programs, execution will confirm match.

Ameer Khatri, Admissions Consultant
Schedule 1‐on‐1 review
https://admitportal.ameerkhatri.com/pro ... n-calendar

Hey @GMATFaker,
Strengths:
1. Diversity in demographics
2. CFA L2 (a full CFA would make your profile much stronger) & strong GPA


Unknowns:
1. Your roles (and achievements) in industries of accounting and Logistrics are not very clear.
2. Employer brand; good brands will get you farther
3. International Experience, whether or not within your own country, can get better results.
4. STRONGLY ADVISE you to get a good GMAT/ GRE score (635+/ 320+ score could get you into top schools. GMAT Waivers or the lowest minimum requirements are neither assuring you admits, nor suggested for your post MIF employability considerations.

Hope that helps. For a free, 1-to-1 profile review over the phone, please submit your profile on TheIvyLeagueEdge(dot)com/index(dot)php/contactus/

_________________
Regards
Bala
The Most recommended Admissions Consultant on Linkedin, WORLDWIDE
Coaching success for admissions and scholarships to the World's best - MBA and MS
https://www.linkedin.com/in/balkrishna/
https://gmatclub.com/reviews/admissions_consultants/?/b ... na-shukla/

www(dot)TheIvyLeagueEdge(dot)com/index(dot)php/contactus/

Hi Daniil, this is a top-tier advisory profile with global footprint across Middle East, Africa, and Eastern Europe.

INSEAD, LBS, and IESE are natural fits given your sector depth and cross-border exposure. Your CFA and Master's in finance broadcast clear credibility.

The narrative you should build: “Transitioning from advisory execution to decision-maker via PE/VC” with measurable deal outcomes and value-add insights. Leadership in your teams and diversity of work across regions will resonate strongly.

Your impact-driven background and multi-sector strategic depth make you a standout investorship candidate.

Ameer Khatri, Admissions Consultant
Schedule 1‐on‐1 review
https://admitportal.ameerkhatri.com/pro ... n-calendar

Thank you for sharing your profile @DaniilSled. 8 years in M&A/strategy with broad cross-border exposure in emerging and developed markets. Depth in end-to-end transaction lifecycle and diverse industry sectors. Manager at PwC Strategy. This kind of exposure is valued by top MBA programs, especially INSEAD, IESE, and LBS, which often attract candidates moving from advisory to buy-side investing or strategy leadership. A 3.8 GPA, CFA Charter, and a Master’s in Finance from a reputable institution will neutralize any academic concerns.

You have a logical post-MBA transition. Programs like INSEAD and LBS particularly appreciate candidates aiming for principal investing roles, especially with an international/MENA context. Your decade-long classical music involvement, orchestra performances, and community events add a human dimension. Adcoms love applicants who blend sharp business skills with creativity and culture. Hobbies like snowboarding and water sports signal energy, curiosity, and leadership beyond work.

You didn’t mention a GMAT/GRE score. Even with a stellar background, you require a test score. Target GMAT Focus score of 675+ or a GRE score 325+ with strong Quant (>160).

Tip: Even with CFA, you still need a score at most of these schools. CFA + 3.8 GPA = helpful context but not a full replacement.

At 8 years of experience (and likely 30 or 31 at matriculation), you're at the upper end for traditional MBAs. Not a red flag at INSEAD, IESE, or LBS (average age ~29), but craft your story around:
Why MBA now?
What gaps are you solving for?
Why not an Executive MBA or specialized finance programs (like LBS MiF)?

If you frame this well (especially in your essays and interviews), age/experience won’t be a blocker.

Questions for you:
1. Have you taken or planned your GMAT/GRE? If yes, what's the score? If not, when will you take it?
2. Can you share more details about the scale and impact of deals you've worked on (like deal sizes, cross-border exposure, client seniority)?
3. Do you plan to return to the MENA/EE region long-term or stay in Europe post-MBA?

Your goal of pivoting into principal investing is realistic, especially with your M&A pedigree, CFA, and multicultural deal experience. Your hobbies and musical background further enrich your story, don’t underestimate their value.

"What will truly set you apart is how you tie your past experience with your post-MBA goals and your ‘why now, why this school’ rationale."

Happy to support you on this journey! If you'd like, feel free to book a profile evaluation session.

Join our Coffee Session: “Candid conversation with a successful MBA Applicant to US & EU schools!” on August 7, 2025 | 9:00 PM IST | 11:30 AM ET. Register for the session now!

Cheers!
Shantanu Sharma
Founder and Admissions Consultant, MBA and Beyond

Hey
Priyanka here from ARINGO. Speaking about your profile, your profile looks compelling and well-rounded. With 8 years of experience, a 3.8 GPA, and a CFA charter, you’re entering the MBA process from a position of strength, particularly for finance-savvy, globally oriented programs like INSEAD, IESE, and LBS. Your current role at PwC Deals Strategy in the UAE, covering cross-border M&A across multiple regions and sectors, is exactly the kind of diverse exposure European schools love.

Your mix of strategic advisory and post-deal value creation aligns well with your goal of transitioning into principal investing. INSEAD and IESE are particularly strong in placing into PE/VC roles in Europe and emerging markets, and they’ll value both your technical expertise and your leadership trajectory. Add to that your unique musical background and personal passions, these bring out a human and creative dimension that can really stand out in European programs that value holistic, multicultural profiles.

What specifically is driving your move from consulting into investing, what gaps do you hope the MBA will fill? And how do you plan to position your regional deal experience for global investing ambitions post-MBA?

ARINGO is offering a free LinkedIn profile optimization, a great way to align your online presence with your goals in PE and venture investing.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY FOR FREE LINKEDIN OPTIMIZATION.

I’d also be happy to offer you a free profile review for your target MBA programs to see where you stand and how to boost your chances, happy to help!
No pressure, no strings - just helpful insights on where you stand and how you can strengthen your chances.

Feel free to connect- Click here
You can also email me at: [email protected]
Good Luck!

Hey @DaniilSled,
Strengths:
1. Diversity in demographics
2. CFA & strong GPA from top tier University
3.Work experience across the full transaction lifecycle.
4. Top Brand employer
5. International Experience

Unknown: GMAT/ GRE; For a consulting role, a 695+/ 329+ score could get you into the M7s with significant scholarships, maybe a full ride as well. Personally I wouldn't recommend IESE.
LBS and even IMD would give you access to top financial institutions of the World.

Hope that helps. For a free, 1-to-1 profile review over the phone, please submit your profile on TheIvyLeagueEdge(dot)com/index(dot)php/contactus/

_________________
Regards
Bala
The Most recommended Admissions Consultant on Linkedin, WORLDWIDE
Coaching success for admissions and scholarships to the World's best - MBA and MS
https://www.linkedin.com/in/balkrishna/
https://gmatclub.com/reviews/admissions_consultants/?/b ... na-shukla/

www(dot)TheIvyLeagueEdge(dot)com/index(dot)php/contactus/

Nice background and aspirational career goals. Just wondering how you worked full time and got a degree - unless you were in an evening school. Usually b-schools consider post undergrad work exp as full time experience, so you should check with your target programs on this, as your eligibility may depend on this (in terms of number of years of full time employment) .

Namita Garg,
Founder, MBA Decoder
Email: [email protected]
Reach out to us for a Profile Evaluation
Helping applicants achieve their MBA dreams since 2011

Hi, a pragmatic, mission-driven applicant with engineering and tech exposure who wants to scale entrepreneurial impact in Africa. With no test score yet, aim for GMAT 695+ to support access to M7 and INSEAD scholar opportunities.

You have the raw elements: maturity (funding own education), regional perspective, and future ambition. Essays should explain how education in Europe or the U.S. can amplify impact in African markets. Programs like Stanford (SEED), Harvard, and INSEAD all have strong African entrepreneurial pipelines.

With the right GMAT and a well-structured impact arc, your story is compelling and distinct.

Ameer Khatri, Admissions Consultant
Schedule 1‐on‐1 review
https://admitportal.ameerkhatri.com/pro ... n-calendar

Hey @byiringiro,
While your WE while studying may present a very good case for MiM programs (or Deferred/ 2+2 MBA programs), it wmay not qualify you for FT MBA programs. Please check before you invest more time and money into this.

Hope that helps. For a free, 1-to-1 profile review over the phone, please submit your profile on TheIvyLeagueEdge(dot)com/index(dot)php/contactus/

_________________
Regards
Bala
The Most recommended Admissions Consultant on Linkedin, WORLDWIDE
Coaching success for admissions and scholarships to the World's best - MBA and MS
https://www.linkedin.com/in/balkrishna/
https://gmatclub.com/reviews/admissions_consultants/?/b ... na-shukla/

www(dot)TheIvyLeagueEdge(dot)com/index(dot)php/contactus/

Hey
Priyanka here from ARINGO. Speaking about your profile, a 695 GMAT FE paired with an 8.18 CGPA in Computer Science from VIT makes you academically very competitive. Your school grades are solid too, and top European schools like INSEAD, HEC, ESSEC, and LBS will appreciate your entrepreneurial mindset and tech foundation at such an early stage.

Founding Brooski, a platform addressing real-world problems in Tier 2/3 India, gives you a practical and mission-driven edge. That kind of hands-on startup and product experience, along with your exposure to user research and strategy, will really resonate at schools like INSEAD and HEC, which look for future leaders with global potential. Your profile is also a good fit for Booth's MiM, which values analytical rigor and early leadership.

What’s your long-term vision for Brooski, do you plan to return to it post-MiM, or are you looking to build tech leadership experience first? And how are you planning to showcase your leadership and teamwork experience from college and your startup?

Also, to help sharpen your positioning across platforms, ARINGO is offering a free LinkedIn profile optimization, which can help you better align your story for both adcoms and recruiters.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY FOR FREE LINKEDIN OPTIMIZATION.

I’d also be happy to offer you a free profile review for your target MiM programs to see where you stand and how to boost your chances, happy to help!
No pressure, no strings - just helpful insights on where you stand and how you can strengthen your chances.

Feel free to connect- Click here
You can also email me at: [email protected]
Good Luck!

Hi @aaron102,
Adding to the already strengths in your profile, given your ORM status (Indian Male Engineer), you have done well to differentiate yourself with your Internship, and your Entrepreneurial work. At TheIvyLeague Edge, having helped many applicants to admissions to their dream programs with scholarships, I can confidently see that you could project great applications. INSEAD, LBS & HEC in the same order, will also want your post MiM goals to be expressed with articulate clarity, your LORs to list your demonstrable behavioral traits, and your application to tie it all together with a unifying theme.

Hope that helps. For a free, 1-to-1 profile review over the phone, please submit your profile on TheIvyLeagueEdge(dot)com/index(dot)php/contactus/

_________________
Regards
Bala
The Most recommended Admissions Consultant on Linkedin, WORLDWIDE
Coaching success for admissions and scholarships to the World's best - MBA and MS
https://www.linkedin.com/in/balkrishna/
https://gmatclub.com/reviews/admissions_consultants/?/b ... na-shukla/

www(dot)TheIvyLeagueEdge(dot)com/index(dot)php/contactus/

Hello,

For an MiM applicant, you have a strong academic base, a Computer Science degree from VIT with an 8.18 CGPA, plus excellent school performance. Your GMAT Focus score (695, 98th percentile) is highly competitive for MiM programs at INSEAD, HEC, LBS, and ESSEC.

Your entrepreneurial experience as the technical founder of Brooski is the centerpiece of your profile. A hyperlocal gig platform addressing service gaps in Tier 2/3 India demonstrates problem-solving, innovation, and market awareness. Make sure you clearly communicate traction, number of users, partnerships, funding (if any), or pilots. This real-world execution experience will stand out compared to most MiM applicants who often lack substantial work exposure.

The six-month internship adds applied technical experience, but for your target programs, they’ll want to see how you translate tech expertise into leadership potential and cross-functional collaboration. Emphasize decision-making, market research, and product strategy over coding tasks.

Given your entrepreneurial ambitions, frame your post-MiM goals as tech-enabled business leadership, positioning the MiM as the bridge from product creation to global scaling. Also, highlight soft skills, adaptability, cultural fluency, and communication, as they’re critical for consulting or tech leadership tracks.

Ameer Khatri, Admissions Consultant
Schedule a 1-on-1 call with me for detailed profile review
https://admitportal.ameerkhatri.com/pro ... n-calendar