There's very little information shared here to be able to contribute constructively. Work experience, GPA, and gender advantage; GMAT is not, and you are working on it. Scores are just a hygiene requirement for M7. You need to have multiple other and balanced dimensions to showcase in your applications in order to become a compelling candidate. Separately, you need to undertake deep research on schools, not just based on their badge/label of M7. Each school is known to have different dimensions they value more, and without building this understanding, you will be shooting off the hip. Last but not least, your goals alone could be a reason for a ding.
Plenty of food for thought for you, I hope. And if you are falling short on these tasks, then R2 may not be a good choice.
- Dee
MBA admissions consultant and management consultant
catalysts.success@gmail.com

Hi @N_123 ! With 3 years of experience in Finance Transformation Consulting and a background as a Chartered Accountant, your profile is strong for top-tier MBA programs, particularly for transitioning into Private Equity post-MBA. Your GMAT score of 655 is solid but below the average for M7 schools, where scores typically range from 700-740. Retaking the GMAT to achieve your target score of 700+ would make you more competitive. Your 4.0 GPA is excellent, and your consulting experience in Techno-Functional consulting provides a solid foundation, but to strengthen your application, focus on showcasing leadership roles and measurable impact in your work. In your essays, make sure to clearly articulate why your consulting experience aligns with your goal of entering Private Equity, highlighting how your skills in finance transformation can be leveraged in this field. Overall, with a higher GMAT score and a more focused narrative, you can be a competitive candidate for M7 schools. You can also add some safe schools in your bucket. M7 schools are very competitive, so adding a few safe schools would be better.

If you’d like, we are happy to get on a 1:1 call with you to discuss your profile in detail and shortlist schools for you. Feel free to schedule a call according to your convenience.

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Cheers!
Shantanu Sharma
Founder and Admissions Consultant, MBA and Beyond
Email: valuecreation@mbaandbeyond.com

Hi N_123
Priyanka here from ARINGO. Speaking about your profile, as a Chartered Accountant with 3+ years of experience in finance transformation consulting, you present a strong candidature. Your unique blend of technical and functional expertise positions you well for a transition into PE, and this aligns with the leadership and analytical qualities that adcoms at top MBA programs value.

While your GMAT Focus score of 655 is a good starting point, aiming for 695-705+ will significantly enhance your competitiveness for Columbia, Wharton, and Stanford. It will also showcase your readiness for the academic rigor of these programs. Tell us more about your leadership roles, the impact you’ve created, and what specifically draws you to private equity.

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You can also email me your CV at: priyankak@aringo.com
Good Luck!