Explain the dip in CGPA in the last 2 terms or keep mum??

Question

Hi All!

I am Santanu and am applying to the 2012 MIF, LBS course - I have a GMAT score of 760.

Have a specific query regarding my application and am running a very tight deadline.

Any help / guidance would be appreciated!

Here goes:

I have done my MBA from the ISB and my overall CGPA was 3.2/4.0. My CGPA till term 4 out of 8 (this is the CGPA that is sent to potential recruiters) was 3.4/4.0. However, after getting my job, I was not very keen to work on the non-related courses in the final two terms, and the grades for my 7th and 8th terms dipped to 2.9 each, bruising my overall CGPA badly.

Should I keep mum on this and answer if asked during the interview or should I highlight the dip in the last two terms and explain them with something like: "Once I had received job offers, the CGPA had taken a dip in the final terms as I had focused on acquiring skillsets that would enable me to succeed at my future job rather than on the course material for the final terms?"

Help, please!!

Santanu

jazzman · Answer

While it sounds like a classic case of "senioritis," I'd spin it like you said -- "focusing on acquiring skills needed for future employment"

If they don't ask, I'd keep mum.

Santanu76 · Answer

Thanks jazzman!

My concern is: The drop in CGPA in the last two terms and the below par 3.2/4.0 overall CGPA could seriously dent my prospects of being called for an interview in the first place. In that case, could it be better to bite the bullet and put in the explanation in my application itself?

Santanu

jazzman · Answer

It's definitely a delicate situation. Like you say, it could be good to bite the bullet and bring it up to them directly. With your high GMAT score, I'll think they'll likely look past a sub-par semester or two. As long as you have a good explanation for it, I highly doubt it will affect your chances for an interview.

Best of luck whatever you choose!

Best of luck whatever you choose!

jazzman · Answer

Maybe you could try to reach out to someone familiar with the admissions process at LBS? I'm not sure on the emphasis they place on GMAT vs. GPA.

Santanu76 · Answer

Thanks fo your help, Jazzman! Shall keep you posted on what I do. The deadline is Jan 10th...

Santanu

scorpionz · Answer

If I were in your shoes, I would simply let is pass rather than draw attention towards it. In my eyes (and hopefully the ad-com's as well) the statistical difference between 3.2 & 3.4 should not be enough to deny an applicant an interview. If asked down the line, you can always explain yourself...

Santanu76 · Answer

Thanks scorpionz, but I have just submitted the application, and yes, have highlighted this in my optional essay...

The deadline was tomorrow, so I wanted to be done with my writing bit. Hope I have not shot myself in the foot! Fingers crossed... Santanu

Explain the dip in CGPA in the last 2 terms or keep mum??

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