ISB - GMAT FOCUS OF 695

Question

Hey everyone,

I have a 695 on my GMAT Focus Edition, a 96.5% in X (ICSE), 97% in XII (ISC), 9 CGPA in Computer Science and Engineering (NIT Durgapur) and 2+ years of Software Dev Experience at Microsoft.

In terms of extra-cirrciulars I have led major clubs, both technical and a literary society in college, and participated in multiple and hosted Model United Nations Conferences, debates and fests.

I wished to apply for ISB PGP for the 2025-26 batch in R2 as I am sitting for CAT in Novemeber.

I had a couple of questions:

1. Is my GMAT Focus score good for ISB? Also, will it this be enough to atleast give me a shot at merit based scholarships at the institute?

2. In case I do send my score to ISB now (the free window ends soon) and I decide to retake the GMAT FE for a better score can I just send the score to ISB again and will they consider the higher score? Obviously provided I do it before I submit my application.

Will really appreciate some suggestions here. Thanks!

MBAandBeyond · Answer

Hey, Your GMAT Focus score of 695 is competitive for ISB. The average GMAT score for ISB typically ranges from 710 to 720, your score places you in a solid position among applicants. For merit-based scholarships, specific thresholds can vary, but your strong academic record and professional experience, combined with your score, may still provide you with opportunities. Regarding your question about sending scores, you can submit your GMAT Focus score to ISB now, and if you choose to retake the exam for a better score, you can send the new score before your application deadline. ISB will consider the highest score submitted, which allows you to enhance your application profile if you achieve a better result. I hope that helped

We’d be happy to discuss your profile in more detail and help enhance your application’s competitiveness. Feel free to schedule a call with us here for an in-depth evaluation and additional benefits

AdmitSure · Answer

Hi magarwal775 The short answer to your questions are 1. Is my GMAT Focus score good for ISB? Also, will it this be enough to atleast give me a shot at merit based scholarships at the institute? YES 2. In case I do send my score to ISB now (the free window ends soon) and I decide to retake the GMAT FE for a better score can I just send the score to ISB again and will they consider the higher score? Obviously provided I do it before I submit my application. YES However, I suggest that you apply in R1 instead of targeting R2 and there are a number of reasons that support this suggestion to be best in your favour. AdmitSure (http://www.AdmitSure.com) MBA/MiM Admission Consultant 100% Conversion record

Chimz · Answer

You are already in a very good company and in core profile. Why do you want to go for MBA?
Just evaluate yourself that is 1) job role a problem 2) salary a problem ? and make decisions accordingly.

Your profile stands out and I feel it is in overachiever category, but if you are GEM, CAT is very difficult 99+ for A/B/C given current record enrollment of test takers.

Look out for MBA programs which will give you good leadership roles or international exposure

ARINGO · Answer

Hi magarwal775
I am Priyanka, Client Manager at ARINGO. To answer your questions, your GMAT score is competitive for ISB, 695 FE stands somewhere around 750 on the classic board, while the average is 710-720. So you are well above the average score and do stand a chance for scholarships.

Regarding sending scores- Yes, you can send your GMAT FE score now and then update it later if you retake. Schools consider the highest score.
See, it’s about a month more for R1 deadlines, if you think you can manage other aspects of your profile by September 15, 2024 (R1 deadline), I recommend going in for R1.

Feel free to connect for a detailed discussion.
Click here to connect for a detailed profile analysis.
You can also email me your CV at: priyankak@aringo.com
Good Luck!

FLY.reachout · Answer

Dear magarwal775 , First of all, hearty congratulations on achieving a commendable GMAT Focus Edition score! Upon reviewing your profile, we can see that you have consistently performed well academically throughout your 10th, 12th, and graduation. Additionally, your extracurricular activities reflect a well-rounded personality. However, your role as a Software Development Engineer (SDE) places you among a larger pool of candidates applying for the ISB PGP program. This means that while your academic achievements are strong, you will need to differentiate yourself in other areas. Regarding your first question: "Is my GMAT Focus score good for ISB? Will it be enough to at least give me a shot at merit-based scholarships?" From a score perspective, it is indeed an excellent score for your ISB application. However, your chances of securing merit-based scholarships will depend on various factors, including how effectively you can articulate impactful stories from both your personal and professional experiences. Additionally, your performance in the admissions interview will play a crucial role. The application process begins with well-thought-out essays. It is essential to weave your story together effectively, providing clarity on your short-term and long-term goals, and demonstrating how ISB can help you achieve them. In response to your second question: "If I send my score to ISB now and decide to retake the GMAT Focus Edition for a better score, can I send the new score to ISB?" Yes, if you retake the GMAT Focus Edition and achieve a better score, ISB will consider the higher score from the two attempts for evaluation, provided you submit it before your application. We are genuinely eager to learn more about your profile and brainstorm how we can most effectively present it. At Team FLY, we are a collective of ISB alumni dedicated to supporting prospective ISB candidates with profile positioning, essay critiques, and interview preparations. Please feel free to book a 15-minute free session for a detailed discussion with us at https://calendly.com/reachusfly/15min. Warm Regards, Team Fly LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/reachusfly/ We look forward to assisting you on your journey to ISB!

mbagully · Answer

Hey @magarwal775First off, congratulations on your GMAT score. You've done a great job. Now, let’s focus on your profile.

Your academics are strong with 'Triple 9s' in prior studies, a degree from an NIT, and a solid 695 on the GMAT Focus Edition. However, ISB focuses more on the quality of your work rather than just the brands or the number of years of experience. It’s important to highlight what you’ve achieved, how you’ve contributed, and what skills you bring to the table.

Extracurriculars are also crucial, and from what you've mentioned, it seems like you have a decent amount to showcase. How you present this on your application will matter a lot. The key is to express clearly who you are and what you've done.

To answer your questions:

Your GMAT score is good for ISB and will be a positive factor in your application. However, merit-based scholarships are awarded to around 5-7% of the cohort, and they take a holistic view of merit, not just the GMAT score. 
 Yes, if you send your GMAT score now and later decide to retake it, ISB will consider your higher score as long as it’s submitted before your application deadline. That said, I don’t think retaking the GMAT is necessary for you. ISB might see an additional attempt as a sign that you're overly focused on scores rather than other aspects of your profile.  
I can relate this to my own experience—I scored a 740 on my first GMAT attempt (old scale) and sent that score to ISB. Like you, I considered retaking it and did score a 750, but I chose not to send it. My reason was that I didn't want ISB to perceive me as overly focused on academics. I was accepted to ISB with my original score and graduated as a Merit List and Dean’s List scholar.

Ultimately, the key to your ISB application will be presenting your story and achievements effectively. This is where focused guidance can really help to ensure you're putting your best foot forward without over-selling yourself.

Feel free to reach out if you need further assistance.

Call @ +91 9821701125 / +91 7042700350
 https://wa.link/24gzw3  
  www.mbagully.com 
 https://www.linkedin.com/company/mbagully/  
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High fives and good vibes,
MBA Gully

ISB - GMAT FOCUS OF 695

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