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AnthonyD88
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MBA Profile Evaluation - Unsure Regarding Next Steps 29 Jan 2024, 07:19
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Hi all, thank you for taking the time to read - happy to answer any questions for further clarification.

I've just sat my first GMAT exam and unfortunately didn't get my target score of 700 (got a 660). My headache is this: I've just spent the last 4 months intensely studying for the exam because I'm conscious R1 for INSEAD Jan 2025 is opening soon - I wanted to do the original rather than Focus as I imagine the large majority of my cohort will be using original, hence didn't want to be at a 'visual' disadvantage. I don't know whether I should buckle down over the next 2 months and learn the Focus edition and attempt a 635-645, then apply for R2 - R3 admissions, or dedicate the next month to writing an excellent personal statement, alongside strong recommendation from successful INSEAD alumni, and just trying my luck.

Qualifications: University of Warwick (Bsc Management, 2:1 score)

GMAT: 660 (Q45, V35, IR6)

Work Experience:
1. Associate Director doing TMT Corporate Banking at a global bank in London (HSBC/Barclays/Citi) for 1.5 years
2. Analyst on the graduate programme at the same bank for 2 years, working in Real Estate, Franchising

Post-MBA Goals:
1. Strategy consulting in MBB, the focus is Aisa (Singapore/ Hong Kong)
2. Investment banking (London, Singapore)

Target schools: INSEAD (France/Singapore split), LBS

Unique Profile:
- International background; German/Cantonese mix, grew up across 3 countries in Asia, can speak English, German, Chinese
- Strong work experience (managing e.g. FAANG, FTSE100 clients, financial analysis, pitchbooks etc) and consistent growth (strong promotion)
- Tutoring as a side job (Reviewing undergraduate/masters application letters, coursework essay tutoring)
- Leadership experience in University (president of society focusing on helping students secure Finance jobs in Asia)
- Involvement in tennis societies

Side note: spent 6 years growing up in Singapore so wonder if that plays a role in my INSEAD Singapore application - e.g. wanting to come 'home' after studying/working abroad for 6-7 years

Thank you!
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Top100MBA.Club
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MBA Profile Evaluation - Unsure Regarding Next Steps 29 Jan 2024, 07:38
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AnthonyD88
Hi all, thank you for taking the time to read - happy to answer any questions for further clarification.

I've just sat my first GMAT exam and unfortunately didn't get my target score of 700 (got a 660). My headache is this: I've just spent the last 4 months intensely studying for the exam because I'm conscious R1 for INSEAD Jan 2025 is opening soon - I wanted to do the original rather than Focus as I imagine the large majority of my cohort will be using original, hence didn't want to be at a 'visual' disadvantage. I don't know whether I should buckle down over the next 2 months and learn the Focus edition and attempt a 635-645, then apply for R2 - R3 admissions, or dedicate the next month to writing an excellent personal statement, alongside strong recommendation from successful INSEAD alumni, and just trying my luck.

Qualifications: University of Warwick (Bsc Management, 2:1 score)

GMAT: 660 (Q45, V35, IR6)

Work Experience:
1. Associate Director doing TMT Corporate Banking at a global bank in London (HSBC/Barclays/Citi) for 1.5 years
2. Analyst on the graduate programme at the same bank for 2 years, working in Real Estate, Franchising

Post-MBA Goals:
1. Strategy consulting in MBB, the focus is Aisa (Singapore/ Hong Kong)
2. Investment banking (London, Singapore)

Target schools: INSEAD (France/Singapore split), LBS

Unique Profile:
- International background; German/Cantonese mix, grew up across 3 countries in Asia, can speak English, German, Chinese
- Strong work experience (managing e.g. FAANG, FTSE100 clients, financial analysis, pitchbooks etc) and consistent growth (strong promotion)
- Tutoring as a side job (Reviewing undergraduate/masters application letters, coursework essay tutoring)
- Leadership experience in University (president of society focusing on helping students secure Finance jobs in Asia)
- Involvement in tennis societies

Side note: spent 6 years growing up in Singapore so wonder if that plays a role in my INSEAD Singapore application - e.g. wanting to come 'home' after studying/working abroad for 6-7 years

Thank you!
Show more

The low GMAT is going to raise a few eyebrows especially since your undergraduate GPA isnt exactly perfect either.

I would suggest a retake i.e GMAT FE and target a 655+ score for both these schools.

Rest of the profile looks ok but the narrative in the application plays a key role.

Reach out to us is you need professional help with your applications once you have this target GMAT score.

Best,
Divesh

Founder & Managing Consultant
https://Top100MBA.Club
WAPP:+912231989175

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admitStreet
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MBA Profile Evaluation - Unsure Regarding Next Steps 29 Jan 2024, 13:06
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AnthonyD88
Hi all, thank you for taking the time to read - happy to answer any questions for further clarification.

I've just sat my first GMAT exam and unfortunately didn't get my target score of 700 (got a 660). My headache is this: I've just spent the last 4 months intensely studying for the exam because I'm conscious R1 for INSEAD Jan 2025 is opening soon - I wanted to do the original rather than Focus as I imagine the large majority of my cohort will be using original, hence didn't want to be at a 'visual' disadvantage. I don't know whether I should buckle down over the next 2 months and learn the Focus edition and attempt a 635-645, then apply for R2 - R3 admissions, or dedicate the next month to writing an excellent personal statement, alongside strong recommendation from successful INSEAD alumni, and just trying my luck.

Qualifications: University of Warwick (Bsc Management, 2:1 score)

GMAT: 660 (Q45, V35, IR6)

Work Experience:
1. Associate Director doing TMT Corporate Banking at a global bank in London (HSBC/Barclays/Citi) for 1.5 years
2. Analyst on the graduate programme at the same bank for 2 years, working in Real Estate, Franchising

Post-MBA Goals:
1. Strategy consulting in MBB, the focus is Aisa (Singapore/ Hong Kong)
2. Investment banking (London, Singapore)

Target schools: INSEAD (France/Singapore split), LBS

Unique Profile:
- International background; German/Cantonese mix, grew up across 3 countries in Asia, can speak English, German, Chinese
- Strong work experience (managing e.g. FAANG, FTSE100 clients, financial analysis, pitchbooks etc) and consistent growth (strong promotion)
- Tutoring as a side job (Reviewing undergraduate/masters application letters, coursework essay tutoring)
- Leadership experience in University (president of society focusing on helping students secure Finance jobs in Asia)
- Involvement in tennis societies

Side note: spent 6 years growing up in Singapore so wonder if that plays a role in my INSEAD Singapore application - e.g. wanting to come 'home' after studying/working abroad for 6-7 years

Thank you!
Show more

AnthonyD88 - I wouldn't worry about the visual disadvantage of the Focus score, as the overall and sectional %ile matter more for a like-to-like comparison.

While a 660 "could" work, the odds aren't high, given that your GPA and work-ex (# of years) are a bit on the lower side for INSEAD and LBS.

For schools like these (or any other), just trying your luck shouldn't be the strategy, instead, aim with your best foot forward i.e. try improving the score.

Your banking experience, promotions, international exposure and Singapore connect are strong angles, and along with a good score, would position you well.

Regards,
Arvind
Founder, admitStreet
W: https://admitstreet.com | LinkedIn | E: consultingteam@admitstreet.com
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TheRedPen
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MBA Profile Evaluation - Unsure Regarding Next Steps 29 Jan 2024, 22:36
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AnthonyD88
Hi all, thank you for taking the time to read - happy to answer any questions for further clarification.

I've just sat my first GMAT exam and unfortunately didn't get my target score of 700 (got a 660). My headache is this: I've just spent the last 4 months intensely studying for the exam because I'm conscious R1 for INSEAD Jan 2025 is opening soon - I wanted to do the original rather than Focus as I imagine the large majority of my cohort will be using original, hence didn't want to be at a 'visual' disadvantage. I don't know whether I should buckle down over the next 2 months and learn the Focus edition and attempt a 635-645, then apply for R2 - R3 admissions, or dedicate the next month to writing an excellent personal statement, alongside strong recommendation from successful INSEAD alumni, and just trying my luck.

Qualifications: University of Warwick (Bsc Management, 2:1 score)

GMAT: 660 (Q45, V35, IR6)

Work Experience:
1. Associate Director doing TMT Corporate Banking at a global bank in London (HSBC/Barclays/Citi) for 1.5 years
2. Analyst on the graduate programme at the same bank for 2 years, working in Real Estate, Franchising

Post-MBA Goals:
1. Strategy consulting in MBB, the focus is Aisa (Singapore/ Hong Kong)
2. Investment banking (London, Singapore)

Target schools: INSEAD (France/Singapore split), LBS

Unique Profile:
- International background; German/Cantonese mix, grew up across 3 countries in Asia, can speak English, German, Chinese
- Strong work experience (managing e.g. FAANG, FTSE100 clients, financial analysis, pitchbooks etc) and consistent growth (strong promotion)
- Tutoring as a side job (Reviewing undergraduate/masters application letters, coursework essay tutoring)
- Leadership experience in University (president of society focusing on helping students secure Finance jobs in Asia)
- Involvement in tennis societies

Side note: spent 6 years growing up in Singapore so wonder if that plays a role in my INSEAD Singapore application - e.g. wanting to come 'home' after studying/working abroad for 6-7 years

Thank you!
Show more

Hi AnthonyD88

Your overall profile seems fine. However, your GMAT holds a key role in your applications. We would recommend attempting the GMAT FE and applying for R2. An analysis by the popular MBA forum GMAT Club shows only a slight variation in acceptance rates at top US MBA schools between Rounds 1 and 2. It revealed a slight increase in acceptances for international students in Round 2.

However, a call with our MBA consultants will help you plan your narrative better for your essays. You can schedule your free 1st call with our MBA consultants here

You can also connect with the team via call at +91 7780769732
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MBA Profile Evaluation - Unsure Regarding Next Steps 30 Jan 2024, 11:58
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Hello AnthonyD88,

I hope you are doing well. Your impressive academic and professional pedigree, coupled with a distinct international background and focused post-MBA vision, position you well for INSEAD. However, a GMAT score below their average could hold you back in Round 1.

Navigate this hurdle by choosing between:
Showcasing your exceptional fit through a powerful application package - highlight your strengths, leverage strong alumni recommendations, and tailor your essays to each campus for Round 1. Embrace the potential for a slightly lower acceptance rate compared to later rounds.

Investing in the Focus GMAT and aiming for a 635+ score - this opens doors to INSEAD's R2/R3 and potentially other top schools like LBS. Be prepared for a slightly delayed timeline, but enjoy increased competitiveness and broader options.

Ultimately, the choice hinges on your risk tolerance, GMAT retake confidence, and application strength. Analyze both paths carefully and make the decision that propels you towards your desired future. Remember, with your impressive profile and thoughtful planning, success at INSEAD or other top schools is well within reach.

Go forth and conquer!

Book a free profile evaluation call now with Alums and Current students of top B-schools!

Neha Hadke
Strategy Manager
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Meet our Panel of Consultants.
Email: neha@mbaandbeyond.com
MBA and Beyond




AnthonyD88
Hi all, thank you for taking the time to read - happy to answer any questions for further clarification.

I've just sat my first GMAT exam and unfortunately didn't get my target score of 700 (got a 660). My headache is this: I've just spent the last 4 months intensely studying for the exam because I'm conscious R1 for INSEAD Jan 2025 is opening soon - I wanted to do the original rather than Focus as I imagine the large majority of my cohort will be using original, hence didn't want to be at a 'visual' disadvantage. I don't know whether I should buckle down over the next 2 months and learn the Focus edition and attempt a 635-645, then apply for R2 - R3 admissions, or dedicate the next month to writing an excellent personal statement, alongside strong recommendation from successful INSEAD alumni, and just trying my luck.

Qualifications: University of Warwick (Bsc Management, 2:1 score)

GMAT: 660 (Q45, V35, IR6)

Work Experience:
1. Associate Director doing TMT Corporate Banking at a global bank in London (HSBC/Barclays/Citi) for 1.5 years
2. Analyst on the graduate programme at the same bank for 2 years, working in Real Estate, Franchising

Post-MBA Goals:
1. Strategy consulting in MBB, the focus is Aisa (Singapore/ Hong Kong)
2. Investment banking (London, Singapore)

Target schools: INSEAD (France/Singapore split), LBS

Unique Profile:
- International background; German/Cantonese mix, grew up across 3 countries in Asia, can speak English, German, Chinese
- Strong work experience (managing e.g. FAANG, FTSE100 clients, financial analysis, pitchbooks etc) and consistent growth (strong promotion)
- Tutoring as a side job (Reviewing undergraduate/masters application letters, coursework essay tutoring)
- Leadership experience in University (president of society focusing on helping students secure Finance jobs in Asia)
- Involvement in tennis societies

Side note: spent 6 years growing up in Singapore so wonder if that plays a role in my INSEAD Singapore application - e.g. wanting to come 'home' after studying/working abroad for 6-7 years

Thank you!
Show more
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MBA Profile Evaluation - Unsure Regarding Next Steps 07 Mar 2024, 06:24
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AnthonyD88
Hi all, thank you for taking the time to read - happy to answer any questions for further clarification.

I've just sat my first GMAT exam and unfortunately didn't get my target score of 700 (got a 660). My headache is this: I've just spent the last 4 months intensely studying for the exam because I'm conscious R1 for INSEAD Jan 2025 is opening soon - I wanted to do the original rather than Focus as I imagine the large majority of my cohort will be using original, hence didn't want to be at a 'visual' disadvantage. I don't know whether I should buckle down over the next 2 months and learn the Focus edition and attempt a 635-645, then apply for R2 - R3 admissions, or dedicate the next month to writing an excellent personal statement, alongside strong recommendation from successful INSEAD alumni, and just trying my luck.

Qualifications: University of Warwick (Bsc Management, 2:1 score)

GMAT: 660 (Q45, V35, IR6)

Work Experience:
1. Associate Director doing TMT Corporate Banking at a global bank in London (HSBC/Barclays/Citi) for 1.5 years
2. Analyst on the graduate programme at the same bank for 2 years, working in Real Estate, Franchising

Post-MBA Goals:
1. Strategy consulting in MBB, the focus is Aisa (Singapore/ Hong Kong)
2. Investment banking (London, Singapore)

Target schools: INSEAD (France/Singapore split), LBS

Unique Profile:
- International background; German/Cantonese mix, grew up across 3 countries in Asia, can speak English, German, Chinese
- Strong work experience (managing e.g. FAANG, FTSE100 clients, financial analysis, pitchbooks etc) and consistent growth (strong promotion)
- Tutoring as a side job (Reviewing undergraduate/masters application letters, coursework essay tutoring)
- Leadership experience in University (president of society focusing on helping students secure Finance jobs in Asia)
- Involvement in tennis societies

Side note: spent 6 years growing up in Singapore so wonder if that plays a role in my INSEAD Singapore application - e.g. wanting to come 'home' after studying/working abroad for 6-7 years

Thank you!
Show more


Hello AnthonyD88,

Apologies for the delayed response but we hope this finds you in time still.

Considering you are targetting INSEAD, a 660 on the GMAT will fall short; this is despite the fact that you have some strong talking points in your profile; to amplify your chances, you must retake the GMAT FE and apply in a later round with an improved score.

In short, you must write an excellent statement, irrespective of your GMAT score; each component of your application will have its own weight and one will not compensate for another.

Hope this helps!

All the best!