Plz Evaluate: Indian-IT-Male-GMAT 760-6 Yrs WE- Gud EC

Hello JayKay, thanks for your question.

Your GMAT is quite solid. Because you come from an overrepresented demographic that typically scores high on the test, it won’t move the needle as much as otherwise, unfortunately.

Your GPA equates to a 2.8, which is low for top programs – this will be your primary challenge. Was there an extraordinary circumstance that caused your low marks? Did your GPA rise as you progressed through undergrad? If so, you might try to explain these factors in the optional essay. Better yet, do you have any other analogue that is a better representation of your academic ability and potential? Programs will want to know that you can handle the material. Your high GMAT serves as an indicator, but you could use another one to mitigate the 2.8.

Your work experience appears solid, but it will come down to your leadership experiences. The more you can demonstrate your ability to lead teams (which it seems you have done), drive results, and take initiative, the more competitive you will be. Having won, Star-of-the-Month types of rewards, I’m guessing you can draw upon experiences like these in your essays.

Your college extracurriculars won’t count too much because they are older (schools typically like experiences that have occurred within the past 3 years). The motivation system sounds like a great experience, but was that at work. How have you demonstrated leadership outside of the office?

In terms of post-MBA goals, you appear to be a career-changer. That, in itself, is not a problem, but you should paint a compelling picture of your career arc that logically connects your past and present experiences with your desired career path in the future. The more compelling a case that you can make that this is a logical and plausible transition and that business school can enable this transition, the better.

I think Haas is a slight reach, but if you can 1) mitigate your GPA, 2) really call out true leadership at work and outside, and 3) paint a cohesive career arc, I think you should try!

Best of luck,
Brian