Perfect GMAT, embarrasing GPA

Question

Hello, the question has probably been asked a million times, but I'll try to expose my case...

I want to do a Msc in Finance in Europe ( mainly in Spain or France ). I currently hit 770 on GMAT tests but I am willing to try to get the best score possible. I am super devoted and I actually love the challenge.

My problem is my GPA ( huge red flag, I expect between 2.3 and 2.7, close to 3 AT BEST ). I actually HATED studying law and I regret a lot this choice.

Other than that, I have a lot going on in my personal life ( high level sport, modeling and guitar player in a local band ). I also speak fluently 5 languages whom one is not a european language.

Please, what is the best I can do. I know it sounds crazy, but let's say I hit a 800 GMAT score, will it be sufficient to make up for my low GPA ? I don't have a real excuse for my low GPA except for COVID 19 and housing problems, but I really don't want to use excuses to be honest...

My dream programs would be ESCP, EDHEC, SKEMA, IE Madrid, ESADE, EADA, IESE, UC3M, EM Lyon...

Archit3110 · Answer

rather than thinking of whats is not under your control , focus on what you can do now..
give an actual test and see how much you really score ... later shortlist schools accordingly

Suraj0184 · Answer

Get your best score on GMAT. Fill the application. I am sure a high GMAT score will tide over the low GPA.

Kushchokhani · Answer

Hi  qnisbciupsqebui

Great GMAT scores will not only compensate for a low GPA but will also lend you scholarships!

All the very best!

qnisbciupsqebui · Answer

Thanks everyone, I'll try my best !

GmatKnightTutor · Answer

All the best. Even a 770 would be a stellar score!

MBAGuide · Answer

qnisbciupsqebui

As they say - Overthinking is like a rocking chair. It gives you something to do but gets you nowhere.

Accept what has happened, let go of what can't be changed, and have faith in what will be.

Your performance on GMAT looks very impressive. However, you have mentioned nothing about why you aspire to study finance at this point and how it connects with the work you have done so far.

I advise you to cover the following points in your application to show a strong motivation for the program

• Proof of enthusiasm and motivation for study of the subject :

To give context around your choice of métier, you could talk about being passionate about business and finance, and supplement your interest with examples of courses or internships/projects you did. SOPs are expected to be highly focused on academic learning (70%). Since you did not mention internships, elaborate on learnings from your jobs or supplemental sources.

• Understanding, experience, and appreciation of the subject through real-life applications and projects:

For this, you can leverage insights from your work. Speak in depth about any projects or finance-related topics that were pivotal in motivating you to explore this subject further. What did you learn during your projects and how has the learning motivated your decision to study this subject?

• academic focus: Highlight any other academic accolades/scholarships/recognition if any

• Super curricular – what supplementary books, articles, research papers, and newspapers do you read.
What podcasts do you listen to? How do these activities support and complement your interest in the subject?

I advise you to cover this point well in your sops

• Extra Curricular
Talk about the transferrable skills from ECs that will help you achieve goals as a future business and finance manager.

Other points to keep in mind
• Show originality and thought process in your application
• Show active engagement with the target school and potential recruiters post Masters (show how conscientious you are!)

Pro tip- Write to the professors or request a catchup. You could make a great first impression by seeking insights about some academic subjects and recommendations for supplemental reading. You could talk about it in your SOPs later.

Target a high quant score on GMAT and put your best foot forward.

Best wishes

AdmitExpert · Answer

qnisbciupsqebui While a high GMAT score can help improve your chances of being admitted, it's important to present a well-rounded profile that showcases your strengths and potential. Admissions committees consider multiple factors beyond just test scores and grades, including work experience, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation. A high GMAT score will be a strength, but it would be helpful to showcase your strengths and achievements in other areas as well, such as sports, music and proficiency in multiple languages. This can help demonstrate your unique qualities and potential for success in the program. You must show that you have learned multiple transferable skills from these activities. I see that you have mentioned that you do not want to use any excuses. However, it is important to be transparent about your low GPA and explain why you struggled in your studies. To make up for the low GPA, highlight your motivation for the Master's in Finance program and your ability to thrive in rigorous environments through a few work/personal instances. I understand that 770 is the score you are seeing on mock tests. Do be careful in predicting your final score based on this, especially if you are not sticking to the official mock tests. For a more detailed 1-1 strategy session, please write to contactus@admitexpert.com or fill the form at http://www.admitexpert.com Good luck!

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