ashwinnarayansr
Hi, I am a 25 year old Indian male, looking to do an MBA between 2025 - 27.
My GMAT score: 645 – V84, Q85,D77
Educational background
1. A qualified Indian Chartered Accountant
2. Graduation - Bachelor of Commerce (Finance and Accountancy) – Christ University, Bangalore (CGPA 3.7/4 or 9.25/10)
Work experience:
1. Approximately 3 years of work experience in KPMG India in the Financial Due Diligence department (under the M&A transaction advisory department). I have also received a promotion in this job to the role of Senior Associate (where I have managed a team). I have worked on both buy side and sell side diligences of companies (including a couple of listed companies in India) across various industries.
2. Pre-qualification articleship experience (this is not full time employment) – 3 years in Grant Thornton in the statutory Audit department
Extra Curricular:
1. Have participated in several business case studies / festing competitions during my graduation. I have also been part of the organising committees of events hosted by my institution.
2. I am a regular quizzer and have continued to take part in quizzes
3. Certificate course on sport analytics
4. At high school level, I have been part of several clubs including being an office bearer for the interact club (School wing of the Rotary club) – [Not sure how relevant high school extra curricular is, but still putting it out]
Reason for MBA
Given my academic background and experience, I possess relevant technical skills in finance. I would like to take this as a first step to take up my leadership aspirations in the strategy and operational consulting fields. Further, as a long term goal, I also prefer to utilise such skills in the sport sector, to tap my skills in the area of interest. I feel, an MBA could help me streamline my skills to such goals.
Preferred schools & geographies:
1. I would like to know the best schools considering my profile and Gmat score (I do not have any specific restriction in geography).
2. I would also like to know if it will be a wise idea for me to write Gmat again, especially given that ISB’s Round 3 deadlines are by the third week of January.
3. Lastly, I would also like to understand, if I’d be recommended to work for some more time and gain experience, which may improve my chances in top schools later on. Having said this, please do let me know if this incremental experience will make a drastic difference, compared to pursuing an MBA in the upcoming cycle.
Requesting your evaluation basis the above points. Thanks
Hi
ashwinnarayansr,
Strengths:
Strong Academic Foundation: Chartered Accountancy and a good undergraduate GPA from a reputable university.
Relevant Work Experience: 3 years of experience in Financial Due Diligence at KPMG provides valuable industry exposure and practical skills.
Leadership Experience: Your experience as a Senior Associate and involvement in extracurricular activities demonstrates leadership potential.
Areas for Improvement:
GMAT Score: A 645 is a decent score, but a higher score (700+) would significantly enhance your application.
International Experience: While your work experience is valuable, international exposure could further strengthen your profile.
Given your profile and GMAT score, ISB is a good option to apply. You can also consider other Tier 1 category schools across the USA, UK, and Europe. We would like to speak with you to understand your overall profile and aspirations to help finalise your college list.
Given your current score and the competitive nature of top MBA programs, I would strongly recommend retaking the GMAT. Aim for a score in the 700-720 range to significantly improve your chances of admission.
Gaining additional work experience will give you an opportunity to take on increased responsibility and leadership roles, enhanced career progression, higher salary, deeper industry knowledge, and a more refined career path.
Given your strong profile and career aspirations, applying now with a retaken GMAT score is a viable option. However, carefully weigh the pros and cons of gaining additional work experience against the potential benefits of starting your MBA sooner.
By focusing on these areas and leveraging your strengths, you can increase your chances of admission to top-tier MBA programs. ur MBA consultants would be happy to connect with you over a free profile evaluation discussion and tailor your applications. You can
schedule a free consultation with our experts or connect directly with our experts via call at +91 7780769732.