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AshishK0721
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Joined: 30 Jan 2025
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Profile review- ISB Updated on: 05 Nov 2025, 04:15
Originally posted by AshishK0721 on 04 May 2025, 04:26.
Last edited by AshishK0721 on 05 Nov 2025, 04:15, edited 2 times in total.
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Profile evaluation: ISB

Hello,I wish to apply to ISB in r1 this year and wanted to understand your feedback on my profile and how I can improve it.
Acads: CA(1st attempt-all levels), CFA L3 candidate, 10th-96%, 12th-91%, Graduation-8.94 cgpa bcom
GMAT: 645 fe (potentially)
Work ex- 14 months-Big 4 audit( led teams comprising of 2 articles and worked on listed cos and also with cross border teams), have 2 exceptional performer awards

20 months in an asset reconstruction firm ( got fast track promoted, worked on financial modelling for a few deals and on business strategy and have the reference of the COO and the CFO.) Had to leave due to management change and concerns about the firm survival

Current- almost an year at a big equity research firm leading coverage on a few sectors (Financial modelling expertise and cfa certifications helped get into this)

EC: Wrote a research paper thst got published in my college days and was a national level participant at spelling bee. Led cricket teams at school and corporate level. Have been involved with an ngo since 1+ year. Mentored 15 students to clear ca finals and I have been proofreading and assisting with content for a blog since 8 years (run by my brother).

Concerns- I am worried about the fact that my work ex looks a bit weak compared to other candidates and also the score will be slightly low. What do you guys think? Do I have a better shot at 675?
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Businessconquerer
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Profile review- ISB 04 May 2025, 05:46
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AshishK0721
Profile evaluation: ISB

Hello,I wish to apply to ISB in r1 this year and wanted to understand your feedback on my profile and how I can improve it.
Acads: CA(1st attempt-all levels), CFA L3 candidate, 10th-96%, 12th-91%, Graduation-8.94 cgpa bcom
GMAT: 645 fe
Work ex- 14 months-Big 4 audit( led teams comprising of 2 articles and worked on listed cos and also with cross border teams), have 2 exceptional performer awards

20 months in an asset reconstruction firm ( got fast track promoted, worked on financial modelling for a few deals and on business strategy and have the reference of the COO and the CFO.) Had to leave due to management change and concerns about the firm survival

Current- almost an year at a big equity research firm leading coverage on a few sectors (Financial modelling expertise and cfa certifications helped get into this)

EC: Wrote a research paper thst got published in my college days and was a national level participant at spelling bee. Led cricket teams at school and corporate level. Have been involved with an ngo since 1+ year. Mentored 15 students to clear ca finals and I have been proofreading and assisting with content for a blog since 8 years (run by my brother).

Concerns- I am worried about the fact that my work ex looks a bit weak compared to other candidates and also the score is slightly low. What do you guys think? Do I have a better shot at 675?
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What are your goals post MBA?
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AshishK0721
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Profile review- ISB 04 May 2025, 06:08
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Thank you so much for the response! I wish to utilise the ISB brand to get into one of the IB/VC jobs on offer which utilize similar skillsets. Secondly, I have been working on developing an algo that helps make investment decisions with an engineer, getting into ISB would help me network more and give me a launchpad for the same.
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AshishK0721
Profile evaluation: ISB

Hello,I wish to apply to ISB in r1 this year and wanted to understand your feedback on my profile and how I can improve it.
Acads: CA(1st attempt-all levels), CFA L3 candidate, 10th-96%, 12th-91%, Graduation-8.94 cgpa bcom
GMAT: 645 fe
Work ex- 14 months-Big 4 audit( led teams comprising of 2 articles and worked on listed cos and also with cross border teams), have 2 exceptional performer awards

20 months in an asset reconstruction firm ( got fast track promoted, worked on financial modelling for a few deals and on business strategy and have the reference of the COO and the CFO.) Had to leave due to management change and concerns about the firm survival

Current- almost an year at a big equity research firm leading coverage on a few sectors (Financial modelling expertise and cfa certifications helped get into this)

EC: Wrote a research paper thst got published in my college days and was a national level participant at spelling bee. Led cricket teams at school and corporate level. Have been involved with an ngo since 1+ year. Mentored 15 students to clear ca finals and I have been proofreading and assisting with content for a blog since 8 years (run by my brother).

Concerns- I am worried about the fact that my work ex looks a bit weak compared to other candidates and also the score is slightly low. What do you guys think? Do I have a better shot at 675?
What are your goals post MBA?
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Businessconquerer
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Profile review- ISB 04 May 2025, 06:18
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AshishK0721
Thank you so much for the response! I wish to utilise the ISB brand to get into one of the IB/VC jobs on offer which utilize similar skillsets. Secondly, I have been working on developing an algo that helps make investment decisions with an engineer, getting into ISB would help me network more and give me a launchpad for the same.
Businessconquerer
AshishK0721
Profile evaluation: ISB

Hello,I wish to apply to ISB in r1 this year and wanted to understand your feedback on my profile and how I can improve it.
Acads: CA(1st attempt-all levels), CFA L3 candidate, 10th-96%, 12th-91%, Graduation-8.94 cgpa bcom
GMAT: 645 fe
Work ex- 14 months-Big 4 audit( led teams comprising of 2 articles and worked on listed cos and also with cross border teams), have 2 exceptional performer awards

20 months in an asset reconstruction firm ( got fast track promoted, worked on financial modelling for a few deals and on business strategy and have the reference of the COO and the CFO.) Had to leave due to management change and concerns about the firm survival

Current- almost an year at a big equity research firm leading coverage on a few sectors (Financial modelling expertise and cfa certifications helped get into this)

EC: Wrote a research paper thst got published in my college days and was a national level participant at spelling bee. Led cricket teams at school and corporate level. Have been involved with an ngo since 1+ year. Mentored 15 students to clear ca finals and I have been proofreading and assisting with content for a blog since 8 years (run by my brother).

Concerns- I am worried about the fact that my work ex looks a bit weak compared to other candidates and also the score is slightly low. What do you guys think? Do I have a better shot at 675?
What are your goals post MBA?
Show more


Work ex is slightly an issue but can be worked with. I wouldn't be concerned about that as it can be worked with


The GMAT is low. I did a lot of ding analysis this past December and it was brutal this past year. The next year doesn't look any different for ISB.


So right now, the only thing you need to do is get a higher GMAT and start building your profile with ECs and more activities aligned with your VC goal because I couldn't see anything that will really set you up for that. (Just going by the into)
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AshishK0721
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Profile review- ISB 04 May 2025, 06:24
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Getting into ISB does look tougher than ever before! Thanks for the honest feedback. I will work on getting a better score. What ECs can I work on to enhance my candidature?
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AshishK0721
Thank you so much for the response! I wish to utilise the ISB brand to get into one of the IB/VC jobs on offer which utilize similar skillsets. Secondly, I have been working on developing an algo that helps make investment decisions with an engineer, getting into ISB would help me network more and give me a launchpad for the same

Work ex is slightly an issue but can be worked with. I wouldn't be concerned about that as it can be worked with


The GMAT is low. I did a lot of ding analysis this past December and it was brutal this past year. The next year doesn't look any different for ISB.


So right now, the only thing you need to do is get a higher GMAT and start building your profile with ECs and more activities aligned with your VC goal because I couldn't see anything that will really set you up for that. (Just going by the into)
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Profile review- ISB 05 May 2025, 06:03
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AshishK0721, some thoughts on your profile evaluation and plans.

  • The academic arc looks decent given the CA+GPA+CFA. Any known-undergrad college pedigree? The GMAT score can be a potential concern; already tried retaking or this was your first attempt? Given the time left for deadlines, a retake is definitely recommended unless there is some history of retakes already.
  • The professional profile is quite interesting albeit eclectic. The move away from audit into mainstream "finance" roles can help you differentiate against the larger CA pool. How has your trajectory been - faster than the industry norm/at par/below - the last one owing to the job changes? Has any of your employer beyond Big 4 been a past feeder?
  • IB/VC recruiting is quite scant from ISB and top bschools globally, in general. Think through on your rationale here and do more research.
  • The Cricket and NGO work helps on the extracurricular/volunteer front. Clearly quantify the impact, where feasible.

Not considering other schools?

Hope this helps. Feel free to reach out on mcb@mbacrystalball.com for a more detailed discussion.

Cheers,
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Profile review- ISB 05 May 2025, 21:46
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Hello AshishK0721,

You definitely stand a better chance with a 675 and should retake the test as there is time in hand as well.

ISB was very competitive and a better score will only help your case.

All the best!
AshishK0721
Profile evaluation: ISB

Hello,I wish to apply to ISB in r1 this year and wanted to understand your feedback on my profile and how I can improve it.
Acads: CA(1st attempt-all levels), CFA L3 candidate, 10th-96%, 12th-91%, Graduation-8.94 cgpa bcom
GMAT: 645 fe
Work ex- 14 months-Big 4 audit( led teams comprising of 2 articles and worked on listed cos and also with cross border teams), have 2 exceptional performer awards

20 months in an asset reconstruction firm ( got fast track promoted, worked on financial modelling for a few deals and on business strategy and have the reference of the COO and the CFO.) Had to leave due to management change and concerns about the firm survival

Current- almost an year at a big equity research firm leading coverage on a few sectors (Financial modelling expertise and cfa certifications helped get into this)

EC: Wrote a research paper thst got published in my college days and was a national level participant at spelling bee. Led cricket teams at school and corporate level. Have been involved with an ngo since 1+ year. Mentored 15 students to clear ca finals and I have been proofreading and assisting with content for a blog since 8 years (run by my brother).

Concerns- I am worried about the fact that my work ex looks a bit weak compared to other candidates and also the score is slightly low. What do you guys think? Do I have a better shot at 675?
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MBAGuide
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Profile review- ISB 06 May 2025, 05:57
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AshishK0721 A little late to the party but hope my inputs are useful.

Given your strong quantitative background and work experience in finance, your GMAT score is a potential problem area in competitive B schools where standardized tests are still an important filter. If there is a realistic chance that you can improve your score, I would advise you to do so. Admissions committees weigh several factors, but they generally prefer not to get into a situation where they have to “fight” internally to justify an academic risk.

That being said, your career trajectory is compelling. The development you have shown, such as your shift from core audit work to more strategic and analytical roles in financial services and equity research shows that you want to progress towards high-impact roles in finance. If you can present this story with clarity and conviction, there is no reason why top schools should not offer you an interview.

If your experience had been limited to audit (read more), you would have had to work much harder to connect it to your post-MBA goals. But your move into financial services and then equity research adds real weight to your application. It bridges the gap between your current profile and your long-term goals in finance (if they are) and makes your profile more coherent and credible. If your post-MBA goals are in areas such as investment banking, asset management or buy-side research, this development will resonate well with admissions readers provided you articulate it well. ISB is not a big feeder into this space so you may want to articulate your research about your goals nicely.


Wondering how your profile stacks up? Get a free profile evaluation and discuss a tailored MBA plan that aligns with your goals.


Best wishes
Aanchal Sahni (INSEAD MBA alumna, former INSEAD MBA admissions interviewer)
Founder, MBAGuideConsulting
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aanchal-sahni-83b00819/ |WEBSITE: https://mbaguideconsulting.com/| Message(WA): +91 9971200927| email- mbaguideconsulting@gmail.com­

AshishK0721
Profile evaluation: ISB

Hello,I wish to apply to ISB in r1 this year and wanted to understand your feedback on my profile and how I can improve it.
Acads: CA(1st attempt-all levels), CFA L3 candidate, 10th-96%, 12th-91%, Graduation-8.94 cgpa bcom
GMAT: 645 fe
Work ex- 14 months-Big 4 audit( led teams comprising of 2 articles and worked on listed cos and also with cross border teams), have 2 exceptional performer awards

20 months in an asset reconstruction firm ( got fast track promoted, worked on financial modelling for a few deals and on business strategy and have the reference of the COO and the CFO.) Had to leave due to management change and concerns about the firm survival

Current- almost an year at a big equity research firm leading coverage on a few sectors (Financial modelling expertise and cfa certifications helped get into this)

EC: Wrote a research paper thst got published in my college days and was a national level participant at spelling bee. Led cricket teams at school and corporate level. Have been involved with an ngo since 1+ year. Mentored 15 students to clear ca finals and I have been proofreading and assisting with content for a blog since 8 years (run by my brother).

Concerns- I am worried about the fact that my work ex looks a bit weak compared to other candidates and also the score is slightly low. What do you guys think? Do I have a better shot at 675?
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admitStreet
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Profile review- ISB 08 May 2025, 13:03
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AshishK0721 - Your CA/ CFA and academic grades are good. Which university was your undergrad at?

Your work experience looks interesting, but I'd like to understand your roles, impact, and career goals better.

The GMAT score is on the lower side for ISB (and most other top B-schools). What was your sectional split? I'd suggest a retake (or switching to GRE, if need be) to increase your chances.

Hope this helps. Feel free to reach out for a deeper chat.

Regards,
Arvind
Founder, admitStreet | Request a free profile evaluation
W: https://admitstreet.com | E: consultingteam@admitstreet.com | LinkedIn­­

AshishK0721
Profile evaluation: ISB

Hello,I wish to apply to ISB in r1 this year and wanted to understand your feedback on my profile and how I can improve it.
Acads: CA(1st attempt-all levels), CFA L3 candidate, 10th-96%, 12th-91%, Graduation-8.94 cgpa bcom
GMAT: 645 fe
Work ex- 14 months-Big 4 audit( led teams comprising of 2 articles and worked on listed cos and also with cross border teams), have 2 exceptional performer awards

20 months in an asset reconstruction firm ( got fast track promoted, worked on financial modelling for a few deals and on business strategy and have the reference of the COO and the CFO.) Had to leave due to management change and concerns about the firm survival

Current- almost an year at a big equity research firm leading coverage on a few sectors (Financial modelling expertise and cfa certifications helped get into this)

EC: Wrote a research paper thst got published in my college days and was a national level participant at spelling bee. Led cricket teams at school and corporate level. Have been involved with an ngo since 1+ year. Mentored 15 students to clear ca finals and I have been proofreading and assisting with content for a blog since 8 years (run by my brother).

Concerns- I am worried about the fact that my work ex looks a bit weak compared to other candidates and also the score is slightly low. What do you guys think? Do I have a better shot at 675?
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Profile review- ISB 25 Jul 2025, 03:05
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Hi AshishK0721,

Your profile is strong and well-rounded, with excellent academics (CA, CFA Level 3 candidate), diverse finance experience, and notable extracurriculars, including national-level participation. While your total work experience is slightly on the lower side, it is rich in quality and leadership. Have you had a chance to retake the GMAT? A score closer to 675+ would further strengthen your application.

With the Round 1 deadline and essay questions already announced, we hope you’ve started working on your application. If you need any support or guidance, please feel free to reach out to us at ISBmantra, We’ll be happy to assist you.

Feel free to connect with our team of former ISB Admissions Officers here.

Best wishes!
Team ISBmantra.
AshishK0721
Profile evaluation: ISB

Hello,I wish to apply to ISB in r1 this year and wanted to understand your feedback on my profile and how I can improve it.
Acads: CA(1st attempt-all levels), CFA L3 candidate, 10th-96%, 12th-91%, Graduation-8.94 cgpa bcom
GMAT: 645 fe
Work ex- 14 months-Big 4 audit( led teams comprising of 2 articles and worked on listed cos and also with cross border teams), have 2 exceptional performer awards

20 months in an asset reconstruction firm ( got fast track promoted, worked on financial modelling for a few deals and on business strategy and have the reference of the COO and the CFO.) Had to leave due to management change and concerns about the firm survival

Current- almost an year at a big equity research firm leading coverage on a few sectors (Financial modelling expertise and cfa certifications helped get into this)

EC: Wrote a research paper thst got published in my college days and was a national level participant at spelling bee. Led cricket teams at school and corporate level. Have been involved with an ngo since 1+ year. Mentored 15 students to clear ca finals and I have been proofreading and assisting with content for a blog since 8 years (run by my brother).

Concerns- I am worried about the fact that my work ex looks a bit weak compared to other candidates and also the score is slightly low. What do you guys think? Do I have a better shot at 675?
Show more