Return to career after a gap of 4 years

Question

Hello all,

I am 32, female from india and willing to restart career after a gap of 4.5 years. Do you think doing an MBA would raise eyebrows owing to my age and also the career gap? Before the gap i have 5 years of work experience in the finance industry. Which schools do you think are good considering i am aiming for a 700+ gmat score.

bb · Answer

Hi. I think a career gap is fine if it is explainable (e.g. Childbearing, caring for family, etc). Business schools are big into empowering women and this sounds like a perfect situation for that. Now, the 32 years of age is starting to push it. You are likely be a bit limited in some ways from the top 3 programs (those are always hard) but if you have a strong story/profile/achievements before the gap and can show a solid (no need for amazing really, though it would be useful) score to back it up, you should be a competitive applicant into a Top 20 with a potential for scholarship in lower-ranked schools.

The trick is to have solid goals and clear message.

Harsh2111s · Answer

Hi, I don't know if you are aware but SP Jain has separate full time MBA program for women who want to restart their career.Below is the link https://www.spjimr.org/pgmpw Its a good program if you are considering MBA in India. Hope it helps

mangamma · Answer

An MBA always gives boost to our profile. For an Indian female applicant, gap is not an issue to apply for MBA. We have to explain the reason behind the gap in our essays. Please select the B-Schools based on your post-MBA goals. All the best.

Anurag997 · Answer

Yeah, Mba would definitely help you in ypur career

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krishnashah · Answer

bb  Thank you so much for the reply. This gave me motivation to prepare for gmat.

krishnashah · Answer

Harsh2111s  thanks for your reply. Yes i am aware about this program but i am looking for a top bschool to gain value for the time and investment i will be putting in.

bb · Answer

Good luck! There are always barriers and adversity. Take it one step at a time but plan to move quickly and apply no later than Dec this year for R2 or if you can fit it in, R1.

I would also highly recommend connecting with students from your target programs and getting their input. ESP some of the folks who may have been in your situation last year.

Good luck!

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Return to career after a gap of 4 years

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