What is the "safe" zone

Question

Good afternoon Paul -

I know you must be busy and of course I really appreciate taking the time to read this.

I want to go back to school full time and realistically will be aiming for either Baylor or Rice. 

A bit about myself...

B.B.A. in Economics and Marketing from Baylor in 2003
Overall GPA 3.0
Marketing GPA 3.4

4 years of solid banking experience including one as a Consumer Banker and three years as a Marketing Analyst. 

I have yet to take the GMAT; however, from your experience, what would you consider a realistic goal on the GMAT? Keep in mind I would also be aiming for an assistantship. I spoke with the admissions director and she mentioned their primary consideration is work experience.

Thanks Paul!

-Phil

Texguy81 · Answer

Bump

Texguy81 · Answer

Bump... Paul, can you please let me know what you think? Thanks!

navy01 · Answer

Tex-

 What percentile were you in on the SAT? Your GMAT percentile will probably be close. 

I scored in the 1400s on the SAT (old scale) and got a 710 on the GMAT. Probably could have scored a little higher - 30 to 40 points. But percentile wise, the scores were similar. 94 percentile on GMAT, I can't remember exactly what percentile the SAT score was but I know it was close (give or take 5 points). 

All that said, preparation is key and many people make 100 point jumps on the GMAT. If you study, you can make a serious improvement. Go to the GMAT boards and read the posts. There are some excellent strategies/advice there. I wish I had found this board prior to taking the GMAT. 

There is no way to tell based on your college GPA.

Texguy81 · Answer

Hi Navy -

I appreciate the reply. I agree, GPA would be a poor indicator, if any, on how well a person should perform on the GMAT. I was asking, assuming my targets are Rice and Baylor, what I should aim for.

I never really put work into the SAT but remember scoring somewhere in the 1100s. With the GMAT I am studying for, so I am hoping for a 600+

PaulBodine · Answer

Texguy81,

Sorry for the late reply; have been traveling. You have a strong GPA and what looks like good work experience so you should be in if you come within 10-20 points of the schools' median (632 at Rice, 604 at Baylor).

Good luck,

Texguy81 · Answer

Paul -

Thanks for the reply. What you do for this forum is much appreciated!

Phil

PaulBodine · Answer

You're welcome.

What is the "safe" zone

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