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nivivacious
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Hi! I have written quite a few thoughts and ideas about round one versus round 2.

https://gmatclub.com/forum/round-1-vs-r ... 98430.html

If you can apply with even 20 more points, I feel it’s worth applying in round 2.




nivivacious
Hello! I feel like if I take Gmat in a couple days, I'll end up scoring around 680, and have a hopscotch R1 essay etc whereas, if i give my paper in 2 months, I might be closer to 750.
I'm female, Indian, have about 9-10 years work ex in advertising and marketing (worked in all the big ad firms: Ogilvy, JWT, Lintas etc as account head) and represented top brands. (I'll post a detailed profile eval request after GMAT)
But needed advice if R2 is bad for my profile; or is actually favourable?

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nivivacious
Hello! I feel like if I take Gmat in a couple days, I'll end up scoring around 680, and have a hopscotch R1 essay etc whereas, if i give my paper in 2 months, I might be closer to 750.
I'm female, Indian, have about 9-10 years work ex in advertising and marketing (worked in all the big ad firms: Ogilvy, JWT, Lintas etc as account head) and represented top brands. (I'll post a detailed profile eval request after GMAT)
But needed advice if R2 is bad for my profile; or is actually favourable?


nivivacious

Although timing is important (for industry representation and scholarships), you should apply when you are most prepared. Applying in R1 with a sub 700 score and average essays may not yield the outcome you are hoping for anyway.

Business schools are actively looking for potential applicants to contact the admissions office, campus ambassadors, and former students to get a sense of which applicants are genuinely interested in understanding the school's offerings and participating in the program. Most successful converts actively network in the early stages. If you happen to get past your desired score by late rounds, you can take advantage of the optional essay (some B Schools appreciate this gesture) to explain the reason for applying late.

If you were late to the party and have not yet done the research on your schools deeply enough to demonstrate your fit in the essays, it is even more crucial to do that after your improved GMAT score so that the schools will look favorably upon you. You can accomplish this by applying for the next round and explain your actions briefly with the optional essay. A decent amount of time working in a new position, been laid off recently, or studying to improve GRE/GMAT scores in several attempts with accompanying proof are all acceptable. Sincerity and honesty will be much appreciated!

Do not hesitate to reach out to us if you need help navigating your unique circumstances in the B School admissions process.

Aanchal Sahni (INSEAD alum, ex INSEAD MBA admissions interviewer)
MBAGuideConsulting
LinkedIn |WEBSITE: https://mbaguideconsulting.com/ | Message(WA): +91 9971200927| email- [email protected]
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nivivacious
Hello! I feel like if I take Gmat in a couple days, I'll end up scoring around 680, and have a hopscotch R1 essay etc whereas, if i give my paper in 2 months, I might be closer to 750.
I'm female, Indian, have about 9-10 years work ex in advertising and marketing (worked in all the big ad firms: Ogilvy, JWT, Lintas etc as account head) and represented top brands. (I'll post a detailed profile eval request after GMAT)
But needed advice if R2 is bad for my profile; or is actually favourable?

nivivacious - the best time/ round to apply is when you are best prepared i.e. in terms of GMAT/ GRE, CV, essays, research on schools, etc.

If you can increase the score to hit your target, it's better to apply in R2. For a comprehensive overview of the factors to consider though, please check out my recent blog:

https://admitstreet.com/blog/mba-application-round/

Regards,
Arvind
HEC Paris MBA alum, Admissions interviewer
W:https://admitstreet.com | E: [email protected]
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Hi nivivacious,

Based on what you've said here, I'd put the time into our GMAT, and then apply round 2.
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nivivacious
Hello! I feel like if I take Gmat in a couple days, I'll end up scoring around 680, and have a hopscotch R1 essay etc whereas, if i give my paper in 2 months, I might be closer to 750.
I'm female, Indian, have about 9-10 years work ex in advertising and marketing (worked in all the big ad firms: Ogilvy, JWT, Lintas etc as account head) and represented top brands. (I'll post a detailed profile eval request after GMAT)
But needed advice if R2 is bad for my profile; or is actually favourable?


Hey nivivacious,

Here is a detailed profile evaluation for you!

With your significant experience in top advertising firms and a strong GMAT score potential, timing is vital:

R1 vs. R2: There's a common belief that R1 offers better chances due to more available seats. However, if rushing for R1 compromises your GMAT score and application quality, waiting for R2 with a more robust application is advised.

GMAT Score: A 710 is undoubtedly more competitive than a 680, especially for an Indian applicant given the over-represented demographic in top MBA programs. Investing two more months for a markedly better score can significantly boost your profile.

Profile Strength: Your tenure in big ad firms like Ogilvy, JWT, and Lintas, combined with your leadership roles, provides a strong professional background. As a female with substantial advertising and marketing experience, you offer diversity in terms of industry and gender, making your profile attractive to top B-schools.

In Summary: While R1 has its advantages, quality should never be sacrificed for timing. Given the potential uplift in your GMAT score and the depth of your work experience, R2 is not only acceptable but might be more beneficial for you. Ensure your essays and recommendations highlight your achievements and contributions to the advertising industry.

If you need more help, we'd be happy to set up a FREE call and give more pointers on how to improve your profile and the right schools you should target.

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