Now this is a tricky one. Is your GMAT enough to get you through?? When schools say they take a holistic view of each application, chances are they actually mean it.
GMAT is just one aspect of your entire package. Of course having a great GMAT wont hurt but when you score below the average, you will be taking a chance hoping that your other areas of strength make up for it. I for one got below average GMAT but my overall strengths made up for it.
Your MBA application is about YOU as a person, your passion, your interests, your dreams and your logic behind all of these. If schools want only top GMAT then there is a strong chance that most top schools will end up having over 70% + Indians & Chinese. But that is not the case, so whatever you score don't lose heart and do an honest self-appraisal.
When I scored low on my GMAT, I asked a few current students if I should go ahead and apply. And the reply was, if you are ready and you believe in your overall package then go for it. Fortunately I did and things worked out.
Bottom line, target 7XX, if you score below that then look at the overall breakdown of your score. Is the balance within the range that the school asks for and finally consider your overall package and see if you are truly unique.
Another thing I would like to mention for the smart ones out there - MBA admission is a game. If you know how to play it, then you will get through. Most certainly the school of your choice looks for certain traits - cultural sensitivity, tech background, creativity, international exposure, leadership etc. Play your cards well and if you think your case is still weak, then target a stellar GMAT.
You have two elements here - Your Application Value (which is based on your background/ diversity value/ traits the school is looking for etc.) & your GMAT/ Academics. Your application package should be at least above average overall. So if you score very high on the first element (aka. Application Value) then you can survive with an average or even below average GMAT/ Academics. But if your Application Value is not that great, you will need a solid GMAT to remain competitive. Try to remember this balance when working on your applications.
Good luck !
Is MBA right for me? Is my GMAT low? Which school should I go to? Will I get a job after MBA? I went through all this and here I will share my experiences before, during and perhaps after INSEAD MBA.
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8 comments:
Hey Konfused -
I am trying for the Sep 09 intake @ INSEAD and need your 2 cents on GMAT.
Do you mind dropping a line - arnosferatu@gmail.com?
Thanx, A.
Great comment. Let me give my two cents on how to master the GMAT. There are three resources you've got to check out.
(1) The Official Guide. Has the only real problems available and is the review guide from the test-makers.
(2) Take the official prep tests from mba.com
(3) Work a bunch of GMAT practice questions
Hi Mate,
I came across your blog and found the information quite interesting. Thanks for taking so much effort in piling up so much information!
I gave my GMAT today and got a score of 680 (Q 48 and V 35). I am a BE (Computer Science) by qualification from Mumbai. I have been working in India, New Zealand and Australia over the past 6 years and am currently a Business Analyst - IT with the largest bank in Australia.
Although there is no specific answer to my question, can you please let me know if my application as an Australian Citizen (as against being an Indian Citizen) improve my chances. This is because the B schools(like INSEAD) look at demographic diversity. FYI: I have done my education from India but am based in Australia for the past 2 years and about a year in NZ prior to it.
Also can you please guide me whether it is worth retaking the GMAT, since I don't have a first class in my engineering.
Appreciate if you could reply to my post / email me on swapneelmudholkar@gmail.com
Thanks!
Swapneel
Hello,
I am considering an application for J10 and recently completed my GMATs. I managed to score a 710, but my success was greatly skewed towards my verbal score (97%), whereas my quant was rather weak (63%). Based on what INSEAD says on its website, a balanced score between the two areas is best. Do you think it's worth another shot to bring up the math %?
I know you aren't an admissions agent for INSEAD, but I thought you just might have some inside knowledge that could be helpful.
Thanks so much, and all the best in your studies.
Cheers,
J
Hey J,
IMHO, going forward admissions will be extremely competitive and hence I would suggest you cover up on any loose ends you possibly can. A balanced GMAT lower than 700 weighs better than an unbalanced GMAT of 700+.
Although I must say, that its not only about GMAT. If you dont feel like doing it and feel confident about your profile then just go ahead. Saw your blog - you are only 25...you can still afford a few cock ups !!
All the best.
hello K,
Am in a dilemma - whether to apply to R2 or R3? The only thing holding me back is my GMAT score.
In your opinon, and based on what you've seen and heard, what would you say is the minimum acceptable score to apply to the school?
Is is true that come recruiting season at INSEAD, a lot of companies ask students for their GMAT scores?
and your thoughts on R3 Vs. R2?
Yo Loophole...stop worrying about your GMAT. Its only a damn test.
Anyways, back to your question - what helps with INSEAD admissions is, GMAT score + your profile = very interesting. Whatever you do, you must look good overall.
My GMAT was 660 :( and my profile was weird (..read rare) and hence I got in.
Email me your profile at konfused.me@gmail.com and I will let you know my thoughts.
Stop sweating.
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