GMAT & MBA

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 !