HBX CORe vs Smoking GMAT Quant

HBX is well regarded, and it's a great way to boost your profile and show you're serious. I've found it particularly helpful for applicants with very limited business background. But I think a high GMAT is likely to be a better way to mitigate your GPA, so I'd put your effort there first and then if you have extra time, do HBX or a one-off course (like some of the offerings via UC Berkeley or UCLA extension).

Johnny,

I agree with Kate that HBxCore is well regarded. However in my mind, doing well on the GMAT and having good grades show two different qualities. A high GMAT shows you have the raw ability to do well and as you probably know correlates to success in the first year of business school. Good grades show that you know how to apply that ability in an academic setting. Good grades in HBx Core, or in business related classes at a local university, will do more to show you know how to apply the talent revealed by the GMAT than a high GMAT score alone.

In other words, the two complement each other more than they duplicate. They reinforce.

Is HBxCore better than taking classes at a local extension or 4-year college assuming you get A's in both? I'm not sure. Weigh the convenience of the online option and the brand value of "HB-anything" vs the cost.

Appreciate the thoughtful answer.

FWIW, I had a 2.9 & 770 w/51Q, got into CBS, Wharton & MIT. I think GMAT>>>>extra courses. HBx Core is really expensive, just take a couple classes online from UCalifornia Ext and call it a day.