Which MS Finance -- high GMAT/low GPA

I graduated last year (2016) from a non-target, mid-atlantic state school with a 3.13 GPA with Finance major and Econ minor.
I have a 730 gmat score. Currently unhappy working in an operations role so thought MSF would be a good option to kind of "re brand" and get a better alumni network. I know that my GMAT is on pace for a lot of top MSF schools, but how much will the 3.13 hold me back? What schools should I be targeting? Is USC too high to aim with my GPA?
Also wondering if the UVA Global Commerce Masters is a good degree considering it's brand new.

Thanks.

 

Also, Olin has average GMAT as 670 and GPA as 3.45. Do you think my high-end GMAT could offset the low end GPA? Is it pretty much 50/50 at best? Also, is the $57,000 tuition before living worth it?

 

Why not just apply and see. If your operations role is with a big name bank, this will go a long way with admissions. Some programs also have an essay option where you can explain your low GPA, and point to your GMAT as a true indicator of your abilities to succeed.

Also I think UVA's program is only for students who do not have an undergraduate major in business.

 

Thanks for the reply. UVA just started a MS Global Commerce this year that is for business majors. It does not seem to be as technically focused as other MSF degrees. I would really like USC, UTA or WUSTL, but I have read on here that UTA does not like finance undergrads.

 
Best Response

Did not know about the update on UVA's program. Interesting to see.

I think UVA's program is similar to Duke's MIM in that regard. I think you are looking at all the right schools for an MSF, but you should consider Vanderbilt and look at Boston College, Villanova, and Rochester.

I've heard similar things about UT Austin as well.

 

You'd be competitive at most programs with your scores. GMAT is high enough to compensate for your slightly lower GPA. Plus you have work experience. Would need to hear the rest of your profile to give additional advice.

 

@TNA" Thanks so much for the reply, you help out a lot of people!

GPA: 3.13 (3.45 average for JR and SR year. 3.55 SR year so strong upward). GMAT: 730 - 48Q/41V - 8IR (for whatever that's worth). Finance Major, Econ Minor - Non-target east coast state school class of 2016 ECs: Business Fraternity, Division 1 Athlete for 4 years Experience: Operational role/data mgmt at a bank for 6 months post grad. Financial analysis internship at a start up tech company summer before senior year. A little worried that I missed round 1 at most schools considering my GPA.

I sent you this info in a PM and posted it to MSF Class of 2018 thread...I just joined this site a couple days ago so still learning how to navigate properly...

 

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