Is it time to consider the GMAT?

Hi Monkeys,

I've been working as a Corporate Banker at a tier 2 non american bank since summer 2018 after graduating from a middle of the road state school. I've been trying to make the move to IB for over half a year. I've had multiple final rounds at a number of reputable shops (think bottom tier BBs, solid MMs, and top groups at not top tier shops), but have not received any offers. It's no longer them now, so it has to be me.

I feel as if I really crushed some of them, so I'm at a bit of a loss. Because feedback on rejections is fairly sparse , I imagine my experience isn't up to snuff and my education isn't enough to justify going out on a limb for. Other explanations: I just suck culturally/the phone interviewers aren't doing their jobs or, worse, I'm just filler to push through a preferred candidates.

Should I start studying for the GMAT/prepping for B school? Or, should I just tough it out and keep putting my resources into interviewing? Kinda feeling lost.

Thanks for the insight.

 

As someone wrapping up business school I can suggest you consider the GRE as just about every school accepts it and it’s arguably a more forgiving test than the GMAT, plus as you have 5 years to use the scores, you may switch interests and the GRE is an exam you can use to apply to any graduate program.

Also remember that business schools require at minimum 3 years of work experience by matriculation (5 years is typically the average) so you’d be looking to apply for the class of 2023, starting fall 2021

 

If you look at the careers post mba nearly all require at least 3 years of work experience which is why mba programs enroll students with at least the 3 years- you’re more marketable to employers.

I definitely have classmates with 2 years of work experience, but they’re typically pursuing non-traditional paths post mba such as entrepreneurship.

Five years of experience is usually the sweet spot- check out program stats and the profiles of mba candidates to confirm.

 
Associate 1 in IB - Ind:
If you look at the careers post mba nearly all require at least 3 years of work experience which is why mba programs enroll students with at least the 3 years- you’re more marketable to employers.

I definitely have classmates with 2 years of work experience, but they’re typically pursuing non-traditional paths post mba such as entrepreneurship.

Five years of experience is usually the sweet spot- check out program stats and the profiles of mba candidates to confirm.

Ah got it, read your post wrong

 

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