avg profile getting into top MBA

Wharton MBA grad here. Got in with a 3.3 (from a state school) and 700 GMAT. Below average for sure.

And before anyone asks, I'm not a URM, not a vet, not 1st-gen, and not disabled. Just had some cool work experience that I was able to frame well.

I think the main thing you'll need if you're "average" or "below average" with regard to hard stats is to have something really different (diversity of experience, if you will) that sets you apart.

And more importantly than that, you need to show that you kicked ass in your previous role(s) and will be able to perform both academically in the classroom, while being well positioned to also achieve solid career results out of the program (i.e., you have the prior professional pedigree to achieve your stated goals).

Basically, if your prior experience is sexy enough and your future prospects deemed attainable (and also attractive from the school's career outcomes portfolio standpoint), then you can overcome sub par stats.

But if you're completely average across the board (including experientially), I mean, your chances aren't great. Try to do some cool shit and spice that app up.