Long time lurker and I can't understate how much I appreciate all the advice I've picked up from here.
I am a non-target undergrad senior studying math and economics. I just received an MBB offer following my summer internship at a non-US office (int'l background), and am considering if I should apply for the HBS 2+2 or GSB Deferral, especially if the firm will likely sponsor it. For some context, I have a 3.9 GPA, solid previous test scores (haven't taken the GMAT yet, but 35 ACT, 2120 SAT), row crew for my university, and have strong extracurriculars and experiences.
With that in mind, I do plan on getting my MBA in the future, but am not sure if I am the profile that the 2+2 is looking for (not a URM or a hard science/humanity). Therefore, is there any reasonable shot of getting in and is it worth committing to a business school so early?
The 2+2 does not affect your future plans. Even if you get rejected you still can apply to HBS in the future. Also you can to defer up to 4 years so it is really a win win. As my situation is a little bit similar to yours I would recommend the HBS 2+2.
You will never know until you try! Go for it!!! (Also look at Yale Silver Scholars and MIT Sloan will grant deferrals to fresh grads as well.)
HBS 2+2 is more meant for STEM backgrounds, as you mentioned in the post
aside from that, you should absolutely apply
my manager at my last job was an HBS 2+2 grad, (fwik they were not qualified at all to go to HBS imo), but got in w/ the program
SO give it a shot
there's 0 downside
While it's true that it is a bit of a free option (ie. being rejected won't impact your future application) and comes with generous deferral options, I would think your profile is a bit too typical and wouldn't really fit the target applicants the programs are aimed at. But as other have said, the only downside is the cost and time you have to put into the application so it's your decision to decide whether it's worth it or not.
Since you didn't say anything, I assumed you're a dude, but being a woman would put you in the target demographic and increase your chances significantly .
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