To get into...

To get into a school like HBS, Wharton, Stanford, Chicago, STERN, etc. from an non-target undergrad with at least 2 years as an analyst at a BB with a 3.5 gpa - what type of GMAT score are we talking? 700+ for sure? or is it up in the air depending on other things like letters of recommendation and essays?

Thanks

note: i have searched and also read other posts related to this - but wanted your take on my specific situation thanks!

6 Comments
 

There will be hundreds of applicants with your credentials...

My friend who went to UT BBA, then analyst stint, then HF stint...waitlisted U Chicago then accepted one week before class. GMAT in high 600's...

Hope this at least makes you feel better... but his experience was pure quality. I think the HF he worked with was just super selective. But's he's a badass personable guy.

 

I dont think that anyone will have an exact answer. It is going to be a mix of how much leadership you had in your work experience with your GMAT. But I would imagine it would have to be over 700. But, I don't think you'll find a rubric with a 3.5/BB work experience row, HBS school column, and a "700-720" where the two meet. Although someone should make one of those, that would save a lot of threads around here.

 

This is very broad but if you don't get 720+ you shouldn't look at HBS, Chi, Stamford, Wharton. Stern maybe 700+.

Then again there always outliers.

-------------- Either you sling crack rock or you got a wicked jump shot
 
Best Response

I agree that I don't think there is any number in particular they are looking for. Obviously, the higher the better. From my experience, I think the lower your GMAT score is, the better story you have to spin.

In general, I think people on this board underestimate the importance of the essays and leadership experience. If you look at the business week forums, you will find tons of examples of people with good GMAT and GPA and many dings, and many students with average GMAT/GPA and offers.

Personally, I came from a complete shit school, did fairly well on the GMAT, wrote a great story, and applied to three schools in the top ten - got into two, waitlisted at the third.

 

thanks again everyone - to some degree i'm placed at ease, and a part of me is not.. i was never great at standardized tests and will find it difficult to score 700+

but then again, i haven't really sat down and studied for the stuff. hah. we'll see how it all goes after my 2 yr analyst stint.

...
 

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