I've been trying to find a thread that relates to this, but haven't found a relevant one. I'm planning on pursuing a MBA dual degree with a masters in another field (leaning towards urban planning, but basically something that doesn't require the GMAT). The plus side with urban planning and some other masters programs is that there isn't as much of an emphasis on rankings as business schools, with it mostly being driven by going to school in the market you generally want to be in post grad. Post grad I'm interested in a combination of infrastructure investing/project finance as well as in planning, hence wanting to get a masters in something else.
Given that both programs accept at least the GRE, I figured I'd take just that. However, I don't have a high GPA (below 3.5) and went to a non-target state school. As a result, I'm wondering whether it would be a good idea to take both since the GMAT is perceived as a harder test and would be a better way to present myself to an adcom. I'm also trying to focus on extracurricular activities (recently became involved in a local charity) in the meantime before applying. Obviously I'd like to go to the best school I can get into, but at the same time I have to be realistic about schools I would actually be able to get into.
Monkeys, since I can't go back in time and fix my GPA and can only change things going forward, what extracurriculars do you suggest that I focus on and whether I should take both the GMAT and the GRE?
I don't think you need to take both the GMAT and the GRE. Virtually all MBA programs are test agnostic. The one exception is INSEAD (which, interestingly, is where a client that Stratus worked with last year who is pursuing infrastructure investing ended up!).
In terms of extracurriculars, get involved in activities related to your interests/passions. Look for opportunities to improve your local community - getting involved in city council or community groups related to urban planning?
Here are a few articles that you might find useful: Five Things You Need to Know About Taking the GMAT/GRE Build Your Leadership Profile Through Community Involvement
Stratus is offering a FREE webinar on January 10th - Attn MBA Hopefuls: Start 2019 with a Self-Assessment - REGISTER HERE
All the best!
Thank you for the advice!
gre alone is OK unless your GRE sucks real bad in percentiles also check your applying school's policies
Thanks that makes sense.
which schools do you have in mind for the mba/urban planning degree?
Michigan, USC, and UNC are some I've been thinking about. They all have dual degree programs.
Hello! I think you only have to take GMAT. GMAT is not so hard in my opinion. You can take some courses regarding GMAT.
Another aspect of taking GMAT is to help you prepare for your future studies. Don't worry too much. Are you currently studying in U.S?
GMAT is only for business school, it's not used for applications for any other graduate studies. That's what the GRE is for.
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