question regarding GPA

by **akim08** Fri Nov 02, 2007 9:27 am

Hi, this is my first post to this forum, hello to all.

I have a concern regarding my undergraduate GPA. I have a 2.7 from the University of Maryland in Economics. I know it is a very low GPA considering that I am aiming for top 10 B-schools. I want to know, how high of a GMAT score will I need to offset my low GPA? Can I work with a 700 score, or are my top ten B-school hopes just a dream that will never be realized? One thing about my GPA, the first few years of college I REALLY did poorly due to immaturity issues. However, my last two years I did fairly well, receiving no less that a B, and an major GPA of 3.25. Im hoping that this improving will bode well with admissions. Any advice is appreciated.

by **victory** Sat Nov 03, 2007 6:08 pm

Hi Akim08,

I am in a similar situation as you. I do have a low GPA from my undergrad (Rutgers). I had a chance to speak to several admissions directors from various programs in last few months. I really dont think a low GPA can break your application. Yes you will need a great GMAT score to balance out your application, anything over 700 would def be great. Everything else on your application, (according to MBA school directors) will be more important as well, your career progress, quality of experience, recommendations etc etc.. So the whole application counts, and one specific score will not necessarily get you in or keep you out of a top program.

Hope that helps!

by **StaceyKoprince** Tue Nov 06, 2007 11:41 am

I suggest also posting this question in the Admissions Consulting thread, as this is their area of expertise. I would imagine, for a top ten school, you will need to break the 700 barrier and you will also need to explain (in your application) the upward progression for your last two years. I don't think the low GPA will automatically break you, but you will have an uphill climb - you need to make a compelling case as to why that GPA does not currently reflect your actual ability OR your motivation level.

by **akim08** Tue Nov 06, 2007 4:49 pm

thanks to both of you for your responses. That is encouraging to know that my GPA will not necessarily count me out. So your saying I have a chance! Now I just need to build some leadership experiences, and improve the quality of my work experiences, but no problem, right!?

by **StaceyKoprince** Sat Nov 10, 2007 8:33 pm

Yes - it's not an automatic ding. But you will have to explain why your lower GPA is not typical of your ability - why they shouldn't be concerned about it. Good luck!