MBAlistinfo » Advice for MBA applicants » Create an effective MBA profile and prepare for GMAT 

Create an effective MBA profile and prepare for GMAT 

Create an effective MBA profile and prepare for GMAT 



The first round of admissions begins in September and it is important to develop an effective strategy in advance based on GMAT scores and MBA applications. 

This article will help you develop a solid MBA application strategy based on some of the most effective ways to improve your application and GMAT scores. 

Let's then develop a strategy that will help you succeed in the MBA application process!

1. IF I PLAN TO APPLY FOR AN MBA IN 1-2 YEARS, WHEN SHOULD I TAKE THE GMAT?
Since the GRE and GMAT scores are valid for five years, it is usually best to take them as early as possible and not later than graduation (if you are sure you want to apply for an MBA/Master's degree in the near future). After all, the examination requires a long period of study and practice, as well as 2-3 years of work in the speciality, so it becomes more difficult to gain time. Therefore, if you take the exam first, you can concentrate on the other key elements of your MBA application.

2) IF I PLAN TO APPLY FOR AN MBA IN 3-4 MONTHS, WHEN SHOULD I START PREPARING FOR ADMISSION?
Are you now thinking about how to build your application strategy around the GMAT? Everyone knows that GMAT scores influence admission to top academic institutions. However, it is also important to understand that your choice of institutions depends on your GMAT score. If you fail the GMAT and have little time to retake it, you may have to revise your list of preferred universities to include less competitive ones.

On the other hand, if you manage to score 30 points higher than your expected GMAT score, you can add other schools to your list. However, your MBA application is much more than just a GMAT score.

If you get a perfect GMAT score (congratulations!), you are one step closer to the university of your dreams. But what if, unlike most applicants, you fail the test and realise that you lack the foresight to develop a plan of action for such a dramatic situation? The best next step is to prepare to resume your studies. However, much depends on the timing of the application and shifts, your resilience and your work-life balance. Those who want to apply in the first round and score 10-20 points lower than expected, as well as those who have an excellent profile and refuse to retake the GMAT, should change their strategy, as the GMAT score is an important part of the application process, but not the whole story. 

As the average GMAT score in top MBA programmes increases every year, it becomes increasingly difficult to obtain a low GMAT score. Simply justifying a low score with a long essay will not do much good. Instead, you can acknowledge the score and write down how you feel it is not indicative of your abilities. 

Then, of course, you will have to provide examples of excellent grades, indicating your university average, relevant diplomas and work experience, or ask your recommenders to emphasise your intelligence in their recommendation letters.
However, all this is only possible if you plan your application correctly. Good and timely planning is important to reduce the stress associated with the application process and avoid preparing your application at the last minute. Planning will help you deal with various scenarios if your GMAT score does not meet your expectations. Believe me, it has happened to many applicants, but only because they did not start preparing in advance. So start preparing for the first round as early as possible and do not try to do everything at the last minute!

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