The Role of GMAT Scores When Applying to an MBA Program

When considering graduate schools, there are a number of factors to consider, including whether you want to take the GRE or the GMAT test. If you are pursuing a career in business and considering an MBA, it is important to note that many universities will not accept GRE test scores for your admission, however, business schools are the only schools that do accept the GMAT. Before making your school selection, it is vital that you understand the policies of each school you are considering, in regards to earning an MBA.

The only students taking the GMAT are students who are seeking admission to a business graduate program, but it is possible to get an MBA, without submitting a GMAT score. The test is structured and the questions asked are designed to specifically gauge the skills of a student planning to pursue an MBA. The admission curve to most business schools is quite steep, so if you take the GMAT, but intend on exploring other options should you not be accepted to a business program, you may want to consider taking the GRE and applying to universities that accept these scores for their business programs as well.

The GRE exam is similar to the GMAT; however, it is designed for a broader range of programs. The GRE is typically a generalized set of answers; however, you can sit for a specialized subject matter. Many business schools are beginning to accept scores from either exam, so it is completely possible to pursue your MBA as long as you have the GRE scores.

Some schools use the test scores for a large part of the evaluation points in the admissions application, for example, Stanford Graduate School of Business relies more on the GMAT scores in their evaluation, whereas Harvard Business School relies the scores, but the emphasis is dependent on the student and their application as a whole. It is important to keep in mind that a high GMAT score may increase the likelihood of your academic success; you will also need to have a high GPA as well as an excellent statement of purpose and/or other requirements.

When applying to a business school, the admission committee reviews each application to determine your management potential, organizational skills, leadership skills, career goals, teamwork skill and the involvement you have within the community, as well as your academic achievements. So, although the GMAT scores may play a vital role in your admission application, these other attributes also weighs heavily on your success as an MBA student.

Taking the GMAT and scoring high can possibly compensate for weaknesses in your application, such as a not so impressive academic performance. If you are determined to apply to a business school that only accepts the GMAT score, it is vital that you study for the exam and take the practice tests. Online programs, such as those provided on gmatpill.com are an excellent resource to help you achieve high GMAT scores, which may improve your chances of admission to an excellent MBA program.

$93k MBA Scholarship to London Business School

How James Scored a Full MBA Scholarship to LBS!

First, here’s the official offer letter on LBS letterhead:

Getting this merit-based scholarship wasn’t just random. James attributes much of the reason for this scholarship to his high performance on the GMAT exam.

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From speaking to them they’ve re-iterated over and over how ‘academics’ is one of the things that have set me apart, and as my other academic background is average, they must mean my GMAT.”

James

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When James received his offer, he let us know with the following email:

James’ GMAT Score

So if the $93,000 MBA Scholarship was largely attributable to James’ GMAT score, how did he do?

Well, James scored a 770 (Q48, V48) – hitting the 99th percentile.

He was initially hesitant about signing up for the GMAT Pill. He heard about Kelvin (780: Q51, V46) – but did not believe his story. And many others also expressed their doubt in online forums. James was one of these people with doubts about the score.

But he gave GMAT Pill a try anyway. He claims he would have scored in the 600 range if he had not signed up for GMAT Pill. Clearly, with a 600 GMAT score, he would not have even been considered for a merit-based scholarship – let alone one at London Business School!

So while tuition costs at MBA programs worldwide continue to climb every year, it is still possible to get merit-based scholarships that pay for your MBA! But in order to get these scholarships, you’re going to need a stellar overall application.

And a stellar overall application includes essays, work experience, your interview, and yes – your GMAT score.

Clearly, James’ investment in GMAT Pill paid off extremely well.

In the beginning he came in looking at our testimonials with skepticism. And now, he’s one of them – with an even crazier story of a $93k MBA scholarship to London Business School.

Note that James is not the only GMAT Pill-er to score an MBA scholarship because of a high GMAT score. Kang – is another GMAT Pill-er who scored a $50k MBA scholarship from his 760 score. He is currently a student at the top Darden MBA program.

Here’s James’ official score report.

Columbia Business School Info Session May and June 2013

Columbia Business school is hosting an information session for the following dates and times. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the school and interact with the student body while enjoying the atmosphere of the school campus

Location
Columbia Business School
Uris 1st Floor – 142
3022 Broadway, New York, NY 10027

MAY 20, 2013 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM

JUN 03, 2013 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM

JUN 10, 2013 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM

JUN 17, 2013 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM

JUN 24, 2013 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM

Key Features

1) Learn about Columbia MBA’s competitive strengths and its personality
2) Application process best practices
3) Q&A Session with Admissions officers and Current students

There will be an initial presentation. Then admissions officers and current students will be answering questions about the school.

Register for the event

Columbia application deadlines are out!

Early Decision will be October 2, 2013

This deadline is for enrollment in August 2014. Find out more about applying here.