You have set your heart on earning an MBA, but will a top school MBA Program admission committee take you seriously when you have a low undergraduate GPA? The answer may surprise you. The number of people taking the GMAT in 2016 rose, signaling more competition for spots in good programs. The odds of being admitted to a top school are ten-to-fifteen percent. Even with a low GPA, you can increase your chances significantly by taking five crucial steps.

1) Consider Working a Few Years Before Applying to a Program.

You can gain experience that will make you more attractive to MBA programs. In addition, you will have time to mature. When you do apply, choose the first or second rounds when there are more openings available.

 

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2) Present the Highest Grade Possible on your GMAT Test.

By “low GPA” most MBA Program admission committees mean something in the 3.0 range. That score reflects your projected success in the program, and also affects the school’s GPA record in its recruiting profile. Schools are taking a risk by admitting people who may not succeed, so you must convince then that you will. If your GPA is low, it is vital to get the highest score you can on the GMAT test. You may have to take the test more than once to score 700 or above, which is rated as excellent.

3) Craft Your Essay.

Take your time writing the application essay. If there are mitigating circumstances that account for your low GPA, explain them. Students who work their way through school, for instance, may have trouble finding study time. Do not make excuses. An MBA Program admissions committee is human, and will understand that your study skills and your maturity level may both have grown since you were an undergraduate. Let your essay showcase your individuality. You may have had experiences that shaped your work ethic or attitudes. Your years of employment since earning your bachelor’s degree may have built strong leadership skills. Talk about things that make you stand out and make you memorable. If you are offered the opportunity of writing an optional essay, do so. Use it to talk about your goals and to show the committee that the school would benefit from admitting you as a student. Then have someone with writing skills edit your papers. Style and grammar are vital.

4) Choose Your Recommenders Carefully.

Don’t fall into the trap of name-dropping. Instead of seeking out a distant connection to a business tycoon, look to someone who knows you well. Think about what you want the recommendation to say about you to the MBA Program admissions committee. Write down things that should be included, and then meet with the person and make certain he or she knows what you want.

5) Be Honest

This includes both your written application and your interview. Don’t downplay your low GPA; point out the skills or attitudes that may mitigate the less-than-stellar scores. Be willing to take on extra courses to gain the skills or knowledge you lack. That willingness may convince the MBA Program admissions officials that you have the tenacity to succeed.

You can be admitted to a good program with a low GPA if you make yourself shine in other areas. When a committee member sees your name, he or she should envision your face or at least remember your essay in a positive light. Don’t make a nuisance of yourself, but follow up with the committee. You might send a thank you card or even an email. Promote yourself and then live up to the promotion. Remember, your MBA Program admission is not dependent upon your GPA alone.