Hi everybody!

I'm planning a bit ahead, for MBA intake in fall 2022. I would like to study in the US and at a top 10 school.

However, I am handicapped with a below average GPA. My overall GPA at university was 3.1. I turned things around my final year there, during my first three years I was well under 3.0.

My question is what given about two years to plan and prepare, what can I do? Number one is of course a good GMAT score. I am confident I can break 700 and will aim for 750+ when I take the exam next year.

In the meantime, I am on a path for promotion later this year (working in professional services / back office operations.) Total work experience at this point 3.5 years.

Should I do the HBx Core? Another online class? I'm racking my brain thinking about how I can make up for my poor grades, so any advice would be appreciated. Thank you!

Why do you want to study in the US? Most people take the MBA for career goals and study in countries where they have the right to work. 

Any academic pursuits you could take, assuming you do well, would look good. Anything to show to the admissions committees that you are capable of succeeding at high-level academic work. 

A high GMAT score, yes. Aim to outscore the average at the schools you are applying to. 

Finally, look for ways to demonstrate that you are a well rounded applicant. Beyond your high GMAT score and work experience qualifications, highlight other aspects: any volunteer / pro bono work, extracurriculars, etc. - these can go a long way from taking the focus off of one negative part of your application. 

Why do you want to study in the US? Most people take the MBA for career goals and study in countries where they have the right to work. 

Any academic pursuits you could take, assuming you do well, would look good. Anything to show to the admissions committees that you are capable of succeeding at high-level academic work. 

A high GMAT score, yes. Aim to outscore the average at the schools you are applying to. 

Finally, look for ways to demonstrate that you are a well rounded applicant. Beyond your high GMAT score and work experience qualifications, highlight other aspects: any volunteer / pro bono work, extracurriculars, etc. - these can go a long way from taking the focus off of one negative part of your application.