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Bad Grades and B-School Admissions: What You Need to Know

Let’s face it: grades matter. Particularly for b-school applicants, a strong academic record not only demonstrates intelligence, effort, and commitment, but also signifies the likelihood that this exemplary performance will continue throughout business school and into the working world.

Nov 23, 2015
  • Student Tips
Bad Grades and B-School Admissions: What You Need to Know

Let’s face it: grades matter. Particularly for b-school applicants, a strong academic record not only demonstrates intelligence, effort, and commitment, but also signifies the likelihood that this exemplary performance will continue throughout business school and into the working world.

But what if your grades fall short of expectations? While it takes some savvy, it is possible to overcome a less-than-desirable academic history to earn a spot in business school. Consider these four techniques for overcoming this obstacle and reaching your goals.

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1. Acknowledge It

Like most challenges in life, ignoring the problem won’t make it go away -- particularly when you consider that your transcript is one of the first things a b-school admissions committee looks at. However, being up front can be a mitigating factor. Not only does addressing a poor academic record show that you’re aware of the issue, but it also demonstrates that you’re motivated to correct it.

While adding more work to your to-do list may not be the most popular idea, the optional essay offers the perfect opportunity to address your poor transcript on your terms. Don’t worry about drawing attention to it. Believe us: the admissions committee is well-aware of the problem. Instead, use the optional essay as the opportunity to tell your side of the story.

This goes for all negative aspects of your application. Gaps in employment history, job terminations, low standardized test scores, and even a criminal record mandate direct explanations. While these things may seem insurmountable, a compelling explanation can narrow the gap.

And remember: admissions officers are looking for candidates who will thrive and contribute -- both in school and in the workforce. Proactivity is a major factor in predicting success, while procrastination and avoidance are not part of the equation.

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2. Take Corrective Action

While you can’t wipe your transcript free of bad grades, you can mask those bad grades among a multitude of better ones. Known by admissions committees as “transcript repair,” taking the right courses and doing well in them demonstrates a winning combination of improvement and ability. For example, if you tanked a particularly difficult math class last semester, taking another math class and excelling in it demonstrates that you are capable.

One caveat? This doesn’t mean loading up on easy classes to try to drive up your GPA. Admissions officers can see right through that. Not to mention that an A in Underwater Basket Weaving offers no indication of your potential b-school performance.

Also, don’t forget to call on your resources. Check in with your school’s academic advising office for advice regarding what additional coursework will best strengthen your weak transcript while simultaneously improving your shot at getting into b-school. Many b-school programs will even offer you feedback on how to best improve your GPA so don’t hesitate to reach out. At the least, this move shows ambition -- a trait highly valued by b-school admissions committees.

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3. Ace Your Exams

Many b-schools take a “holistic” approach, meaning that they consider the candidate as a whole as opposed to setting firm cutoffs for each point of evaluation. What does this mean? If you do well enough in other areas, it’s possible to offset a single problem area or two, including a weak transcript.

While high GMAT and other standardized test scores won’t eliminate all evidence of poor grades, they can tip to scales in your favor -- particularly for students from top-tier colleges or those who were actively involved with leadership-based activities during their undergraduate days.

Still, remember that some schools do have cutoffs when it comes to academic performance so be realistic when selecting where you’re going to apply.

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4. Work It Out

Many business schools are looking for candidates with a solid work history. Paid internships; part- and full-time work experience; and even community service not only demonstrate initiative, but can help you stand out from the pool of freshly minted b-school grads when applying for your MBA in Business.

This doesn't mean you have to get a job on Wall Street. Many different kinds of jobs across all industries can help you build a professional profile which demonstrates sought-after factors like teamwork and leadership.

Again, the optional essay offers the opportunity for you to share how you’ve grown through your work accomplishments, along with how your particular skills and knowledge will contribute to the b-school community.

Ultimately, a poor transcript doesn’t mean your chances at b-school are over. However, it does mean that some above-and-beyond effort will be required. A combination of acknowledgement and action can help admissions committees see past your poor grades and through to your overall potential as a future business leader.

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Joanna Hughes

Author

Joanna worked in higher education administration for many years at a leading research institution before becoming a full-time freelance writer. She lives in the beautiful White Mountains region of New Hampshire with her family.

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