Demonstrating Potential Beyond the Low GRE as an Indian

When Bhavik approached us with a GRE score of 317, we knew the road ahead wouldn’t be straightforward. Right from the start, we were upfront about how a low score could limit his options, especially given the competitive landscape for Indian male candidates. Bhavik acknowledged this reality but wasn’t keen on dedicating extra time to improving his score. It was clear, however, that he was incredibly judicious and career-driven—traits that couldn’t be overlooked.

Over months of candid discussions, we collectively decided to pivot our strategy. Instead of fixating solely on the GRE, we focused on enhancing other facets of Bhavik’s profile. Together, we crafted a plan to bolster his credentials, leading him to work with two investment firms after resigning from his role at an MBB firm. These strategic moves added significant layers of interest to his profile, making him a more compelling candidate.

While Bhavik aspired to secure a spot at a top 10 U.S. program, we remained realistic about the hurdles posed by his GRE score. Despite showing interest in the form of interviews, U.S. programs often prioritize high scores, making it challenging to move forward. Nevertheless, when it came to his dream school: Oxford the admissions process took a more holistic approach. The thorough interview process honed in on Bhavik’s domain expertise, his decision to resign pre-MBA, and his impactful internships in investment banking—all elements we had meticulously prepared together. In the end, these strengths eclipsed the GRE score hurdle, and Bhavik secured his spot at Oxford.

Bhavik’s journey is a testament to how different business schools value unique aspects of a candidate’s profile. While test scores often hold sway, they are not the sole determinant of success. His admission to Oxford reinforces the importance of a tailored strategy and the power of showcasing one’s true potential beyond numbers.

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