I am hoping to apply to a top SC Firm.I did an excellent undergraduate business degree, but my grades were avg. (had a very good time!). Went straight into industry with major multi-national blue-chip; fast-tracked for past 9 years. Will SC firms still focus on the university grades? If yes, will getting a top GMAT score help? Or do I need to go off and do an MBA to re-prove myself in the academic arena?Whilst my my previous industry experience (9 years) is excellent - Major Blue-chip; Top Performer, my under-graduate degree excellent BUT I didn't get top marks. my University marks are avg. If I write the GMAT and get a top score, will this compensate for the avg. Universtity markes

Sorry about the second paragraph!!! Note to self, re-read before pushing enter!

Stellar GMAT scores wont replace a poor first degree for a strat firm - neither will an MBA.

I think if you have strong GMAT scores then it could considerably help your application. However, I dont think it will replace an MBA. I havent got a definite answer but as an experience applicant, I think you have a good chance particularly if you can speak to the HR person involved to press home your point

I have recently read up about "building an alternative transcript" to compensate for avg university grades, i.e. take a couple of tough, relevant undergraduate courses, get high grades and submit these along with application to demonstrate your current "true ability". Do you think that this is a viable option, or would I be wasting my time?

I have recently read up about "building an alternative transcript" to compensate for avg university grades, i.e. take a couple of tough, relevant undergraduate courses, get high grades and submit these along with application to demonstrate your current "true ability". Do you think that this is a viable option, or would I be wasting my time?

don't give up!!I too have a 'non-stellar' first degree (2.2) - but at masters level from top uni in highly quant course. But I have excellent A-levels, 5 years experience with top blue-chips, 700+GMAT, top MBA and a job with an SC firm. So it can be done...

Good to hear P! Did you do MBA first, and then got into SC or MBA whilst at SC?