<p>So which one has more push for people looking for jobs or pursuing top tier b-schools like Harvard, LSE, Stanford, Wharton, etc? I'm only a high school senior and I'm going to an instate public school, top 20 undergrad business with hopes to do honors. Some people that I know who are in honors say that it's harder than regular but I'll get to start taking business classes as a freshman instead of sophomore/junior.
Is there a certain range where it matters? Say a 3.7 in honors vs. a 3.9 regular?
Opinions?</p>
<p>I don’t think the difference between a 3.7 or a 3.9 will matter for an MBA program. Just keep it above a 3.6. </p>
<p>Work experience is also valuable, and while I don’t know the specifics off the top of my head for those schools, many do require 2 years of work experience before going back to school. It gives you some real-world experience to draw on in your classes.</p>
<p>And MBA programs really even aren’t about the classes. At those schools, it is all about networking and building connections to people so you know when there are job openings at other companies and have people there to recommend you.</p>
<p>Now, you can also do a regular masters or PhD in different aspects of business instead of going for an MBA. They do not require work experience and a higher GPA will matter a bit more.</p>
<p>I had no idea that grades weren’t as important with top MBA programs, I guess they kind of indirectly are considering that you need a good GPA to get a top job. Thanks for the help</p>
<p>They’re important, but a 3.7 instead of a 3.9 won’t have your application tossed into the garbage. Impressive work experience and strong essays will matter more.</p>
<p>But is seeing the 3.7 “with honors” more impressive than a 3.9 regular. I’m doing honors regardless because some of my sister’s friends that were in honors business school got jobs with a starting salary of like 65k with huge annual bonuses.</p>
<p>Well if you are considering job prospects, then yes, honors may help with your first job if it is relevant. But I was referring to when you apply to MBA programs and how it looks to them. And you don’t know that you’ll “only” get a 3.7 with honors. Be more optimistic and you might surprise yourself.</p>
<p>Will do! I intend to be very productive my years in college, with the numerous external factors along with my usual work ethic I think it’s possible to get up into the 3.8, 3.9 range.</p>
<p>Your gpa isin’t the most important by far. The two most important are your gmat and your work experience. Many people get into top business schools with a 3.5 gpa and around there…</p>