Profile Review: Indian Male | Non-IT | 4–5 YOE | Targeting M15 US — GRE Target 320–325 Enough?
Hey folks,
I’m planning to apply for an MBA in the upcoming cycle and would really appreciate some honest feedback on my profile and areas I should improve.
Target schools:
Looking at top M15 programs in the US (e.g., Kellogg, Booth, Columbia, MIT Sloan, Yale SOM, etc.) and top European schools (e.g., LBS, INSEAD, HEC Paris, etc.).
Background:
- Indian male, Non-IT profile , Age 25
- Commerce/finance background working in risk advisory, forensic due diligence, and investigations.
Work experience:
• Ernst & Young (EY) – \~1.8 years: Started as an assurance associate (project-based) and converted to full-time analyst within \~6 months based on performance (1 of 3 conversions from a larger cohort). Worked across risk, assurance, and due diligence assignments.
• KPMG – \~1.2 years: Transitioned into risk advisory/forensic-related work; gained leadership exposure by managing a small team of 3–4 members and handling client-facing responsibilities.
• Goldman Sachs – \~7 months: Worked in risk/related functions; received strong positive feedback from management. Left due to personal reasons rather than performance-related issues.
• Grant Thornton (current): Working in risk and forensic advisory; expecting promotion to Assistant Manager in the coming months
- Total experience will be ~4 years by March 2026, and likely ~5 years by matriculation.
Education & certifications:
- B.Com (GPA ~8.12/10, roughly 3.6 US equivalent).
- Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) certification aligned with forensic/risk advisory work.
Extracurriculars:
- Grade 8 music certification (Rockschool UK) and Grade 6 (Trinity College London).
- Music teacher for ~5 years alongside full-time work; several of my students gained admission into desired colleges partly due to music training.
- Vice President of the Music Society and General Secretary of the Art & Culture Association during undergrad.
Test scores:
- Haven’t taken GRE yet. Realistically targeting ~320–325.
Questions:
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Is a 320–325 GRE competitive enough for M15 / top European programs, or should I push higher?
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How does my overall profile look for these schools given my background?
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Any gaps or areas I should strengthen over the next year before applying?
Appreciate honest feedback — especially from applicants or current students at these schools.
Thanks!
Posted Feb 26, 2026, 3:30 AM UTC