UC Berkeley MFE

[Art F]

Hey all,

I am yet to take the GRE, and I am wondering about UC Berkeley's program. Here is my situation:

Math/Econ Major GPA: just over 3.0 (nearly all UD courses)
5 years of programming experience, including 2 years with two different asset managers, and 3.5 total in finance
C++ and Microsoft Certified Developer certifications
Passed CFA lvl 2

I know my GPA (from over 5 years ago) is low, would I have a reasonable shot to get into this program with a high quant GRE score (not sure how much the verbal sections matter) ? Maybe it would be tough with even a perfect quant GRE score?

Any insight would be great, thanks guys.

 

[mhy]

It will be tough even if you get a 170 in the GRE. The GRE is a 4 hour test, your GPA is a cumulative measure over 4 years.

 

[Art F]

Just want to add, the GPA would be over 2 years since I was a transfer. I know that would probably make things worse, just saying.

 

[Art F]

Are there any other decent programs in CA?

 

[TonyHu]

I think a high quant score in GRE is far from enough since a large number of applicants get 170. I would suggest you get an edge via your professional experience.

 

[TonyHu]

Are there any other decent programs in CA?

In CA, you may consider UCB, Stanford, UCLA and USC.

 

[Art F]

Thanks guys, much needed input.