What are my chances of getting into Duke MQM with this profile?

Question

I’m from India, did BCom (Hons) with a 7.6 CGPA, and have internships in audit and equity research. Preparing for GMAT, expecting 650–670, and CFA Level 1 is in progress. The plan is to move into analytics roles in consulting or finance. Do you think this profile is strong enough for Duke MQM, or do they prefer applicants with more technical backgrounds?

V Ritik · Accepted Answer

Your chances of getting into Duke MQM with a BCom (Hons), 7.6 CGPA, and internships in audit and equity research are realistic, but you&rsquo;ll need to position your profile carefully. Duke doesn&rsquo;t require everyone to have a technical degree; what they look for is strong analytical potential. A GMAT score in the 650&ndash;670 range is within their admitted average, though pushing closer to 680+ would strengthen your case.
Highlighting CFA Level 1 is a plus because it signals quantitative discipline and finance knowledge. The key will be showing how your past internships exposed you to data-driven work. Even simple examples, like using Excel models or financial analysis tools, can demonstrate readiness for MQM&rsquo;s analytics-heavy coursework. Many MQM admits come from business or commerce backgrounds, so your profile can work if the application clearly connects your goals to the program&rsquo;s strengths.

B.K Sharma · Answer

A lot of people assume Duke MQM only takes engineers or hardcore coders, but that&rsquo;s not the case. Students with business or commerce degrees also make it in, as long as they show strong quantitative skills and a clear plan for using the degree.
&bull; A 650&ndash;670 GMAT is competitive, though retaking for 680+ could help offset a mid-7 CGPA. &bull; CFA Level 1 in progress is a strong talking point, especially if you tie it to your finance career goals. &bull; Internships in audit and equity research are relevant &mdash; emphasize the analytical side of the work, not just routine tasks. &bull; Admissions officers care about employability, so explaining why analytics consulting or finance roles fit your profile will matter more than the degree name. &bull; One advantage you have is clarity of direction &mdash; many applicants lack that, and Duke values applicants who know exactly where they&rsquo;re headed post-MQM.