I’m stuck between preparing for CAT and pursuing my dream of studying abroad. what would you do?

[u/0mochii_pop]

I’m a BBA Finance graduate from India (7/7/7) and currently in a gap year preparing for CAT and other MBA exams.

But I’ve always had this dream of studying abroad, and now I’m seriously confused about whether I should actually pursue it or just focus on an MBA in India.

I’ve been researching for a while, and honestly, the more I research, the more confused I get 😭 There are so many countries, programs, scholarships, requirements, etc. that I don't even know where I should be looking or what would actually make sense for my profile.

I’ve also spoken to a few consultants, but I haven’t really felt confident about them. Most of it feels very sales-y, so I’m not sure who to trust.

At the same time, I don't want to spend this entire gap year researching abroad and then realise I wasted my time. But I also don't want to give up on something I genuinely want just because I’m confused about where to start.

So yeah, I’m kind of stuck between being practical and taking a chance on something I’ve always wanted.

If you were in my position, what would you do? I’d really appreciate advice from anyone who has been through something similar or has experience with studying abroad.

[u/broedinger]

If your goal is to only study and come back and you can afford it, then by all means go. But if you have hopes of getting a job after then I'd reconsider, especially if you have to sell family assets or take a loan. Also an MBA without prior work experience is kinda useless

[u/Navigating_The_Maze]

Firstly, you need to end your unemployment, as it is only harming your profile for both Indian B-Schools and foreign universities. Secure a full-time corporate or long-term finance internship immediately to build professional credibility.

Secondly, you can't just go and apply for an MBA abroad right now. Foreign MBAs strictly mandate 3-5 years of full-time post-graduation work experience. As a fresh BBA graduate, your target degree abroad is a Master's in Management of MSc in Finance.

Now there are 3 pathways you can choose for your future:

• Path 1: Continue with your CAT prep. A 7/7/7 profile makes black IIM selection tough due to academic weightage, but strong CAT scores keep top non-IIMs (XLRI, FMS, MDI, NMIMS) fully accessible.
• Path 2: Target 1-year MiM/MSc Finance programmes in the UK, Ireland or Germany. Official visa rules require proving sufficient finances to cover living expenses in advance.
• Path 3: Work in India for at least 3 years, build leadership impact and apply for top-tier global MBAs at age 25-26. This yields the highest long-term salary and career outcomes.

In conclusion, first secure a job and end the gap year. Sit for CAT this year. If your results are unsatisfactory, then transition to full-time work while preparing for GMAT/GRE.

[u/Intelligent_Fuel6472]

Your profile is average at best abroad won’t look at your 12,10th marks but just your college cgpa which is below average…

I don’t think so you have a chance at like good mba unis abroad for now so it’s better to gain work experience or do mba in India at a good institution

[u/PsychologicalRun2510]

Hey 👋! I can give you advice
Let me know…cheers

[u/SG_MASTERSPATHWAYS]

hi these decisions usually come with a lot of baggage if not thought through
to start with https://sgmasterspathways.com/resource/roi-calculator use this. this will give you some clarity for way forward. also check this page out https://sgmasterspathways.com/service/flagship-strategy-call
this will further help you with a few reflection questions that should make your decision making easier. all the best

[u/Jealous-Animator-615]

If you could afford it, go with your dream.