Could a 9-month gap on my CV deprioritize my profile for recruiters?

Hi,

A 9-month gap can raise questions, so it should be framed clearly and then moved on. Recruiters mainly react to unexplained gaps, not the gap itself.

On the CV, I’d make it explicit and neutral: something like “GMAT & consulting interview preparation” if you cannot justify it otherwise. That already signals intent and direction. If you have anything tangible (score, cases practiced, courses), even better; keep it factual, no over-explaining.

Then use the cover letter to address it in one clean line, not defensively: you took time to prepare, the market slowed due to external factors, and now you’re fully focused on recruiting.

If you want, feel free to share your resume. I’m happy to give you direct feedback.

Regards,
Franco

Yes a 9 month gap can raise question marks for recruiters because most candidates manage GMAT and case prep in parallel to a regular job or studies. So a dedicated gap stands out.

My advice would be not to explicitly highlight this on the CV. Trying to explain might draw more attention to it. If you get through the screening, there will be moments in the interview where you can make the right case for what you did during that time and the rationale behind it.

Good luck !

Hi,

Short answer: no, a 9-month gap won’t automatically hurt you — but if it’s not explained, it can raise doubts.

From what I’ve seen, recruiters don’t reject because of the gap itself. They just want to understand what you were doing and whether you stayed productive.

In your case, “GMAT + case prep” is completely valid. The only mistake would be leaving it blank or writing something too vague.

I’d put it directly on your CV, something like:
“Full-time GMAT and consulting interview preparation”

And make it a bit more concrete:

• include your GMAT score (if strong)
• mention volume of prep (e.g., number of cases)
• add anything else you did (courses, small projects, etc.)

This already changes the perception quite a bit.

That said, if you can add even a small “real” activity alongside this (freelance, pro bono, short project), it helps a lot. Recruiters care about recency — even something minor signals that you’re active.

Also, be ready to explain it simply in interviews. No long justification needed. Just: “I took a few months to prepare for GMAT and consulting interviews, and I’m now actively applying.”

If I had to put it simply: a short gap is fine, as long as it’s clear and intentional. what hurts is when it looks like empty time.

Best,

Soheil