URGENT advice needed please - When to take my GMAT vs essays

theharvardguy

Hi friends @ SBC,

First of all - Thanks a ton for being a part of this Forums.
I have read some posts of yours and they are really helpful and motivating. These posts have boosted my confidence towards my dreams.

In short - after a year or more of longing, dreams etc... I started preparing for GMAT this april and I had a date for Aug 30. I'm a Software Consultant and unfortunately my assignment suddenly ended on May 9. I was at home for two months without pay - preparing and giving job interviews and started new assignment on July 1. Being new client, I've been working diligently to gain their confidence. So, my GMAT preparation literally stopped until now.

Main Question - I have cancelled my GMAT exam. Now, I just started again and I have a decision in front of me. I have roughly 3 choices - Nov 29 or around Dec 15 or Dec 29 for my GMAT. I plan to apply in Round 2 to the top 3 to 5 schools i.e. by Jan 6 or 7. In view of this, which one is a good choice for me - Finish the exam early on Nov 29 and work a month on the essays OR have good time for exam till Dec 29 and prepare for essays from now OR sandwich Dec 15.

I know you guys might be relaxing during the long weekend, but please reply ASAP - so that I can schedule my GMAT exam. Given my moderate GPA, both are important for me - and I don't know how long it takes for essays - so I really need your advice. THANK YOU AGAIN.

Lisa Anderson · Posted: Mon Sep 01, 2008 8:34 am Post subject:

Dear theharvardguy,

You need to pick the exam date that works best for your schedule. Regardless of the date, you will need to be working on your essays at the same time as preparing for your GMAT. If I were you, I would go with the November date so I had dedicated time to my essays after, but that is what works best for me. You need to consider your work schedule and personal life and then make the selection that fits best. These are not things you can do quickly nor think you will be successful doing them at the last minute. It is important that you take enough time to prepare for the GMAT as you only have one chance to take it for round 2 deadlines.

Best of luck,
Lisa