I just Beat The GMAT!

Hi All,

I gave my gmat two days back and got 700 ( Q 48 and V 38, both 82 percentile with overall 90 percentile). I am very confused now since I know this score is competitive and but not good enough for top schools. I have read numerous articles saying that adcom prefers high score (730+) for Indian male. At the same time, I do not belong to Indian IT pool.

My study method was nothing extra ordinary. I got everything from BTG especially ngufo's debrief. PLease go through her debrief. That's one of the best.

I am posting my profile:

Pool: Indian Male
Academics: Chemical Engineer from top 15 university in India
GPA: 8.93/10 - graduated third in class with distinction- merit scholarship holder for one year
Extra Curricular: -Convener - Indian Institute of Chemical Engg.
-Joint Convener - Inter University Technical Fest
- Student Government representative for one year
- Secretary for Hostel Cafeteria
- Published chemical engineering technical newspaper for first time in university
- I also developed and commercialized one software with my professor in university but the product did not do well. So, we stopped that after few months.

High School: Always among top 3 students throughout schooling
: Head of School Student Government for one year

Work Experience: 3.5 years (5 years by the time I will enter MBA programme. Targeting to get in 2012)
Work Profile: Consulting in Petroleum Sector
- 3 Years of international experience in 4 countries including US, Middle East, India , China


Gmat: 700 (Q 48 V 38 both 82 percentile)

Volunteer Work: NIL

I am in dilemma. Should I retake GMAT? I expect 720 if I retake GMAT (definitely not 750+). My questions:

1. Should I re-take GMAT to bring my score to 720? Is it worth the effort since my academics are already strong.
2. Which US schools should I target? Do I stand good chance at Chicago, Kellogg or should I consider applying to 8-15 ranking US schools.


I will really appreciate if i get some guidance from people.

A 20 point increase won't affect your profile much. A 700 can do all the stuff for you that a 720 will.

700 is a solid score. Work on your apps rather than on the score. If you do decide to take the test, make sure that you improve ur score by atleast 40,else it would leave a bad impression on the ad com ppl. Good luck!!

If you're matriculating in 2012, I would definitely say take it again. You have nothing to lose as most schools take your highest score. Just make sure to take it soon, as it is very easy to forget what you learned.

In terms of school choice, I think your profile stands out and the ones you mentioned would definitely be viable targets.