Low Quant Score - 680 Top Tier Applicant

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Low Quant Score - 680 Top Tier Applicant

by sophadel » Thu Dec 31, 2009 2:01 am
Hi All,

I'd appreciate your thoughts on my situation.

I took the GMAT for the first time in november and scored 680 (V46, Q39). AWA 5 (I didn't study this which was an error)

So I scored 98th percentile for Verbal but a dismal 52nd percentile for quant. I'm not a quant person unfortunately. I did Maths Alevel and got an A which means I'm not a complete dunce and was at a top US investment bank for 18months before moving to my current job (executive search consultant for a top 5 firm).

My undergrad degree was not quant focused either (Geography/Social Studies) but was from Oxbridge which counts for something.

I have great references, I think my essays are pretty strong and I have a lot of Uni leadership roles to back me up. I'm a 'different' candidate according to my bosses who are all MBA alumni from top schools.

I'm taking the GMAT again on Monday to see if I can improve my scores but I am not confident. My practice tests are all in the 640-680 range and I haven't cracked the 700 barrier. My quant score has improved by 2-3 marks but my verbal tends to slip as I get bored by the end.....I'm sure adreneline will help that part!

I just need your thoughts on whether I have a hope in helll of getting into my target schools (HBS, Stanford, Columbia, INSEAD) with these scores and what your recommendations would be for dealing with Monday. I am very very stressed about it!

Thanks :)
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by Lisa Anderson » Sun Jan 10, 2010 8:59 am
Dear sophadel,

I still think you might have shot at your target schools with your 680. It is a solid score. As long as there is evidence of your quantitative aptitude in your application, then the admissions committees will feel comfortable you can handle the work. Additionally, decisions are made on the application as a whole, so you will have the rest of your application to make a compelling case for your admission. With regards to keeping your nerves in check on Monday, I think you have to tell yourself that you already have a 680--a 680! Many folks would LOVE to have a 680. So, your worst case scenario is applying with a 680 which is a fabulous place to be.

Good luck,
Lisa
Lisa Anderson
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