Taking GMAT 4th time?

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Taking GMAT 4th time?

by James1986 » Sat Nov 06, 2010 10:05 am
Hello dear experts,

I have been fortunate enough to take beloved test 3 times.

1st Attempt 650 ( Q49 V30)

2nd Attempt 690 (Q49 V34)- terrible noise in the test center

3rd Attempt 610 (Q49 V24) - I have been offered a free retake and just gave a shot , was already accepted into a top European program but did not make to join it.

Now, I am thinking to retake the test to finally get my target ~750 , which was an average of my practice tests during the 2nd attempt.


However, my concern is how would Top US programs view an applicant with 4 attempts?

I would appreciate some expert Advice here!

Thanks ,
J
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by paulsbodine » Wed Nov 17, 2010 3:20 pm
J,

Most schools frown on applicants taking the GMAT more than 3 times. It suggests an inability to 'move on' or skewed priorities, but mostly it's because more than three takes rarely makes a difference. I doubt a fourth attempt would be a deal-breaker, however, if the rest of your application is strong. Hope this helps.

--Paul
Paul Bodine
Author, "Great Applications for Business School," "Perfect Phrases for Business School Acceptance," "Perfect Phrases for Letters of Recommendation"
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