First of all, you have one of the best BTG usernames I've ever seen.

There's no easy answer to your question about the score, unfortunately. Yes, a 42 is awfully low, and most adcom in quant-heavy programs wouldn't be too thrilled with that number. Then again, it really depends on the competitiveness of the program, other elements of your profile, and whether you have other ways to show your quant prowess. A 42 can be forgiven under the right circumstances: if, for example, you're an underrepresented minority with a stellar GPA in a quantitative undergraduate program, your odds of admissions might be pretty good, especially if your work experience is strong.

Then again, a 42 can be a killer if the program really emphasizes the quant score in their admissions policies, and if you don't have other ways to distinguish yourself from other candidates.

I could be wrong here, but I have a feeling that you might be one of those test-takers with strong quant skills, but some approach issues on the actual exam. Maybe you're making careless errors, and maybe you're not managing your time as well as you could? It doesn't seem crazy to think that you could bring your score up if you address some of your content weaknesses and focus on your approach to taking the test. Depending on the deadline for applications, maybe it isn't too late to bring your score up?

Good luck with everything!

I had a 43 in quant and just got into Virginia, Georgetown and Northwestern, all of whom have an average GMAT score of at least 680. I wouldn't worry too much about it.

That said, I did use the optional essay to tell the AdCom that my quant score was not reflective of my quantitative aptitude and to look at my transcripts. I never had anything less than an A- in statistics, accounting or finance, and if you're as strong as you say you are I'm sure you can make the same pitch.

Good luck!

May be worth retaking in my mind. If you are solid it will reflect in the score, then you don't have to explain it away.