GMAT Strategy

Hi everyone,

I recently took the GMAT and scored a 720 (43Q 46V). I am pleased with my score, as I made scoring a 720 or better my goal before I started studying. That being said, I have read on multiple occasions that top 25 schools look for a balanced score (80th percentile or better for both quant and verbal). Consequently, I am wondering whether I should retake the GMAT.

I am rock solid when it comes to verbal. I took several practice tests with Manhattan GMAT and rarely failed to hit the 99th percentile; I'm not worried about scoring any lower a second time around. However, things weren't always so rosy with quant, even though I felt I was making progress along the way. My diagnostic quant was a 38.

I felt like I was struggling mightily with quant on test day. I was almost perfect on timing but in retrospect I think I was making careless mistakes. I actually memorized the final question and--just like you are NOT supposed to do!--reanswered the question in my head during the break and realized I had picked the wrong answer.

In conclusion...my 46V was a 99th percentile score and 43Q landed me in the 64th percentile. 720 was a 94th percentile. While raw scores of 43 and 46 enough, I really don't think 99th/64th is nearly balanced enough--at least not in terms of what top 25 schools are looking for.

Please note that while I took the old GMAT (may 23), I am not worried about preparing for IR--that is, I will take more than enough time to get acquainted with IR. As a result, I'm primarily looking for feedback regarding the discrepancy between my verbal and quant scores. I am certain I would score a 99th percentile on verbal again, and while I am confident I can score higher on quant (my highest quant in practice tests was a 48), I am not quite as certain about my performance as I am with verbal.

I would very much appreciate any feedback as to whether I should consider retaking the test.

Thank you immensely!

Hi,

Firstly congrats on your score (specially your verbal).

Yes your score is very biased and you can try applying but if I was you I would try to touch atleast a 45 on my quant. Top schools would look for a certain amount of mathematical ability and you might lose out on that front. A well rounded profile always looks better so give it a thought. If you think you can get a 45/46 then don't hesitate just go ahead and give it.

All the best!

Thanks for the advice. I think you are absolutely right about building a well-rounded profile.