GMAT Score vs. First Round Application

Expert replies

Samuel Waters: Newbie | Next Rank: 10 Posts; Posts: 3; Joined: Sun Sep 18, 2011 9:26 am

by Samuel Waters » Tue Jun 12, 2012 12:17 am

Hello all,

My aim is to apply for a MBA at the top US schools.

I work in an internal audit role for one of the largest global banks and due to a busy work schedule travelling to various jurisdictions I would be grateful for some advice on how I should focus my time.

• Scenario 1. Take time and a methodical approach in preparing for the GMAT and application process, targeting a score of 690-720 and apply in round two; or

• Scenario 2. Keep my GMAT preparation to question practice and target a score of 630-650 to ensure I get an application in for the first round.

It would be great to hear your thoughts and any additional suggestions.

Thanks,

Sam

Source: Beat The GMAT — The Application Process | Tue Jun 12, 2012 12:17 am

paulsbodine: Master | Next Rank: 500 Posts; Posts: 226; Joined: Thu Oct 07, 2010 6:00 pmFollowed by: 27 members; Thanked: 42 times

by paulsbodine » Tue Jun 12, 2012 11:23 am

Sam,
That's an easy question. If waiting until round 2 is what it takes for you to achieve a competitive GMAT score (690-720+), then you should wait. As a general rule, any advantage you would gain by applying in the first round would be lost if your GMAT score is not competitive, and a 630-650 would be a risky score to apply with at top schools (though I have helped several applicants get into top programs like Booth, Cornell, Oxford etc. with 640 or lower scores). The advantage in applying in the first round is not huge, and if you have a very distinctive and/or very strong profile, you will stand out 'even' in the second round. Feel free to send me your resume at [email protected] for some feedback.

Paul Bodine
Author, "Great Applications for Business School," "Perfect Phrases for Business School Acceptance," "Perfect Phrases for Letters of Recommendation"
https://www.paulsbodine.com/
[email protected]
(858) 869-1959

PrepMBA.AlexLeventhal: Master | Next Rank: 500 Posts; Posts: 288; Joined: Wed Jun 22, 2011 10:23 amFollowed by: 11 members; Location: Los Angeles/NY; Thanked: 58 times

by PrepMBA.AlexLeventhal » Thu Jun 14, 2012 7:52 am

Wait and score your best on the GMAT. The advantage of Round One is zero for you if you get a 630 targeting the top schools.

Alex Leventhal
Harvard MBA, 1998
Prep MBA Admissions Consulting
www.prepmba.com
[email protected]
(323)424.3178

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