mattyahn wrote:I could probably study more and achieve somewhere in the 750-780, but after 6 months of studying I have achieved a 710 score. I know there are a lot of other variables to consider, but suffice it to say that I am overall average in every regard.. would a 710 cut it for a top 10 mba program these days? should I spend more energy/get older/ lose more money/ lose more opportunity costs elsewhere in my life to try to achieve a better score, or would I still have a chance at top 10 mba program with a 710 all things mediocre? If not, then being that I am 5 years out of undergrad, what can I do to stand out beyond my gmat then?

ceilidh.erickson wrote:If, as you say, you are "overall average in every regard," then you may not get into a top-10 program even with a 780 on the GMAT. The GMAT is just one data point among many, and not necessarily the most important one. Business schools want to see well-rounded candidates who have demonstrated leadership and initiative. It's a fallacy to think that a high GMAT score will completely compensate for an otherwise lackluster application.

It's probably in your best interest to first think about the other aspects of your application, and how you could make yourself appear as non-average as possible! Are there ways of taking on new leadership in your job? In extracurriculars?

I would advise talking to an admissions consultant - many of them offer free consultations. I have personally worked very closely with mbaMission, and they do excellent work: https://mbamission.com/consult/
Ask them about what you could do to make yourself an attractive candidate outside of the GMAT.

Then if they recommend it, focus on trying to get a higher score on the GMAT. It's entirely possible that you could gain another 20-30 points with structured effort, or perhaps private tutoring. No one needs above a 750, though.