Need some advice - 650 GMAT

Launched April 26, 2006
This topic has expert replies
Newbie | Next Rank: 10 Posts
Posts: 1
Joined: Tue Apr 28, 2009 12:35 pm

Need some advice - 650 GMAT

by i2v » Tue Apr 28, 2009 12:40 pm
I just took the GMAT for the third time and got a 650, my highest score, though all of my scores were relatively similar...

I don't know if it is worth my time to take the test again - I have aspirations to get in to a top 20 school ; and I know that this score is a poor reflection of what I am capable of - practice scores are in the 700-780 range, I just can't seem to carry those over to the actual testing enviornment.

I am a white male, 29, have a 3.43 GPA from a top tier school with a double major, I have about 6 years of very, very good work experience in advertising/marketing (5 years at what is largely considered the best company in the world, and I am currently a director at a marketing agency dealing only with fortune 100 clients...). I also think I have a pretty good reason for wanting an MBA, and great references from ivy mba grads that I have worked closely with in the past.

My question is this - I simply don't have time to take a comprehensive prep course; given the state of the world these days I had to let my entire team go, meaning that I work pretty heinous hours and have a fairly unpredictable travel schedule - I see this situation staying the same through the end of the year. Is it truly worth my time to try and take this test again knowing that 3/3 times I haven't been able to get it to truly represent my knowledge; or should I just move forward and rely on my experience/references/etc?

Any advice is helpful - Thanks so much!
Source: — Ask Stacy Blackman |

GMAT/MBA Expert

User avatar
MBA Admissions Consultant
Posts: 3845
Joined: Wed Feb 06, 2008 8:57 pm
Location: Houston, TX
Thanked: 442 times
Followed by:148 members

by Lisa Anderson » Tue Apr 28, 2009 3:23 pm
Dear i2v,

Statistics show that most people do not do significantly better on the GMAT on their fourth attempt than on their first, second or third attempt. So, while you might be able to increase your score again, it might not be enough to warrant the resources you would spend. Your 650 is a solid score and with your 3.43 GPA and quality work experience, you do stand a shot at admission for many top 40 schools. Your essays, recommendations and interviews will play a significant role in the decision and give you an opportunity to make a compelling case for your admission. As I advise any applicant, no matter the profile, it is always prudent to have a mix of schools on your list--reach, reasonable and safety options.

Best of luck,
Lisa
Lisa Anderson
Consultant
Stacy Blackman Consulting

Learn more about me