Low GMAT

Free advice from the world's top MBA consultants
This topic has expert replies
Junior | Next Rank: 30 Posts
Posts: 29
Joined: Mon Sep 21, 2009 1:14 pm

Low GMAT

by stevieg » Wed Nov 25, 2009 7:17 am
Hi all,

I am a British citizen aiming to apply ot Harvard.

I was working at a large investment bank until recently and want to move into non-profit. I have an average GPA 3.5. My extra-curricular activities are excellent and my recommendations will be very strong. I am sure of this.

Essentially, I feel my overall application is very strong apart from one thing - the dreaded GMAT.

At the moment I simply cannot get a score above 560 on practice tests. I am yet to sit the GMAT practice test. The scores I have got so far are

Knewton - 420
Manhttn CAT 1 - 430
Manhttn CAT 2 - 480
Manhttn CAT 3 - 560

I'm not a good test taker at these kind of tests and I'm really struggling. I think my application is strong bar my GMAT scores. I've spoken to admissions consultants and they all agree with this. I'm worried that if and when I sit my GMAT I will get such a low score that the HBS committee won't even look at my application.

Should I even bother applying if I don't get 600+?

Any advice would be really grateful.

Regards,

Jonathon Steven
Source: — Ask an MBA Admissions Consultant |

User avatar
Legendary Member
Posts: 590
Joined: Mon Sep 08, 2008 3:51 pm
Location: New York
Thanked: 47 times
Followed by:7 members

by Cindy Tokumitsu » Thu Dec 03, 2009 5:35 am
Hello, Jonathan,

I would have to say, probably not. It most likely would be a disqualifying factor. Moreover, your GPA is strong but not outstanding, for HBS standards. Most other qualified candidates will have as high and probably higher GPAs and also strong recs, plus great experience.

Perhaps you can find a test prep service or counselor who can help you with a fresh test strategy and personal approaches.

Best regards,
Cindy Tokumitsu
Senior Editor, Accepted.com
www.Accepted.com