Ask Stacy Blackman

Dear rura,

Schools evaluate your application holistically, so each component is considered with no one component being more important than another. Thus you want to present the strongest overall package possible, mitigating any potential weaknesses. Your GMAT is on the lower side for your target programs, but might not be out of range for all. You need to research these programs to see where the GMAT ranges are for the current class and determine if you are within the mid-80% range. If not, then you should consider retaking the GMAT--or you might consider retaking anyway if you have concerns about other aspects of your application at this point like your essays, recommendations, resume, transcript and/or interview. INSEAD specifies its preferences for applicants to score at/above the 80th percentile on both sections of the GMAT, so if INSEAD is your top choice, then a GMAT retake is critical. You cannot change your GPA for your degrees at this point, so make sure you are using the other application components (essays, resume, recommendations and interview) to your advantage to make your case for admission.

Good luck,
Lisa

Your current industry or functional area, in and of itself, is not enough to set you apart from other applicants. It is what you have done with your career--how have you added value? have you progressed quickly? have you made tangible contributions to your organization?--that will help you to stand out from applicants with similar backgrounds.

Regards,
Lisa