A Specific Question about Quant/Verbal Split

Expert replies

JQuann: Newbie | Next Rank: 10 Posts; Posts: 6; Joined: Tue Nov 11, 2008 12:28 pm; GMAT Score:700+

by JQuann » Thu Nov 13, 2008 9:08 pm

How will my split look to admissions officers at a place like Harvard, Stanford, or Wharton? Any information about specific programs--anecdotes, hearsay, conversations, whatever--is helpful. Thanks for your input.

Last edited by JQuann on Fri Nov 21, 2008 7:20 pm, edited 1 time in total.

Like this post

Source: Beat The GMAT — Ask an MBA Admissions Consultant | Thu Nov 13, 2008 9:08 pm

Graham: MBA Admissions Consultant; Posts: 270; Joined: Thu Sep 18, 2008 2:20 amFollowed by: 17 members; Location: Philadelphia & Paris; Thanked: 35 times; GMAT Score:750

by Graham » Fri Nov 14, 2008 12:58 am

Dear JQuann,

Thanks for your post!

You pose an excellent question about GMAT splits. I have a few thoughts on your situation:

1) Your overall score of 740 on the GMAT is excellent. It is well above the average score for accepted students at the schools on your list. As such, it is safe to say that you can put the GMAT to bed (e.g. you will not need to take it again).

2) Your verbal score in the 98th percentile is an asset. While most people focus on the quant. side of the test, the truth is that admissions officers don't mind seeing applicants with stellar verbal scores like this either. Remember that most admissions officers are more verbally inclined themselves (with degrees in the humanities, masters in education, etc). As such, they appreciate it when applicants do well in this area.

3) Your quant. score in the 77th percentile is a slight liability. Most of the top programs like to see applicants cross the 80th percentile in each section. You've fallen just shy of this. This will trigger a closer inspection of your college transcripts (and any other coursework you may have pursued) in search of evidence of a strong quantitative track record (solid grades in calculus, statistics, economics, etc). The adcom may also look to see if your recommenders comment on your analytical abilities.

Of course, with an overall score of 740, it makes no sense to retake the GMAT (in fact, doing so might suggest to the adcom that you don't have your priorities straight). My feeling is that if your ugrad grades were strong and your application materials are strategic, you should be in fine shape.

Best of luck,

Graham

Graham Richmond
Clear Admit, LLC
[email protected]
215 568 2590

Stay Informed with Clear Admit!
Read our Blog for daily MBA admissions tips and updates.
Follow us on Twitter for breaking b-school news.
Download our Publications on MBA programs and admissions strategy.
Visit our MBA Admissions Wiki to read and share application insights.

Like this post

JQuann: Newbie | Next Rank: 10 Posts; Posts: 6; Joined: Tue Nov 11, 2008 12:28 pm; GMAT Score:700+

by JQuann » Fri Nov 14, 2008 4:33 am

Graham,

Thanks for an excellent, helpful reply.

Like this post

Post new topic Post Reply

• Page 1 of 1

GMAT Course Reviews

560 reviews

1168 reviews

431 reviews

359 reviews

147 reviews

5/5

5 Star (560 Reviews)

"Target Test Prep is the closest to the official version of the GMAT exam, about 99% accuracy in terms of the quality and quantity of information. The course has excellently created singular sets of focused lessons and tests for every possible topic that one could come across in the official GMAT exam."

"The TTP course maximizes the efficiency of the time you spend studying. It will take time and effort but I could almost guarantee that if you complete the course exactly as it is laid out you will get an amazing score. They also have a very responsive team willing to help with any questions you might have."

"TTP has two things that I think no other test prep company offers: A teaching approach that reinforces understanding and an attitude that will give you the mental preparedness needed to succeed on the test. TTP gives you a deep understanding of the concept you need to know while teaching you how to think."

Write a Review