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Retake the GMAT? 730 (Q50 V38)

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Retake the GMAT? 730 (Q50 V38)

by snowdove510 » Wed Jul 08, 2009 9:45 am
Hey guys,

I need some advice. I just took the GMAT on Monday and was a little disappointed with my 730. My goal was at least a 740 and considering my nerves totally got to me in the verbal section when I was hit with some really atypical RC passages (4 long passages...) and critical reasoning questions, I scored much lower on verbal than I had scored in practice (range in verbal from 41-47).

My goal for b-school is probably like that of everyone else: top 10. By the time I apply, I'll have 2.5+ years of work experience at consulting firm and a 3.6 GPA in math/applied science at UCLA.

With these stats, should I retake the test to further enhance my application? I know that with familiarity of the test-taking process and a calmer set of nerves, I'll probably score at least 10-20 points higher. Does such an increase warrant a retake and make me more competitive? Also, worst case scenario - say I score lower on the retake... will that reflect poorly to the admissions folks?

Thanks for reading and I hope you can guide me in the right direction....
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by Stacey Oyler » Wed Jul 08, 2009 9:57 am
Hi Snowdove,

Congratulations on your score of 730! This is a great overall score. Can you share with me the breakdown of your score for verbal and quant? Most top 10 programs like to see an even split (80%). I'll be able to offer you my advice once I know the breakdown.

Thanks,

Stacey
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Stacey Oyler
Clear Admit, LLC
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Newbie | Next Rank: 10 Posts
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Joined: Tue May 12, 2009 12:26 pm
Location: LA

by snowdove510 » Wed Jul 08, 2009 10:04 am
Thanks Stacy.

My percentile breakdown is as follows:

Q50 - 94 %ile
V38 - 83 %ile

Overall 730 - 96 %ile