Scored 680 on GMAT, Need valuable advice

[FutureMBAer]

First, thanks in advance for responding.

I recently took the GMAT and scored a 680 (Q46 (77%), V39 (86%)). I am rather disappointed with my quantitative score since I have a very very strong quantitative background and scored considerably better on my practice materials (in quantitative).

I am currently at a crossroads since I am completely unsure of whether to take the GMAT again or not. I have managed to improve my verbal considerably from when I began studying for the exam. So, I am satisfied with my verbal score. My quantitative score, though, I believe can definitely improve.

Since I understand the GMAT is only a part of the application, I think it is necessary to include a brief background (below).

Undergrad: B.S. Electrical and Computer Eng'g, GPA: 3.9, Rank: 3 in BSEE curriculum, Member of honor societies and received a few awards for academic achievement

Work Experience (By the time of entry): 3 years at Defense Engineering Company as engineer (Fortune 100). One year (part time while senior in college) at technology start-up, although, I was given a lot of responsibility.

My extracurriculars are solid (very very strong while undergrad and relatively strong while working). At work, I have taken on some additional roles beyond my day-to-day activities (including nomination to one group which supports business activities (group acts as talent mgmt., too)).

I am completely unsure of whether I should retake. Some concerns:

1. Should I even bother retaking given my other credentials
2. What happens if I somehow obtain lower score second time around
3. Will b-schools think negatively that I retook the exam after scoring 680

My target schools are of Wharton, Columbia, Stern, Tepper caliber. I plan to enroll in Fall 2010.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you, again.

[Cindy Tokumitsu]

Hello,

Thank you for your inquiry. The verbal GMAT score is low relative to the top MBA programs’ wish to see at least 80% in both sections, and the under-700 score also is low for the top programs. On the other hand, your very strong academic record (and especially in the analytic/quant areas) will partially mitigate the negative impact of the score. Still, higher is always better, and you will significantly improve your chances with the programs you mention chances if you can score over 700.

To address your specific questions:

1. It depends on how you feel about your ability to improve your score. If you believe that with reasonable effort you could definitely improve your score, it would make sense, it seems. If you feel that even with much effort you’re not certain you could improve the score, then probably it wouldn’t make sense.
2. It depends on the schools, though most will take your top score—you should check the policy of each of the schools you’re targeting.
3. No.

Good luck with your MBA plans!

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

[FutureMBAer]

2. It depends on the schools, though most will take your top score—you should check the policy of each of the schools you’re targeting.

Cindy,

In regards to the quote above, I understand that most schools take the highest score. In fact, every school I am considering does. But, if I was to take it again and obtain a lower score...would it still look bad that it went down, or would it just have no affect?

Essentially, I am trying to determine if I have nothing to lose by taking it a second time.

Thanks again.

[Cindy Tokumitsu]

Hello,

No, I don't think it will be something they focus on. Pehaps there's a slight possibility (i.e., "never say never") but they understand that you had to earn the 660 whereas a lower score can be attributable to many things, from a bad night's sleep to having a cold to poor testing conditions, etc. So yes, they'll see the 640, but most likely won't expend time/energy focusing on it. I can't say it's impossible, but I can say it certainly is unlikely.

I hope this helps --

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

[FutureMBAer]

Cindy,

Thank you very much for your responses. It has definitely been helpful. I will have to decide whether to take the exam again in the next month and a half. I figure it is best to take it sooner then later since I have all my studies fresh in my head.

By the way, I made an error in reporting my score. I scored a 680, but on the verbal I got a V38 (83%), not a V39 (86%). And, I have heard the 80/80 cut-off a lot. So, I assume my error has no implications in your assessment since I am still beyond the 80% requirement.

Thanks again...very helpful.

[Cindy Tokumitsu]

Hello -- your assumption is correct. Good luck!

Regards,
Cindy Tokumitsu