Scored 680 on GMAT, Need valuable advice

[FutureMBAer]

First, thanks in advance for responding.

I recently took the GMAT and scored a 680 (Q46, V39). 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.

[Scottie@VeritasPrep]

You have impressive credentials and a score above 700 would only strengthen your application. If you happen to score lower than 680, the school will consider the higher score. However, I would not encourage you to retake the GMAT without first identifying what went wrong. Since you have a strong quant background, it is probably a matter of test taking techniques.

That said, if you really do not want to retake the GMAT then you need to spend a considerable amount of time on creating strong essays, prepping for interviews and also soliciting great LORs. A score of 680 is by no means a deal breaker since it is within the 80% range of your listed schools however you just need to make sure the rest of your application is very strong.

[FutureMBAer]

If I were to take it again and I (unfortunately) obtain a lower score, would that harm my application as opposed to if I were to leave the 680 alone?

I understand the highest score is considered, but I always assumed that being the case when the score goes up the second time around.

[Scottie@VeritasPrep]

GMAT scores are good for five years. Schools will consider your highest score during that period of time.