Retake the GMAT? 730 (Q50 V38)

[snowdove510]

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....

[Stacey Oyler]

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

[snowdove510]

Thanks Stacy.

My percentile breakdown is as follows:

Q50 - 94 %ile
V38 - 83 %ile

Overall 730 - 96 %ile