Just took the GMAT - Q about distribution of scores

[yogaflea]

Hi Guys,

This is my first post. I popped on here a few weeks ago, got freaked out by how intense everyone was, didn't come back. But... now I'd like some advice, please

I took the GMAT this morning and scored a 750 (98%) overall. My verbal score was 46 (99%) but my quantitative was a measly 48 (84%)! I am considering re-taking the GMAT as soon as possible (like, next week) to try to increase my quantitative scores. I didn't actually complete any practice tests before taking the exam and totally mis-managed my time on the quantitative section... I ended up guessing on at least 10 questions due to lack of time. I know I can do better.

So.. what do you think? Should I retake it? I'm less concerned about increasing my total score than with evening out the distribution of my scores. Are admissions people going to take a dim view on my low quant score??

Thanks in advance for your help! Ahhhh!

[mike22629]

If you retake, adcomms might look down upon it even if you score higher. You are higher than the GMAT average for any school in the world. Retaking is completely unneccessary and makes it look like you can not manage your time appropriately.

P.S.
I think you have to wait about a month before you are allowed to take it again.

[myohmy]

You've hit the 80/80 threshold (and you have a fantastic score!) so there isn't any need to retake. No b-school will have qualms about your GMAT score. Some, though, may question why you chose to retake with such a high scores. It suggests a misalignment of priorities/unattractive obsession with perfection, so I would think very carefully about a retake.

But great job! A 750 with no practice is a fantastic score (and yes, the 48Q is great as well!)

[yogaflea]

Thanks for the responses - I didn't consider that a re-test might look bad! I can see your point, though. I don't really expect to do a whole lot better overall, just to do better on the math. Honestly, I have no idea how I pulled a 46 on the verbal - that will surely not be replicated, lol.

I also wasn't aware that there is an 80/80 threshold, so thanks for pointing that out to me!

I guess I need to try to let it go!