High Verbal Low Quant - what to do?

[jduffen]

Hi there,

I sat the GMAT yesterday, got 650 (verbal 42, quant 35). I was quite tempted not to retake and focus on the essays, but I've read that an unbalanced score might be grounds for rejection at the application stage.

Is this the case? I really struggled with the more abstract side of maths and am not sure how much further I go in that area, though am dedicated to giving this process my all. I work in Media (research & development), so only really use stats in my job.

Also, do you think it would be worth doing the admissions essays in August then retaking in Sept or vice-versa?

I'm realistic about which schools I'll be able to get into, but would love to go to a second tier school.

Any help in this matter, would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks

J

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear J,

A balanced GMAT is ideal, but it is not an automatic rejection if your verbal is higher. The schools will be looking at your performance in quantitative coursework on your transcripts and for any quantitative work you do in your career. If you did well in your quant courses, then your current score might be enough. However, if you have only taken the GMAT once and think you can do better, then it is probably worth taking it again. When you retake the exam versus write your essays is up to you and what works best for your schedule. I would encourage you to schedule your GMAT test date, whether it is in August or September, as soon as possible as slots fill quickly this time of year.

Good luck,
Lisa