Where do i get with 600?

[TryHarder]

The first time I took GMAT in May this year, I could manage to get 570 (44Q 24V) even though I think I worked hard on it, I wanted to get into Booth and so I decided to take the test again. I was confident I would cross the 700 mark but when I took the test a couple of days back, I made just 600 (44Q 28V). I think I have been working hard on my mission for almost a year, but somehow fail the verbal. I am Engineer by profession and have been working for almost 17 years, the last 8 years as an entrepreneur. I want to get into GSB (preferably full time) and am willing to take it a third time if so needed, but my recent performance has shaken me. Need some direction.

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear TryHarder,

With the amount of experience you have, why are you not considering an executive MBA program? If there are aspects of a full-time program that are not part of an executive program, then I can understand. However, with 17 years of experience the admissions committee will be curious why the full-time program in your case. Additionally, GMAT scores are not as much of a concern for executive MBA programs. GMAT scores are still important, but not as important as your career track record and rationale for business school.

If you feel strongly about the full-time program, there are other parts of your application to demonstrate your verbal ability, namely your essays and interview. I would suggest contacting the Booth admissions office and speaking with an admissions professional about your case as well.

Good luck,
Lisa

[TryHarder]

Lisa,
I did speak to the folks at the admissions office and as expected they think the GMAT score is weak. Of course they wont comment on whether it can be offset by other parts of the application (for valid reasons). They did mention that I can take the GMAT a third time and if my score did fall short of the last score, it would not matter, since they take the highest valid score.

Do you think it is a good idea to third time, what does the statistics say about scores for a third run?

Thanks in advance!

[Lisa Anderson]

I think you should take it a third time if you feel you can bring the score up. Many people see increases on the third attempt as they are able to focus their studying on the sections giving the most trouble. Regardless of your score used in your applications, the GMAT is one part of the application and you have the other parts to make your case for admission. There are many great MBA programs out there (several in the Chicago area), so I am confident you will find many options if you are open to alternatives.

Good luck,
Lisa