Question about GMAT score and Optional Essay

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I recently took the GMAT and scored 620. 40 Verbal (89th percentile) and 34 Quant (45th percentile). Clearly, math is not my strong-suit. This was my second time taking the exam and I will not be taking it again due to application deadlines.

I am applying to Masters of Science in Finance programs. I am at or above the average GMAT score for these programs, but worry that my low Quant score will hurt me.

My question is: Should I address my low quant score in the "optional essay" for the schools I'm applying for? The optional essay question is: Are there any other factors you would like the Admissions Committee to consider when reviewing your application?

I typically score around the 60th percentile for Quant in practice exams and have never had trouble with math in school. Should I possibly mention something about my quant ability being OK, but it just takes me more time than average?

Thanks for any recommendations you may be able to provide!
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by money9111 » Wed Feb 17, 2010 9:14 am
If your score falls in range with the programs, then I don't think it should be addressed in the essay.. not directly at first. The reason you want to address it in the essay is to explain why it's so low correct? I thikn maybe the approach should be to highlight other areas of your profile that shows that you are proficient in math. Ie. extra classes... undergrad quant performance... So not to say: Oh my Quant score was low. But rather: I am good in Quant because X,Y, and Z
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