Low quant (46) but good GMAT score, do I stand a chance?

[sktruth]

Hello Stacy,

I scored 720 on the GMAT - 46 in Quants and 44 in Verbal. While I am satisfied with my overall score I am concerned about the low Quant score. I am an engineer with 5 years progressive experience and have a master's degree. I also hold a leadership position in a non-profit I volunteer with. My GPA is 3.64. I am from India and work on a visa. It's very unusual for someone from India to score low on quant and high on verbal but I have always been the expressive, communicating type but I have also done fairly well in quantitative endeavors (hopefully I don't sound too lofty here).

What chance do I have if I apply to one of the top 10 b-schools? How much is the low quant score going to be a factor?

thanks in advance for your insights.

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear sktruth,

Your quant score is not all that low--if it was, you wouldn't have a 720 total score. I think the higher verbal might be a bit of an asset for you in many ways as that will help to set you apart from other Indian applicants. You have other components to your application that demonstrate your quantitative proficiency and aptitude as well--your transcripts and work experience. I think you have a shot a top 10 with a strong, compelling application package. As I advise anyone though, you want to be always be sure to have some reasonable and safety schools on your list though as an insurance plan. You do have time to take the GMAT again if you think you can raise your quant and keep your verbal the same--but only invest the time and resources if you feel you can increase your score.

Best of luck,
Lisa

[sktruth]

Thanks Stacy.

I am thinking of part-time programs in Haas, Kelley school of business and Santa Clara university. I am concerned about Haas the most but I guess I have to trust that GMAT wouldn't a factor (the school has a median score of 700) and focus on strengthening other aspects of my app.

thanks!