Kindly evaluate: 660(49Q,31V, 5 AWA), more than 5 yrs exp.

[shallabhkhera]

Hi,

I have just given the gmat scored a low 660(49Q,31V, 5 AWA). I was aiming for 700+.
I am considering 2 options at the moment

1. Wait for 1-2 months and retake the GMAT

Or

2. Apply to colleges with this score and profile. I have 5 years 4 months exp as of Oct'2010 and will be 6 years(Sept'2011) when I am planning to start my MBA. I have worked in R&D as software engineer and senior software engineer and now as team lead. I have a decent undergrad and a very bright high school profile. My extra-curricular are ok but sports are good.

I was thinking of HEC, Insead, ISB, Said.

Kindly help me out as to if I do really good essays do stand a chance in these colleges?
If Not, what band of colleges will be most suitable for applying at the moment.

Thanks,
Shallabh

[Stacey Oyler]

Hi,

Thanks for your post. Your amount of work experience, while higher than average for many applicants, isn't really that above average for most European business schools. Your GMAT on the other hand, is a bit on the low side, especially as compared to those in the applicant pool with similar backgrounds and education. Since you seem quite disappointed in your score and confident that you could have done better, perhaps you should consider retaking it after the 30 day period is up. A score of 700+ will certainly help boost your competitiveness at the schools on your list.

Best,

Stacey