Applying second time for a part-time MBA -please help

[IcanDoit2]

Hi,

I am applying second time for a part time MBA, the score university needs is between 560-610 or more. First time I scored 480 and I was not accepted.

I talked to admission council, they asked me to improve the gmat score and resubmit the essays. I took the gmat exam again and scored 540(44q,21v) and AWA 5.0 (will awa account for some of my verabal score?), this is short of 20 points for 560.

My profile
13 years experience mainly IT, currently in major retail industry.
MS in software engg in US- 3.9 gpa
Electrical and electronics engg - From india
Extracurricular - Was president of elect and electroincs students association, played cricket for college.
Volunteer - Red cross local chapter - Resource Technologies.

Now that my applications and essays are already with the university, I will be applying second time(i need to rewrite my essays), And I have improved my gmat score from 480 to 540 and I have actively got involved in red cross, which I was not when I was applying first time (6 months back). I will be applying for Sep 2008,

please let me know if there are chances that I will be accepted second time. or should I take GMAT again, it will be my third time if I take gmat again.

thanks
IamMe.

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear IamMe:

Congratulations on your new score! Unfortunately, the AWA does not factor into the numerical score of the verbal section nor the total score. If the school gave you a minimum score, it is possible you will need to retake the GMAT for a third time. It is best to talk with an admissions professional at the school you are applying to for a definitive answer. Be sure to tell them about your new activities with the Red Cross when you talk as I do think it helps your application.

Good luck,
Lisa

[IcanDoit2]

Hi Lisa,

I really appreciate your quick response. This is what it says on their web site

"The average admitted GMAT score is about 620, and the average GPA is about 3.3, but this varies depending on the applicant pool. About 80% of our admitted students score between 560 - 680 on the GMAT. Please keep in mind that a range of scores are accepted, based on the strength of the complete application. "

It doesn't exactly say 560 is cutoff. Can you please give your insight.

thanks again for you response
IamMe

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear IamMe:

Your score is probably within range, but a 540 is in the bottom 10% of that range. If you feel the rest of your application is strong for this program, then go ahead and apply to see what the result is. Once again, I would strongly encourage you to speak with an admissions professional at the school regarding your re-application. Not only to determine if you should retake your GMAT, but to make sure you address any other concerns they had on your previous application.

Best of luck,
Lisa

[IcanDoit2]

Thanks Lisa for the response.

I will definitely talk to them. I am not sure I need give exam again. What do you think ? I am not sure how much more I am going to get.
Any thoughts on retaking exam again.

Please let me know.

thanks
IamMe.

[IcanDoit2]

Hi Lisa,

I have drafted my essays, I don't feel 100% about my essays. There might be some structure or grammer mistakes. Do you recommend any essay editing service or proof reading ? please let me know.

how about essay edge or essay advice.com ?

thanks
Iamme

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear Iamme:

If you are unsure of your essays, then it would be worth having someone help you review them. Perhaps you have a trusted friend or colleague you could ask? If not, then an essay service is probably the way to go. While I cannot say I recommend one versus another, there are many options. Perhaps others on this forum have some thoughts on the essay services?

As for retaking your GMAT, you should only invest the time and money in a retake if you are confident you will increase your score at least 40 points.

Best of luck,
Lisa