Should I Re-Take GMAT: 710 45Q 42V

[Syrios12]

Hi All,

Sorry for this somewhat ridiculous post. I realize that there is no magic yes or no answer to this question, but I would love some input. A bit of background:

I graduated with a 3.7 in Economics with a minor in math.
I have worked in Economic Consulting for the last 2 years.
I am hoping to apply to MBA programs in the next 1-2 years with an aim at top 10 schools.
I scored a 710 on the GMAT with a 45Q & 42V.

I am worried about two things: (1) That my 710 overall is a bit shy of the average for most top 10 schools, and (2) that my quant score is in the 68 percentile (I am hoping, though, that my quantitative background helps mitigate this effect).

I have only taken the GMAT once, but I did study quite a bit, and I am not confident that I can boost my quant score unless I really commit a lot of time to the endeavor (I also realize that I could retake and do worse...).

Given the above, do you think it is a good idea to commit a lot of time to trying to boost my GMAT - specifically my quant score? I have also thought about taking the GRE as I think the more straight forward type of math questions are more suited to my strengths. Any thoughts?

Thanks in advance.

[brianlange77]

Hi All,

Sorry for this somewhat ridiculous post. I realize that there is no magic yes or no answer to this question, but I would love some input. A bit of background:

I graduated with a 3.7 in Economics with a minor in math.
I have worked in Economic Consulting for the last 2 years.
I am hoping to apply to MBA programs in the next 1-2 years with an aim at top 10 schools.
I scored a 710 on the GMAT with a 45Q & 42V.

I am worried about two things: (1) That my 710 overall is a bit shy of the average for most top 10 schools, and (2) that my quant score is in the 68 percentile (I am hoping, though, that my quantitative background helps mitigate this effect).

I have only taken the GMAT once, but I did study quite a bit, and I am not confident that I can boost my quant score unless I really commit a lot of time to the endeavor (I also realize that I could retake and do worse...).

Given the above, do you think it is a good idea to commit a lot of time to trying to boost my GMAT - specifically my quant score? I have also thought about taking the GRE as I think the more straight forward type of math questions are more suited to my strengths. Any thoughts?

Thanks in advance.

Like you said -- no right or wrong answer here... a few initial thoughts:

1. A minor in math (assuming good grades) means just as much, if not more, than a certain percentile on GMAT quant.
2. What level of school was your undergrad? (Ivy, near-Ivy, Directional Fly-over state school?)
3. What tier of consulting firm do you work for? (McK/BCG/Bain, Accenture/Deloitte, Joe's Consulting company?)
4. Do you have other holes in your application that might benefit from additional attention?

Thanks.

-Brian

[Syrios12]

Brian,

Thanks for the quick reply!

My math GPA is a 3.66.
I went to Brigham Young University in Provo, UT. Not sure how to categorize it.
I work for a top tier econ consulting firm, which is different than management consulting. But within econ consulting the firm I am at is in top 5.
Other holes probably include limited management experience since I do more analysis type work. Also, I have okay extracurricular work, but probably not stellar.

Thanks again.

[brianlange77]

Syrios -- Solid. THe biggest advice I'd offer you is to go get some visible leadership experience (community, volunteer, take on a special project at work, etc.)

Good luck!

-Brian

[Vendetta]

Hey Syrios12,

If you think you can give a good shot if you retake your GMAT, do it. Else I am pretty much agree with brianlange77 focus on your leadership experience. By the time you will apply for MBA program you would be having 4-5 years of work experience and this is what most of the B-Schools look for.

It is highly recommended to seek assistance from professional consultants for guidance who can more closely review your situation and provide you with a list of B Schools where you would have chances of converting your application to admission. You should also get your essays reviewed from them before sending it along with your application to better your prospects.

You can visit https://tinyurl.com/cnpsl4a to learn more about professional essay evaluation services.

Cheers!
Vendetta

[PrepMBA.AlexLeventhal]

Syrios,

So as not to restate what others have posted, let me share an observation from watching my private clients year after year. I have seen that when folks are on the borderline with their gmat or have the quant lower than what feels comfortable, in the majority of cases there is an improvement when they retake. Why? Well, sports performance is very psychological and is often about momentum. Same here. When you are intellectually talented and you commit to getting better, I have seen that you usually do. I might have different advice had you already taken 3 times and saw no change.

I'm sure a more straightforward answer would have been more gratifying than hearing my parlor psychoanalysis� But if you have time, why not? And if you are aiming for the top of the top 10... Study some more and see if your practice tests start to move. Don't worry about doing worse!


Good Luck!

Alex