Scores for part-time programs

[chistudent]

Dear Stacy,

I just took the gmat and received a disappointing score of 660 (42 quant-63 percentile; 38 verbal- 83 percentile). I am applying for the part-time MBA program at the University of Chicago. I have a solid 5 years of work experience, lots of international experience (studying and working abroad), and a 3.4 GPA from the University of Wisconsin. Do you recommend re-taking the exam? If I were to submit my application with my current score, and am not admitted to this quarter, would it look bad if I re-took the GMAT and applied again for the following quarter with the same essays, etc.? Any advice you can provide would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you,
chistudent

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear chistudent,

It is possible you might be admitted with your current score, but a higher score would put you in a much stronger position. It all depends on how the rest of your application looks in terms of your resume, essays, interview and recommendations. Additionally, it depends on your risk tolerance if you think you will have a strong enough application to compete for a seat with a 660. In terms of re-applying, you need to make sure you can re-apply for the next entry date or if you need to wait a longer period of time; there is quite a bit of variance on this as many schools require you to wait a year and others will allow you to re-apply at the next entry date.

Best of luck,
Lisa