710 GMAT...5 on IR...What to make of IR section?

[llkar567]

I scored a 710 (49-Q, 39-V) on my second GMAT. I just got the score report back and scored a 5/6 (which is good enough) on the AWA and a 5/8 on the IR. I know the IR is a little on the low end. My first GMAT I scored a 640 (I didn't study as much or put the time that I needed to score a 700+), but my IR was a 7/8 (AWA 5/6...so no different). I plan to apply to some top 20 mba programs in another 3 or 4 years or so. I'm happy with a 710, and especially since both my verbal and quant sub-scores are greater than 80th-percentile. I work in consulting and do a ton of statistical/data analysis, so I do not believe a 5/8 on my IR really reflects my ability in those areas. Also, a 5/8 isn't necessarily "bombing" that section, it just isn't an elite score that correlates with the rest of my profile.

So my question is: is a 5/8 on my higher overall score GMAT a pause for concern? Considering that I received a 7/8 on my first GMAT (though the overall score was lower), my quant score was still strong, the IR is a relatively new section, and I work with data every single day. I'm open to any thoughts, feedback, and suggestions. I will say: I would highly prefer not to take the GMAT again....I'm super busy with work and the philanthropic organizations I volunteer with on my weekends. Thanks in advance for the help.

[mili]

Hello!

As of right now, the IR section is still not weighted quite as heavily as the quant and verbal sections. However, this could change in 3 or 4 years time when you are applying. Here is my advice:

If possible, apply before either score expires. Apply with your 710 score, but write self-report your 640 (and the break down of it). And write an optional statement explaining that the second time around you did not score as highly on your IR section, but you believe your first test IR reflects your abilities more accurately. That should suffice!

Hope this helps,
Mili




Mili Mittal
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[llkar567]

Hi Mili,

Thanks for the reply and advice, I will definitely do that. Do you think writing a personal statement about the IR score, given the other factors I mentioned, would prove to be successful? Is the IR something I could easily explain away with my other high IR score, high Quant, straight As in every collegiate math/analytically-focused course, and heavy analytics/data-heavy career in consulting?

[mili]

I think so! Of course, ultimately the decision is yours, but I think it's pretty explainable.

Good luck,
Mili




Mili Mittal
Senior Consultant
http://www.mbamission.com
 
Read the mbaMission Insider's Guides (16 individual school titles)
 
Download [url=http:// http://info.mbamission.com/MBA-Personal-Statement-Guide/]mbaMission’s Free Personal Statement Guide[/url]
 
Visit the mbaMission Blog
 
Follow mbaMission on Twitter