Applying to Top-15 Schools - Do I take GMAT a 3rd Time?

[jberuff]

Hello,

I plan on applying to top 15 B-schools only. I have taken the GMAT twice now, and below are my scores:

GMAT 1 (June-09): 640 (Math 41 (61%); Verbal 36 (78%))
GMAT 2 (October-09): 660 (Math 48 (83%); Verbal 33 (66%))

I have consistently scored above 90% on Verbal since I first took the test in June, so I consider the Verbal result on the second test a complete anomaly. I have improved dramatically on the Math section, and I strongly believe that if I were to take the test a third time I would score above 80% on both sections which would secure me an overall GMAT score in the 700's.

My last 3 practice exams before the October-09 GMAT were:

CAT #5: 720 (Math 46 (79%); Verbal 42 (96%))
GMAT Prep Test #1: 710
GMAT Prep Test #2: 660

Is it advisable for me to take the GMAT a third time considering I'm only applying to top 15 B-schools? Do these schools view negatively an applicant who has taken the GMAT 3 times?

Some more info on myself:
GPA: 3.2
Work Experience: 3 years in Financial Services
Looking to pursue entrepeneurial studies in b-school.


Thanks a lot for your help!

[erin]

Hi

You will not be "judged" for taking the test three times and schools will look at your best score. If you truly believe you can surpass the 700 mark then I would probably suggest a retake given that you are targeting schools within the top 15 and have a GPA which may be slightly below the average for those programs.

Best,
Erin

Erin Schuhmacher
Senior Consultant
mbaMission
www.mbamission.com