High Verbal/Low Quant

[ericcitron1219]

I took the GMAT recently and got a 710 (92%) overall, with Q: 44 (61%) and V: 42 (%96). I am looking to apply to schools in the 15th - 25th ranked range such as Vanderbilt, UVA, UNC, Emory, Ga Tech, etc. Do you think I need to retake to get a better quant to get in to these schools? I was getting better quant scores on practice tests towards the end of my preparation, but none really above 80%.

I am starting a job in IT consulting at a very good company, and plan to work there for a few years before applying to schools. I got a BE in Mechanical Engineering from Vandy with a 3.63 GPA and very good leadership and extracurriculars. I have a lot of experience in engineering research and internships.

What do you think are my chances if I don't retake?

Thanks

[mbamissionjenK]

Hi there,

Generally a 710 should put you in the ballpark for the schools you mentioned, if you have other strong components throughout your profile and application, without any need for a re-take. You mentioned in your subject line low quant, but then said quant was 96%?? Not sure if you flipped them in the description or ? ;)

[ericcitron1219]

Hi, thanks for the reply. Yes they were flipped, I edited it to fix that. I was just told my quant was pretty low and I should consider retaking. Was wondering if the split scores matter that much if the total score is in range/above average for the schools I'm applying for.

Thanks

[mbamissionjenK]

Gotcha. A 61st percentile in quant could be a bit of a negative within the application.... more so than a 61st percentile in verbal would be, given the quantitative nature of business school. That said you have quant skills demonstrated elsewhere and decent academics, and a strong overall score. It's a tough call, but if you think you could bump that up closer to 80th percentile as you mentioned, it might be worth considering.... schools will take the highest overall score. But if you're not applying right now and you need a break, you could re-assess in another year or so too. ;)