Please advice........

[KARTHIKSMS]

Hi,

My scores in GMAT (in order): 600 (q46,v27), 640 (q47, v32), 580 (q48, v22).

I heard that schools take the highest score out of the three. I've two questions:

1) Would that 580 affect my application in any way? Please advise.

2) I'm looking to apply to schools in USA in the rank between 20-50. What are my chances?

My other credentials:
Bachelors in engineering (3.7 GPA)
Masters in Computer Engineering (3.6 GPA) in a top 100 company in fortune 500
Decent extracurriculars(participated in charity and cancer marathons, supporting a impoverished child for her education, donations, etc.)

Please advice as soon as you can.

Thanks alot

[mili]

Hi Karthik,

Thanks for writing. The 580 should not affect your chances in any way.

As for applying to a 20-50 rank school, the answer is "it depends." At a high level view, given your GMAT and your somewhat traditional Indian Male IT background, your chances at a top 25 school are slim. I'd say you should mostly target tier 2 programs (something like Tulane, Pittsburgh, BU.), and maybe add 1 or 2 lower tier 1 programs (like Emory) to your list.

Hope this helps,
Mili

Mili Mittal
Senior Consultant
http://www.mbamission.com

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[KARTHIKSMS]

Thanks Mili.

Would retaking GMAT for the fourth time be a case where it is nothing to lose? or it might affect my application if I score lower again?
Thanks

[mili]

Hey Karthik -

A 4th test could negatively impact your application - you run the risk of coming across as someone who lacks perspective or is stubborn. They want to see that self-awareness, too - knowing when to quit is a good trait. But, of course, having a strong GMAT is very valuable as well... so, it's a tough decision to make but there could be a downside.

Good luck,
Mili

[KARTHIKSMS]

Thanks Mili for the prompt reply

I am confused deciding between two schools in my safe list:

1) UC Irvine
2) UMaryland, College Park

Which do you think would be a better school in terms of reputation and job prospects? Any suggestions is appreciated.

Thanks

[mili]

It really depends what you want to do after you graduate - there are going to be different opportunities at these schools based on their geographies. What are you looking to do?

Thanks,
Mili

[KARTHIKSMS]

I am looking to focus on operations management and with the help of developed skills, in the long term after MBA, plan to open a independent business unit which offers consulting services.

[mili]

Hey Karthik,

The schools are pretty similar in terms of reputation. I would suggest you just research the programs in depth and decide which one feels like a stronger fit for you. I would suggest thinking about location too - are there companies you'd be targeting in CA vs. in the mid-atlantic/north east region? That could help make your decision - where do you want to be after you graduate?

Good luck!
Mili

Mili Mittal
Senior Consultant
http://www.mbamission.com

Read the mbaMission Insider's Guides (16 individual school titles)

Download mbaMission’s Free Personal Statement Guide

Visit the mbaMission Blog

Follow mbaMission on Twitter

[KARTHIKSMS]

Mili,
I've decided my schools. I sent over my scores to the schools. Now, since I sent them over, can I retake GMAT for 4th attempt? They wouldn't see my new score until I send them again right? I presume they would have only my 3 scores and not the 4th attempt?

If I get above 700, is it worth updating the score to the universities again? If I don't get above 700, I'm just going to ignore it and universities won't see the new score?

Thanks

[mili]

I'd honestly say that your time is better spent working on your applications, but sure you could do what you've outlined. You're correct that the schools wouldn't see your scores unless you submit them.

Good luck,
Mili