Profile Evaluation and Advice on Retaking GMAT

[knguyenchs]

I'm debating whether to retake the GMAT. I live in Cameroon and the first time I took the test, I could tell that I was on my way to a really great score in Math. Unfortunately, when I started the Verbal the electricity went out.

Today, I was able to finish the GMAT with a 690 total score - 40 Math and 44 Verbal. I'm looking at applying to MIT and Harvard (possibly a joint MPA program) with the following qualifications:

Professional Work Experience:
-2 years of Peace Corps experience as a Small Business Advisor doing international microfinance
-.5 year working at a nonprofit focusing on domestic microfinance
-.5 year working at an economic development nonprofit doing taxes for low-income residents

Undergrad:
-3.3 GPA in International Business and Finance at top 25 university, top 10 undergraduate business school.
-Semester abroad at top business school of HEC Paris
-Lots of extracurriculars/leadership
-During junior year, I worked three jobs (two professional internships) on top of being a full-time student

Recommendations:
Good. Could get a recommendation from a Harvard MBA alumni who is now an Assistant Professor.

Diversity:
Asian female, speak French and a bit of Fulfulde.

I could retake the GMAT again as I was usually scoring in 700-740 range for practice tests and this was just a really bad day for testing in the math section. Should I retake test again or just leave it? Then again, here in Cameroon, the electricity could go out again. What would be my chances to Harvard or MIT if I leave it as is?

[mbamission]

Hi knguyenchs,

Thanks for writing in and sharing all your details. While a 690 is on the lower end for HBS and MIT, it seems apparent that you're differentiation factor is your work experience. In fact you could even lead an essay with an anecdote about the power going out during your GMAT! While you don't mention your post-MBA goals, if you are looking to career-switch, you need to make sure you explain the logic and flow of why you are seeking a change.

My take is that if you think a 720+ is realistic on a retake, it could be worth your time, but otherwise you may just want to invest your hours in prepping your essays and application.

As is-- I would put you on the cusp of competitive/near-reach for those schools. It is largely going to come down to how well you present your story.

Daniel Richards
http://www.mbamission.com

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