Retake with a 690?

[laurenegorecki]

Hi,

I took the GMAT on November 15 and scored a 690, which is about 40 points below the score I was prepared to achieve at that time (messed up the math). While I had planned to use my lower score as momentum to study and retake within one month, a variety of excuses (holiday, work promotion, move) led me to drop off in studying for an extended period (February), such that I have lost proficiency and am unmotivated to take this exam again. That being said, having the confidence that my application is as strong as it can be to get into the school(s) of my choice would lead me to refocus and begin studying consistently again if need be. In short, with a 3.3 GPA from an Ivy League undergrad, solid work experience, and a 690 GMAT, do you believe that retaking the GMAT and scoring a 730 + would strongly affect my chances of admission to schools like Stanford and Harvard? If this score difference is negligible, I would prefer to focus my efforts on the application process. Please advise.

[mbamissionjenK]

Hi there,

So basically you've got a borderline, fairly-good score.... and have to make that tough decision of whether to give it another try or not!

I will agree it is a borderline case ;) which makes it tough, so I can't give overall strong advice in either direction because of that. But here are some things to think about, potentially on either side. ;)

-a 690 is CLOSE to the average at many top programs, especially outside the top 5-10 or so, and in that case likely the decision will be made based on the rest of your profile.

-however as you go up the rankings, as you know the average GMAT does go up, so it does get tougher to confidently assert the above point for Stanford/HBS, especially with admissions there being SO competitive (and a smaller than average class size at Stanford)

-breaking the 700 level makes it a touch easier on the school as you won't be contributing to pulling the average down below 700

-BUT the average is only that, and there are plenty admitted below the school's posted average with outstanding profiles!

-tough to assess your overall profile without knowing more about it-- if your industry/role/accomplishments/experiences are more unique, you can feel more confident even with a 690

-schools are always looking for qualified female applicants, which may apply to you based on your screen name?? so that may help

-when you said you scored 30-40 pts below what was expected, if that was because of actual practice test scores in that range I'd maybe be more tempted because you likely CAN score that high

-timing may be a factor-- if you have a lot of time, less stressful to consider a re-take

-but don't underestimate the time it takes to put together great essays and applications either!

Tough spot, and I think overall more of the decision will be made based on the rest of your application, but a 730 or so would certainly make you even more competitive. Good luck and keep us posted!