Should I retake the GMAT with a 710?

[tjh2236]

I just got done taking the GMAT and ended up getting a 710 (Q-48, V-40). Should I retake the test, given that my practice tests were in the 730-750 range and that I got 45 on my verbal sections for the last four of them (though my quant. score was not as high)? I was hoping to have a real chance at Harvard or Stanford, even in a tough admissions year. Here is some additional background information:

Age: 27 (at the start of B School)

Nationality: American

Undergrad: 3.68 GPA at Yale with a double major in Engineering Sciences (Electrical) and Economics

Work History: 3 years as an analyst at a small VC firm in the Midwest and two years (by the time I go) as an associate at a mid-size VC firm in Boston.

Activities: Big Brother, was treasurer of local Yale club in my previous town.

Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks.

[MBAApply]

Your time would be better spent on the applications rather than trying to boost your score -- beyond a certain threshhold, it'll come down to everything else in your candidacy and application (essays, rec letters and interview).

Alex Chu
alex@mbaapply.com
www.mbaapply.com
http://mbaapply.blogspot.com

[tjh2236]

I agree, but given that the applications don't come out for a few weeks or months, would taking the GMAT again be held against me by Admissions Committees?

Also, what would my chances of admission be at Tuck, MIT, and Northwestern?

[MBAApply]

No, it wouldn't be held against you per se, although some adcoms may think you're a little neurotic for re-writing the GMAT given your already strong score. It's your money and time.

As for your chances, it really comes down to how well you execute your application - I think you know that you have a pretty strong background (education + experience + extracurriculars), so it's all about the applications (and some luck) from here on in.

Alex Chu
alex@mbaapply.com
www.mbaapply.com
http://mbaapply.blogspot.com