I took the GMAT 8 months ago and scored a 700 (97%V, 61%M). While I'm ok with the overall score, the math score may be a problem. On my practice tests, I scored 70%-80% on the quant section. I majored in economics in college and took calculus (B) and statistics (A-). I work in the portfolio management group for a large life insurer and I would consider my job very quantitative in nature - modeling fixed income/interest rates, trading derivatives, etc.

I'm in a bind now because I'd like to submit applications to NYU, Columbia, UVA, & Duke in the first round to give myself the best shot. I also want to submit the Columbia application for early decision, which is due Oct 5th. I've heard mixed opinions on whether the 1st round is more advantageous than the 2nd, but I figure the earlier the better. I could re-take the GMAT and try to improve my quant score, but that would mean waiting until the 2nd round to submit applications and foregoing Columbia's early decision option. If I re-take, I'll hire a private tutor and aim for 75-80% on quant. I doubt I'd score any higher than that.

Advice would be greatly appreciated. I'm really stuck here and I realize I need to make a decision soon.

Hi there,

Thanks for writing in. I agree your overall score is in good shape for those schools but your Quant score is going to draw scrutiny. One way to address this is to use your optional essay to address the Quant score and point to your college performance and your use of analytics in your daily work to show that you are Quant-strong. Then you can ask your recommenders to reinforce this in their letter. Would you consider retaking in early September and spending the month after focusing on two applications (including CBS ED), and then saving the rest for Round 2? That seems like a good way to diversify your chances. If you do get that Quant score up to 75% it will be a much stronger score, assuming your Verbal stays consistent.

Best of luck,

Daniel Richards
http://www.mbamission.com

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