I took the GMAT 3 times but got a 570, 560, and 560. I scored above 700s on all my MBA.com practice tests but couldn't translate the scores over to the actual test. Should I retake the GMAT in order to get into NYU's Langone program? Will explaining my low score in essay #4 really help?

I have a 3.2 GPA in finance, 5 years experience at an investment bank, and involved in a few professional networks. My essays and recommendations are strong.

Is NYU a long shot?

Thank you for your inquiry.

Is this just a matter of test anxiety? Are you stumbling on a certain type of question? Why do you feel that you are scoring in the 500s, if a 700 is reasonable? Your reasoning should help me in offering you advice.

The NYU part-time program is not as competitive as the full time program. Nonetheless, with a 570, even though you have a strong quant background and have worked as an investment banker, the Langone program should still be a reach.

Sincerely,
Jeremy Shinewald
MBA Mission

www.mbamission.com
646-485-8844

I had test anxiety and couldn't focus on the questions.

Thank you for your response.

With respect to test anxiety, there are certain steps that you can take to manage your stresses. It is not unusual for the most anxious students to seek some professional help from a psychologist. Further, you should be careful about how you sleep, what you eat (caffeine would likely be bad, for example), etc. before the test.

When it comes to test anxiety, I am probably best off leaving this to the pros at Manhattan GMAT. You should ask whether they have any recommended methods of dealing with stress. Still, to return to your original question, considering the fact that you likely have it in you to do better, I would probably target the anxiety problem and take the test again.

Sincerely,
Jeremy Shinewald
MBA Mission

www.mbamission.com
646-485-8844
Skype: MBAMission

I appreciate your advice.

Another question: I received a B- and C in my college financial and managerial accounting classes, also due to test anxiety. Should I mention this in the optional essay or let my current accounting background outweigh those weaknesses? In my manager's recommendation, she stated that I had excellent quant skills and was very knowledgeable in accounting.