I got a 710 on the GMATs - 75% math and 95% verbal. I am trying to decide if I should spend 2-3 weeks and study intensively, maybe work with a tutor one-on-one and see if I can bump up my score to a 740 or 750.

I figured a 710 would get me into the pool of candidates that are considered 'qualified' but then the admissions committee will have to narrow from there. And someone with a 750 and equally strong application would potentially make it in over me. I also have a 'normal' background and work experience - I work for a large management consulting firm - and I figured that the lower end of a school's range on GMAT scores is probably filled by applicants that have unusual/unique work experiences (not consulting or i-banking). I know there are lots of qualified candidates so they are practically looking for reasons to not accept candidates. I guess after the fact I wouldn't want to think that "if only I had gotten a 740 I would have gotten in...."

However, taking the time to study will clearly detract from time spent on applications. I am planning to apply early round to Harvard, Stanford and Wharton.

Do you think it is worth investing the time and money to take the GMATs again?

I think you want someone to say 'yes' to the re-take.

The reality is, your decision won't come down to your GMAT score. It's strong enough for all the top schools. It will come down to everything else -- and there is no such thing as 'all things being equal' because no one individual is the same. Regardless of whether you have similar experiences as a lot of other people, it's still your job (irrespective of GMAT score) to make sure that you present yourself in such a way that the adcom sees you as an individual - if you aren't able to do that, you won't get in even with a 760 or 800.

Focus on the applications. It will make you more competitive than trying to retake the GMAT again given your score.

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

Thanks for the advice. I'd actually gone back and forth a couple of times. At first I was sure I wanted to retake because my initial goal had been at least 720. Then I decided it wasn't worth it and should focus on the applications. Then I got advice from an alum suggesting maybe it would be worth it if I could get a 740 or 750.

Thanks for taking the time to respond.

Annie