I was waitlisted at 2 top 25 schools with a 580GMAT score. Far below their average. I am thinking about removing my name from the list and just applying next year. Is there any penalty/negative impact by staying on the list or removing yourself?

Also, what does it tell you about my app that I was waitlisted with a 580?

Thanks!

In short, no, there is no penalty or negative impact to take yourself off the waitlist or hanging on. Just do whatever you think is best for you -- adcoms are people as well, they do understand how difficult it is to be "in limbo".

As for your GMAT, well, I think it is pretty obvious. The fact that you got waitlisted suggests that you probably put in a very strong application.

Whether you continue to stay on the waitlist or elect to reapply next year, you really need to re-take the GMAT. Even getting it to a 640 or so will help you a lot.

Good luck

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