Hello M Guide/s,

Quick Background: I am a Commerce Graduate + CPA. I have 8 years of work experience with world’s renowned investment banking and advisory firm. I aspire to do an MBA from top 10 US B-Schools.

GMAT Preparation So Far:
Jan 2007, Took Diagnostic Test (Score 450, M34 V17)
Aug 2007, started GMAT classes at one of the MBA coaching centre. With office, devoted time on GMAT
May 2008: Completed the classes and also repeated (two times, as well as three time on a few topics)
Aug 2009: Took break from office and devoted 100% on GMAT
Diagnostic Test 1 Score 450 (M 38, V 16)
Diagnostic Test 2 Score 440 (M 38, V 14)
With no improvement in score, stopped pursuing GMAT
Dec 2009: Again tried a Diagnostic Test, Score 530 (M 45, V 20)

Sorry for such low scores.

Dilemma:
Despite been good achiever in previous academics, I donot why I am very very far from the desired score. Possible reasons for the existing gaps
1) My English has been average
2) I am more of a tech. person so courses like CPA & CFA better suits me. Or the orientation/aptitude for GMAT is missing in me
3) Bad luck due to GMAT Phobia

I know that my credentials are fine, as required by the top B School. However the GMAT score is missing.

Please guide me
A Why such short coming - just contract of my other education and professional achievements
B To get Admission in Top 10 B School, is there any way other than GMAT
C If GMAT is the only way - In your past experience how many cases (Extreme cases like me) were successful in getting the desired score (target score 700+)
D As a Realistic person (rather than emotional) – Shall I drop GMAT as it might not be my cup of tea. Or Efforts can transform the score (specially Verbal from <20 to >40) – time frame (guidance, approach that I should follow)


I appreciate your guidance.