GMAT 760, IR 4- Should I retake the test. How much does IR matter?

Thanks for your reply Dennis and Rich.

I will start applying to schools next year. I want to target the top 10-20 schools- Wharton,Kellogg, Darden,Tuck etc. As for my profile I completed my B.E. in Electronics in June 2013. I have been working as a Data Analyst in ZS Associates India office since the past two years and recently got promoted. My CGPA is just above average. Hence, I really needed my GMAT score to standout. However, I am concerned will my GMAT score be able to make up for both my CG and IR.

Thanks
Basanti

Hi Basanti,

With these scores, there is no reason to retake the GMAT. You're ultimately asking Admissions questions, so you might want to ask the Admissions Experts in their Forum:

ask-admission-consultants-124/

GMAT assassins aren't born, they're made,
Rich

Basanti -

With a GMAT score of 760, you have provided excellent evidence of your abilities. Speaking with a few Admissions counselors at your choice schools will give you a better feel for what they are looking for. But, your IR score can easily be addressed within your Admissions essay. Do not belabor the issue, but acknowledging it and providing some explanation should be sufficient. Good luck and keep any more questions coming!

Thanks so much Dennis and Rich. You have made me feel much better about my situation. I hope my background in data analysis helps to address any concerns for IR.

Dennis,

Regarding your point of addressing the low IR score, do you have any tips on how to best address it. I was getting an IR of 7-8 consistently on my gmatprep. My nerves got the better of me on the gmat day. But seems like a silly excuse to write in an essay.

Hey Basanti

Generally speaking, you want to score decent enough on the IR section so as not to draw negative attention to a low IR score.

You don't want the admissions committee to focus on a really low IR score of like 1 or 2 -- that shows lack of effort or ability

That said, it's not that much more beneficial to have a perfect 8 versus a 6 or 7.

So ideally, you want to stay in the 4, 5, 6, or 7 range to efficiently get a score that is decent without putting a crazy amount of effort.

Now, with your IR score of 4 – that is decent and good enough. In addition, your 760 score is very high. So in your situation, I wouldn't worry about retaking the test for a higher IR score because you’re in the target zone.

Thanks everyone for your inputs. I am planning to apply this year.