cmuajp wrote:
Posted: Wed Aug 17, 2005 11:41 am Post subject: Should I retake the GMAT?
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I wanted to apply to top 10 schools (Northwestern, Chicago, MIT, Michigan, UPenn, and possibly HBS). I got a 680 on the GMAT - 70% math and 91% verbal and a 5.5 on the AWA. I graduated from Carnegie Mellon with a 2.93 but I had a triple major - Engineering, Economics, and Engineering and Public Policy. I also ran a sucessful startup company for 2 years in school. I have been working in the Auto industry for 3+ years in a rotational program at a fortune 100 company. My work experience includes Product Design, Business Planning, and Manufacturing. I have also completed a Master's Degree in Mechanical Engineering from U of Michigan Dearborn with a GPA of 3.44 while working.
I am wondering if I should retake the GMAT or concentrate on other areas that will develop my uniqueness? I am really lite on the community service items so I was thinking about working on that instead. Do you think my low math score will hurt me or do you think I have demonstrated that I have adequate math skills through my undergrad and grad degree? I think I got a low quant score because I hadn't prepared enough for the very hard problems and ran out of time. I could probably improve my score but I wasn't sure if it was worth it. Any tips would be nice. I also have done quite well at work and can get a few great recommendation letters. What are my chances at applying for next year? I am 26 years old. Thanks.
For the schools that you are aiming for, I think you should retake the GMAT. Remember your undergard GPA is on the low side, although your grad GPA will compensate somewhat. To be competitive academically, you need to retake the GMAT. You may also want to consider retaking the GMAT and getting some community service and then applying in Fall 2006 for 2007 matriculation.
Good luck!
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23 Aug 2005, 03:56
