leoshubham wrote:
Hi Experts,
The same dilemma! Whether to retake or not!
I scored 700 on my second attempt and feel that I still do not have a competitive advantage over others in the same pool as I am.
I have around 35 months of work experience(INFOSYS Limited, India), average GPA and overall an average profile, belong to the pool of applicants that is said to comprise of the majority of applications. I have heard that within this extremely competitive pool of applicants, it is very important to be able to set yourself apart. The best way to do that
right now is to retake the GMAT to at least improve the score by 30-40 points. While I understand that this could even result in a lower score but could be worth the shot.
Therefore, I am kind of torn between whether or not I should consider retaking.
How much would a higher GMAT score help if I successfully do push my score up by at least 30 points?
What chance do I have at the top 30 universities, around the world, at my current profile(I understand here, though, that applications are indeed an extremely important criteria of getting selected or not. GMAT is one area where I can certainly make a difference right now, given my current profile)?
How good are my chances at ISB, Tuck, Cornell, among others, next year? (That's the dream
)
Please provide insights so that I make an informed decision and brighten my prospects in all possible ways.
I can furnish more details if you like.
Thanks,
Shubham
Hello,
Thanks for writing on this forum.
GMAT - I appreciate that you understand that 700 could not be a deal breaker from you since you belong to the most competitive pool - Indian engineering pool, I would suggest you to retake. 30+ points will make difference considering your profile. If you can score something like 750+, it would be great. I am not aware about your splits, but try to maintain balance for the same as well.
Work ex - am not sure what is your profile. You can really work on the same with some exposure to leadership at work. Take some initiatives and i am sure you will get some short term or long term leadership assignment.
EC - No clue about the same, but work on the same during the remaining time. Please work on demonstrating leadership at EC as well, so you have something to scream about in your essays.
Above last two points will help you differentiate yourself from the rest of the applicants with similar profile
I hope this helps, please feel free to ask questions, if any
Thanks