Applying While GMAT Under Administrative Review

Hello, TLuxtino. Congratulations on earning a 760. There could be some truth in higher scores getting flagged more frequently, perhaps in light of the cheating scandal that was brought to light earlier this year. However, many recent test-takers who have not earned such lofty scores have also reported seeing their exam status enter the dreaded administrative review. It is most likely that the software used to scan the recording picked up on some irregularity or another—e.g., a glance to the side when you might have heard a noise, or scratching your upper lip, which would cover your mouth. Who knows, really? The good news is that almost everyone is cleared, even if the review takes time. I saw a post just earlier today in which one flagged test-taker said the decision took 17 days (12 business days) to arrive. All you can do is wait.

Should you contact your schools of choice to explain your situation? Yes, if necessary. Most schools take their own processing time to go through the many applications received around deadlines, and if your score were to be approved in the meantime, then no harm done. Many students take the exam the week of a deadline and furnish nothing more than a screenshot of an unofficial score, with the understanding that that part of the application will be updated. So, if you have already put in your applications, let them be. The review of your exam should not affect the admissions process. If you are holding off submitting your applications because you do not have an official score, then you ought to go ahead and submit them, indicating where appropriate that you will update your exam score once it has been approved.

Good luck.

- Andrew

Could you tell us what happened with your student's review? Was his score allowed? I am in the same boat. Thanks.

Posted from my mobile device

HI TLuxtino,

Have you considered reaching out to the folks in admissions to let them know what is going on?