First off, Congratulations to those who have achieved the GMAT scores you were aiming for! Your dedication and hard work have paid off, and I’m thrilled for you as you continue with your applications.
For those who didn’t quite hit the mark this time, let’s talk....Remember Sisyphus? His endless struggle to push a boulder up a hill, only for it to roll back down each time, is a powerful symbol of perseverance. You might feel like you’re in a similar cycle right now, but this setback is just one chapter in your journey—not the end of it.
Your GMAT score doesn’t define you or your future. It’s just one part of your application and career path. When you look back at this moment from a future perspective, you might even chuckle at how much weight you gave to one test. What feels like a major hurdle now will likely become a minor bump in the road as you move forward. Trust me, no one cares about your GMAT scores after your done with your application cycle.
It’s also not over yet. If your scores for Round 1 didn’t go as planned, so what? There’s always Round 2, and if needed, there’s next year. Your well-being—both mental and physical—is far more important than any test score. So is your family and your career. I’ve also met students who are preparing for the GMAT at the expense of their careers. What's the point of a good GMAT score without tangible work experience and achievements?
I understand how frustrating GMAT algorithms can be—they can seem so unfair. Unfortunately, they’re beyond our control. Although both the GMAT and GRE are accepted by schools, data from previous admitted candidates shows a heavy skew in favor of the GMAT. I agree that this may shift as more candidates consider the GRE due to frustrations with the GMAT’s decision-making, but will it happen in time for R1/R2/R3 2025?
So, take a break, celebrate your achievements in life, get a win in life, and return to your preparation with fresh eyes and renewed energy. Stepping away for a bit can offer the clarity and motivation you need. You're also not alone in this—I am not ashamed to say I have just as many students who find their footing on the second try as those who nail it on their first go. Taking a breather, finding success in other areas of your life, and gaining a bit of perspective can help you get back on track. Many of those who eventually find success have faced initial setbacks, and often a fresh perspective or some time off is exactly what’s needed.
Your journey is uniquely yours. Keep moving forward with confidence, and trust that your perseverance will lead you to success. Just remember, if you’re in a position to apply for grad school and need to take the GMAT, you’ve already achieved a significant level of success in life.
Keep believing in yourself—you’ve got this!!!!
I know some will agree with my perspective and others might not—and that’s perfectly fine. The beauty of this world is that we all have different views and contributions to make
(AI assisted with content refinement)
Originally posted on my Reddit
Shu - GMAT ExpertPosted from my mobile device