Guidance appreciated - GMAT 720; GPA 3.9

Question

Hi all,

I just recently took the GMAT and scored a 720 (Q48 V41), which is acceptable; however, I only received a 5 on IR (52nd percentile). I'm trying to target the top 10 schools. I received an undergraduate GPA of 3.9 from an Ivy League and an employed at a top 20 consulting firm, and will be applying ~3 years from now.

Will this low score hurt my chances or is it similar to the essay where there is a lower expectation?

Thanks,
Jason

machichi · Answer

If you were applying this year, I'd say it doesn't matter. However, schools will have tons more data on IR by the time you apply, and opinions will be much clearer about what scores are acceptable then. The going idea with the AWA is that a 4.5 is more or less the minimum acceptable score. For your sake, I hope 5 is the cut off for IR.

Ward2012 · Answer

I definitely would not retake it if the only reason is to improve your IR score. Looking to improve your total score to 750 or above would be a better reason. But even if that is your motivation, I wouldn't recommend retaking it (unless you just really have the time AND you're confident that you can do better.) Your GPA is high, and your score will be fine. You should spend time on other parts of your applications.

ManhattanReview · Answer

There are many components of your application to demonstrate your academic abilities and potential -- and the GMAT score is just one of them. With time until the second deadline quickly approaching, I would use start on my applications and make sure that theses are as good as they can be. I am confident that with a 3.9 GPA from Ivy College, that admissions officers will be impressed with your academic credentials and conclude that you will also excel in graduate business school. However, a mediocre application will definitely damage your chances at the most competitive programs.

Kimberly Plaga
Senior Admissions Consultant
Manhattan Review

Kimberly Plaga
Senior Admissions Consultant
Manhattan Review

Ward2012 · Answer

I just reread your post and saw that your applying three years from now. I guess since you have that much time, you can try taking the GMAT again, but only if you're confident you'll get the same score or above. taking it again, and getting a lower score, even with a higher IR score would look kind of bad, even though schools take the highest score anyway.

kandyjalva · Answer

Dear wang,

Just apply. I think its the quantitative and verbal scores that matter the most.Have some great essay written down and get some great recs. You will rock if you can do the above.If you have time than retake the exam. I think your GPA is high enough to distinguish your application. Just get more clarity on your essays and goals and apply with a bang

ngould · Answer

You have a competitive profile. I would not bother to retake the GMAT just to improve the IR score. There are other aspects of the application that are more important and your time could probably be better spent elsewhere.

Guidance appreciated - GMAT 720; GPA 3.9

Prep Toolkit

Top 5 GMAT Debrief Videos

615 to 715 in 15 Days (Ria's Strategies)

More than Quant/Verbal Abilities: Speed vs. Accuracy

745 with Only Self-Prep and GMAT Club

From 555 to 765: 210-point Improvement

Perfect 805 Score Debrief by Julia

My Rewards