joshsteiner wrote:
I'm planning on applying to top schools. Based on previous practice tests, I believe I can improve my score by at least 20 points by taking the gmat again. Should I bother? I've read that scoring a 710 and then retaking and scoring a 730 shows focus on the wrong things. Is it better to have taken the GMAT once and scored a 710, or to take it twice and score slightly higher? Should I only retake it if I believe I can improve to 740 or better?
Do not retake a 710 GMAT, unless it is horrbily out of balance. It is an above average score and clearly demonstrates your aptitude for graduate business school. It accomplishes its job.
Spend your time now on your essays, school research, or community service... or having fun if you don't have anything admissions related to do!
For more information on the role of the GMAT in admissions, please see "
The GMAT in MBA Admissions: Fact and Fiction."
Good luck!