Need Advice

Question

Hi everyone,

I haven't ever posted on here but let me focus on the main point.

I took the GMAT officially in 2022 and got 560 (34th percentile)

then in 2023 got 590 (44th percentile)

then took GMAT focus last month and got 575 (62nd percentile)

and Lastly, today, and got 605 (75th percentile).

I actually just graduated from UC Davis last year and secured a job this year (took a year due to the HORRIBLE economy). I hoped to do really well on the GMAT and have that be my entry ticket into Harvard due to my lack of experience. While I'm extremely proud of myself for not giving up and studying as hard as I possibly could have, I was still hoping for a MUCH better score especially since I took a mock 2 days ago and got 715 (99th percentile). Even more than that I was on eof the smartest people in my graduating class and even one of the youngest I got my bachelor's at 20 (rigth now I am 21). I don't think I can take it again as taking it 5 times wouldn't look good. My essays will be SUPER strong because oh have I been through stuff in my life. Please just give me some advice on what to do next.

kingbucky · Answer

Hi there!

First of all, congratulations on your perseverance and the progress you've made with your GMAT scores! It’s commendable that you’ve continued to push through despite the challenges, and reaching a score of 605 is a significant achievement, especially considering your journey.

Your Journey:  It’s clear that you’ve put in a lot of effort into your studies, and it’s great to hear that you graduated from UC Davis and secured a job. The job market can be tough, and navigating it while preparing for the GMAT is no small feat.

Score Reflection:  I understand your frustration with the scores not reflecting your capabilities, especially after scoring 715 on a mock exam. It’s important to remember that the GMAT can be unpredictable, and many test-takers experience fluctuations in their scores. The mock exams are great for practice, but they don’t always translate directly to test day performance.

Next Steps:  Since you’re feeling hesitant about taking the GMAT again, consider focusing on other aspects of your application. Your strong essays can certainly make a difference, especially if you can convey your unique experiences and resilience. Admissions committees often look for well-rounded candidates, and your story can set you apart.

Exploring Other Options:  If you’re still interested in applying to Harvard or other top programs, you might also want to explore other ways to strengthen your application. This could include gaining more work experience, pursuing additional coursework, or even considering other programs that align with your goals.

Community Support:  Don’t hesitate to reach out to others in this community for advice and support. Many have been in similar situations and can offer valuable insights.

Remember, your journey doesn’t end with one test score. Keep believing in yourself and your abilities, and know that there are many paths to achieving your goals. Wishing you the best of luck in your future endeavors!

Take care!

MBAandBeyond · Answer

Hey, mbadream0814 Congrats on the journey! It’s a great achievement to move from a GMAT score of 560 to 605, considering the difficulties you have faced. It is hard not to be disappointed when your official scores do not match your expectations, especially after you did well on a mock exam. I’d recommend that you gain more professional experience, research some schools that are more of a fit for you and also think about other options, like taking the GRE test, to improve your application.MBA admissions are holistic, and your unique story, determination, and clear vision for the future will resonate with the right program.Keep going forward, never allow any failure to define your path. Good Luck

Archit3110 · Answer

Focus on positive points about your profile and achievements based on that write essays reach connect adcom and existing students.. all the best

Posted from my mobile device

mellowmev · Answer

Hey,

Don’t be too harsh on yourself! As i can see you have consistently improved your score with a great upward trajectory. 
Like you say you have a strong essays, I would play on those. Schools index on more than just GMAT scores, and you can prove that you’re a strong candidate by resumes, LORs and essays.

All the best! Go get ‘em!

Posted from my mobile device

TheRedPen · Answer

Hi  mbadream0814 ,

Your GMAT journey has been challenging, but your persistence is commendable. While your most recent score of 605 is a significant improvement, it's understandable that you're aiming higher. Key Considerations:

Focus on Holistic Profile: While the GMAT is important, it's just one piece of the puzzle. Your strong academic background, early graduation, and unique life experiences can compensate for a GMAT score that might not be at the top percentile for your target schools. 
 Target Schools Strategically: Consider schools with a holistic admissions process that value diverse backgrounds and experiences. 
 Craft Compelling Essays: Your essays should effectively communicate your career goals, leadership potential, and how your unique experiences align with the school's values. 
 Leverage Recommendations: Seek strong letters of recommendation from individuals who speak to your abilities and potential. 
 Explore Alternative Paths: If your GMAT score remains a concern, consider taking the GRE or exploring other graduate programs that align with your career goals.  
To better understand your profile and explore potential strategies, consider  scheduling a free consultation with one of our MBA experts . We can provide tailored guidance based on your specific circumstances. Our contact number is +91 7780769732.

ARINGO · Answer

Hi mbadream0814
Your continuous improvement in score demonstrates commitment and dedication and a will to succeed. If not GMAT, you can always go for GRE, and some schools even accept EA, that could be a better option too.

Right now, you should focus on building your profile and identifying instances where you can demonstrate ‘Impact’. You should also classify schools based on reach, target and safe. This will help you plan better and enhance your chances of admit.

If you have any further concerns, or would like to have a detailed discussion, feel free to connect.
Click here to connect for a detailed profile analysis.
You can also email me your CV at: priyankak@aringo.com
Good Luck!

SBCErikaOlson · Answer

Hi there -

I hate to tell you this, but no one's GMAT score is their ticket into HBS. HBS is looking for demonstrated leadership over time, and they cannot get that from a score. The score is more of a "checkbox" item to ensure you can handle the rigor of their program.

My advice is that you do some deep research into what HBS is looking for, do  not  take the GMAT again, but consider taking the GRE at least twice. HBS has been much, much more lenient about GRE scores in the past vs GMAT scores.

Ensure your essays are the most compelling they could  possibly  be. Get someone objective who knows about the b-school process to review them and give you candid feedback.

And then step back and take a breather and ask yourself why you need/want to apply  now , when you already know how tough HBS is to get into and you've already admitted you don't have much professional experience. Because I will tell you this, unless you are a reapplicant who was originally dinged with a 2+2 application while still in college, being a reapplicant to HBS is a tough, tough spot to be in, because they already rejected you once so you need something BIG to change in your candidacy.

Does it happen? Of course. But it's not a gamble I personally would ever advise or be willing to make myself. So I would really think about what it is that is driving you to feel like you MUST apply this early in your career. What are you going to bring to a classroom full of successful young businesspeople that they don't already know? If you have had a tough life and overcome many obstacles, that is impressive, but in the end they are still looking for people with relevant business experience that others can learn from. (And maybe you do have this, but it was unclear from your post.)

Hope this helps!

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