jz4analytics wrote:
PersonalMBACoach wrote:
Plenty of people retake GMAT and see significant improvement, especially if they study differently (more focused, potentially hiring a tutor to help you increase). Every year I see this happen.
However, you really want 730-740+ to make it worth your time. You certainly have the chance to do it for round two and if you want a top school, I'd advise that given your GPA.
In terms of the gap between schools, part of it depends on what you want to do after your MBA. Some schools will position you better than others and it's not always directly correlated with the ranking.
I would be interested to hear how people get a 30-50 point improvement, if they're already prepared for the first take. Right now, that looks like a massive obstacle. Part of me feels that no matter how much I study a 750 would be a stretch.
There are different levels of being prepared and also different ways one can be prepared. As you mention, there is an element of one's ability to get above a certain score regardless of the preparation (within reason anyway) but the test is also very systematic and predictable so there is a range that everyone has if pushed to the limit, one can score on the high end of that range. More specifically, my tutors have techniques that are used to help people answer questions quickly and more effectively. Sometimes an applicant would execute a few areas very well but struggle with a couple specific topics. Addressing the questions in a different way, with enough focus and practice, often helps them add 30-50 points to the score.
This is obviously very different for each person. Using the same methods and tricks, one applicant may see a 50 point improvement while the other just a 20 point. Its hard to give specifics when we are just talking generally. Anyone who helps with the GMAT would have to do a diagnostic to evaluate the current status before discussing any improvement plan.
Lastly, a 750 is very good so not being able to get higher than that is not a bad thing. There are plenty of people who also cannot get higher than a 750 and they get into all of the top schools! (even with less as you know).