johnlewis271 wrote:
Dear All,
Hope you are doing well,
I have just taken the GMAT and scored 680 on my second attempt. I am still not satisfied with my score and thinking of re-taking the exam a 3rd time.
My profile is as follows:
- Arab male from the Middle East
- Graduated with Distinction from University
- Have 3 years of work experience in Consulting at one of the top 5 firms
- Has worked in oil & gas and renewable energy during my consulting engagements
- Have done some substantial charity work (cancer patients, education programs, etc ...)
I have 3 questions and would appreciate if you answer me.
1) Do you think I should retake the GMAT? HBS is one of the schools that asks you for how many times you have taken the GMAT. If I repeat it and I mention on my application that I have taken it 3 times, will that affect me?
2) Do I have chances of getting an interview with a 680, keeping in mind that many people who are applying with me with the same profile have a 700+ score
3) Do you think having my brother graduated from HBS a few years back will help me in my application and will be a factor that would help to get me an interview? I have heard that HBS really liked legacies and all.
Many thanks!!
Thanks for your post. To answer your questions:
1. You should retake the
GMATif you believe you can increase the score. Were you practice scores significantly higher? Were you not feeling well on the day of the exam? Has your work load lightened to allow you more time to study? If you answered "yes" to these questions, then you should retake. If you answered "no," then I don't see any point to it.
2. Yes. You have a chance of getting an interview with a 680.
3. If your brother is an
HBSgrad, it may help a little. I don't believe it is a major factor in the evaluation process.
Best,
Linda