Profile Review - Please and Thanks!

Hi JustAChance, sorry to be replying after your cancellation timing, but in any event, I would have told you to keep the test. Your score improved, even if only by a bit, so I certainly wouldn't cancel an improvement...I hope you decided to keep the score. But: I do think you should retake the test to improve your score (overall and quant) if possible, or if you cannot improve it, try the GRE.

I think you've got a lot of strong elements in your profile - your academic profile otherwise sounds good (I'd be interested to know what coursework you've covered--assuming stats and calc are in there?)...and your professional experience and community work sound promising...but yes, a low GMAT can indeed hold you back. The programs you've listed all have averages above your score, and as strong as many factors of your profile are, it can often be very difficult for a male engineer to break through with a low GMAT because there tends to be a lot of competition with higher scores. Scores are not the only thing, admissions are holistic, but unfortunately they do count. I agree you can use the optional essay to plead your case, but make sure to be matter of fact and add needed context but avoid excuses.

You might want to keep your eyes open for potential GMAT waivers going forward, in case they continue to next year; some of the names on your list allowed for waivers (Darden among them) but if you've already sent your score there, that could be a problem. I had a client apply this year for a waiver and get one and then attempt the GMAT. His score was just a bit higher than yours, but he was told by Darden NOT to submit it if he had the waiver...his odds would be better without it. We don't know if these waivers will continue into the future anyway, so I wouldn't count on them, but it may be an option so what I'm saying is: don't send any more scores to schools until you know for sure they are the ones you want to submit. And also - if you haven't tried the GRE, I suggest you look into it...they seem to "count" a little less in profiles and rankings so candidates tend to get a little more forgiveness with a below-average GRE than GMAT at many programs.

It sounds like you have a lot of great leadership and impact going and my guess is you've got some good stories to tell, so do invest time in a stellar resume and essays and make sure you find recommenders to sing your praises. If you want to dig in further on anything, please feel free to call in for a consultation! Wishing you the best of luck!

Warmly,
Julie-Anne