Question on low IR score

Question

Hi all

My apologies if this question is posted in the wrong forum. I have also read other opinions but would like to hear from the experts.

I wrote the GMAT and obtained a score of 760 (Q50, VR42) but my IR is only 5. I am applying for PhD programs in accounting. Will the IR score reflect very negatively?

Regards

EMPOWERgmatRichC · Answer

Hi ZAman1,

First off, a 760/Q50 is an outstanding score, so you should apply to any Schools/Programs that you like without any reservations or concerns. The 'short' answer to your question is that many Schools have publicly stated that they do NOT consider an Applicants IR score as part of the evaluation process, so you probably have nothing to worry about.

The question now is whether any specific PhD programs factor in the IR score. My assumption is that they wouldn't care about an IR score of 5, but since this is ultimately an Admissions question, you might want to ask the Admissions Experts in their Forum:

ask-admission-consultants-124/

GMAT assassins aren't born, they're made,
Rich

GMATPILLBILL · Answer

Generally speaking, you want to score decent enough on the IR section so as not to draw negative attention to a low IR score.

You don't want the admissions committee to focus on a really low IR score of like 1 or 2 -- that shows lack of effort or ability

That said, it's not that much more beneficial to have a perfect 8 versus a 6 or 7.

So ideally, you want to stay in the 4, 5, 6, or 7 range to efficiently get a score that is decent without putting a crazy amount of effort.

Now, with your IR score of 5 – that is decent and good enough. In addition, your 760 score is very high. So in your situation, I wouldn't worry about your IR score because you’re in the target zone.

RichEconomistGMAT · Answer

Hi ZAman1,

If you're still feeling unsure about where you stand, feel free to reach out directly to an admissions officer at the schools you're interested in applying to. While I don't think you'll have too many issues with a 760 on the GMAT, applying for PhD programs is unsurprisingly a great source of anxiety, so feel free to ask for as much information as you need.

Best,
Rich

ZAman1 · Answer

Hi all

Thanks for your replies. I contacted some of the schools directly. I also scored a 6 on my first attempt so hopefully the schools to which I am applying will also notice the previous score of 6.

Regards

GMATPILLBILL · Answer

Best of luck on your endeavors!

OptimusPrepJanielle · Answer

Hello ZAman1,

Congratulations. That's a superb score. I would investigate the specific program requirements at your schools of interest about your IR score. It's still a bit above average. Although it could be higher, it's less of a concern because you scored so well in the core components.

Best of luck!

calcmaster · Answer

Most business schools don't really care about the IR score at all, because the schools don't release it to the USNEWS rankings.

Question on low IR score

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