Retake: Do I need to retake all sections?

Question

Hi, everybody.
I took my first GMAT last month. I am happy with my AWA score, but not with Verbal and Quantitative.
I am retaking GMAT next month. I really don't want to retake AWA section because I could get lower AWA score than the last time. Please advise if it matters to retake all sections, or I can skip AWA section and retake only Verbal and Quantitative sections?

I look for your advice and comment...Thank you

rni · Answer

There has been a lot of debate over this. Apparently, you need to take all the sections!

MBADreamzzz · Answer

Its better to retake the AWA and get a lower score than not taking the AWA at all.. Train yourself to stick it out for the extra hour and get at least 4.5 - 5 on AWA. Adcoms may consider skipping a section as the signs of a slacker..

lynn75ga · Answer

As the other posters have said...If you retake the GMAT, you must complete all sections over again. (They don't give the option to cherry-pick what sections you want to skip).

With that being said, if you're dissatisfied with your Quan & Verbal scores...study more on these sections because there is greater value placed on the Quant & Verbal than the AWA - at least, from a b-school perspective. (This is not to say that writing competence is unimportant, but b-schools typically use a candidate's aggregate score as a barometer for admission into their program...whereas, a candidate's AWA score is used as a minimum qualifier (i.e. at least a 4 or 5, etc).

georgepaul0071987 · Answer

Yes you should take all sections . Don't waste too much time on awa though , just follow the chineseburbed awa template and you should easily get a 4.5/5. The essays place more emphasis on structure rather than content

Posted from GMAT ToolKit

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novanative · Answer

Yes, you have to retake everything. Verbal and Quant count the most because they create your score out of 800.

GMATTRESS · Answer

Thank you guys for your prompt response and precious time. I will retake all sections on May 12.
I've been studying for GMAT after my full time work and weekend.
With your advice and support, I feel like I could get better scores this time:)

Thanks again.

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Retake: Do I need to retake all sections?

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