Currently a 20YO Russian Male. Took the Classic GMAT last year at age 19, so I still have over 4 years of validity.
I have a 780 Classic/Legacy GMAT.
I’ll have a approx. 3.0 GPA HSE ( Russian Uni ) diploma next year. ( Which I *really* don't want adcoms to see )
I’ll have a 1st class foreign diploma from a top100 in 2 years.
A) I’m considering taking the GMAT Focus since starting next year only Focus scores will be reported iirc, so I’ll get to “extend the ceiling” for top unis if I get 795-805. Yes, I know that Classic scores are still valid - it's just that with a 795-805 the value I bring to the Uni skyrockets, as they get to report a higher ceiling.
B) I’m considering waiting an additional year before applying, to apply with my 1st class diploma, as it’ll definitely look better than a 3.0 at HSE. I’ll spend the year working, likely abroad.
C) I could just apply with my HSE + 780 next year. 99.95th percentile is 99.95th percentile after all.
If it's M7 or bust, what combination of A/B/C makes the most sense?