Should I take GMAT again?

Question

Hi,

Thank you for the great forum.

My current GMAT score is 750 (Q: 81%, V: 96%). However, AWA is 4 (21%). Should I retake it to raise the AWA. I will be applying in the fall.

Many thanks!

CriticalSquare · Answer

Hey there,

That is a fantastic GMAT score - congratulations mate! As for retaking the GMAT...absolutely not! An AWA score of 4 isn't great but it really won't be a big deal...at all. If your essays are on point no one is going to question your ability to communicate.

Honestly, go take the rest of the week off and bask in the glory of your 750!

Congrats again

Bhavik

Admissionado · Answer

Dude! Retake???
No way!
Instead: Break out the champagne!
Wahoo!

trr · Answer

Jon / Bhavik,
 
Thank you for your replies. That is what I also thought. However, as I am doing more research I read that for schools like HSW every single detail matters and might become a reason for “No”. That’s why I was getting concerned about the low AWA. Do you think that is not a valid concern?
 
Thanks
Trr

GeneralEducation · Answer

Hi there,

I agree with Bhavik here. As long as you have good profile and essays AWA score matters least. So, don't worry about it too much and instead start focusing on B-School applications and essays you are targeting.

Your GMAT Score is very good. So, from now start doing the groundwork for the B-Schools. Shortlist the B-Schools as per your profile based on statistics and start working on your essays. Seek assistance of your friends, colleagues or professional consultants(if required) to review your essays and make a strong application.

Feel free to write if you have any further queries.

Cheers!

CriticalSquare · Answer

Hi trr,

If a highly ranked programs puts you in the "no" pile, it will be for more than just a 4 on the AWA section. It will never mean someone with a profile that's good enough will be kept out.

Bhavik

trr · Answer

Thank you all. That is very helpful!

Trr

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myEssayReview · Answer

I absolutely concur with all the experts here. Who retakes GMAT after getting a 720+ score? Celebrate your excellent GMAT score and then move on to the next stage of the application process - school selection. Researching schools, talking to alumni and current students to get their feedback will take longer than you anticipate. And after you are done finalizing your list of target schools, then begin working on your other parts of your application- resume, essays, and recommendation letters. You will need a couple of weeks to "create " memorable essays for the Ad Com.
Good luck on your application.

Admissionado · Answer

Every little thing DOES matter, but also keep in mind a few things: 1. GMAT only helps to a certain point. It's like a threshold. Frankly, HBS doesn't care if you have a 750 or an 800. What will matter is the rest of your profile in conjunction with this GMAT. 2. If you were to retake this after a 750, even if you were to a higher score or AMA this will tell me that you are a bit "nitpicky". HBS wants people who understand the big picture. 3. You have better things to invest your time in that working for a slightly higher mostly irrelevant AMA score. I hope all these arguments have convinced you to break out the champagne.

Best, Jon

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