taking the test in a week but upset about recent low scores

Question

I'm taking the test in a week. Aim is 720+
I took 2 diagnostic MGMAT CATs a while back 640, 620.
After studying intensively my recent scores are (in chronological order):
MGMAT#3 6/18: 730
GMATPREP#1 6/24: 760
MGMAT#4 6/27: 690
Kaplan (free online CAT): 670:
(I don't really understand how they scored this one. It gave me Quant% - 93%, Verbal% - 95%, Overall% - 88%. I'm actually not sure how the overall% and thus 670 is possible.

I'm planning to take the last 2 mgmat cats and the second gmatprep. sun/tue/thur coming up.

Should I postpone my test? I'm a little disheartened at the drop in score. Any last minute advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

goodbyeboy · Answer

Don't worry about Kaplan GMAT score. Also, drop in score happens all the time, so no reason to sweat. I wouldn't actually suggest postponing your test - you also might want to go easy on throwing in too many practice tests in a week. Not only you will be exhausted but also as you can see, scores may drop and they might diminish your confidence. I'd suggest you to try to relax and clear up your brain so you'll be refreshed by the test day. Hope this helps.

akhileshgupta05 · Answer

Don't postpone your test! The best indicator of your result is GMATPrep in which you scored 760. Relax for the next few days, take the GMATprep (with AWA) and ignore the scores of other tests. For Practising only use questions from GMATprep floating on this forum. Don't use any other material. You are well on your way to GLORY! all the best

bb · Answer

You have great GMAT Prep scores. Go for it. You may be done much earlier than otherwise if you have to retake. Don't kill yourself the last few days before the test.

FYI. If you have less than 7 days left, there is no value in canceling....

imitations · Answer

Thanks for the feedback. I've decided to proceed with the test. Going to take 2 more CATs this week and rest up a day before the test.

I am still bothered by why my kaplan cat score was so low, and why my overall % is lower than both section%, i didn't know that was possible

BM · Answer

Cancellation or postponement is not a wise move in your case, I think. The main obstacle to your score will come from: (1) high stress or anxiety from your "low" scores on the Kaplan and Manhattan CAT, and (2) burnout from doing too many practice tests so near the actual test date. Manhattan tests are tough, and Kaplan has (or at least had) a reputation for their CAT's in terms of difficulty.

You should be fine at this point. Just stay calm and in control. I know that's easier said then done, but this is really the last obstacle between you and a great score (other than the actual test, of course!). So many fall prey to freaking out or doing too much in the last week. Don't succumb to this temptation!

imitations · Answer

took another mgmat cat today, received 730. I actually knew i messed up on math because i was out of time with 8 questions to go.

I am less concerned about the Kaplan diagnostic now. I think they purposely score lower to induce people to register for their class!

BM · Answer

You seem calmer and more relaxed now, so that's good. Just continue to stay in control! And remember to take a break the day before the test in order to be fresh. In fact, you can just as well take two days off.

Good luck!

imitations · Answer

Thanks for all the positive feedback!

I took my last mgmat cat today with both awas mgmat#6 - 750
even used the test simulation booklet (scratch pad) and marker.

my test is saturday, and i still have gmatprep#2 left.

I was thinking about doing it Thursday, and resting all day Friday.
or
Taking it tomorrow, and either studying lightly or resting Thursday, followed by resting Friday.

What do you guys think is the best approach to peaking my score on the actual exam?

imitations · Answer

took the gmats today... way under my expectations. q49/v38 - 710.

I am actually feeling pretty worthless right now.
My last few practice exams were mgmat 730/750/730. gmatprep 760/730. (all first time exams under real conditions and no retest material)

In fact my verbal scores were always between 41-45..
I have sub-standard GPA - 3.0. Major gpa 3.4. Although I did have a double major.
I also have average work experience. 4-5 years, 2 management jobs.

I had originally set my eyes on a top 20 school. Now i'm not so sure anymore, and I'm feeling pretty lost as what to do next. I would appreciate any suggestions and feedback.

Thanks

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taking the test in a week but upset about recent low scores

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