Odds of success

Question

I just gave the GMAT exam and got a 710. Q49 V38 IR7. Waiting for AWA. I am targeting the 2024 intake and have to start on my applications soon. My academic background is decent but not great and I have been working in an IT company with little growth since November 2020. I was planning to do extra certifications in the time I have left in order to give my profile a boost but I'm wondering whether I should reattempt the GMAT in early August. Any opinions?

bb · Answer

Hi. Congrats on your GMAT and getting the 700+ Here are some options to get a few perspectives on your profile: https://gmatclub.com/forum/profile-eval ... 12626.html Extra certifications will not help unfortunately, and bumping your GMAT higher would be a much better idea/possibility as long as you can bump it up. However, even bumping a tiny bit in Q and V can mean significant score boost. Going to Q50 V40 can be 740 or 750 and that's a much more competitive score esp if your profile is lacking. However, no score will get you into a Top 10 program if your background is stagnated and you have been stuck in a job without much movement. Perhaps you can show something else you have been doing with your time the last 2-3 years. That will be your goal and challenge - show that you have used your time wisely even though you were not recognized at your job/work. -BB

LemonEd · Answer

Hi  Harshvardhan2210

Your GMAT score is good, but a higher score can make a difference. So if you have the time and inclination, you should retake the GMAT, especially since your academics and work experience aren't that great by your own admission.

In my opinion, improving your GMAT score would definitely play a bigger role in the MBA admissions process than doing an extra certification. You can pursue an extra certification or even pick up an interesting project at work if you feel it can be managed alongside your GMAT prep.

All the best!

Admissionado · Answer

Harshvardhan2210 :

There's no downside to retaking the exam. The lion's share of schools count your highest attempt so at the very least you're locked into a floor of 710, which is fantastic. The only "cost" is your time (for prep, the test itself) and the actual cost of taking the exam - all relatively insigificant.

We echo the other posts that improving your score 10 points won't really matter. Moving up to 730 is definitely helpful, and anything above that is certainly great.

Also, keep in mind, it depends on which schools you are targeting. If you are going to for, say, the top 10, then a higher score could make you more competitive. If you are looking at say 10-25, then a 710 is probably fine.

Long story short, retake the exam so you avoid the "what if's." Low risk, high reward. You are in great shape.

TheIvyLeagueEdge · Answer

Fully agree with BB here. 
1. For the schools you are targeting, a 740+ would help a LOT more.
2. The lack of promotions WILL hamper your application, UNLESS you are able to substantiate your application with compelling stories, that resonate your leadership potential, maybe through ECs, and initiatives. At the risk of repetition, please understand NO score can take you to top schools, if your story/ application is weak

Happy to do a 1-1 session to answer your questions further

ExpertsGlobal · Answer

Hello @Harshvardhan221,

Apologies for the delayed response.

Considering you will be applying in a month or so, do not worry about extra certifications. Frankly, these will not help much. Instead, you should focus on improving your GMAT.

All the best!

MBAGuide · Answer

Harshvardhan2210 It would be more beneficial to invest your time in improving your GMAT score rather than pursuing additional certifications. Last-minute certifications often do not add significant value, as admissions committees can see through attempts to make up for a low GMAT or GPA. A "sustained interest" in learning and extracurricular activities is key to gaining admission to the top B-schools. Any desperate last-minute attempt to embellish your profile without a solid foundation can leave a bad taste. Also, consider how you can strengthen your narrative by showcasing your professional growth rather than letting your IT background get you down. Growth can show up not only in promotions, but also in your learnings and knowledge, ideas, and the impact you have made through the various projects you have worked on. Another effective strategy for standing out from the crowd is to do thorough research on your post-MBA career prospects. Show genuine interest in the schools you are applying to, talk to alumni and industry experts, and gather insights that demonstrate your commitment and readiness for your desired career path. These will make for great points of discussions in your essays and during your interviews. Your personalized advice tailored to your specific situation is just a phone call or message away. Do not hesitate to reach out to us if you need help navigating your unique circumstances in the PGP admissions process. Best wishes Aanchal Sahni (INSEAD alum and ex-admissions interviewer) MBAGuideConsulting WEBSITE: https://mbaguideconsulting.com/ | LinkedIn | Message: +91 9971200927| email- mbaguideconsulting@gmail.com

TitanRConsulting · Answer

Your GMAT score of 710 will get you into a very decent MBA school. MBA admissions revolve around telling great stories. At TitanR, we will work with you to create a compelling story that will get you admissions at your desired school.

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