The Optional Essay

Question

I received a 690 on my GMAT and will not be retaking (~72%Q / ~92%V)

The rest of my application is very strong with top notch work experience (quantitative in nature) and solid undergraduate credentials (3.8 GPA in Finance, non-reputable University). I also have very solid extracurriculars. I am caucasian/American.

For my stretch schools, which are Wharton, Booth, and Kellogg, should I address my GMAT (esp quant) in the optional essay? I know a 690 is well within the 80% range for these schools, however, it is 20-30 points below the median. I have significant quantitative experience I can comment on but I was wondering if a 690 is too high a score to attempt to "justify". Thanks.

whiplash2411 · Answer

I would probably not justify it. If you have a strong quantitative background that should speak for itself. Calling attention to this might not necessarily work in your favor, I think.

JudithHodara · Answer

I generally think that if the car is not " that" broken, don't fix it! A 690 is totally acceptable, and it seems like the rest of your professional and academic work would suggest that you can handle the quant at the schools to which you are applying.
When I was in admissions, I generally suggested that students let us know if the quant was unnaturally low for some reason than would not have been readily apparent,( illness, etc...) and in that case I would have also suggested a class in stats or finance to help to support the application.
In my opinion, optional essays can be used to explain some gap in work or school experience ( you were looking for work in a down economy, or you were sick while in school and needed to take time off) or to explain a sub-par undergraduate experience ( for a good reason) Its not a great place to talk about a 690 GMAT, which sort of makes you sound more apologetic than you need to be.

Thanks, and let us know if you have any other questions!

tigerbeck · Answer

I would choose to highlight the quant experience in other essays if it makes sense and a more compelling case for your acceptance. If you talk about a project you ran, show your thought process and analysis including the quant stuff if it's important.

Becky

Becky

Izvos · Answer

As many people, as many opinions. My suggestion is to highlight it but indirectly. Adcom can look and analyze your gmat score and if quant part is your strenth and you would like to point out - it worth, otherwise you are just concentrationg adcoms attention at smth they are already know.

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