GMAT 770 - Q50, V47, IR4. IR too low?

Question

For reference, I had a 4.0 undergraduate GPA from the University of Georgia. I majored in Finance and Accounting. Went to do bulge bracket Investment Banking, and am now at a large hedge fund.

Target schools = Stanford and Harvard.

Will my low IR score be a red flag? Th two test takers beside me started on their essay sections right as I was starting IR, and it was difficult to focus with their keyboards clicking. Should I consider retaking in order to bring my IR up?

Posted from my mobile device

Bitss · Answer

Hi,

Not at all. Universities majorly look and report the verbal + quant score and that is what matters. And with the overall score you have, your IR will not all be a red flag. Go ahead and apply where ever you want, even thinking about another attempt because of low IR will be a waste of time.

All the best !

Iamprithwish · Answer

Hard to imagine that you would find a red flag even with this score.

AndrewN · Answer

Congratulations,  prefshares , on a fine GMAT™ performance. Although I am NOT an admissions consultant, I can offer an informed opinion as a tutor. Two of my clients have gotten into such schools with an IR score no greater than 4, not to mention lower total scores. As far as the GMAT™ goes, the total score is what counts, just as others have said above. Keep in mind, though, that the exam is merely one component of your application package. It would be a good idea to get some feedback on your candidate  profile  from these same admissions consultants.

I hope you may take the time to post a debrief, since the community is always curious about poring over anything from someone who earned a top score. Whatever you decide, though, good luck with your endeavors.

- Andrew

MBAandBeyond · Answer

Hi prefshares , First and foremost, congratulations on a wow score!

Your IR score of 4 is unlikely to endanger your application. B-schools do not consider your AWA and IR scores separately but rather as part of your overall GMAT results. And your 770 should be able to compensate for the 4. However, in interviews, you might have to justify your low score. The next thing you can do is connect to your target schools and ask how they interpret IR scores. You can also question them directly if your low IR score, considering your high GMAT score, raises a red flag and what you can do about it. All the best! If you have any concerns with your application, we are happy to hop on a call with you to discuss your profile in length and your further chances to b-school. Feel free to book a free session with us as per your convenience. Let’s maximize your chances in Round 1 for fall intake Cheers! Shantanu Sharma Founder and Admissions Consultant, MBA and Beyond Testimonials Email: shantanu@mbaandbeyond.com What s app: +65-97158525

PersonalMBACoach · Answer

Hi prefshares , Congrats on the strong overall score. Since you scored very high on Quant with a lower IR, it should be fine. If you plan to apply in Round 1 this fall, I would not suggest spending a lot of time preparing for a retake only to get a 5 vs 4 on IR. At this point, particularly because Harvard has announced that its essay will not be changing , I suggest directing your attention to the essays. If you are looking for help putting together strong applications for Stanford and Harvard, take a look at Personal MBA Coach’s comprehensive packages to learn how we can help enhance your candidacy, and do not hesitate to send a note to scott@personalmbacoach.com. Personal MBA Coach works with lots of finance professionals and would be happy to help set you up for success. Regards, Personal MBA Coach

GyanOne · Answer

Hi  prefshares

You have a GPA of 4.0, and a strong overall score of 770. The IR score should not be a factor here.

ExpertsGlobal · Answer

Hi  prefshares ,

You have a strong GMAT score and should not be concerned about your IR score at all. Schools are mainly concerned with your quant and verbal scores.

All the best!

GMAT 770 - Q50, V47, IR4. IR too low?

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