Where to go from here: 730 GMAT (45Q 46V)

Question

Hi everyone,

Looking for advice on my current situation, especially with regards to my GMAT. Recently took the exam and got a 730 with subscores Q45 and V46 and am looking to a apply for the following schools:

LSE: MSc in Finance and MSc in Accounting & Finance
Oxford: MFE
Imperial: MSc in Finance
HEC: MIF
LBS: MFA

More info on my profile below: 
3.97 GPA in a BSc in Mathematics and Finance from a T50 U.S. school 
International Experience (Continental European National studying in the US)
Worked as an Off-Cycle Analyst at an Investment Bank in the US
Held a Summer Analyst Role at a Mid-Market Investment Bank in my home country
Incoming Off-Cycle Intern at a Global Boutique in London
ECs include high-performance athletics and participation in clubs

I am strongly considering re-taking the GMAT because of the Quant score, unless advised otherwise and would like to know if my current score basically rules me out at all of those schools. Given my background I should be able to score higher on Quant, unsure why it turned out the way it did but look forward to hearing what the experts think!

MartyTargetTestPrep · Answer

Hi.

I'm not an admissions expert, but I can say that your quant score doesn't rule you out, but it's a little lower than those schools want to see, as you are likely aware.

So, I'm not 100 percent sure what you should do, but if you can score higher on quant with minimal prep, then I'm tempted to say that you should prep some and take the test again and score higher.

That said, you may get a more informed response if you post your query in the following forum, which is the one that admissions consultants monitor.

https://gmatclub.com/forum/the-b-school ... ation-103/

Suraj0184 · Answer

No doubts here..You must retake GMAT post the Quant preparations.

With a V46, you must aim for a minimum 750+ score. All the Best.

TheIvyLeagueEdge · Answer

Hey QuantBad,
From your post, I understand you have been under the impression your GMAT score is ALL that you need to get into the competitive programs that you aim for. 
Through my personal experience helping aspirants into top MS programs (including MFE), may I remind you that your GMAT is just ONE of the 6 or so pillars that you need to support your candidature. With your 730 score AND your stellar GPA, you have given ample evidence that you can handle the academics. So, while a 790 >760 >740, what the schools look for through your GMAT score is whether you can handle their course rigor. That is also why 730 is quite sufficient for your candidature, PROVIDED, the rest of your application brings out that compelling story which helps you stand out.

Your WE, Exposure, ECs etc all seem to make-up a strong profile. I would say your opportunity cost of targeting a higher score would reflect on your hasty applications, and are therefore high.

Please ping on my LinkedIn to set-up a 1:1 discussion and to answer your questions.

Best

Admissionado · Answer

QuantBad :

Yes, I do not see the downside in retaking exam other than whatever additional time and money are needed to sit for it a second time. The schools will count your highest overall score, so having a second test attempt is only to your advantage.

Your background is very strong quantitatively. Sometimes these exams are designed in a way that doesn't necessarily gel with even the most technical of folks! It could also have been a case of nerves or unfamiliarity with the process. It doesn't really matter. The point is, you should give another go prior to applying.

If you don't improve your score, I still think you will be fine. None of these schools are going to question your technical aptitude. They might view it as a odd that you didn't perform on par with your background, but I don't think it will really hut your candidacy at the end of the day.

Hope that helps,
Admissionado

Where to go from here: 730 GMAT (45Q 46V)

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