AWA 6, V 45, M 50, 770 total, but IR 4... worth retaking?

Question

Hi GMAT Experts.

I think I did pretty well on my first GMAT (see scores in the subject line), but I am worried about having received a 4 in the IR section. (I am not sure what happened here, I was scoring better on my practice tests. I am wondering also if I put in answers for the last question but never clicked "next" if this question was voided too...)

Anyway, I am wondering if this low IR section would be reason enough to consider retaking the test? At how much of a disadvantage am I if I submit scores as is? (I am looking at the top ten business schools.)

Thanks!

JW

bb · Answer

I have not seen any latest updates from GMAC or Business Schools in terms of the IR score validity and its implications on candidacy. So, unless the current perspective changes and there is some amazing study that says IR is the best thing in the world, you have nothing to worry about it with a 770. It clearly demonstrates your capabilities and I would not retake.

If you want to be 100% safe (and I like to), you may want to reach out to your target schools (the adcoms may be bored anyway) and see if you can get their take on it and whether they feel a retake is warranted.

Great job on the GMAT!

KyleWiddison · Answer

I totally agree with bb about reaching out to your target schools to get their stance on IR. The other thing I have heard about IR is that some consulting or I-banking firms will look at IR for screening job applicants, so if either of those is your target industry you may consider a retake to increase that IR score.

KW

KW

gDubs · Answer

Hi BB,

I have my test scheduled for day after, and I am absolutely miserable in my IR section. Despite any efforts I take, I barely get a score of 2/3. Is there anything I can do today/tomorrow to help? Also, how important is the IR score?

GMATPILLBILL · Answer

Hey JW,

Generally speaking, you want to score decent enough on the IR section so as not to draw negative attention to a low IR score.

You don't want the admissions committee to focus on a really low IR score of like 1 or 2 -- that shows lack of effort or ability

That said, it's not that much more beneficial to have a perfect 8 versus a 6 or 7.

So ideally, you want to stay in the 4, 5, 6, or 7 range to efficiently get a score that is decent without putting a crazy amount of effort.

Now, with your IR score of 4 – that is decent and good enough. In addition, your 770 score is very high. So in your situation, I wouldn't worry about retaking the test for a higher IR score because you’re in the target zone.

RichEconomistGMAT · Answer

Hi jwilliamson,

Many business schools are still trying to figure out how to factor the IR section into their decisions. Check out this article on Poets & Quants about this: https://poetsandquants.com/2014/10/09/b- ... r-section/

That being said, your 770 on the GMAT shouldn't preclude you from applying to the business schools of your choice.

Best of luck!
Rich

AWA 6, V 45, M 50, 770 total, but IR 4... worth retaking?

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