GMAT 760, IR 4- Should I retake the test. How much does IR matter?

Question

Hi Everyone,

I just took my GMAT and got a score of 760 (Q50 V45). But my IR score 4 . I was pretty nervous in the start and on a section which has just 30 mins you can't afford to lose time because of bad temperament. What should I do. Should I consider retaking the exam.

Would really appreciate your advise.

Thanks

Would really appreciate your advise. Thanks

VeritasPrepDennis · Answer

Basanti -

It would help if you provided some background. What schools are you looking at applying to? What is is your undergraduate degree in and your work experience?

Ideally, in applying to the top schools, you will want to eliminate any questions up front. A IR score of 4, while not insurmountable, does raise some questions. You can check the various schools that you are interested in and see the range of IR scores in accepted students to give you an idea. Additionally, it would be good to talk with an Admissions counselor at the schools to gauge their thoughts. Good luck!

EMPOWERgmatRichC · Answer

Hi Basanti,

A 760/Q50 is an outstanding score, so you can comfortably apply to any Business School that you choose. Since many Business Schools have publicly stated that they don't use the IR score as part of the application process, you have nothing to worry about there. As long as your AWA is a 4.0 or higher, you don't have a problem there either. Thus, retaking the GMAT is NOT necessary.

Do you know which Schools you're planning to apply to?
When are you planning to apply?

GMAT assassins aren't born, they're made,
Rich

thatmbagirl · Answer

Thanks for your reply Dennis and Rich.

I will start applying to schools next year. I want to target the top 10-20 schools- Wharton,Kellogg, Darden,Tuck etc. As for my profile I completed my B.E. in Electronics in June 2013. I have been working as a Data Analyst in ZS Associates India office since the past two years and recently got promoted. My CGPA is just above average. Hence, I really needed my GMAT score to standout. However, I am concerned will my GMAT score be able to make up for both my CG and IR.

Thanks
Basanti

EMPOWERgmatRichC · Answer

Hi Basanti,

With these scores, there is no reason to retake the GMAT. You're ultimately asking Admissions questions, so you might want to ask the Admissions Experts in their Forum:

ask-admission-consultants-124/

GMAT assassins aren't born, they're made,
Rich

VeritasPrepDennis · Answer

Basanti -

With a GMAT score of 760, you have provided excellent evidence of your abilities. Speaking with a few Admissions counselors at your choice schools will give you a better feel for what they are looking for. But, your IR score can easily be addressed within your Admissions essay. Do not belabor the issue, but acknowledging it and providing some explanation should be sufficient. Good luck and keep any more questions coming!

thatmbagirl · Answer

Thanks so much Dennis and Rich. You have made me feel much better about my situation. I hope my background in data analysis helps to address any concerns for IR.

Dennis,

Regarding your point of addressing the low IR score, do you have any tips on how to best address it. I was getting an IR of 7-8 consistently on my gmatprep. My nerves got the better of me on the gmat day. But seems like a silly excuse to write in an essay.

GMATPILLBILL · Answer

Hey Basanti

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 760 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.

thatmbagirl · Answer

Thanks everyone for your inputs. I am planning to apply this year.

GMAT 760, IR 4- Should I retake the test. How much does IR matter?

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