Scored 730: retake or not?

Question

Just walked out of the test with a score of 730 (Q: 49 V:42 IR:8) and cancelled. My hope was to get a really high GMAT score (750+) to offset my low GPA (2.96, due to one really bad year). Would it be worth it to spend the next 4 weeks grinding an extra 20-30 points to get above top school averages or hope that the optional essay explaining that one bad year will save me while working on other parts of my application? For context, without that year, my GPA would be closer to 3.5, not stellar, but certainly not <3.0.

I've shown good progress throughout my career from a finance analyst to associate to director, achieved 90th percentile on the CFA level 1 exam, was involved in some extra-curriculars in school and plan to start and finish a few non-work related projects before applying. Just want to know how much that 20-30 points may impact my application.

I was also thinking about going to an admissions councilor. Wondering if they would have additional insight into this.

GmatKnightTutor · Answer

If you have the flexibility to retake/feel it would bug you not to, it may be worth doing another attempt. Consider getting the ESR. May be some helpful insight you can leverage. If you feel your fundamentals are solid, working on your solving approach may help. Had a 6-hour student who went from a V41 to a V45 in about 10 days, for example. Perhaps work with a study buddy who is strong on Verbal (you could teach them Quant in exchange).

Ultimately, you can reinstate the 730 if you want.

-contact: gmatknight site | gmatclub dm

Ultimately, you can reinstate the 730 if you want.

-contact: gmatknight site | gmatclub dm

MartyTargetTestPrep · Answer

Hi lecremeglace.

I'm not an admissions expert, but I can say that your story about that one bad year would be more convincing alongside a 750+ GMAT score.

So, my call is that you should keep going and score higher.

For some tips on how to score 750+, see this post.

How to Score 750+ on the GMAT

lecremeglace · Answer

I'm definitely feeling like another attempt may be worth it. I scored 44+ verbal on the mocks, so seeing 42 was a bit of a disappointment. I have taken your advice and will certainly get the ESR. And as you say, I always have the 730 back pocket if I need to reinstate. Appreciate the advice!

lecremeglace · Answer

Certainly what I am thinking as well. I cannot go back and change my GPA, but I can certainly attempt to change my GMAT score and going above the average of the schools I am applying to will help my case. Appreciate the link.

ScottTargetTestPrep · Answer

I think if you can improve to 750+, then spending a few more weeks pushing to that score would be a good move for you. Let us know what you decide to do!

Scored 730: retake or not?

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