Wonder if my score is enough for a top EMBA program

Question

I took the EA test this Saturday: Total 160; Verbal 11; IR 11; Quant 18.

Do I have to retake the exam? I feel that most of the top programs have an average of 153-156. However, I heard some of them have a minimum of 12 for each sector.

---- 6-Year full-time experience + Master's Degree in Finance; Currently in an investment/ front office role in one of the top banks' asset management division.

Thank you so much!

bb · Answer

Hi. I am not sure which executive program you are thinking about. Many of the leading programs have certain requirements such as years of work experience as well as a certain level of seniority. It’s possible you may need them but usually at least in the US the restaurant expectations for the executive program.

The good news is that that missions teams are very transparent about their requirements and who they are looking for their class. They will do a free profile assessment for you and basically schedule a call to tell you more about the program and basically tell you how you can be a better fit and what to expect. Executive programs are very different from the full-time programs And so there is this unique aspect to them, they are very helpfu when it comes to admissions because they are prorated on a for-profit basis, and they are interested in recruiting as many students as possible as long as they don’t diminish the reputation.

So my recommendation will be to reach out directly.

MBAPrepCoach · Answer

I think 12 is more of a recommendation than a hard cut off. You're in a front office role so that should cover you in terms of the verbal which is very close anyways. If you had a 10 I might recommend that you retake it but I think you're fine 160 is a compelling score. And the quant is the most important section especially if you are a native speaker. Do a good job on the essays and interview. Create a coherent argument with your goals. All the said if you feel as though you have some good momentum and maybe you just like over invested in the first question and came up with timing problems or something then redo it if it's not going to warp your life or take away time from your applications. You don't want to leave money on the table but you also don't want to erode your mental health or the quality/integrity of your apps.

Sition1985 · Answer

That said, with a Verbal score of 11, you may fall below the minimum section score required by some top programs, even if your total score of 160 is above their average. Many schools look at sectional cutoffs to ensure balance, especially in competitive programs.

If you're targeting top-tier schools and you've confirmed that a 12+ minimum per section is common, it might be worth considering a retake—especially if you feel you can improve with some focused prep. A slightly higher Verbal score could strengthen your application and remove any doubt about academic readiness.

Of course, your strong career and academic background will help, but meeting all minimums keeps your application solid across the board.

MoneyWIns · Answer

are emba worth it?

Dream009 · Answer

Depends on where you are in your career journey. In Dubai/ UAE - regular MBA market and EMBA both are there. I have seen so many LBS and Insead EMBAs - also HEC EMBA. The thing is either way you have to find a job yourself and if you are like already beyond 12 years - that v=becomes a better financial option

MoneyWIns

are emba worth it?

Wonder if my score is enough for a top EMBA program

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