Hi, Looking for a little insight.
Just took the GMATs and while I'm very happy with my overall score - 710/94%) - and concerned that the discrepancy b/w my very strong verbal (50/99%) and my less-than-stellar quant (39/58%) will be a problem.
I'm applying to one year programs in Europe - Oxford, Cambridge, IE, ESADE. I'm an American female, on the older side, w/ 11 years of marketing experience at top companies (currently at an investment bank); 3.84 GPA undergrad (degree in business, with good grades in quant courses like stats, calc, accounting, econ); decent volunteer work. My work experience has been mostly on the creative marketing/writing side, hence the discrepancy in scores, but I have no doubt I can handle the workload, given my past courseload and the kind of company I work for.
Any insight on the importance of a balanced score would be much appreciated. Would prefer not to take the test again, but if it can make a big difference, I certainly will. Thank you!
kay
Clear Admit 03-27-2006, 09:48 PM Dear Kay,
Your concern about the discrepancy between your quantitative and verbal score is a legitimate one. MBA programs are very interested in confirming that incoming students will be able to handle the quantitative rigors of business school. Most Top 10 schools use 80% as a general cutoff; students with scores under 80% in either section will not be denied as a matter of course, but will definitely raise concerns with the adcom. Fortunately, you have a strong GPA and experience with quantitatively rigorous courses ?this will help you to argue to the adcom that you are not an adept test-taker but are still capable of performing well in quantitative environments.
As you consider the most advantageous course of action, based on the 58% quant. score, you should keep these potential ideas in mind:
1) Re-taking the test: I realize that you’d rather not retake the test, but a quant. score that was at least 70% would do a great deal to further demonstrate your ability to succeed at business school. Furthermore, it would show the adcom that you are committed to making yourself a convincing candidate. Even though you have no doubt about your ability to handle the workload, a low score will leave the adcom with plenty of doubts.
2) Stressing your quantitative strengths in other areas: Even if you do retake the test, it will still be important to effectively position your other quantitative strengths. However, in the event that you decide not to retake, this positioning will be even more vital. Your academics are a good first step, but the fact that you are an older applicant will mean that these experiences carry a bit less weight. You might consider taking an evening class, perhaps in finance, to show that your academic and quantitative abilities are currently sharp.
Good luck with the application process!
Nick Maxwell
Clear Admit, LLC
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