I just got out of the GMAT a few hours ago and was deeply disappointed in my score. I got a 44 on both sections- V 97%, Q 68%. In the previous two weeks I had averaged 750, with a verbal usually from 46-47, and quant 47-48 (on the GMAT Prep tests, which I understand are the most accurate). So I know that 710 is generally a good, score, but given my preparation and indicators, I was not happy with my score. I am very concerned about my quant score, because I know that quant is more important to MBA programs.

I have my heart set on HBS and really wanted a score that would lend me a lot of confidence in admissions. I feel like a Q 47-48 would do the job (so my prep test scores gave me a good amount of confidence), but I am really worried about a Q 44, 68%.

I come from the middle class, white, male group of applicants. I just graduated from Brigham Young University's Accounting program with a 3.9 GPA. I will be working for LEK Consulting in LA for three years and then applying to business school. I have a ton of leadership and extracurricular experience, so I felt like a top GMAT score would shore up one of the last elements.

I am very seriously considering taking the GMAT again in a few weeks. Is that a ridiculous idea? Can I have confidence in applying to HBS with 68% Quant? How much do they emphasize this aspect of the GMAT score? My other top choices are Columbia, Yale, and Stanford. I also want to do a JD/MBA joint degree, does this have any impact on my questioning?

Please help me figure out if I should take the GMAT again!!!

Thanks so much!

Jeremiah Jewkes

Hi Jeremiah,

You're right that a Quant score that low will probably hurt your chances at HBS. There are absolutely no hard-and-fast rules, by my own rule of thumb is that you should aim for at least a score in the 80th percentile on each half of the exam. You're obviously in great shape with Verbal... Now you just need to solve the Quant half.

Since you don't plan on applying for several years, I don't see a need to race to take the GMAT again. Take it when you're ready... No need to take it sooner.

So, to boil it down: YES, you definitely should take it again, but no need to hurry up and take it so soon!

Scott