700 ( V34, Q50) - Second MBA afer 7 years of experience

[roshan.gandhi]

Recently, I appeared for GMAT after months of preparation. It was not continous though, was on it on and off. Finshed with Score of 700 ( V34 & Q 50).

I am disappointed with my verbal scores, I came under time pressure in last 10 mins and went blank for almost 2-3 mins. In GMAT prep test I always averaged between 34-38 and wanted to hit the higher limit of my range and get a score of 730/40, but ended up touching the lower limit.

I completed my 2 year full time MBA in 2004 and have 7 years of experience. I want to go for second MBA to gain international exposure ( 1 year courses primarlily).

As my Verbal score is only 68% , and my target is top ranked Business School such as LBS, INSEAD. Is this score good enough considering my experience.

At INSEAD, they seem to discourage applicants who have less than 70-75 in any section. Is the case with other Top Business schools also.

As this is the second MBA, I want to do only if I make it to one of the top B-School.

[mbamission]

Hi Roshan

Thanks for writing in. While a 700 is certainly a good score, I agree with your concern about the unbalanced score. Although you could always try again to squeeze out those extra few points, it might be a better strategy to spend that focus on your essays. These highly-ranked programs will want to know details about why you are seeking a second MBA -- some schools don't even consider candidates on that track -- and what their program will offer you that 7 years of experience and an existing MBA can't. My assessment is that those programs are likely reaches, but your chances will be more improved if you can clearly answer my above question, rather than add just a few points/some more balance to your GMAT.

Best of luck!

Dan Richards
mbaMission