Real GMAT Score Dropped! How to handle?

[Jimmy]

I am just devastated. I took the GMAT back in June and got a 660 (42Q, 39V). I retook the GMAT today and got a score of 520 (36Q/25V). I cannot take the GMAT anymore. I'm just drained from this entire process. I'd like your professional opinion how this 2nd score hurts my chances at schools such as Darden?

[MBA Mission]

Thank you for your inquiry.

While disappointing, this score should not affect your chances. Virtually all schools consider only your highest score, due to flagrant self-interest. These schools want to report their highest possible average GMAT scores to BusinessWeek and others and therefore only report the top-scores of applicants. You would actually be better off with a 660 and a 520, rather than a 630 and 630. It is a shame that you missed an opportunity, but it won’t affect you.

Sincerely,
Jeremy Shinewald
MBA Mission

www.mbamission.com
646-485-8844

I am just devastated. I took the GMAT back in June and got a 660 (42Q, 39V). I retook the GMAT today and got a score of 520 (36Q/25V). I cannot take the GMAT anymore. I'm just drained from this entire process. I'd like your professional opinion how this 2nd score hurts my chances at schools such as Darden?

[Jimmy]

Thanks Jeremy...is this something I should even address on the application OR just ignore it altogether?

[MBA Mission]

Thank you for your reply.

You could discuss this in your optional essay, but I probably would not bother drawing attention to it. Many schools only ask you to report your highest score and then verify the score after you are accepted. So, if that were the case, I would not make it an issue.

Sincerely,
Jeremy Shinewald
MBA Mission

www.mbamission.com
646-485-8844

Thanks Jeremy...is this something I should even address on the application OR just ignore it altogether?