Retake GMAT

[rosenbergmaj]

Hello

I am a CPA working for a big 4 public accounting firm and have been since I graduated. I did my undergrad at Wash U and have a 3.5 GPA. At work I have been selected to serve on a prestigious advisory board committee. I plan on switching into entertainment and will be applying to top tier schools including UCLA and NYU.

Since I graduated I also started my own company, which I am making a focal point to my application. This company is an online film blog and has seen significant growth in a short time.

I currently took the GMAT and got a 660 (48Q/33V). Is this score really going to hold me back? I believe I can raise my verbal, but it will be my third time taking the exam.

Please advise

[mbamission]

Hi rosenbergmaj,

Thanks for sharing these details with us. It appears that you have a somewhat unique story and that it will be the focus of your application. While your GMAT score is certainly an important part of your application, if you can clearly state why you need an MBA to make this career transition, you can balance out your 660 with other strengths. Since UCLA and NYU have strong entertainment programs, they may be receptive to focusing more on your blog and career transition than your GMATs (which is in the 20/80 range for UCLA, but I believe falls below the range for Stern).

Schools traditionally only look at your highest score, so taking the GMAT for a third time will not be held against you. If you think you can raise your overall score, the improvement can only help your cause.

Best of luck,

Daniel Richards
http://www.mbamission.com

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[rosenbergmaj]

Daniel, thanks for the response.