Retake the GMAT with a 730?

[CD]

I got a 730 on the GMAT, which I'm very disappointed with. I was getting 740s-770s on the practice exams.

I know that 730 is a good score, and that it's "in range" for the top schools. The problem is I'm only applying to the very top schools -- HBS and Stanford, maybe Wharton.

The other issue is that I have a pretty standard background -- a couple of years in banking and a couple of years in private equity -- and of the 5 people I know who have similar backgrounds and have told me their scores, I have the lowest score (two people got 780s, one a 770, and one a 740).

Given that I'm applying only to the very top schools, and that for my profile my scores are low, should I plan on retaking the exam?

[MBAApply]

I hope you're kidding.

Do you really think an extra 10 points is material? If it means that much to you, by all means re-take it, as GMAC will be more than happy to take your money. But it's not going to make a difference from an admissions standpoint other than the fact that the re-take will make you look like a bit of a fool with an adcom who will likely question your priorities (not to mention your neurotic attention to things that aren't that important).

Alex Chu
alex@mbaapply.com
www.mbaapply.com
http://mbaapply.blogspot.com

[Guest]

I got a 730 on the GMAT, which I'm very disappointed with. I was getting 740s-770s on the practice exams.

I know that 730 is a good score, and that it's "in range" for the top schools. The problem is I'm only applying to the very top schools -- HBS and Stanford, maybe Wharton.

The other issue is that I have a pretty standard background -- a couple of years in banking and a couple of years in private equity -- and of the 5 people I know who have similar backgrounds and have told me their scores, I have the lowest score (two people got 780s, one a 770, and one a 740).

Given that I'm applying only to the very top schools, and that for my profile my scores are low, should I plan on retaking the exam?

It might be worth it, if you score >= 780. But, consider that there is a good chance that your score can drop even if you make a few mistakes.