Should I Retake the GMAT?

[gregory.osullivan]

Hello,

So I am in the process of filling out applications to INSEAD along with the top business schools in the US. I took my GMAT over 2 years ago now (my senior year of college) and got a 740. Obviously this is a strong score but I'm somewhat worried about the breakdown between Verbal and Quant (99% and 66%); During the test I froze on the Quant section and know I could do better (I was testing in the 90-99th percentile in the practice tests) but should I just let it be? I work in the strategy consulting field, did ok/well in quantitative courses in college (A in econometrics, B in multivariable Calculus) and performed well on quantitative SAT/AP tests.

Should I retake the test, address the issue specifically in the application, or will the admissions committee see this as merely the bad test day it was (I don't mean to be conceited, but I am normally a better test taker)? Also I've included my profile in case there's anything that stands out

Profile:
American, Male 25
Irish Dual Citizen

GMAT: 740
Verbal: 99%
Quant: 66%

Education
Dartmouth College
BA Economics
GPA: 3.53
SAT: 1590,
SAT II/AP Scores (if those count for anything)
BC Calculus 5
Macroeconomics 5
Microeconomics 4
Math IIC 800

Work:
2009-2011
Strategy Consulting, Boutique Firm Specializing in PE & Telecom

Extra Curriculars:
1) Head Development Agent
- Lead fundraising organizer for class, managing solicitation team, and setting fundraising targets



Why MBA:
Both looking for the chance to improve management ability and and expand opportunities in the consulting field, potentially working abroad

Thanks for your help

[mbamission]

Hi Gregory,

Thanks for writing in. A 740 is a great score and even with your unbalanced score, I don't think there is a need to retake the test. If you're concerned about the impact of your lower Quant score you can write a very short optional essay pointing to your Quant grades from college and previous tests, as well as any regular Quant skills needed in your consulting job. You're likely better off spending the 20+ hours you would need to invest in GMAT prep in your applications and essays at this point.

Best of luck,

Daniel Richards
http://www.mbamission.com

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