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What if you have a low GPA or are Indian/Asian? 720 is below average at many top schools so are you sure that checks the box? Also aren’t interview metrics (like the template you listed) only one component of the admissions process in addition to other factors like GMAT, GPA, essays, recommendations, work experience, etc.?
Coach
My point is that if you have a good score (700+) don’t forget to focus on the rest of your application. Too many times I’ve seen people obsessed with higher GMATs. It’s competitive so you need to spend time and effort making sure the rest of the application is top notch.
If you have the time, will and belief you can get a better score, then go for it. But do not let it result in you not writing fantastic essays, pushing for a new interesting project/promotion at work, taking a leadership role volunteering etc. These will differentiate more than 720 to 750. It’s time opportunity cost.
Did some research and OP is full of it:
https://gmatclub.com/forum/admission-rate-213025.html
TLDR; Increasing your GMAT score always increases your chances on average, and it does so by significant amounts.
Coach
I never said it wasn’t crucial. My original point was if you already have a good score, make sure you’re not forgetting to focus on the rest of the application too. I see too many people obsessed with having to get a higher score and forgetting how much work the rest of the application takes. It is extremely competitive and you need to make sure you’re well rounded. If you have the extra time, will and confidence you can get a better score, by all means go for it. But if it means your essays aren’t 10% better then I would say don’t.
Think we’re on the same side here.
Coach
I will admit that two identical people with ONLY slightly different high gmat scores (ie 720 vs 740) then yes, higher gmat is better. BUT if the slightly lower score person wrote more interesting essays, really understood the questions and showed a deeper understanding of the school and enabled their references better, then I would admit the lower person any day of the week. I’ve been told this multiple times by different admit officers.
Also, no one is identical. If you think you’re identical then you need to come up with better examples of your unique selling points and keep drafting your essays.
Coach
Thanks Con1 and BA1 - you’ve argued my point. Too many people obsess on the gmat and not their entire application. Spend time in the area that will have the largest incremental impact of your application.
Once you do everything, then look for weakest links. If gmat is it, then to for it. If leadership is it, then take more initiative at your sports club/volunteer work (it’s only round 1 right now - still have 6 months before round 2). If lack of work experience/projects or track record is it; then take the next year to get more interesting projects, mentorship and a promotion and apply next year if need be. You can even find/coach a reference to help. All these things take time and effort also.
Coach
MBA2014 here from a top tier program. Since graduating I’ve interviewed 20+ candidates and helped dozens more with their applications. Also number 7 in my immediate family to go to an MBA program.
Coach
Kudos to you. Now stop being a snob.
Thanks! Can you please expand on “fit/caliber” and “contribution to community”? Maybe an example?
Coach
Fit/caliber is how well you have researched the school and demonstrate you align with its priorities and overall goals. Also would you be a good fit with other high caliber classmates.
Will you actively contribute to your community (classmates during program and support a community beyond bschool and work)
Definitely disagree. Attended a T10 and had classmates that got off the waitlist by bumping up their GMAT on a re-take. Most were 700+, though frequently below the median of the class.
Coach
Further study is an opportunity cost of the rest of the application is what I said. Too many people obsess on gmat IMO when creating great essays for multiple schools is very hard work.