I took the GMAT back in August and I didn't do as well as I would have liked, I scored a 540. I did really well on the Verbal and AWA sections but the Math killed me, I scored in the 25th percentile. I am planning on retaking the test because the one local school that I would like to apply to will not accept a GMAT score unless all of the sections are at least in the 50th percentile. I would also like to retake it for personal pride issues I have all of the prep books I need this time and I am going to dedicate at least a month for study. My question is this: according to mba.com when you retake the test they will send your new score along with your old scores to the schools you designate. Will a previous bad score diminish a newer good score in the eyes of the schools? I know a 540 isn't all that bad but will a really good score be looked at any less if there is a lower score posted along with it? Thanks for the input. Cory
I'd say the how you do on the retake is more important than the fact you retook. The Businessweek MBA forums are full of people posting things like "I took the GMAT and got a 490, but I'm studying really hard and expect to top 700 on my retake. Do you think I have a chance at Harvard, Stanford, or Wharton?" These delusions aside, a *lot* of people take the GMAT more than once. As long as you show a good improvement, I don't think the fact that you've taken the test before will hurt you in your application. If I were you, I would check out the different GMAT forums out there, and by all means grab the GMAT Official Guide and understand (not just attempt) the math problems it contains. The Powerprep software available for download at mba.com might also be useful to you.
GMAT Just having taken the test before is good for 50 points, based on the diminished anxiety levels. Take it again and don't worry about having two scores reported. Get some simulation CD's from one of the vendors and get accustomed to the format of the test, which can be frustrating on the computer if you are a pad and pencil type of person. The GMAT is just like a musical instrument. You must practice. Good luck.
