Importance of GMAT Quant Section for Finance Masters
I scored 730 on the GMAT (Q47/V42) and am worried that the low quant score (only 54th percentile) might significantly hurt my chances of getting admitted to top European finance masters (LBS MFA, LSE MFin, Oxford MFE, HEC IntFin, HSG MBF, Bocconi MFin), especially given that I am already quite late in the application cycle for the 2024 intake and with later rounds being likely more competitive.
I would consider the rest of my profile to be competitive, with a nearly perfect undergraduate GPA from a Continental European semi-target in Business Administration, strong internships (MBB, EB, MM PE), and extensive extracurriculars.
Do you think it would be worth retaking the GMAT? I am confident that I would be able to improve my quant performance, but I am not sure if it is worth it, depending on how much attention schools pay to individual section scores vs. the overall score.
Thanks for the advice!
Based on the most helpful WSO content, the GMAT Quant score is indeed an important aspect of your application, especially for finance-related master's programs where quantitative skills are highly valued. Here are some points to consider:
Quantitative Rigor: Top European finance masters programs, like the ones you've mentioned, are known for their quantitative rigor. A strong performance in the Quant section of the GMAT can demonstrate your ability to handle the mathematical demands of these programs.
Overall Profile: While your overall profile sounds competitive with a high GPA, strong internships, and extensive extracurriculars, the Quant score is a critical component. Admissions committees look for a balance between a candidate's qualitative and quantitative abilities.
Percentile vs. Score: A Q47 is a solid score, but the percentile may seem low due to the high number of test-takers with strong quantitative backgrounds. However, admissions committees are aware of this and may consider the actual score alongside the percentile.
Retaking the GMAT: If you believe you can significantly improve your Quant score, it might be worth retaking the GMAT. A higher Quant score could strengthen your application, particularly if you're applying in later rounds when competition can be stiffer.
Application Deadlines: Consider the application deadlines and the time required for preparation and retaking the GMAT. Ensure that retaking the test does not interfere with your ability to submit a well-prepared application on time.
Schools' Perspective: Reach out to the admissions offices of the programs you're interested in. They may provide insights into how they view Quant scores and the overall GMAT score.
In conclusion, given that you're confident in your ability to improve your Quant score and considering the competitive nature of the programs you're targeting, retaking the GMAT could be a strategic move. However, weigh this decision against the time and resources it will require, and the potential benefits it may bring to your application.
Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/school/how-i-got-a-770-on-the-gmat-whitecollarandsuspenders-version?customgpt=1, HBX CORe vs Smoking GMAT Quant, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/school/qa-quant-actuary-turned-future-mba-student?customgpt=1, A Helping Hand to Humanities Students
For what it's worth, I got:
- Offer from LSE
- Invited to HEC MIF interview
- Rejected w/o interview for LBS
with a Q46V44 (720-730), strong GPA (not perfect), very good references, internship at a local boutique, and strong essays.
I think you'll be fine.
Appreciate your response – that's calming to hear!
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