GMAT 680 Q47 V36

if you're below a 700; need a 90% quant for top 3 schools

Thanks I don't think I have even a remote chance at H/W/S even if my GMAT was 800 but how about for top 10/15?

If you can get the quant a bit higher, then I think your in good standing with most of the schools...gmat is a hurdle, not a dealmaker/breaker...the essays/interview/stories will get you through the finish line...when are you applying?

Yeah makes sense GMAT is not helping me or hurting me that much so essentially not setting me a part. Applying to masters next year. All the other aspects I think I'm strong in > 3.7 UGPA, good experience, etc. Maybe if I get the time I will take the test one more time, but unlikely due to other work. I think you are right I probably should focus more on the essays and my overall story.

Eiffel, where did you come up with the 90% requirement. GMAT is a check the box item reviewed in conjunction with a variety of other factors. If you have an 80/80 split and other compelling data points it is still feasible to assume that you have a shot at H/S/W (albeit a long shot).

Your AWA score will not offset anything as it is essentially meaningless unless you are an international student or there is a wide discrepancy between your AWA score and your application essay quality (i.e. adcomm suspects that a third party drafted the essays).

Was a 680 on your first attempt? Are you applying this year? You may want to take it again and apply first round next year as your profile seems solid otherwise. You will be comp at at all schools 5-15. Good luck.

Yeah it was my first attempt but I studied for a solid two months so its probably an accurate reflection +/- 20. I'm applying next year and if I have the time and I feel it is worth the investment I will definitely take it again.

Also you mentioned the 80/80 split mine was 78/78 so would that qualify as 80/80? The only thing I'm confused about with top programs is that if they give you a 20-80% range of GMAT scores and its always seems to be listed around 630-720 I would imagine about a third/quarter of all these top programs students have gotten below my score. On top of that I figure the Indian ITs applicants/International applicants who have ridiculous GMAT scores on average >750 would make the average for the non-Indian IT applicant average GMAT about 5-10 points less than what is actually listed. Anyways might be wishful thinking on my part or me coming up with an excuse to make myself feel better but what type of people (apparently around 20% of the class) get into H/W/S with a GMAT of 650 and below?