Did anyone get into a top MBA with a sub-650 GMAT? Trying to decide between retaking or focusing on the rest of my application.?

Question

T Mehta · Accepted Answer

I was in your shoes&mdash;not sure whether to retake the GMAT or focus on the rest of my application.
After scoring 650, I felt disappointed but decided to look at the bigger picture. My mock test scores showed I could do better, so I gave it two more months and focused on improving my Verbal section. I used e-GMAT and Mentr Me for targeted practice, especially for SC and CR.
At the same time, I improved other parts of my application&mdash;updated my resume, got strong recommendation letters, and clearly explained my career goals in the essays. This mix of effort worked. I raised my GMAT to 695 and got into multiple top 20 MBA programs.
If your practice scores show real potential, a retake might help. But don&rsquo;t forget&mdash;the rest of your application matters just as much, if not more.

J Bajwa · Answer

Can you get into a top MBA program with a GMAT score below 650? Yes, it's possible, especially if you have a distinctive profile.
I scored a 640 on the GMAT, which is below the average for top programs. However, I had a unique professional background in the nonprofit sector, leading initiatives that had significant social impact. I focused on highlighting this experience in my application, emphasizing leadership and results.
I also invested time in crafting compelling essays and secured strong recommendations that spoke to my contributions and potential. The effort paid off&mdash;I was admitted to a top European MBA program with a scholarship. This experience taught me that while a high GMAT score is beneficial, a well-rounded application can make a significant difference.