6 Tips on How to Overcome a Low GMAT Score
So, you scored low on the GMAT?
Studying for an exam while working full time and juggling other life commitments can be taxing. Or maybe you don’t do well on standardised testing. Or you just had a bad day. Either way, if you have scored below the average GMAT for your desired MBA program, you must be wondering if you can still submit a compelling application to that school.
And the short answer is a big YES! Here are six things you can do to overcome this challenge:
1. Retake the GMAT
This is an obvious one – but perhaps one you don’t want to hear! Having taken the test once, you have several advantages: you know which sections you struggled with, are familiar with the testing environment, and have dealt with the nerves in the actual test setting. You can now approach the test more strategically a second time round: remind yourself why you are doing this, find a tutor (or engage in more self-study), and then practice, practice, practice!
2. Have you thought about taking the GRE?
With almost all business schools now accepting the GRE, you have another testing option if the GMAT is not working for you. Start by taking a diagnostic and see how you perform. You can use this conversion tool to see how your score stacks up against the GMAT, and if you are testing in your desired testing range, give the GRE a shot.
3. Highlight quantitative skills through work experience
The GMAT score is considered an indicator of your academic preparedness by business schools. Schools want to know “Will you thrive academically in a fast-paced, quant-driven environment?” You can provide reassurance to them by demonstrating quantitative aptitude through your work experience: take on more analytically challenging assignments, quantify the impact you’ve had on your resume, ask your recommenders to reinforce your acumen in their letters.
4. Take online courses
You can demonstrate your willingness to put in the work and reassure schools that you are actively addressing gaps in your score by taking online courses. Explore courses offered by reputed universities through online platforms such as Coursera and EdX. Check out Harvard Business School’s Credential of Readiness (CORe) program. Look up MBAmath.com
5. Strengthen other aspects of your application
Schools evaluate your applications holistically and the GMAT is ONE aspect of your candidacy. If you have performed well academically in college, that can go a long way in compensating for a low GMAT score. Spend time on submitting a well-written and formatted resume. Work with your recommenders to highlight your contributions and strengths. Engage in storytelling – write compelling essays that showcase your story.
6. Show some love to your target school
Network, network, network! Reach out to admissions staff, attend the school’s information sessions, webinars, coffee chats, reach out to current students and alumni, and have meaningful conversations with them about their experience. Schools love candidates who can demonstrate depth in their research and a good understanding of the mutual fit. Use the information you gather thoughtfully in your essays and interviews and you have a higher chance of being noticed – you might even find a champion for yourself!
Remember: you are a sum of your experiences and motivations and not just testing numbers, so let the schools get to know the REAL you through your overall application!