I took a cold mock for the GMAT to just see where I'm at and am really worried with the low score I got, 415. My goal is to get into a competitive (top 10-top 25), part-time MBA program while I work full-time. I want to know how much of a pipe dream that could be given my low initial score and maybe some recommended test prep to help me get up to speed.
Context: I am currently an older (40+) working professional that am tired of being stuck in individual contributor roles. I want to do an MBA program to get some more career traction and better trajectory. However, I think only a more competitive program would make sense for me to get access to the network and branding vs. just having MBA from anywhere for the piece of paper / bullet point on my resume. My work has said they would allow me to move to the program, so location isn't a problem. Intent would be I work full time while going to the program part-time. Not interested in a strict ROI if I think the MBA can help me unlock my career goals.
I took the cold mock to just see where I am at and get a sense of what I should focus on studying. I assumed I'd be pretty solid in quantitative aspects given my current role (business intelligence analyst) and previous degrees (Finance undergrad, Analytics MS). I was shocked and disappointed when these were my poorest results. Admittedly I don't need to do much algebra or arithmetic given we can just use excel or code, etc for these functions. So while the results shocked me, I didn't think they were in error after the mock.
Is getting a high score (650 - 700+) out of the question? I feel like I need to submit a GMAT despite likely being able to qualify for a waiver at most programs due to my degree background since I think a high score will help bolster my admissions package (I don't have continuous upwards trajectory, was laid off last year and took some steps back). Any insights or advice are welcome! Esp if there is a good test prep you think could help a long-shot case like myself! Time horizon would be targeting a program Fall next year.
Results: - Quant 60 - 6 unanswered, 10/15 correct
- Verbal 86 - 0 unanswered, 17/23 correct
- Data Insights 66 - 4 unanswered, 11/16 correct