Aringo client with 580 at HBS - really?

Brussels

I heard that the new IR section is not so important and schools will not look at it, at least for now since it's new. Can anyone address that? does it mean I can invest more time in other sections?

jupiter22

I guess it's partially true, since they don't know what to make of it, see here: http://poetsandquants.com/2012/08/13/some-schools-will-ignore-new-ir-gmat-section/

Brussels

Thanks for the link! I also read this article about the GMAT/GRE, which recommends taking the GRE if you're having trouble with the GMAT (something I'll definitely consider...):
http://poetsandquants.com/2012/12/13/seven-of-ten-b-schools-now-accept-gre/

jupiter22

That's good, but you should also consider the fact that there is a small advantage for candidates who submit the GMAT over those who submit the GRE. The article supports that idea as well.

Brussels

I think this advantage is insignificant, especially at schools that have been accepting GRE scores for many years.

jupiter22

I agree, although the GRE is relatively new at most of the top MBA programs. It will probably take a few more years until the GMAT and GRE are completely equal.

Brussels

I heard the same thing regarding the new IR section in the GMAT - since it is still very new, schools are ignoring it and evaluating applicants based on the quant and verbal sections as before.

jupiter22

It may be true only for this year. Starting next year they'll probably have enough data to evaluate candidates based on the IR section as well.

Brussels

I guess you're right. We'll just have to work harder!

jupiter22

Another way to look at it is as if there is just one more factor in admission process, since the IR is a separate score. You have your GMAT score, TOEFL score, CV, essays etc. and now also IR score. That's it.