mbaMission Admissions Consultant
Joined: 19 Apr 2018
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Re: Should I take the GMAT or ask for waiver?
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20 Feb 2024, 23:19
Hi and thanks for your post.
That's a good question. An above average test score will definitely help your chances of admission into a top 10 school. Schools care about their average test scores, so if you can help with that, then that will increase your chances. It will also signal to them that you can handle the quantitative rigors of the program's curriculum.
Fortunately, you have a 3.8 and have already passed two levels of the CFA. So because you should be able to demonstrate to them that you have a strong quant background, you have a decent chance of being awarded a waiver. But just because you are granted a waiver, it doesn't mean you will likely be admitted. And you will have slightly less a chance compared to similar applicants who have done well on a test. The bottom line is that if you think you can earn an above average score, then you should take the test. If not, then asking for a waiver makes sense.
I also want to mention that not all schools offer a test waiver. So you are limiting your school selection by not taking the GMAT or GRE. One other suggestion is to consider the EA which will require less studying, and you do not need to do quite as well on it, since schools do not care as much about their EA averages.
Good luck!