760 (V44, Q49) with a 5 on IR, should I retake?

Question

Obviously excited about getting 760 this morning, but having a 54th percentile IR score doesn’t seem too hot. If I’m hoping to get into HBS 2+2 do I need to improve my IR? I scored 7’s on all four of the Official GMAT practice tests that I took so this was a surprise. Definitely a champagne problem but I appreciate the help!

Answer 1

Congrats Javon!

I personally wouldn't worry too much about your IR score. I've never heard anyone even mention its existence outside of studying for the GMAT. Some schools even explicitly state that they do not consider the AWA or IR scores. My school (LSE) did not state that, but one of my friends in my program completely skipped the section altogether (effectively scoring 1) and still got in.

With a score of 760, no school is going to doubt your problem solving ability. I'd only recommend taking the test again if you feel like you can definitely improve your IR score on test day AND score 760 or above again. Otherwise, you seem to have already made it.

If you're truly worried it about, contact HBS and ask them. I've found admissions professionals to be fairly responsive.

Congrats again!