580 Cold Test Score

Hi all,

I'm brand new to the GMAT journey and feeling ambivalent towards my initial cold test score. I took it yesterday, 9/30, under normal testing conditions and scored a 580 (Q38, V32, IR6). This was done on Manhattan as to not waste an official mock. I've been doing some research on average increase in test score being somewhere around 100 after prep. My goal is to get 700+ and was really hoping for a mid to low 600 score initially.

I plan on following TTPs study plan to a tee; mixing in some of the OG material as well later on. My application time line is going to be aimed at next year round 1, so I've got a full year ahead of me. Any other considerations or advice on making this possible? I feel that 150 point leap is well outside the norm. Is a 700+ a realistic target?

Hi Mitch22,

Many GMATers are unhappy with their initial practice scores, but you really shouldn't be. That 580 is just a measure of your skills right now - and you'll improve on that result over time as you learn more about the content, Tactics and little 'secrets' of the Exam. As it stands, a 580 is actually a solid initial CAT score (the Average Score on the Official GMAT hovers around 560 most years). Many GMATers spend 3 months (or more) of consistent study time before they hit their 'peak' scores, so while having a full year before you plan to apply is great, you probably will not need that much training time for the GMAT.

In addition, the new GMAT Focus edition is going to be available to take in the last couple of months of 2023 (supposedly in early November). That new version removes SC, Geometry and the Issue essay, BUT places IR in a new section (called Data Insights) - meaning that IR will actually impact your Overall Score, while it currently does not. The current version of the GMAT will also be available to take until some time in early 2024 (supposedly until early March or perhaps later) - meaning that there will be several months in which you can take EITHER version of the GMAT. Depending on WHEN you plan to take the GMAT, you might be 'forced' into taking the GMAT Focus Edition.

Before I can offer you the specific advice that you’re looking for, it would help if you could provide a bit more information on how you've been studying and your goals:

1) What study materials - if any - do you currently have access to?
2) Going forward, how many hours do you think you can consistently study each week?
3) What Schools are you planning to apply to?

GMAT assassins aren't born, they're made,
Rich

Contact Rich at: Rich.C@empowergmat.com
www.empowergmat.com

Consider taking an Official-Mock after getting a bit familiar with the material. If you're new to the GMAT, the gmatclub study plan post may be helpful to check out as well. Have suggested Manhattan-Prep's 6th Edition for SC and CR. When you feel your fundamentals are solid, working on your solving approach may help. Had a student who went from a V31 to a V40 in about 30 days. Perhaps work with a study buddy who is strong in areas you aren't.

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