How to Score 700+ in GMAT and Get Into a Top B-School

  1. Blogs
  2. GMAT
  3. How to Score 700+ in GMAT and Get Into a Top B-School
6 mins

Introduction

The GMAT is an important test if you want to apply to top business schools. It checks your skills in math, logic, and English. A good GMAT score shows that you’re ready for the challenges of an MBA program.

Scoring above 700 in GMAT means you’re in the top 10% of test-takers worldwide. This high score can improve your chances of getting into top schools like Harvard, Stanford, or Wharton. Even if some parts of your profile are weak, a 700+ score can still make your application stand out.

Why Does Scoring Above 700 in GMAT Matter for Indian Students?

For Indian students aiming for top global business schools, achieving a GMAT score above 700 is crucial. This score not only enhances admission prospects but also opens doors to scholarships and competitive job opportunities post-MBA.

1. Competitive Edge in Admissions

Indian applicants often come from overrepresented groups in the MBA applicant pool, particularly in fields like engineering and IT. Admissions committees at top B-schools expect good GMAT scores from these groups to differentiate candidates. A score above 700 places applicants in the top 10% globally, signaling strong analytical and verbal skills.

2. Scholarship Opportunities

High GMAT scores can significantly increase eligibility for scholarships. Many institutions consider GMAT scores when awarding financial aid, and a score above 700 can make applicants more competitive for these opportunities.

3. Alignment with Top B-School Averages

Understanding the average GMAT scores at leading institutions helps set realistic targets:

Business SchoolAverage GMAT Score
Stanford Graduate School of Business738
Harvard Business School730
Wharton School (UPenn)728
INSEAD710
London Business School708
MIT Sloan730
University of Chicago (Booth)729
Columbia Business School729
Northwestern University (Kellogg)727
Yale School of Management720

4. Enhanced Career Prospects

A GMAT score above 700 not only aids in admissions but also positively impacts post-MBA career opportunities. Employers, especially in consulting and finance sectors, often consider GMAT scores during recruitment. A high score can thus lead to better job placements and higher starting salaries.

Crafting a Study Plan to Achieve 700+ in GMAT

Crafting an effective study plan is crucial for Indian students aiming for a GMAT score above 700. This benchmark not only improves your chances of getting into top business schools but also increases your eligibility for major scholarships.

1. Assess Your Baseline

Start with a diagnostic test to evaluate your current level. This helps you identify weak areas early and build a focused study strategy for scoring above 700 in GMAT.

2. Set Clear Goals

Decide your target score and the number of weeks you can dedicate to preparation. For most students, 3 to 6 months of consistent study works best.

3. Allocate Study Hours

Plan for 10 to 15 hours of study every week. Distribute time across verbal, quant, and integrated reasoning sections, adjusting focus based on your progress.

4. Focus on Weak Areas

Give extra attention to sections where your accuracy is low. Regular practice and reviewing incorrect answers help build strong fundamentals for a GMAT score above 700.

5. Take Mock Tests

Full-length practice tests are important. Simulate real test conditions to build stamina and learn time management. After each test, review your mistakes carefully.

6. Review and Improve

Update your plan weekly based on mock performance. Flexibility in your schedule ensures consistent improvement and increases your chances of scoring above 700 in GMAT.

Strategies to Enhance Quantitative and Verbal Scores

Enhancing your GMAT Quantitative and Verbal scores is essential for achieving a competitive overall score. A balanced improvement in both sections is key to scoring above 700 in GMAT and getting noticed by top B-schools.

Quantitative Reasoning Strategies

1. Strengthen Core Concepts:
Focus on topics like Number Properties, Algebra, and Word Problems. Clear basics help you solve advanced questions accurately.

2. Practice Advanced Questions:
Work on medium to high-level difficulty problems regularly. This boosts confidence and builds speed.

3. Analyze Mistakes:
After every mock test or practice session, review your errors. Spot patterns and fix them to avoid repeating mistakes.

4. Time Management:
Limit time per question to avoid rushing later. Time strategy is essential for a GMAT score above 700.

Verbal Reasoning Strategies

1. Enhance Reading Comprehension:
Practice reading editorials and research articles. This sharpens your ability to understand complex passages quickly.

2. Master Sentence Correction:
Focus on grammar rules, parallelism, modifiers, and subject-verb agreement. This helps boost verbal accuracy.

3. Develop Critical Reasoning Skills:
Solve 2–3 CR questions daily. Focus on assumptions, conclusions, and flaw-based questions to improve logic.

4. Expand Vocabulary:
A strong vocabulary helps in quickly grasping meaning and eliminating wrong answer choices, improving your chances of scoring above 700 in GMAT.

GMAT Exam Structure: Section-wise Format, Timing, and Scoring

The GMAT consists of four sections that test different skills. The questions, time limits, and scoring scales vary, so mastering the timing and pacing is key to scoring above 700 in GMAT.

SectionNumber of QuestionsQuestion TypesTime LimitScore Range
Analytical Writing1 essayAnalysis of an Argument30 minutes0 to 6 in 0.5 increments
Integrated Reasoning12 questionsMulti-Source Reasoning, Graphics Interpretation, Two-Part Analysis, Table Analysis30 minutes1 to 8
Quantitative31 questionsProblem Solving, Data Sufficiency62 minutes6 to 51
Verbal36 questionsReading Comprehension, Critical Reasoning, Sentence Correction65 minutes6 to 51

Resources and Tips for Scoring Above 700 in GMAT

Achieving a GMAT score above 700 is a major milestone for Indian students targeting top global business schools. Using the right mix of resources and proven strategies can greatly improve your score and confidence.

Recommended GMAT Preparation Resources

Here are trusted platforms and tools that many successful GMAT test-takers use:

  • Official GMAT Guide: Includes real GMAT questions with solutions; essential for understanding the test format.
  • MentR-Me: Offers personalized study plans, AI-based practice tools, and real-time progress tracking tailored for Indian students scoring above 700 in GMAT.
  • e-GMAT: Excellent for non-native English speakers with structured verbal and quant modules.
  • GMAT Club: A large online forum filled with practice questions, user experiences, and prep strategies.
  • Manhattan Prep: Well-known for its deep concept reviews and high-difficulty practice tests.

Strategic Tips for a GMAT Score Above 700

1. Start with a Diagnostic Test: Identify your current level and weak spots early to plan efficiently.

2. Build a Balanced Study Plan: Focus more on weak sections but don’t ignore your strengths.

3. Practice Regularly: Use a mix of official questions, adaptive tests, and custom quizzes to improve accuracy and pacing.

4. Review Mistakes: Always analyze wrong answers. This is crucial for scoring above 700 in GMAT.

5. Master Time Management: Learn to manage time within sections and avoid getting stuck on tough questions.

Recommended Study Materials and GMAT Prep Courses

Utilize various study materials specifically designed to target the skills and concepts tested on the GMAT. Look for reputable textbooks, online courses, and study guides that cover all sections of the exam, including analytical writing, integrated reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and verbal reasoning.

Consider enrolling in a GMAT prep course offered by reputable test preparation companies. These courses typically provide structured study plans, expert guidance, and access to practice questions and mock tests to help you gauge your progress and identify areas for improvement.

Study Material / CourseCostTime to Complete
Target Test Prep$99 - $2991-6 months
Varsity Tutors$99 - $199 per hourCustomized
examPAL$99 - $1991-3 months
Magoosh$149 - $3991-6 months
e-GMATFree trial availableSelf-paced
Kaplan$999 - $1,5992-3 months
Manhattan Prep$1,299 - $2,4992-3 months
The Economist GMAT Tutor$499 - $9992-4 months
The Princeton Review$999 - $1,7992-3 months
PrepScholar$297 - $5972-6 months
GMAT ClubFree resources availableSelf-paced
Investopedia$99 - $4991-3 months

Utilize our cutting-edge GMAT AI prep tool for scoring above 700 in GMAT. Our innovative platform offers a comprehensive array of mock questions meticulously designed to simulate the complexity and format of the actual exam.

Related Blogs:

Conclusion

Scoring above 700 in GMAT is not just about getting a high number, it’s about unlocking opportunities at top global business schools. For Indian students, it can be the deciding factor in both admissions and scholarships. With the right study plan, resources, and consistent effort, reaching this score is achievable. Taking the right steps early will give you a strong edge in your MBA journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How hard is it to score above 700 in GMAT?

Achieving a GMAT score above 700 places you in the top 10% of test-takers. While challenging, it's attainable with a structured study plan, consistent practice, and effective time management. Many successful candidates dedicate 3 to 6 months of focused preparation.

Most successful test-takers report studying between 100 to 150 hours over 2 to 3 months. This typically involves 10–15 hours of study per week, combining concept review, practice questions, and full-length mock exams.

Yes, it's possible. While a strong quantitative score helps, the GMAT also emphasizes verbal reasoning. Improving in both areas, especially verbal, can compensate for weaknesses in math. Targeted practice and understanding test strategies are key.

The GMAT is adaptive, so it's not about the number of mistakes but the difficulty level of questions you answer correctly. Generally, you can miss several questions and still achieve a 700+ score, provided you perform well on higher-difficulty questions.

A 700 is a competitive score and meets the average for many top MBA programs. However, some elite schools have higher averages. It's essential to consider the entire application, including GPA, work experience, and essays, alongside your GMAT score.

End-to-End Application Assistance Available


Get End-to-End Help

  • SOP, LOR, Resume Drafting
  • Scholarship Assistance
  • Alumni Guidance
  • Visa Help