Are there any Ivy League MBA programs that accept low GMAT scores?

Question

Harshal G · Accepted Answer

No, Ivy League MBA programs do not usually accept low GMAT scores. Their average GMAT range is 700-740. However, some applicants with exceptional profiles have been admitted with lower scores.
For example, Harvard Business School accepted a candidate with a 590 GMAT because of their strong leadership, career achievements, and excellent recommendations. Wharton has admitted applicants with GMAT scores in the low 600s, but they had high GPAs and strong quantitative work experience. Columbia Business School has also enrolled students with mid-600s GMAT scores, especially those with extensive experience in finance, tech, or entrepreneurship.
These cases are rare. To offset a low GMAT, applicants must show strong work experience, a high GPA, compelling essays, and strong recommendations. Ivy League MBA programs look at the whole application, not just the GMAT. But a strong profile is needed to make up for a lower score.
If you&rsquo;re unsure about your chances, get a free profile evaluation from expert consultants to understand your strengths and improve your application.

Shivam Jha · Answer

Yes, some Ivy League MBA programs are more flexible with lower GMAT scores, especially if you have strong work experience, leadership potential, or exceptional achievements. Here are a few options:

Sushovan biswas · Answer

You know, everyone thinks Ivy League means sky-high GMAT scores, right? But here&rsquo;s the interesting part&mdash;they sometimes do accept people with lower scores, as long as everything else in your profile shines.
Schools like Harvard, Wharton, or Columbia typically have averages around 720-730, but they've admitted candidates with scores in the 600s if those applicants had amazing work experience, leadership stories, or unique backgrounds. So if your GMAT isn't great, you just have to compensate elsewhere&mdash;like outstanding career achievements, essays, or recommendations.
But honestly, if your score is significantly lower, consider retaking the GMAT or maybe even looking into GRE. A stronger score could seriously boost your odds. Either way, don't assume a lower GMAT automatically rules you out&mdash;there&rsquo;s always a chance!

Divakshi Arora · Answer

Yes, but only in rare cases.
Most Ivy League MBA programs&mdash;like Wharton, Columbia, Cornell (Johnson), and Dartmouth (Tuck)&mdash;have average GMAT scores between 700&ndash;730. That said, there have been real cases where applicants got in with scores in the low 600s or even high 500s, but only with an exceptional profile.
This means: strong work experience, clear career goals, leadership exposure, and high-impact achievements. Solid academics and standout essays also matter a lot.
Also, some Ivy League schools accept the GRE or offer GMAT waivers in specific cases. If GMAT isn&rsquo;t your strength, this could be a better route.
For more insights, you can check out this blog on "Ivy League Colleges & How You Can Get Into Them"