What are the average GMAT scores of admitted students at Insead , LBS, and HEC?
Asked by B.K Sharma 11 days ago
Sr. Consultant
Knowing the GMAT score expectations and acceptance rates is essential for those applying to INSEAD, London Business School (LBS), or HEC Paris. These schools take a holistic approach to admissions, but a strong GMAT score can significantly boost an application. This is especially important for candidates from highly competitive fields like consulting and finance.
INSEAD
- GMAT Score: 700 (average)
- Score Range: 670-750
- Acceptance Rate: 30-35%
- Competitiveness: More accessible than LBS and HEC Paris
INSEAD values international exposure, career progression, and leadership potential. While a strong GMAT helps, it is not the only factor. Applicants with global experience and leadership roles can still be competitive, even with a slightly lower score. Over 80% of students score above 680, and a strong GMAT can also improve scholarship chances.
London Business School (LBS)
- GMAT Score: 700 (average)
- Score Range: 600-770
- Acceptance Rate: 25-30%
- Competitiveness: More selective than INSEAD but slightly less than HEC Paris
LBS prioritizes leadership, career impact, and professional achievements. While a 700+ GMAT is competitive, those targeting finance or consulting may need a 710+ score to stand out. A significant number of admitted students come from consulting (40%) and finance (25%), making GMAT scores more competitive for these industries.
HEC Paris
- GMAT Score: 690 (average)
- Score Range: 640-710
- Acceptance Rate: 15-20%
- Competitiveness: Most selective among the three schools
HEC Paris focuses on academic excellence, strategic thinking, and leadership potential. With the lowest acceptance rate, a high GMAT score strengthens an application, especially for those without an elite academic background. GRE is also accepted, with scores in the top 80th percentile preferred.
Final Thought
All three schools are highly competitive, with HEC Paris being the most selective. While a 700+ GMAT is ideal, applicants with strong work experience, leadership skills, and a clear career vision can still secure admission. Scholarships are often tied to high GMAT scores, making a strong score even more beneficial.
The average GMAT scores for admitted students are INSEAD: 710-715 (acceptance rate 27-31%), LBS: 700-730 (acceptance rate 25-30%), and HEC Paris: 690-710 (acceptance rate 15-20%). A higher GMAT improves your chances, but these schools look at more than just test scores.
INSEAD values international exposure and leadership. LBS prioritizes well-rounded candidates with strong work experience. A slightly lower GMAT can be balanced by professional achievements. HEC Paris focuses on academic performance and leadership potential. Strong applicants with a lower GMAT can still get in if they have impressive profiles. Work experience, leadership, and career impact matter. Many students with lower scores have been admitted by showcasing strong achievements and a compelling personal story.
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