What GMAT scores are highly desired by Harvard University?

Aarushi S

Digital Marketer

Harvard Business School looks for exceptionally strong GMAT scores, especially from international applicants. As per their latest class profile, the median GMAT score is 740, and the middle 80% range falls between 700 and 770. This means most students who get in fall within this range.

Applicants from competitive backgrounds—like Indian engineers or consultants—usually submit scores closer to the top of that band. A 730 or above is generally seen as strong, especially when paired with a good academic record, leadership at work, and clear post-MBA goals.

The admissions team at Harvard considers your full profile, not just the test score,but a GMAT in the 740+ range definitely helps when you’re aiming for a top-tier program with a low acceptance rate. They also mention that no minimum score is required, but a higher score improves your chances when the rest of your profile is equally strong.

It’s always a good idea to review the official Harvard MBA class profile before applying ,that gives you a clear picture of where your score stands compared to recently admitted students.

Want to know what you will need besides a good GMAT score to get into Harvard? Read this blog to figure out now

Divakshi Arora

Harvard Business School doesn’t have a set GMAT cut-off, but looking at the recent class data helps understand what’s considered a competitive score.

For the MBA Class of 2026, GMAT scores ranged from 540 to 790, with most students scoring between 700 and 770. The median score was around 740, which means many admitted students scored at or near that level.

If you're applying from a competitive background, like India, aiming for a 730+ gives you a strong shot of being in the top range of applicants. That said, Harvard doesn’t select students based on GMAT alone. They look at everything, your work achievements, leadership, academics, and life experiences. So, while a high score helps, it’s not the only thing that matters.

Mansih K

Senior Assistant Manager in Operations Management

Harvard Business School looks at many parts of your profile, not just test scores. Still, knowing what scores others had can give you an idea of what they expect:

• GMAT scores have ranged from around 540 to 790 in recent classes.
• Most admitted students score between 700 and 770.
• A 740 score is right in the middle and often seen in successful applications.
• Aiming for 730 or higher is recommended if you're from a highly competitive applicant group.
• Harvard also looks at your work experience, leadership, academics, and personal story.

Even though there’s no minimum score, staying near or above the school’s average makes your profile stronger. But keep in mind—your story, goals, and impact matter just as much as the number.

N Negi

Innovative Data Scientist | Expert in Machine Learning & Data Analytics | Passionate about Leveraging Data to Drive Business Insights

Harvard Business School does not set a minimum GMAT score, but the most recent class profile shows a median GMAT score of 740. The middle 80% GMAT range for the incoming class is 700 to 770, based on official data from HBS.

If you're applying from a competitive background—like engineering or consulting from India—it helps to aim at the higher end of that range. A score of 730 or above is considered highly competitive and improves your chances, especially when applying alongside candidates with strong academic and professional backgrounds.

That said, Harvard follows a holistic admissions process. They consider your leadership, career goals, undergraduate performance, and community involvement along with the GMAT. Still, scoring in the 730–750 zone gives your profile a strong foundation.