What is the average GMAT score for Stanford University's MBA program?

If you’re aiming for Stanford’s MBA program, you might wonder what GMAT score you need to stand out. On average, admitted students to Stanford Graduate School of Business (GSB) score 738 on the GMAT. This is one of the highest averages among top MBA programs, so aiming for a strong score is crucial.

Stanford’s average GMAT score means you’ll need to be in about the top 4% of all test-takers. However, Stanford doesn’t have a strict cut-off. The scores of admitted students range widely, from 540 to 790, showing that they value much more than just numbers. Leadership potential, work experience, and how well you fit with their values are also important.

Here are a few tips to help you:

• Set a Target Score: While 738 is the average, aiming for 750 or above gives you a competitive edge.
• Prepare Strategically: Focus on areas where you can improve most and take full-length practice tests to simulate the real experience.
• Don’t Rely Solely on Your GMAT: Even if your score is slightly below the average, a great essay, strong recommendations, and impressive achievements can make up for it.

Stanford takes a comprehensive approach, meaning they’ll look at your overall story academic background, career goals, personal achievements, and how you’ll contribute to their community. So, even with a high Stanford MBA GMAT score, the rest of your application needs to shine.

If you are aiming for Stanford, a high GMAT score can boost your chances, but it’s not the only factor. Work on building a complete, standout application. And remember, the journey to an MBA is as much about personal growth as it is about numbers. Good luck!

Stanford University's Graduate School of Business (GSB) is renowned for its highly selective MBA program, attracting top-tier candidates worldwide. A pivotal component of the application is the GMAT score. For the MBA Class of 2026, the average GMAT score was 738, placing students in approximately the top 4% of all test-takers.  

The GMAT scores for admitted students typically range from 540 to 790, indicating that while a high score enhances competitiveness, Stanford GSB evaluates applications holistically. This means that exceptional qualities in other areas can offset a lower GMAT score.  

It's important to note that the GMAT exam underwent significant changes in February 2024, including a new scoring system. Consequently, a score of 738 on the previous GMAT corresponds to a range of approximately 685 to 695 on the updated exam.  

While aiming for a Stanford MBA GMAT score around the average can strengthen your application, Stanford GSB places significant emphasis on a comprehensive evaluation of each candidate's unique experiences, leadership potential, and personal qualities.

The average GMAT score for Stanford University's MBA program typically falls around 730. Stanford is one of the most competitive business schools in the world, so having a score close to this average can boost your chances. However, it’s important to remember that Stanford takes a holistic approach when reviewing applications.

Your GMAT score is just one part of the process. They also consider your academic performance, professional achievements, leadership potential, and personal qualities. Some applicants get in with lower scores if they excel in other areas, while others with higher scores might not be selected if other parts of their application are weaker.

If your score isn’t close to the average, it might help to focus on strengthening other parts of your application, like your essays or recommendation letters. This can make your overall profile more compelling.

The Aim for a GMAT score near 730 to be competitive, but don’t lose hope if you fall a little short—Stanford values the entire picture, not just numbers!