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The GMAT score required for top business schools usually falls between 700 and 740. However, this isn’t a strict rule. You can still get into a top school with a slightly lower score if the rest of your application is strong.
Here are the average GMAT scores for some of the top business schools:
- Stanford Graduate School of Business: 737
- Harvard Business School: 730
- Wharton School: 728
- Chicago Booth: 730
- INSEAD: 710
- London Business School: 708
- MIT Sloan: 730
These schools don’t have a fixed cut-off score. Instead, they look at your entire application. A good GMAT score helps, but your work experience, academic achievements, leadership skills, and personal essays matter just as much.
Yes. If your score is around 650–690, you still have a chance, especially if you have strong achievements in other areas. Business schools like candidates who show leadership, creativity, and problem-solving skills not just high test scores.
If you’re aiming for top schools like Harvard, Stanford, or Wharton, a score of 700 or above is a safe target. For European schools like INSEAD or London Business School, scores around 680–710 are competitive.
Always check the latest class profile on the school’s website. It shows the average GMAT scores for recently admitted students, which can help you set realistic goals.
While a strong GMAT score improves your chances, it’s not the only thing that matters. Focus on building a strong overall application that highlights your unique skills and experiences.
To know more information, visit here: GMAT Score for Top B Schools
Sr. Consultant
The GMAT is a key component in MBA admissions, with most top business schools preferring scores above 700. While a high score improves chances, schools also consider work experience, leadership, and personal achievements.
Average GMAT Scores for Top MBA Programs:
- Stanford GSB – 738
- Harvard Business School – 740
- Wharton (UPenn) – 732
- MIT Sloan – 730
- Chicago Booth – 729
- Columbia Business School – 730
- Kellogg (Northwestern) – 731
- Berkeley Haas – 730
- Yale SOM – 730
- Dartmouth Tuck – 727
GMAT Classic vs. GMAT Focus Edition
In 2023, GMAC introduced the GMAT Focus Edition, now the only version available from February 2024. It is shorter (2 hours 15 minutes vs. 3 hours 7 minutes) and includes three sections: Quantitative, Verbal, and Data Insights (no Analytical Writing). The scoring scale has changed to 205-805, making direct comparisons with the classic GMAT difficult.
Top schools now accept GMAT Focus scores; applicants should check their target programs' specific requirements.
For success, aim for 700+, but strong applications can overcome lower scores.
The GMAT score required for top business schools varies, but aiming for a high score can strengthen your application. For instance, Stanford Graduate School of Business has an average GMAT score of 738, while Harvard Business School reports a median score of 740. Other prestigious programs, such as Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management and the University of Chicago's Booth School of Business, have average scores around 730.
In Europe, leading institutions like INSEAD and London Business School have average GMAT scores around 710.
It's important to note that while a strong GMAT score is a significant component of your application, admissions committees also consider other factors such as professional experience, academic history, and personal essays. Therefore, while aiming for a high GMAT score is beneficial, it's equally important to present a well-rounded application that highlights your unique strengths and experiences.
Top business schools generally look for candidates with GMAT scores above 700, and many of the best programs have average scores ranging from 710 to 730. For instance, schools like Harvard, Stanford, and Wharton often admit students with scores around 720 or higher. This score helps schools gauge your quantitative, verbal, and analytical skills, which are important for success in their challenging courses.
The GMAT exam covers several areas: quantitative reasoning, verbal ability, integrated reasoning, and analytical writing. It takes about three and a half hours to complete, and preparing well can make a big difference. Many students use practice tests and study guides to become familiar with the exam format and improve their speed and accuracy. Regular practice not only boosts your score but also builds your confidence.
While a strong GMAT score is a key part of your application, remember that admissions committees also consider your academic record, work experience, leadership skills, and personal essays. This means that even if your GMAT score is a little lower than the average, outstanding achievements in other areas can still help your overall application. Some applicants choose to retake the GMAT to try and improve their scores if needed.
It is always a good idea to visit the official websites of the business schools you are interested in. They typically share information about the average GMAT scores of their admitted students and provide details on other admission requirements. By understanding these benchmarks, you can set a realistic target and focus your preparation effectively. In summary, aiming for a score above 700 is a smart goal if you want to be competitive at top business schools, but remember to balance your test score with a strong overall application.
Study Abroad Consultant
If you're aiming for top business schools, knowing the average GMAT scores can help you prepare effectively. Below i have mentioned some of the top b-schools and their average GMAT scores:
- Stanford Graduate School of Business: 738
- Harvard Business School: 740
- The Wharton School: 732
- MIT Sloan School of Management: 730
- Columbia Business School: 729
- London Business School: 702
- INSEAD: 710
- Cambridge Judge Business School: 690
- Oxford Saïd Business School: 690
- IESE Business School: 665
These scores are averages, so individual applicants may have higher or lower scores.
Keep in mind that B-schools consider various factors beyond GMAT scores, such as work experience, leadership qualities, and personal achievements. If you have a strong overall application then it can balance a lower GMAT score and you can get an admission from the b-school.
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