What Is a Good GMAT Score?

A good GMAT score is one that helps you achieve your goals of admission into a top business school. Understanding what constitutes a "good" score varies based on the program you are applying to, as each school has its own standards. In this guide, we will explore what a good GMAT score is, how it is measured, and how to improve your score to enhance your business school application.

What Is a Good GMAT Score?

The GMAT is scored on a scale of 200 to 800, with separate scores for the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) and Integrated Reasoning (IR) sections. While the total score—ranging from 200 to 800—is the most important, each component score provides insight into specific strengths and weaknesses. A good GMAT score typically falls in the 600–750 range, but what’s considered "good" varies depending on the business school’s admission requirements.

GMAT Score Ranges for Top Business Schools

The score that you will need for admission into a business school depends on the competitiveness of the program. Here is an overview of GMAT score ranges for some of the top business schools:

  • Harvard Business School: Average GMAT score of 730
  • Stanford Graduate School of Business: Average GMAT score of 733
  • Wharton School (University of Pennsylvania): Average GMAT score of 730
  • MIT Sloan School of Management: Average GMAT score of 730
  • Chicago Booth School of Business: Average GMAT score of 730
  • Columbia Business School: Average GMAT score of 730
  • INSEAD: Average GMAT score of 705
  • London Business School: Average GMAT score of 700

Top schools typically look for GMAT scores in the range of 700–750 or higher. However, it’s important to note that these schools also consider other factors in the admissions process, such as your work experience, undergraduate GPA, extracurricular activities, and recommendations.

GMAT Score Percentiles

The GMAT score percentile indicates how your score compares to other test takers. For example, a score of 700 places you in approximately the 88th percentile, meaning that you performed better than 88% of all test takers. Below is a breakdown of GMAT score percentiles:

  • 760+: 99th percentile
  • 700–759: 88th–99th percentile
  • 650–699: 74th–88th percentile
  • 600–649: 55th–74th percentile
  • 550–599: 35th–55th percentile
  • 500–549: 22nd–35th percentile
  • 450–499: 12th–22nd percentile
  • 400–449: 5th–12th percentile
  • Below 400: Below the 5th percentile

What Is a Good GMAT Score for Your Target School?

A good GMAT score is one that aligns with the expectations of the school you are applying to. For highly competitive schools like Harvard or Stanford, you should aim for a score above 700 to remain competitive. However, if you are targeting a less competitive program, a score in the 600s may still be acceptable. It's important to research the average GMAT scores of accepted students at your target school and aim for a score in that range or higher.

If your GMAT score is below the average for your target school, you may still be able to compensate with other strong aspects of your application, such as a high GPA, relevant work experience, or standout letters of recommendation. On the other hand, if your GMAT score is above the average, it can strengthen your application and give you an edge over other applicants.

GMAT Score vs. Other Application Components

While your GMAT score is important, it is just one component of your application. Business schools evaluate applicants holistically, which means they look at several factors in addition to your GMAT score:

  • Undergraduate GPA: A strong academic record can help offset a lower GMAT score.
  • Work Experience: Professional experience is highly valued by most business schools.
  • Essays and Personal Statements: These provide insight into your personality, motivations, and fit for the program.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Strong references from colleagues or supervisors can enhance your application.
  • Interviews: The interview is an important opportunity to showcase your communication skills and personality.

If your GMAT score falls short of your target school’s expectations, you can focus on strengthening the other areas of your application. For example, you may want to work on crafting strong essays or gathering impactful letters of recommendation.

How to Improve Your GMAT Score

If you are not satisfied with your GMAT score or if it does not meet the requirements of your target school, you can take the exam again. Below are some strategies to improve your GMAT score:

  • Study Regularly: Consistency is key. Create a study schedule and stick to it.
  • Take Practice Tests: Full-length practice tests simulate the test day experience and help you build stamina.
  • Identify Weak Areas: Focus on the sections where you are struggling the most.
  • Use Official GMAT Materials: Study using official GMAT prep materials for the most accurate and relevant practice.
  • Take a Prep Course: If self-study is not enough, consider enrolling in a GMAT prep course.

Final Thoughts

A good GMAT score is one that helps you achieve your goals and enhances your business school application. While a score above 700 is often considered strong, different schools have different expectations, so it’s important to know the average GMAT score for your target school. Regardless of your score, focus on presenting a strong, well-rounded application that highlights your academic abilities, professional experience, and potential as a future leader in business.