What Is an Average GMAT Score?

The GMAT exam is a key factor in your business school application, but what constitutes an "average" GMAT score? An average GMAT score refers to the typical score achieved by test-takers and varies depending on factors such as the type of business school, the applicant pool, and the level of competition. This guide will explore what an average GMAT score is, how it is measured, and how it compares to other scores. We will also discuss what it means for your business school application.

What Is the GMAT Score Scale?

The GMAT is scored on a scale of 200 to 800, which combines the results from the Quantitative and Verbal Reasoning sections. In addition, there are separate scores for the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) and Integrated Reasoning (IR) sections. These separate scores help schools assess different areas of your abilities.

The total GMAT score, ranging from 200 to 800, is most commonly used by business schools to assess applicants. While your total score is the most important factor, schools may also look at your individual scores in each section to gauge your strengths and weaknesses. The average GMAT score refers to the total score and provides a benchmark for assessing where your score stands in relation to other test-takers.

What Is the Average GMAT Score?

The average GMAT score across all test-takers is approximately 560. However, this number can vary depending on the demographics of the test-takers and the type of business school you are applying to.

Average GMAT Score for All Test-Takers

Based on recent data, the average GMAT score for all test-takers is generally between 560 and 580. This score reflects a broad pool of candidates, from those applying to less competitive schools to those applying to top-tier institutions. The following chart illustrates the GMAT score distribution:

  • 200–499: The lowest range of scores, often below the 10th percentile.
  • 500–599: Below average, but still competitive for many business schools.
  • 600–699: A solid score, placing you above the 50th percentile of test-takers.
  • 700 and above: A high score that places you in the top 10–15% of test-takers.

What Is the Average GMAT Score for Top Business Schools?

The average GMAT score for top-tier business schools is significantly higher than the general average. Prestigious schools such as Harvard, Stanford, and Wharton typically have higher average GMAT scores, often ranging between 720 and 750. However, some programs might accept scores below 700, especially if other areas of your application are strong.

  • 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

When applying to top business schools, it is essential to aim for a GMAT score above 700 to be competitive. However, admissions committees also consider other components of your application, such as work experience, leadership potential, and academic performance.

What Does an Average GMAT Score Mean for Your Application?

Your GMAT score plays an important role in your business school application, but it is just one component. An average GMAT score (around 560–600) may be sufficient for admission to many schools, especially if other aspects of your application are strong. For example, applicants with solid work experience, strong recommendations, and compelling essays may still be admitted with an average GMAT score.

However, if you are aiming for more competitive programs or top-ranked schools, an average GMAT score may not be enough. In such cases, you may need to improve your score or offset it with other strong application elements. On the other hand, a higher-than-average GMAT score can help make your application stand out and provide you with an edge over other candidates.

How to Improve Your GMAT Score

If your GMAT score is around the average or lower than the typical range for your target school, you may want to focus on improving your score before submitting your application. Here are some tips to help you raise your GMAT score:

  • Take Practice Tests: Full-length practice tests help you build stamina, familiarize yourself with the format, and identify areas for improvement.
  • Focus on Your Weaknesses: Identify areas where you are scoring lower and spend more time improving those sections.
  • Review Official GMAT Materials: Study using official GMAT prep materials to get an accurate sense of the types of questions you'll encounter on the exam.
  • Consider GMAT Prep Courses: A prep course can help you refine your test-taking strategies and boost your score.
  • Study Consistently: Set a study schedule and stick to it, making sure you cover all sections of the exam.

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

Conclusion

In conclusion, an average GMAT score falls around 560–600, but it is important to consider the specific schools to which you are applying. For top schools, a score of 700 or higher is typically required, while a score in the 600s may be sufficient for other institutions. No matter your score, it’s important to focus on presenting a strong, well-rounded application that highlights your strengths beyond the GMAT. A good strategy for improving your score includes studying regularly, taking practice tests, and focusing on your weaknesses.