What is a Good GMAT Score in 2024? Find your Target GMAT Score

A good GMAT score is one that aligns with your academic goals and supports your aspirations. It can also be a game-changer for achieving your MBA dreams. With a good GMAT score, you can unlock doors to top business schools like Harvard, Stanford, and Wharton.

But what exactly is a good GMAT score?

In this blog, we’ll break down GMAT scoring, percentiles, and strategies to help you figure out your target score.

Key Highlights:

• The highest GMAT score is 805, with scores ranging from 205 to 805. 
• Top MBA universities like Stanford, Harvard, and MIT require an average GMAT score of 750+.
• A GMAT score of 755 and above places you in the 99.9th percentile, meaning you’ve outperformed 99.9% of test-takers.
• A score of 655 puts you in the 91st percentile, showing that you’ve done better than 91% of test-takers
• Top business schools often prefer GMAT scores in the 99th percentile, reflecting exceptional analytical and problem-solving abilities.

How is the GMAT Exam Scored?

The GMAT exam's scoring system is designed to assess a wide range of skills, including data insights, quantitative reasoning, and verbal abilities. Each section of the GMAT is scored separately, contributing to an overall score that plays a crucial role in MBA admissions. Around 25% of the GMAT test-takers might need help understanding how the scoring works before taking the exam. Thus, understanding how these scores are calculated can help you focus your preparation efforts and set realistic goals. The GMAT is scored in three main sections, each contributing to your overall score. Here's a breakdown:

What is a Good GMAT Score?

Typically, a score of 695 or above is considered strong, placing you in the competitive range for elite schools like Harvard, Stanford, and Wharton. A good GMAT score is crucial for gaining admission to top business schools, as it reflects your potential for academic success in an MBA program. 

Average GMAT Score

The average GMAT score typically falls between 535 and 615.

This range is common among applicants to a broad spectrum of MBA programs, including reputable but less selective schools. Schools like Toulouse Business School and the University of Edinburgh Business School often accept scores within this range, provided the rest of the application is solid. If your GMAT score is within the average range, focus on strengthening other aspects of your application. Highlight your work experience, leadership roles, and any unique contributions you can bring to the program.

Good GMAT Score

A score between 625 and 665 is considered a good GMAT score, placing you in a strong position for many MBA programs.

This score range is often associated with candidates who demonstrate solid academic capabilities and problem-solving skills. With this score, you’re likely to be considered by competitive programs that value a balance of quantitative and verbal skills. To further boost your chances of admission, complement your good GMAT score with a well-rounded application. Showcase your professional accomplishments, leadership experience, and any additional qualifications, such as certifications or advanced degrees.

Excellent GMAT Score

A GMAT score of 755 or higher places you in the 99.9th percentile, significantly enhancing your candidacy for elite MBA programs.

With this score, you are well-positioned for admission to highly selective schools like Harvard, Stanford, and Wharton, where the competition is intense. At this level, you’ll be competing with other high-achieving candidates. To stand out, ensure that every aspect of your application is polished, from your essays to your interviews. An excellent GMAT score can also enhance scholarship opportunities, as many schools offer financial aid based on academic merit.

What is a Good GMAT Percentile?

A GMAT percentile indicates how your score compares to those of other test-takers. For instance, if you’re in the 95th percentile, you’ve scored higher than 95% of all test-takers during a specific period. While a higher percentile reflects strong performance relative to peers, it can fluctuate yearly based on the overall performance of the test-taking population. However, business schools tend to focus more on your actual GMAT score rather than the percentile. A solid score consistently reflects your abilities, as the skill level required to achieve it remains constant, regardless of changes in percentile rankings. GMAT total scores and their respective percentiles are mentioned below:

Suggested: List of Colleges Accepting 650-700 GMAT Score

How to Find the Target GMAT Score?

Finding your target GMAT score is a strategic process that involves assessing your goals, researching schools, and considering your overall application profile. Here's how you can determine your target score:

Research Target Schools

• Start by identifying MBA programs that align with your career goals, interests, and geographic preferences. Consider factors like program curriculum, culture, networking opportunities, and location.
• Use online resources, school websites, and MBA rankings to gather information. Pay attention to the specific strengths of each program, such as specializations in finance, entrepreneurship, or tech management.

Assess Competitiveness

• If you're targeting elite schools like Harvard, Stanford, or Wharton, remember that the competition is fierce. The average GMAT scores for these schools typically range from 720 to 740, but even within this range, the rest of your application needs to be strong
• Some schools, particularly those that are regionally focused or have niche specializations, might have lower average GMAT scores. These programs can still provide significant value, especially if they align closely with your career goals.

Consider Your Overall Application

• If you have a strong undergraduate GPA, particularly in a quantitative or analytical field, you might not need as high a GMAT score. Admissions committees may view your academic history as evidence of your ability to handle the rigors of an MBA program.
• Exceptional work experiences, such as rapid career progression, leadership roles, or unique industry experience, can compensate for a slightly lower GMAT score. Schools often value real-world experience and practical skills highly.

Account for Retakes

• Many applicants take the GMAT more than once. You should aim for a score that allows some flexibility if you need to retake the exam.
• Consider that the average score improvement on a retake is around 30 points, so set a target that factors in this potential increase.
• Ensure that your GMAT retake plan aligns with the application deadlines of your target schools. It’s essential to leave enough time to receive your scores and complete the rest of your application.

Suggested: How hard is the GMAT exam?

GMAT Scores Required for Top MBA Colleges

Top MBA programs are highly competitive, and a strong GMAT score is often a crucial part of the application process. Generally, the most prestigious schools, like Harvard, Stanford, and Wharton, have average GMAT scores well above 700. However, the exact score you need can vary based on the specific school, your overall profile, and the year’s applicant pool. Some of the colleges and their average GMAT scores needed are mentioned below:

How to Improve your GMAT score?

Improving your GMAT score requires a strategic approach, including understanding the test format, identifying your weaknesses, and creating a structured study plan. Improving your GMAT score also involves a combination of targeted preparation, strategic study habits, and effective test-taking techniques. Here are some steps to help you enhance your performance:

• Understand the Test Format: Know the structure of the GMAT, including the types of questions in the Quantitative, Verbal, and Data Insights sections.
• Create a Study Plan: Define your target score based on the requirements of your target schools and allocate regular, focused study sessions. 
• Use Official GMAT Materials: Use the GMAT Official Guide and other official materials to practice with real GMAT questions.
• Focus on Weak Areas: Identify your strengths and weaknesses through practice tests. Spend more time improving areas where you’re struggling.

From the Desk of Yocket

Securing a strong GMAT score is a pivotal step in your journey to a top-tier MBA program. By understanding what constitutes a good score, setting a clear target, and strategically preparing, you can significantly enhance your chances of admission to your dream business school. Whether you're aiming for the 700+ club or looking to improve your score, the right approach can make all the difference.

If you need personalized advice or want to optimize your study plan, Yocket Prep is here to help. Schedule a call today, and let our team guide you toward achieving a good GMAT score and securing a place at a top MBA program.