What Is a Good GMAT Score?

1. GMAT Scoring: The Basics You Actually Need to Know

Alright, before we start throwing around what counts as a “good” GMAT score, let’s make sure we actually understand how the scoring works. Otherwise, you’re just stressing over numbers that don’t even make sense.

1.1 Total GMAT Score: 205 to 805

First things first—your GMAT total score isn’t just plucked out of thin air. It’s the result of how you perform in three main sections, each scored from 60 to 90 points:

1.1.1 Quantitative Reasoning (60-90 points)

This is the math-heavy section. It tests your ability to solve quantitative problems, reason logically with numbers, and spot data patterns. No, you don’t need calculus or advanced math, but you do need to be solid on arithmetic, algebra, and problem-solving. And heads up—you won’t have a calculator, so mental math is key.

1.1.2 Verbal Reasoning (60-90 points)

Think of this as your reading comprehension and logic game. You’ll be tested on your ability to understand passages, analyze arguments, and evaluate reasoning. No need to memorize thousands of vocab words, but you do need to be sharp when it comes to critical thinking and logic.

1.1.3 Data Insights (60-90 points) – The New Kid on the Block

Introduced in 2023, this section is all about evaluating complex data. You’ll see charts, graphs, and multi-source datasets that require quick analysis. This is where your real-world business analytics skills come into play.

1.2 How Your Final GMAT Score Is Calculated

Your total GMAT score is not just an average of these three sections. Instead, the GMAT algorithm works behind the scenes to combine your performance across all sections into a total score between 205 and 805 (in increments of 10 points).

Translation? Two people with the same Quant and Verbal scores could still end up with different total scores, depending on how they performed overall. That’s why focusing on all three sections—not just your strengths—is so important.

Now that we’ve got the basics down, let’s talk about what actually makes a score “good” for your MBA goals. 🚀

2. What Counts as a “Good” GMAT Score? Let’s Be Real.

There’s no single magic number that guarantees admission to business school. A good GMAT score is the one that gets you into the program you want—period. But if we’re talking about competitiveness, different score ranges tell very different stories. Here’s what each level really means for your MBA application:

2.1 The 700+ Club: Where the Big Dogs Play (Top 10%)

📍 Who needs this?
If you’re eyeing Harvard, Stanford, Wharton, MIT Sloan, or any other top-tier MBA program, this is where you need to be.

📍 What does it take?
A 700+ score puts you in the 90th percentile or higher, meaning only 10% of test-takers score this well. If you can hit 740-750+, you’re playing in the elite category.

📍 The reality check:
Even a 780 won’t guarantee you a spot at HBS or Stanford. These schools care about work experience, leadership, and personal fit just as much as they care about test scores. But let’s be honest—a high GMAT score definitely doesn’t hurt.

2.2 650-690: Strong, Competitive, but Not a Lock

📍 Who needs this?
This range is great for top 50 MBA programs, like Georgetown McDonough, Vanderbilt Owen, or USC Marshall.

📍 What does it take?
A score in the 650-690 range lands you in the 75th-89th percentile, which is still very competitive. Many solid MBA programs will be interested.

📍 The reality check:
A 680 might not cut it for Harvard, but for schools ranked in the top 25-50, this score is very solid. You’ll still need to nail your essays, recommendations, and interviews, but admissions committees will take you seriously with this score.

2.3 600-640: Decent, but You’ll Need a Strong Application

📍 Who needs this?
If you’re applying to good but not ultra-elite schools, like Babson, UMass Amherst, or Pepperdine, this score range is workable.

📍 What does it take?
A 600-640 score puts you between the 50th and 74th percentile—not amazing, but not terrible either.

📍 The reality check:
At this level, you’ll want something else in your application to shine—whether that’s a killer work background, an amazing leadership story, or strong letters of recommendation.

2.4 Below 600: Risky, but Not Always a Dead End

📍 Who needs this?
If you’re looking at less competitive or regional MBA programs, a sub-600 score might still get you in.

📍 What does it take?
A GMAT score under 600 means you’re scoring below the 50th percentile, which is not great.

📍 The reality check:
Most top 50 MBA programs will be out of reach with a score in this range, unless you have exceptional work experience or another major advantage. Some business schools don’t require the GMAT or offer waivers—so if standardized tests aren’t your thing, you might want to explore those options instead.

3. What GMAT Score Do Top Business Schools Expect?

Let’s be real—if you’re gunning for an MBA from a top business school, your GMAT score needs to be on point. While schools say they take a “holistic approach” to admissions (which is true), a high GMAT score absolutely boosts your chances—especially if you’re aiming for a competitive program.

Here’s a quick reality check:

📌 If you’re aiming for a top 10 MBA program, you need a 700+ score just to be in the mix.
📌 If you’re targeting top 25 programs, a 650-690 score could still get you through the door.

Now, let’s break down what scores the top B-schools actually expect:

What This Means for You

🔹 740+ = You’re flexing. This score makes you highly competitive at any school, but it still doesn’t guarantee admission (because, well… Stanford).

🔹 700-730 = Very solid for top 10 programs. This score won’t carry your application alone, but it definitely keeps you in the game.

🔹 650-690 = Competitive for top 25 schools. You might need stronger work experience, essays, or leadership credentials to balance out a lower GMAT.

🔹 Below 650? You’re pushing it for top schools, but you still have options, especially if your GPA, work experience, or essays are exceptional.

Bottom line? If you’re serious about top-tier MBA programs, aim for at least 700+. But if your score isn’t quite there, a strong application can still keep you in the race—just be strategic about where you apply! 🚀

4. How Important Is the GMAT, Really?

So, you’re grinding through GMAT prep, wondering: “Does this score actually make or break my MBA chances?” Short answer? It matters—a lot. Long answer? It’s just one piece of the puzzle.

Here’s the real deal on how much weight the GMAT carries in the grand scheme of MBA admissions:

✔️ A High GMAT Score Can Save You
If your GPA isn’t great, or if your undergrad transcript has some questionable moments, a strong GMAT score can help balance things out. It shows schools that you can handle the academic intensity of an MBA—which is exactly why they use it as a benchmark.

✔️ But It Won’t Carry a Weak Application
Let’s be real—a 780 won’t guarantee you a spot at Stanford, just like a 650 won’t automatically disqualify you. Schools care just as much about your work experience, leadership skills, career trajectory, and essays. You need to show that you’re more than just a test-taker.

✔️ Some Schools Are Moving Away from the GMAT
The MBA world is changing, and some programs are offering test waivers or going test-optional. That said, top business schools (Harvard, Wharton, MIT, etc.) still care about your GMAT score—especially if you don’t have an insanely impressive work background.

5. How to Figure Out What GMAT Score You Actually Need

Not everyone needs a 750. Not everyone can get away with a 600. So how do you know what score you should be aiming for? Easy—you make it make sense for your goals. Here’s how to do that without wasting time stressing over unrealistic expectations:

📌 Look at Your Target Schools
Every MBA program has a median GMAT score for admitted students. That’s your benchmark. If your dream school averages a 710, aim for at least a 710+ to stay competitive. If you can score higher than their median, even better—you’ll stand out in the applicant pool.

📌 Assess Your Strengths
Not everyone needs a top-tier GMAT score to get into a great program. If you’ve got:
✔ A strong GPA (3.7+)
✔ Solid work experience (think leadership roles, promotions, or unique industry experience)
✔ Killer essays and recommendations
Then a slightly lower GMAT (within reason) might still work. Schools love well-rounded candidates, so if you shine elsewhere, your GMAT doesn’t need to do all the heavy lifting.

📌 Factor in Scholarships
Here’s the real incentive to push for a higher GMAT: money. Many MBA programs offer merit-based scholarships, and a strong GMAT score can give you a major edge. If a higher GMAT could land you thousands in tuition savings, it’s worth the extra study time.

6. Final Thoughts: What Score Should You Aim For?

🔹 700+ if you want a shot at Harvard, Stanford, or Wharton.
🔹 650-690 if you’re applying to top 50 programs.
🔹 600-640 if you’re applying to solid but not ultra-competitive schools.
🔹 Below 600? It’s risky, but possible if your overall application is strong.

At the end of the day, a “good” GMAT score is the one that gets you into your target program. If your dream school has a 680 average and you get a 690, you’re in a great spot. If you’re still unsure, focus on getting your best possible score—because the higher, the better!