The GMAT is a big deal when it comes to business school applications. Whether you’re aiming for an MBA, a specialized master’s, or just some bragging rights, that little three-digit score can feel like a giant beacon of success or failure. But what exactly is a “good” GMAT score? Spoiler alert: it’s not just about hitting some magical number.
So, before making life decisions based on practice test scores, let’s break down five ways you can define a “good” GMAT score.
Our advice includes scores based on the latest GMAT (Focus edition), launched in 2024. The scoring is different from that of previous editions.
1. The “Dream School” Metric
We all have that dream school, right? The one where you imagine yourself striding across campus in slow motion, clutching a latte, and looking effortlessly successful. Well, one of the first things you’ll need to figure out is: what does your dream school consider a good GMAT score?
Here’s the thing: top schools like Harvard, Stanford, and Wharton have average GMAT scores hovering around 720-730 (now 665-675). However, that doesn’t mean you need that exact number to get in. Schools publish average scores, but they also accept candidates who are both above and below that average. Therefore, a “good” score in this context is one that puts you in the competitive range for your target schools.
If the average for your dream school is 700 (now 645), a good score for you might be 680 (now 625). Why? Because admissions teams look at more than just your GMAT. Your work experience, essays, and interviews can boost your application even if your score isn’t perfect.
In fact, we argue that the point of the GMAT score is to get you to the interview. We’ve seen it time and time again, if your GMAT score isn’t good, you won’t get an interview. Doesn’t matter how amazing you are.
Check out the middle 80% range of scores for your target schools. If you’re within that range, you’re probably in good shape. Plus, obsessing over being at the exact average score is like worrying about whether your coffee is precisely 90.5°C. Close enough is good enough.
2. The “Personal Best” Approach to a Good GMAT Score
Let’s be honest: a good GMAT score isn’t just about getting into a specific school. Sometimes, it’s about beating your expectations. It’s like a fitness journey but for your brain. You know those moments when you crush a personal best at the gym? Scoring higher than you thought you could on the GMAT feels just as sweet—minus the sweat.
A personal best doesn’t necessarily mean hitting 800 (now 805). It’s about setting a goal based on your starting point and the time you have to prepare. If you start with a 550 (now 515) on your first practice test, and after a few months of studying, you hit 650 (now 595), that is a solid improvement. It may not be a top-tier school level, but for you, that’s a win.
Defining a good score as your personal best keeps you focused on what you can achieve, not on some arbitrary standard that’s been floating around the internet. A good GMAT tutor can help you define your personal best. As she is teaching you, she will evaluate how you think and help you see how you have progressed over the course of your learning. If you can look at your score and think, “Hey, I did that!”—that’s a good score.
3. The “Full Package” Perspective
Every applicant forgets that the GMAT is just one piece of the application puzzle. A good score is important, but business schools are looking for a whole person. That’s right, you’re more than just a test score!
Admissions committees are evaluating your entire profile. So, what else do you bring to the table? Leadership experience, a killer essay, impressive work accomplishments, and community involvement can all make your application shine.
In fact, the “everything else” is where most students miss the mark. They focus solely on work and the GMAT and forget that:
- MBA programs have organizations that they need proven leaders to run.
- In class discussions require diverse perspectives so everyone can’t have the same background.
- Business schools need women!
- Business school needs students from underrepresented regions and backgrounds.
Think of your GMAT score like the frosting on a cake. Sure, frosting is nice, but no one wants a cake made entirely of frosting (okay, some people might, but let’s stay on track here). If the cake—aka your experience, essays, and recommendations—is solid, a good enough GMAT score can seal the deal without needing to be off-the-charts amazing.
If your GMAT score is just okay, but your application is otherwise stellar, don’t sweat it. Schools want dynamic, interesting people, not just high scorers.
4. The “Cost-Benefit Analysis” Approach to a Good GMAT Score
Here’s where things get a bit business-y (you’re prepping for an MBA, after all). Think of your GMAT score like an investment: at a certain point, the returns start to diminish. Sure, you could spend the next six months grinding to get from 710 (now 655) to 740 (now 685), but is it really worth it?
This is where you have to do a cost-benefit analysis. Pretend you already have a score that puts you in range for your target schools. Ask yourself whether spending more time on GMAT prep will really add value to your application. Could that time be better spent polishing your essays, networking with alumni, or hustling at work for a new project to discuss during the interview?
In other words, a “good” GMAT score is one that meets your needs without making you sacrifice too much time or energy in other areas of your application—or your life.
Want to ensure that you have done everything you can to get a good score? Hire a GMAT tutor. A good GMAT tutor is worth the cost because she will reduce the time, energy, and anxiety associated with studying for the GMAT. Check out our list of 11 pros and cons of hiring a GMAT tutor to help you evaluate your options.
5. The “Confidence Booster” Test
Ever notice how some people radiate confidence during interviews or networking events? Well, a good GMAT score can give you that same boost. Even if it’s not the highest score possible, getting a score you’re proud of can make a huge difference in how you approach the rest of the application process.
Confidence matters more than you think. Therefore, good GMAT score should leave you feeling empowered to tackle the rest of your application head-on. It should be a number that makes you feel like, “Yep, I’ve got this,” whether you’re writing your essays or walking into an interview.
Sure, a higher score can boost your confidence, but so can a score that represents your best effort and aligns with your goals. If your GMAT score is good enough to make you feel like you can crush the rest of the application process, then that’s the real win.
Ultimately, a “good” GMAT score is one that helps you reach your goals, whatever they may be. It’s the score that opens doors for you. Maybe that’s to your dream school, a competitive scholarship, or simply to feel proud of your achievement.
Frequently Asked Questions about a Good GMAT Score
What is a good GMAT score for MBA programs?
Generally, a 700 (now 645) is a universally competitive GMAT score for most MBA programs. For scores lower than 700 (now 645), it depends on the schools and tiers to which you are applying. For example, most business schools in Canada want higher than a 600 (now 555).
Some US business schools, like Babson College, are test-optional. Therefore, they don’t require you to submit a GMAT score.
If you have another Masters, an undergraduate degree in business, or a high undergraduate GPA, your GMAT score might not even matter.
What if I have a good GMAT score but a bad GPA?
This question is tough to answer. The simplest answer is that a bad GPA makes EVERYTHING else matter even more. If your undergraduate GPA is less than 2.5 (based on the US system), you’d better have:
- a 650+ (now 595+) GMAT score
- Excellent experience
- fantastic resume’ and references
- Interesting essay responses
Most importantly, it needs to be OBVIOUS that you are an excellent fit for the program.
Is a 750 (now 695) GMAT impressive?
Yes.
What is a good GMAT score for top business schools?
It depends on the country a bit. Top US business schools love 700+ (now 645+). Top UK and European business schools are ok with 650-680+ (now 595-625+) as long as the profile is impressive. Top Indian business schools? 800 (now 805).
Is 700 (now 645) a good score on GMAT?
Yes. You’ll fall in the 80% median/average range of most top business schools worldwide.
What is a good GMAT score for scholarships?
MBA programs don’t usually base scholarships on GMAT scores. Some do, but many don’t. Scholarship consideration is generally based on demonstrated leadership abilities, membership of an underrepresented demographic (women, specific ethnic groups, lower income levels), or compatibility with scholarship sponsors (like people working in business in New Zealand).
In our experience, if your MBA program wants to consider you for a scholarship, your GMAT score is the determinant, and you are close, they will ask you to retake the GMAT.
What is the top 1% GMAT score?
A top 1% score on the old GMAT was 760. On the GMAT Focus edition, the top 1% is 705. A top 1% score means that you have scored higher than 99% of the people who take the GMAT.
Is 580 (now 545) a bad GMAT score?
580 (now 545) is a good GMAT score, but it will only do for some MBA programs. To be most competitive, we recommend pushing the score past 600 (now 555).
What is a good GMAT score for the Ivy League?
Ivy League schools like Harvard, Stanford, and Wharton have average GMAT scores hovering around 720-730 (now 665-675).
Is 710 (now 655) a good GMAT score?
Yes.
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