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USA is a dream destination of every MBA aspirant. The reasons are substantial – the country hosts the best b-schools, offers entrepreneurial opportunities, and has a high-paying job market. As a result, a large number of international students apply to the top US b-schools, but only a few get through.

What gives an edge to selected students over the ones who got rejected? What GMAT score is required for an MBA admission at the top business schools in the United States? In this blog, we will answer all these questions and many more.

GMAT scoring pattern

US B-schools and universities consider several factors while shortlisting the applicants, test scores being one of the most critical factors. Standardized tests such as GMAT not only adds value to your MBA application, but a good GMAT score can even place you on top of the MBA admissions pile.

Before diving into required GMAT scores for MBA in the US, let us brush up on the scoring pattern.

In this blog:

1.    GMAT scoring pattern
2.    Required GMAT score for MBA in the US
3.    A good GMAT score for an MBA in the US

GMAT scoring pattern

GMAT or Graduate Management Aptitude Test is a standardized test used primarily by b-schools for admissions into management programs. The test is scored out of 800 marks and consists of four sections: Analytical Writing Assessment, Integrated Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Verbal Reasoning.

The composite GMAT score depends on one’s performance in these sections. The total score can range from 200 to 800 points in 10-point increments.

GMAT exam pattern

Learn about the GMAT 2022 Exam dates and fees in India.

Learn about the colleges in the USA accepting GMAT scores.

Have you taken the GMAT before?

Required GMAT score for MBA in the US

GMAT is essential for an MBA in the US. Not only do you get an admit to the top business schools, but also boosts your chances of getting a scholarship.

So how much should you score on your GMAT exam? It depends on the average GMAT scores required by the b-schools you are targeting. Other factors to consider while determining a good GMAT score include-

  • Average GMAT score of the last year’s incoming class
  • ROI on the GMAT score
  • Profile of the previous year’s incoming class
  • GMAT score required for the scholarships

Among the top b-schools in the US, Stanford Graduate School of Business has reported the highest GMAT score requirement. For the fall 2020 intake, Stanford GSB reported an average GMAT score of 733 for the full-time management course.

A good GMAT score for an MBA in the US

“According to an annual US News survey, some 122 ranked MBA programs disclosed that 609 is their average GMAT score for fall 2020.”

A 630+ on your GMAT is a good score, while a score between 700 and 740 is a great score and can increase your chances of getting admission into top b-schools. A score above 740 is an excellent score.

With Stanford in the first position, other business schools such as Wharton, Harvard, Booth, Kellogg, UC-Berkeley, MIT Sloan, etc., all have an average score of above 720 on the GMAT. Scoring high on your GMAT is not rocket science and can be easily achieved by practice, persistence, and proper guidance.

Is a top b-school possible with a low GPA?

Have you taken the GMAT before?

Below is a list of top business schools in the US and their average GMAT scores-

MBA in the US: Business School Name

Average GMAT Score* (Fall 2020)

Stanford University 733
Columbia University 732
UPenn (Wharton) 732
Harvard University 727
Northwestern University-Kellogg 727
UC-Berkeley (Haas) 727
University of Chicago (Booth) 724
New York University (Stern) 723
Dartmouth College (Tuck) 720
Yale University 720
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor 711

*Source – www.usnews.com

A high GMAT score opens several doors for you. It adds weightage to your university application, demonstrates your high academic caliber, and gives you an edge over other applicants.

Jamboree, with its simplified GMAT test preparation, has made it possible for several students to live their American dream. Whether you are a working professional or a student, we have GMAT courses tailored to suit your convenience, from online classes to private tutoring to live courses. Get in touch with our expert counselors and find the perfect program for you!

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