A score of 750 in the GMAT is considered an excellent score, based on the information available as of this year. According to the Graduate Management Admission Council’s (GMAC) most recent score report for the 2020-2021 testing year, the average score for all test-takers was 563, while the median score was 570. Scores above 700 are typically considered competitive for admission to top MBA programs.
Why is a score of 750 considered so good
A GMAT score of 750 puts a test-taker in the 98th percentile of all test-takers. This means that out of 100 people who take the GMAT, only two will have achieved a higher score than 750. This demonstrates exceptional academic ability and puts candidates in an advantageous position when applying to top-tier MBA programs.
How do high scores impact admissions outcomes
A study by GMAC published in 2020 found that high GMAT scores can drive superior acceptance rates and larger scholarship offers. The study analyzed over 14,000 applications from the 2019-2020 application cycle and found that candidates with a total score of 700 or higher had a 16% higher acceptance rate than those with scores below 600. Additionally, those with scores in the 700-740 range received, on average, 39% more scholarship offers than those with scores below 600.
What other factors impact admissions decisions
- Professional experience and resume quality
- Undergraduate grades and school reputation
- Admissions essays and recommendations
- Interview performance
While a high GMAT score is important, it is not the only factor that MBA admissions committees consider when evaluating candidates. Strong performance in these other areas can help mitigate a lower GMAT score, while a weak performance in these areas can hurt an otherwise excellent score.
Who else places importance on high GMAT scores
Employers who recruit MBA graduates also place a lot of weight on GMAT scores, as they consider it a strong indicator of a candidate’s analytical and critical thinking skills. A study by Financial Times found that in the United States, candidates who scored above 700 on the GMAT earned, on average, 55% more than those with scores below 600.
Additional Questions:
Q1. Is a score of 750 necessary to get into a top MBA program
No, a score of 750 is not absolutely necessary for admission to a top MBA program. While it is certainly a competitive score, admissions committees take a holistic approach to evaluating candidates and will consider other factors in addition to the GMAT score.
Q2. How much does the GMAT score matter compared to other factors like work experience and undergraduate grades
The GMAT score is just one of many factors that MBA admissions committees consider. While it is an important factor, strong performance in other areas can compensate for a lower GMAT score, and vice versa.
Q3. Are GMAT scores weighted more heavily than GRE scores
It depends on the school. While some MBA programs only accept GMAT scores, others accept both GMAT and GRE scores and weigh them equally. Ultimately, it’s best to check the specific requirements of the individual programs you are interested in.
Q4. How long is a GMAT score valid
GMAT scores are valid for five years after the date the test was taken.
Q5. Can you retake the GMAT if you’re not happy with your score
Yes, you can retake the GMAT up to five times in a rolling 12-month period. However, there are some restrictions on how frequently you can take the test, so it’s best to consult the GMAT website for more information.
Q6. How much does it cost to take the GMAT
The fee to take the GMAT is 5 in most countries.
Q7. Are there any tips for preparing for the GMAT
Yes – the GMAT website offers a variety of study resources, including practice tests, study tips, and study materials. Additionally, many test prep companies offer GMAT preparation courses and materials.
Q8. Is the GMAT offered online
Yes, the GMAT is currently being offered online due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the test is also offered in-person at test centers around the world.
Sources:
- https://www.gmac.com/-/media/files/gmac/research/employment-outlook/gmac-2020-corporate-recruiters-survey-report.ashx
- https://www.ft.com/content/31c4b602-7624-11e9-be7d-6d846537acab
- https://www.gmac.com/-/media/files/gmac/research/employment-outlook/gmac-2020-application-trends-survey-report.ashx
- https://www.gmac.com/-/media/files/gmac/research/employment-outlook/gmac-whitepaper-are-gmat-scores-preparing-.ashx