What GMAT Score Do You Need for the Top 10 MBA Programs in the U.S.?

The GMAT score plays a crucial role when aiming to enter the competitive world of top US MBA programs. The GMAT is an internationally recognized test that assesses candidates’ quantitative, analytical, and verbal skills. It is seen as a standard benchmark for business school admissions across the world. Candidates who want admission to elite programs like Stanford, Harvard, and Wharton need high scores and strategies.

As per the U.S. News Data, the average GMAT score required for top MBA colleges in the USA has exceeded 633 in fall 2023. If you are targeting any specific business/MBA school in the US, your GMAT score must be at least 20 points higher than the average score from the last class of the program.

High GMAT scores not only help you get into prestigious schools but also increase your chances of getting scholarships and other merit-based financial aid. This blog will break down the GMAT score requirements for the top 10 MBA programs in the US, which will help you set clear goals for your GMAT preparation.

Average GMAT Score in the U.S

In the US, the GMAT scores vary as per the type of MBA program and school. The average GMAT score ranges from 700 to 730 for the top MBA programs in the US. The top MBA schools in the US have high average GMAT scores, which reflects their competitive and selective nature in admissions.

Why Submit GMAT Scores for MBA in the USA?

The GMAT scores are significant for US MBA admissions, as business schools regard these scores as reliable indicators of an applicant’s potential for success in significant areas. Submitting scores to MBA schools in the USA is crucial and beneficial for applicants as well as colleges because:

• GMAT offers standardized measures of readiness while helping schools to compare candidates from different educational backgrounds.
• Most of the top MBA programs award merit-based scholarships to high-score achievers, making the exam score financially beneficial for you.
• Strong GMAT scores can offset a lower GPA or lack of work experience in your profile while showcasing your aptitude.
• The GMAT exam focuses on quantitative, analytical, and verbal skills, reflecting your core competencies needed for business schools.

Factors in Selecting GMAT Accepting Colleges in the USA

Choosing the right MBA college in the USA is important as it can drastically shape your career path. Some of the key factors that you must consider while selecting GMAT-accepting colleges in the USA are:

1. Reputation and ranking: The reputation and ranking of a business school can impact your career significantly. The MBA schools in the US with high rankings, like Stanford, Harvard, etc., typically have strict GMAT score expectations from their applicants. A strong-ranked school in your resume can open doors in the competitive job market.
2. Location: The location of the business schools can influence the opportunities and access you might get in different industries. If you choose to be in colleges near major business hubs like Chicago, San Francisco, and New York, you can get ample internship opportunities and connections by the time you finish the program.
3. Scholarships: On the basis of GMAT scores, many MBA schools offer scholarships, which are appealing to international students who require financial assistance. A high score can help you elevate your chances of getting financial aid or merit-based assistance.
4. Program offerings: Different MBA schools offer specialized programs and courses. They have different focuses, like entrepreneurship, finance, or technology. It is important to choose a program that matches your interests and goals.
5. Previous GMAT cutoffs: Look into the previous GMAT average scores and cutoffs of the selected colleges or schools to get insight into their program competitiveness. The previous scores can help you set realistic expectations and determine how your scores will align with the college’s cutoffs.
6. Alumni network and career support: Strong connections, an alumni network, and career support help you succeed post-MBA. Select institutions that offer mentorship opportunities, job placements, insider knowledge, industry trends, etc.

Average GMAT Scores by School 

The average GMAT score for MBA programs in the US varies widely on the basis of factors like ranking, location, and program competitiveness. The GMAT scores required for top MBA schools are generally higher than 700, whereas mid-tier schools require scores between 650 and 700. The low-ranked or general regional-focused schools accept GMATs that average around 600 to 650.

Stanford Graduate School of Business has a high average score of 738.

The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania has an average score of 728.

Harvard Business School maintains an average score of nearly 740 every year.

Other top colleges, like Columbia Business School and NYU Stern School of Business, have averages of around 732 and 729. MBA schools like Chicago Booth and MIT Sloan have GMAT average scores that fall between 728 and 730.

Each of these MBA schools’ average scores shows the standard for applicants who want to get admitted to these programs, and you can complement these scores with good and strong academic and professional profiles.

Average GMAT scores for Top MBA Programs

Here are the average GMAT scores of the top US business schools in 2023 and 2024 to help you visualize what to aim for and the current competitiveness.

Aiming and achieving scores within these ranges and averages can significantly improve your profile for business schools while increasing the chances of getting admission and making a strong impression on the school and scholarship committees.

Should you Take the GMAT or the GRE?

When preparing for an MBA, choosing the right test is important. Both GMAT and GRE are accepted in many business schools, but the structure and format of both are different. Understanding both of these exams will help you choose the one that aligns with your strengths. Here is a table that differentiates the different features of GMAT and GRE.

So, what should you take now: GMAT or GRE?

GMAT is often favored by MBA programs for its business-oriented focus, while GRE is flexible for you if you want to apply to different graduate programs. Before choosing one, you must assess your skills and program preferences, as choosing a test that matches your strengths can make a difference in your application.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a good GMAT score for the top 10 MBA?

A GMAT score between 710 and 740+ is considered good and competitive for the top 10 MBA programs.

What GMAT score is needed for an MBA in the USA?

For almost all the MBA programs in the USA, a GMAT score of around 650 is required.

What GMAT score is required for top universities?

The GMAT score required for top universities like Stanford, Harvard, and Wharton is 710 or more.

What is the GMAT cutoff for the top MBA colleges in the world?

The GMAT cutoff for the top MBA colleges in the world expects scores around 700 and above, though the requirement for each program varies.

Is 720 GMAT enough for Harvard?

A 720 score is a competitive and good score for Harvard. But other strengths and abilities of the applicant in the application are also important to get admission.