Average GMAT Scores - MBA Programs

The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is widely recognized as one of the most essential components in the admissions process for business schools worldwide. As a standardized test, the GMAT is designed to assess a candidate’s academic abilities, including their quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, and analytical writing skills. It plays a crucial role in determining whether a candidate has the intellectual capacity to succeed in a rigorous MBA program, and it serves as a significant factor in evaluating applicants, alongside work experience, academic transcripts, essays, and recommendations. For those seeking admission into top-tier business schools, GMAT scores often become one of the most critical pieces of the application puzzle.

The GMAT comprises four primary sections: the Total GMAT score, which ranges from 200 to 800; the Verbal Ability score, ranging from 0 to 60; the Quantitative Ability score, also ranging from 0 to 60; and the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) score, ranging from 0 to 6. The Total GMAT score, calculated from the combined results of the Verbal and Quantitative sections, is the most widely referenced score when discussing the competitiveness of applicants for top business schools. The Verbal and Quantitative sections test critical skills that are crucial for success in business school, such as problem-solving, reading comprehension, logical reasoning, and data interpretation. The AWA section, while weighted less heavily, evaluates a candidate’s ability to articulate ideas in writing and present a coherent argument.

Given that the GMAT is a standard assessment used by business schools around the globe, it provides a means of comparing applicants from diverse educational backgrounds and professional experiences. However, the importance of the GMAT score varies between institutions, with top-ranked schools demanding higher scores due to their competitive admissions processes and their emphasis on selecting the best candidates. This is particularly evident when reviewing the average GMAT scores of the most prestigious business schools in the United States, as reported in the 2009 edition of the U.S. News & World Report Best Business Schools Ranking.

At the very top of the list, Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business stands out with an average GMAT score of 721. This high score is indicative of the highly selective nature of Stanford’s admissions process. With its reputation as one of the most prestigious and exclusive business schools in the world, Stanford attracts a large pool of applicants who possess exceptional academic credentials, leadership potential, and professional achievements. The average GMAT score of 721 suggests that applicants to Stanford are expected to be top performers not only in the quantitative and verbal sections of the test but also in other areas such as analytical thinking, problem-solving, and writing. A high GMAT score is crucial in securing admission to Stanford, as it is one of the most competitive programs globally.

Similarly, Harvard Business School, with an average GMAT score of 713, ranks as one of the top business schools in the world, attracting an equally competitive pool of applicants. Harvard, like Stanford, has a rigorous admissions process that evaluates a candidate’s ability to succeed in a demanding academic environment and contribute to the business community in meaningful ways. The average GMAT score of 713 reflects the high expectations placed on applicants, who must not only excel on the GMAT but also possess a strong track record of academic performance, leadership, and professional accomplishments. For these top schools, the GMAT score is one of the key indicators of an applicant's potential for success in the program.

The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania follows closely with an average GMAT score of 712. As one of the most prestigious business schools, Wharton attracts applicants from around the world who demonstrate strong academic performance, leadership abilities, and a commitment to excellence. Wharton is known for its rigorous MBA program, which emphasizes both analytical and strategic thinking. The average GMAT score of 712 reflects the high caliber of students admitted to the program and the demanding nature of the coursework. At Wharton, the GMAT score serves as a critical measure of an applicant’s potential to thrive in this intense and competitive academic environment.

The Sloan School of Management at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has an average GMAT score of 705. Known for its focus on innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship, MIT Sloan attracts a diverse group of applicants who are often leaders in their fields. The average GMAT score of 705 reflects the high academic standards of MIT’s MBA program. Sloan’s admissions process places a significant emphasis on intellectual curiosity and problem-solving abilities, and the GMAT serves as a key indicator of these qualities. Although the average GMAT score at Sloan is slightly lower than those at Stanford, Harvard, and Wharton, it remains among the highest in the world and reflects the competitive nature of admissions to this prestigious institution.

Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management reports an average GMAT score of 704. Kellogg, known for its focus on teamwork, leadership, and collaborative learning, has a rigorous admissions process that seeks candidates who demonstrate both intellectual ability and the potential for leadership. The average GMAT score of 704 suggests that the school attracts top-tier applicants, many of whom are experienced professionals with strong academic backgrounds and a history of success in their respective fields. Like other top business schools, Kellogg values a well-rounded applicant, and the GMAT is just one aspect of the application process that helps to identify candidates who will excel in the MBA program.

The University of Chicago's Booth School of Business has an average GMAT score of 709. Chicago Booth is known for its analytical approach to business education, with a focus on data-driven decision-making, economic theory, and strategic thinking. The school’s rigorous curriculum demands a high level of quantitative reasoning and intellectual capacity, and the average GMAT score of 709 reflects the caliber of applicants Booth admits each year. Chicago Booth attracts highly motivated candidates with strong academic records and proven leadership potential, and the GMAT score is an important factor in identifying applicants who are likely to thrive in the program.

Dartmouth College’s Tuck School of Business reports an average GMAT score of 713, placing it alongside the very top business schools in terms of academic competitiveness. Tuck is known for its close-knit community and its emphasis on collaborative learning. The admissions process at Tuck seeks candidates who will not only excel academically but also contribute to the school’s collaborative environment. The average GMAT score of 713 reflects the high standards that Tuck sets for its applicants, and the GMAT score serves as an important measure of a candidate’s potential to succeed in the program.

The Haas School of Business at the University of California, Berkeley has an average GMAT score of 710. Haas is known for its focus on innovation, sustainability, and social impact, and it attracts candidates who are passionate about creating positive change in the business world. The admissions process at Haas places a strong emphasis on leadership, personal qualities, and professional achievements, and the average GMAT score of 710 reflects the school’s commitment to admitting candidates who possess both intellectual capability and the potential to make a meaningful impact in the business world.

Columbia Business School, located in the heart of New York City, has an average GMAT score of 707. Columbia is known for its strength in finance, consulting, and entrepreneurship, and it attracts candidates with strong professional backgrounds and leadership potential. The average GMAT score of 707 reflects the school’s competitive admissions process, which places a strong emphasis on academic excellence and professional achievements. Columbia’s location in New York City, a global business hub, further enhances the competitive nature of its admissions process, as applicants seek to gain access to the school’s vast network of alumni and industry connections.

Finally, New York University’s Stern School of Business rounds out the list with an average GMAT score of 700. Stern, with its focus on finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship, attracts a diverse group of applicants from around the world. The average GMAT score of 700 reflects the high level of competition for admission to this top-tier business school. Stern seeks candidates who not only have strong academic credentials but also possess the skills necessary to succeed in the fast-paced, ever-changing business world.

In conclusion, the GMAT score plays a critical role in the admissions process at top business schools in the United States. Business schools such as Stanford, Harvard, and Wharton require high GMAT scores to ensure that their students are intellectually capable and prepared for the challenges of a rigorous MBA program. The average GMAT scores at these schools, which range from 700 to 721, reflect the highly competitive nature of their admissions processes and the caliber of students they admit. While a high GMAT score is essential for admission to these prestigious institutions, it is important to remember that the GMAT is just one element of the application process. Applicants are also evaluated based on their professional experience, leadership potential, essays, and recommendations. Nevertheless, the GMAT remains a key factor in determining whether a candidate has the academic foundation to succeed in the demanding environment of a top business school.

Average GMAT Scores for top Business Schools:

(1) U.S. News & World Report Best Business Schools Ranking, 2009 edition:
School - Average GMAT Scores
Harvard - 713
Stanford - 721
Wharton - 712
Sloan - 705
Kellogg - 704
U of Chicago - 709
Tuck - 713
Haas - 710
Columbia - 707
Stern - 700

(2) U.S. News & World Report, Best Business Schools, 2008 edition:
Business School - Average Score
Harvard University - 707
Stanford University - 720
U Penn (Wharton) - 714
MIT (Sloan) - 702
Northwestern (Kellogg) - 702
University of Chicago - 703
Dartmouth College (Tuck) - 710
UC Berkeley (Haas) - 707
Columbia University (NY) - 708
New York University (Stern) - 700