Whether you’re aiming for Harvard, INSEAD, ISB, or any other top business school, your GMAT score plays a pivotal role in your application. But with the updated GMAT format and a new scoring scale ranging from 205 to 805, many test-takers are left wondering: how is the GMAT scored, and what exactly is a “good” score?
In this article, we’ll walk you through the GMAT scoring system—breaking down how each section is evaluated, what your total score represents, and how schools interpret your score. We’ll also show you how to use a GMAT score calculator to estimate your target score, and offer insights into what percentile your score places you in.
By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to assess your performance and set realistic goals for GMAT success.
How GMAT Scoring Works
Understanding how the GMAT is scored is essential to interpreting your results and setting realistic goals for your business school applications. The GMAT scoring system is structured to evaluate your aptitude in core areas—Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights—and translates your performance into a Total Score that ranges from 205 to 805, in 10-point increments.
Let’s break it down section by section.
1. Total Score (205–805)
The Total GMAT Score is derived by combining your performance across three sections:
- Quantitative Reasoning (QR)
- Verbal Reasoning (VR)
- Data Insights (DI)
Each of these sections is individually scored on a scale of 60 to 90, and then the sum of these three scores (i.e., a range between 180 and 270) is mapped to a Total Score using a standardized score conversion chart developed by GMAC (the official test administrator).
For example, a combined section score of 258 might map to a Total Score of 725.
This conversion is not a simple linear calculation—it’s based on a complex algorithm that accounts for question difficulty, consistency, and accuracy of your responses.
2. Section-wise Scores (60–90)
Each of the three sections contributes equally to the total score range and is scored independently. Here’s what each section measures:
| Section | Score Range | Skills Tested |
|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Reasoning | 60 – 90 | Your ability to analyze data and solve problems using basic math, algebra, and logic |
| Verbal Reasoning | 60 – 90 | Your ability to read and understand written material, evaluate arguments, and correct written material |
| Data Insights | 60 – 90 | Your ability to interpret data from multiple sources such as graphs, charts, tables, and text passages |
All questions in these sections are computer-adaptive, meaning the difficulty level adjusts based on your previous answers.
3. Percentile Ranking
Alongside your scaled score, you’ll also receive a percentile ranking, which reflects how your score compares to other test-takers over the past three years.
| Total GMAT Score | Percentile Ranking |
|---|---|
| 805 | 100% |
| 775 | 100% |
| 745 | 100% |
| 715 | 99% |
| 685 | 97% |
| 645 | 89% |
| 605 | 75% |
| 555 | 53% |
| 515 | 36% |
| 475 | 22% |
| 435 | 13% |
| 405 | 8% |
| 355 | 3% |
| 275 | 1% |
| 205 | <1% |
These percentile scores help admissions committees understand how you performed relative to the entire GMAT population.
4. Key Notes on Scoring
- There is no penalty for incorrect answers, so it’s always better to attempt all questions.
- The GMAT algorithm values both accuracy and consistency. A few careless mistakes can hurt your score, even if you answer many hard questions correctly.
- The Total Score is often the first number MBA programs consider, but they also review your section-wise scores—especially if you’re applying to quantitatively demanding programs.
What Is a Good GMAT Score and Why It Matters
A “good” GMAT score isn’t one-size-fits-all—it depends on your target schools, your career goals, and how competitive you want to be in the admissions pool. That said, understanding what qualifies as a good GMAT score can help you benchmark your performance and build a strong MBA application.
GMAT Score Range: What Your Score Means
The following table shows how different GMAT scores are typically perceived in admissions, keeping in mind the 205–805 scoring scale:
| GMAT Score Range | What It Means |
|---|---|
| 755–805 | Excellent – Top 1%–5% scorers. Very competitive for M7 and top-10 MBA programs globally. |
| 705–745 | Very Good – Strong for top-15 to top-25 schools. Often qualifies for scholarships. |
| 655–695 | Good – Solid range for top-50 global schools and competitive regional programs. |
| 605–645 | Average – May work for some programs if paired with strong work experience or GPA. |
| 205–595 | Below Average – Might require retaking the exam to be competitive. |
Note: While there is no official “pass” or “fail,” most top programs expect scores above 675.
Why GMAT Scores Matter for Business School Admissions
Your GMAT score plays a key role in demonstrating three important things to the admissions committee:
- Your Academic Readiness
It reflects your ability to handle MBA-level coursework, especially in quant-heavy subjects. - Your Professional Potential
Many consulting firms, investment banks, and tech companies ask for GMAT scores during hiring. - Your Fit for Scholarships
Higher scores significantly increase your chances of earning merit-based financial aid. - Your Global Competitiveness
Since the GMAT is taken by candidates from over 110 countries, your score helps schools benchmark your academic ability internationally.
How to Decide What a Good GMAT Score Is for You (Step-by-Step Template)
A “good” GMAT score isn’t one-size-fits-all—it depends on your target schools, goals, and background. Here’s a 5-step process to help you identify your personal GMAT score target:
Step 1: Identify Your Target Business Schools
- List out all MBA programs you’re considering.
- Be specific: choose 5–8 schools across your dream, competitive, and safe categories.
Why this matters: Different schools have different GMAT score expectations.
Step 2: Find the Average GMAT Scores for These Schools
- Visit each school’s official MBA admissions site.
- Look for the class profile section and note:
- Average GMAT score
- 80% GMAT score range (optional but helpful)
Create a table like this:
| School | Avg GMAT | 80% Range |
|---|---|---|
| Wharton | 728 | 700–770 |
| Ross | 718 | 680–760 |
| Indiana Kelley | 675 | 640–710 |
| ISB (India) | 710 | 660–750 |
| Oxford Said (UK) | 690 | 640–750 |
Step 3: Consider Your Applicant Profile
Now, ask yourself:
- Are you from an overrepresented pool (e.g., Indian engineer, consulting, finance)?
- Do you have stellar academics (GPA, undergrad school)?
- Is your work experience distinctive or common?
If you’re from a competitive pool, aim 20–30 points above the school’s average to stand out. If you have a unique profile or strong leadership experience, a score near or even slightly below the average may still be competitive.
Step 4: Factor in Scholarships or Fellowships
- Many top MBA scholarships go to candidates with GMAT scores in the top 10–15% of the class.
- If you’re hoping for funding, aim to score 10–20 points above the school average, even if that’s higher than what’s strictly required.
Step 5: Set a Realistic Yet Ambitious Target Score
Use all the data above to finalize your target score.
You should ideally create a table like this:
| School | Avg GMAT | Target GMAT |
|---|---|---|
| Wharton | 728 | 745 |
| Ross | 718 | 735 |
| ISB | 710 | 735 |
| Oxford | 690 | 715 |
| Kelley | 675 | 705 |
Example: Meet Rohan, an Indian IT Professional
Let’s walk through this process with a real-world scenario.
Rohan’s Profile:
- Nationality: Indian
- Background: Male, IT engineer with 5 years’ experience at a top tech firm
- Academics: 8.3 CGPA from NIT
- ECs: Limited
- Target Schools: ISB, Oxford, Kelley, Cornell, CMU Tepper
- Scholarship goal: Yes
- Budget: Wants ROI-friendly options
Applying the Template:
Step 1: Target Schools Identified
Step 2: Research School Data
| School | Avg GMAT | 80% Range |
|---|---|---|
| ISB | 710 | 660–750 |
| Oxford Said | 690 | 640–750 |
| Kelley | 675 | 640–710 |
| Cornell | 710 | 660–750 |
| CMU Tepper | 705 | 650–750 |
Step 3: Consider Profile
- Indian Male IT = overrepresented
- Not much leadership or ECs = needs stronger academics
- → Rohan should aim 20–30 points above the average GMAT
Step 4: Scholarship Consideration
- To maximize chances of scholarships at ISB and CMU, 740–750+ is a safer bet
Step 5: Set a Target
| School | Avg GMAT | Rohan’s Target |
|---|---|---|
| ISB | 710 | 735 |
| Oxford | 690 | 725 |
| Kelley | 675 | 715 |
| Cornell | 710 | 735 |
| CMU Tepper | 705 | 735 |
Rohan sets a GMAT target score of 735, with a baseline goal of 715+, knowing that it gives him strong chances for both admissions and scholarships.
Good GMAT Scores at Top Business Schools (2025 Intake)
Here’s a look at average GMAT scores at top global business schools:
| Business School | Average GMAT Score |
|---|---|
| Stanford GSB | 738 |
| Harvard Business School | 730 |
| Wharton (UPenn) | 728 |
| Kellogg (Northwestern) | 729 |
| INSEAD | 710 |
| London Business School (LBS) | 708 |
| Indian School of Business (ISB) | 710 |
| HEC Paris | 690 |
| Oxford Saïd | 680 |
Scores for the updated GMAT format may continue to evolve over 2025–2026. Always check the most recent class profile.
In Summary
A good GMAT score is contextual:
- It depends on the schools you’re targeting.
- It should strengthen your overall profile.
- And it can unlock scholarship opportunities and global job prospects.
Whether you’re aiming for a top-10 school or a strong regional program, use this updated 205–805 scale to set your GMAT goals.
Tips to Improve Your GMAT Score
Improving your GMAT score is absolutely possible—with the right strategies, mindset, and preparation plan. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to push your score higher, here are proven tips to help you succeed on the 205–805 GMAT scoring scale:
1. Understand the Exam Structure and Scoring System
Start by familiarizing yourself with the format:
- Total Score Range: 205–805 (in 10-point increments)
- Sections: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights
- Scoring Weightage: Total score is calculated based on your performance across the three sections—not just Quant and Verbal.
Knowing how the exam works helps you build a smarter prep strategy.
2. Take a Diagnostic Test First
Before diving into study materials, take a full-length practice test. This gives you:
- A benchmark score
- A sense of timing
- Insights into your strengths and weaknesses
Use this data to build a personalized study plan.
3. Focus on Weak Areas—but Don’t Ignore Strengths
Use error logs and analytics to track what’s holding you back. For example:
- Struggling with Data Insights? Allocate extra time to practice interpreting charts and tables.
- Making careless mistakes in Quant? Review foundational math and practice under timed conditions.
Balance is key: solidify your strengths while addressing your weak spots.
4. Build a Realistic and Consistent Study Schedule
Aim for at least 2–3 hours a day, 5–6 days a week. More isn’t always better—consistency beats cramming.
Break your study time into:
- Concept review
- Practice questions
- Timed quizzes
- Error analysis
Use weekends or off days for full-length mocks and revision.
5. Use High-Quality GMAT Prep Resources
Stick to trusted sources like:
- Official GMAT prep from mba.com
- SIGma-X GMAT Mock Tests (for realistic test-day simulation)
- Reliable GMAT prep books and adaptive online platforms
Avoid juggling too many resources—depth matters more than variety.
6. Practice with a Timer
Pacing is everything. Use a timer while practicing to simulate real exam pressure.
Example goals:
- Quant: 2 minutes per question
- Verbal: ~1.8 minutes per question
- Data Insights: depends on question type, aim for 2 minutes max
This helps build your time management muscle.
7. Take Full-Length Mock Tests Regularly
Mocks are vital. Schedule 4–6 full-length tests during your prep journey.
After each test:
- Review all questions
- Analyze your pacing
- Identify trends in errors
- Adjust your prep accordingly
Mocks should mirror the computer-adaptive nature of the real GMAT.
8. Don’t Ignore Mental Prep and Test-Day Strategy
Your mindset matters as much as your prep:
- Sleep well before test day
- Arrive early if testing at a center
- For online exams, set up a quiet space and test your system beforehand
- Use process of elimination and educated guessing when stuck
9. Know When to Retake
If your first score isn’t reflective of your true potential:
- Wait at least 16 days before retaking
- Focus on areas of improvement from your Enhanced Score Report (ESR)
- Many successful applicants improve by 20–60 points on a retake
10. Get Professional Help if Needed
If you’re stuck in a score plateau, consider:
- Joining a structured GMAT prep course
- Hiring a GMAT tutor
- Signing up for AI-powered adaptive learning tools
Sometimes, expert guidance is the fastest path to score improvement.
Bottom Line
Improving your GMAT score is a journey that requires strategy, practice, and resilience. Stick to a plan, stay positive, and remember—even a 20-point increase can open new doors for top MBA programs and scholarships.
FAQs on GMAT Scoring
1. What is the scoring range for the GMAT?
The GMAT total score ranges from 205 to 805, in 10-point increments. This total score is derived from your performance in the Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights sections.
2. How is the GMAT score calculated?
Your GMAT score is based on a combination of your performance in the Quantitative, Verbal, and Data Insights sections. Each section is scored individually and then scaled to produce the overall score (205–805). The scoring algorithm considers difficulty level, number of questions answered correctly, and completion of all sections.
3. What is a good GMAT score?
A good GMAT score is subjective and depends on your target business schools. Generally:
- 695+ is considered strong
- 735+ is competitive for top MBA programs
- If you belong to an overrepresented applicant pool (e.g., Indian IT male), aim 20–30 points above the school average.
4. Does the GMAT AWA score affect the total score?
No, the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) section has been removed from the GMAT exam now.
5. How many times can I take the GMAT?
You can take the GMAT up to 5 times in a rolling 12-month period, and 8 times in total across your lifetime. You must wait 16 calendar days between attempts.
6. Do business schools see all my GMAT scores?
You can choose which GMAT scores to send to business schools. Schools will only see the scores you decide to report.
7. What happens if I don’t finish a section?
If you leave a section incomplete or run out of time, your score will be negatively affected. It’s important to pace yourself and complete all questions in each section.
8. Is it possible to get a perfect GMAT score?
Yes, the highest possible GMAT score is 805, but achieving this is extremely rare. Even a score in the 735–765 range puts you in the top percentile of test-takers worldwide.
9. Do GMAT scores expire?
Yes, GMAT scores are valid for five years from your test date. Most schools require that your GMAT score is valid at the time of application review.
10. Will retaking the GMAT hurt my application?
No, most schools do not penalize applicants for retaking the GMAT. In fact, retaking the exam and showing improvement can demonstrate determination and resilience.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the GMAT scoring system is the first step toward building a smart test-taking strategy. Your total GMAT score, ranging from 205 to 805, is not just about getting answers right—it’s about answering the right questions correctly and consistently. This is where section-level insights and adaptive testing play a major role.
While aiming for a good GMAT score is important, what really matters is how well your score aligns with your target business schools and career goals. A 735+ score may be competitive at top-tier programs, but a 695–725 can still be strong depending on your profile, industry, and overall application strength.
Use tools like the GMAT score chart to identify your target score, and then focus on optimizing each section—Quantitative, Verbal, and Data Insights—to get there. With focused preparation, timed practice, and a clear understanding of how scoring works, you can absolutely hit your desired GMAT range.
Remember: your GMAT score opens doors, but it’s your entire application that gets you through them.
