What GMAT score do I need to get into a top business school in the USA?
To get into a top business school in the USA, you generally need a GMAT score between 650 and 740. Elite schools push this higher, with Stanford averaging 733, University of Pennsylvania 732, and Harvard 730, so aim for the top of the range if you're targeting these programs.
Your GMAT score can make or break your shot at a top MBA program in the USA, since the most competitive schools expect scores well above the general minimum. Broadly, top business schools look for a GMAT score of 650 to 740.
Average GMAT Scores at Top US Business Schools
| University | Average GMAT Score |
|---|---|
| Stanford University | 733 |
| University of Pennsylvania | 732 |
| Harvard University | 730 |
| University of Chicago | 730 |
| New York University | 730 |
| University of California, Berkeley (Haas) | 727 |
| Columbia University | 726 |
| Yale University | 720 |
| Dartmouth College | 720 |
| University of California, Los Angeles | 719 |
GRE as an Alternative
If you take the GRE instead, competitive applicants typically report scores of 315 to 330 or higher, so choose whichever test better reflects your strengths before you commit your prep time.
My Advice
Aim to score above your target school's published average rather than just meeting the general 650 to 740 range, since admitted student averages already reflect stiff competition. Give yourself enough runway to retake the GMAT if your first attempt falls short.
Low percentage, study gap or no work experience?
Find out which US universities you still qualify for.
More Universities & admissions questions
- When are the spring and fall application deadlines for South Korean universities that I should plan for?
- How much would I pay in first-year tuition for the International MBA program at York University, Toronto?
- What are some effective online German language classes for Indian students preparing to study in Germany?
- By when should my HEP point be completed, should it be this month to avoid delay in UK?
- If I apply to two courses at the same university, do I need separate letters of recommendation for each course or can I use the same letter for both?
- What are the chances of getting a conditional offer letter requiring IELTS even if I have a good 12th standard score?
- Is January 2027 intake possible for masters in business analytics in UK/UAE?
- Which universities in the USA offer MS Engineering Management for a B.Tech Automotive Engineering graduate, Duolingo 120 and ₹80 lakhs budget?
More USA questions
- Which is more suitable for my son's master's education: Dubai or the USA, considering cost, location, program variety, post-study work options, and pathways to permanent residency?
- How much extra should I keep aside for unexpected costs during my MS in the USA?
- By when do I need to submit my application for most UG and PG courses at UCLA?
- Can you track an Employment Pass application on the MOM portal when your employer files it?
- Can I apply for an education loan up to 30 to 35 lakhs or 30 to 40 lakhs budget?
- What are the visa application chances and procedures for USA compared to Australia?
- Is my daughter planning to settle down abroad with permanent residency or just study in Singapore/USA for a Master's?
- Is the scholarship available for the next intake in USA for a Master's?