GMAT Score: Section-wise Calculation, Good Score, Percentile
The GMAT score is derived from a complex, algorithm-driven evaluation. This is because the GMAT, short for the Graduate Management Admission Test, is a computer-adaptive test.
A computer-adaptive test adjusts to your performance in real-time. This means the difficulty of each question depends on how you performed on previous ones. In other words, since the GMAT is computer-adaptive, the difficulty level of each question changes based on your previous answers. In short, your responses determine the difficulty of the next question.
Quick GMAT Score Boosting Tips:
- As we told you, the GMAT is a computer-adaptive test, answering incorrectly at the start has a greater negative impact than at the end.
- Practice smart timing strategies to manage the test effectively.
- Give more time to solve the first 8-9 questions.
- Spend at most three minutes on any question.
- Unanswered questions lead you to a penalty, so answer all questions.
- If you're stuck, guess!
The GMAT scoring system might seem complicated, but don’t let it stress you out. Let’s break it down step by step! Read on to learn how the GMAT test score is calculated, how each section is scored, what is a good GMAT score, percentiles, and more.
How is the GMAT Score Calculated?
The GMAT Focus Edition calculates your score based on three main sections: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights.
Each section, evaluated on a scale ranging from 60 to 90, contributes equally to your total score (the total score ranges from 205 to 805). The GMAT scores are given in 10-point increments, always ending in a five.
Below is a breakdown of the sectional score of the GMAT exam.
| Section | Score Range | Score Intervals |
|---|---|---|
|
Quantitative Reasoning |
60-90 |
1 |
|
Verbal Reasoning |
60-90 |
1 |
|
Data Insights |
60-90 |
1 |
|
Total Score |
205-805 |
10 |
Should a candidate fail to complete any section of the GMAT exam, they will be subject to a penalty, potentially impacting their overall performance and total GMAT score.
Remember, the GMAT exam is adaptive, meaning the difficulty of questions changes based on your performance. This also impacts your score as higher difficulty questions carry more weight in scoring. This is why a strategic approach – focusing on accuracy early on – can help you maximize your overall score.
How is Section-wise GMAT Score Distributed?
Each section of the GMAT exam is scored on a scale of 60 to 90. Here's a breakdown of the sections:
| GMAT Quant Score | Percentile |
|---|---|
| 90 | 100% |
| 89 | 97% |
| 88 | 95% |
| 87 | 94% |
| 86 | 91% |
| 85 | 88% |
| 84 | 85% |
| 83 | 81% |
| 82 | 76% |
| 81 | 70% |
| 80 | 64% |
| 79 | 57% |
| 78 | 50% |
| 77 | 43% |
| 76 | 37% |
| 75 | 32% |
| 74 | 26% |
| 73 | 22% |
| 72 | 19% |
| 71 | 15% |
| 70 | 12% |
| 69 | 10% |
| 68 | 8% |
| 67 | 6% |
| 66 | 4% |
| 65 | 3% |
| 64 | 2% |
| 63 | 2% |
| 62 | 1% |
| 61 | 1% |
| 60 | 1% |
Score range: 60-90; Score interval: 1 point
GMAT Focus Quantitative Reasoning Percentiles
The Quantitative Reasoning section has 21 problems testing your skills in:
- Algebra
- Arithmetic
- Logic
- Problem Solving
A good GMAT Quant score falls in the 89th-100th percentile, which corresponds to a score of 85-90.
| GMAT Verbal Score | Percentile |
|---|---|
| 90 | 100% |
| 89 | 99% |
| 88 | 99% |
| 87 | 98% |
| 86 | 97% |
| 85 | 94% |
| 84 | 90% |
| 83 | 84% |
| 82 | 76% |
| 81 | 67% |
| 80 | 57% |
| 79 | 48% |
| 78 | 39% |
| 77 | 31% |
| 76 | 23% |
| 75 | 18% |
| 74 | 13% |
| 73 | 10% |
| 72 | 7% |
| 71 | 5% |
| 70 | 4% |
| 69 | 3% |
| 68 | 2% |
| 67 | 2% |
| 66 | 1% |
| 65 | 1% |
| 64 | 1% |
| 63 | 1% |
| 62 | 1% |
| 61 | 1% |
| 60 | 1% |
Score range: 60-90; Score interval: 1 point
GMAT Focus Verbal Reasoning Percentiles
The Verbal Reasoning section contains 23 problems assessing:
- Critical Reasoning (analysis/critique and construction/plan)
- Reading Comprehension (identify stated and inferred idea)
A good GMAT Verbal score falls in the 91st-100th percentile, which corresponds to a score of 84-90.
| GMAT Quant Score | Percentile |
|---|---|
| 90 | 100% |
| 89 | 100% |
| 88 | 99% |
| 87 | 99% |
| 86 | 99% |
| 85 | 98% |
| 84 | 97% |
| 83 | 96% |
| 82 | 93% |
| 81 | 89% |
| 80 | 84% |
| 79 | 77% |
| 78 | 70% |
| 77 | 63% |
| 76 | 54% |
| 75 | 48% |
| 74 | 42% |
| 73 | 36% |
| 72 | 31% |
| 71 | 26% |
| 70 | 21% |
| 69 | 18% |
| 68 | 15% |
| 67 | 12% |
| 66 | 10% |
| 65 | 8% |
| 64 | 7% |
| 63 | 6% |
| 62 | 5% |
| 61 | 4% |
| 60 | 4% |
Score range: 60-90; Score interval: 1 point
GMAT Focus Data Insights Percentiles
The Data Insights section is a new addition to the GMAT Focus Edition. It consists of 20 questions that evaluate your ability to analyze, interpret, and apply data. This section includes:
- Data Sufficiency
- Graphs
- Tables
- Multi-Source Reasoning
- Two-Part Analysis
A good GMAT Data Insights score falls in the 90th-100th percentile, which corresponds to a score of 81-90.
What is a Good GMAT Score?
Let’s get straight: A “good” GMAT score depends on your target business schools and personal goals. We’ll look at an example to understand this better:
Dinesh is a student who wants to get into a top business school. He starts searching for the GMAT average scores of different B schools.
- Dream B-school: 720
- Second Choice School: 710
- Third Choice School: 700
Dinesh now knows that if he gets 720 or more, he has a good chance at all these schools. But he also learns something important: schools don't just look at GMAT scores. They also consider work experience, grades from college, and other activities.
After thinking about this, Dinesh decides to aim for a score of 730. Why? This score would be higher than the GMAT average score at all his chosen schools. It might also help if other parts of his application aren't as strong.
Remember, a GMAT good score is one that helps you reach your goals. It is different for everyone!
Factors to be Considered While Calculating a Good GMAT Score
Once you’ve found out what is a good GMAT score for you, here are some benchmarks to consider:
- For admission to top-tier business schools, first set your target score. Aim for a score of 705 or higher. This corresponds to the 98th percentile or above (your percentile rank shows how you performed compared to other GMAT test-takers. For instance, a score in the 75th percentile means you performed better than 75% of test-takers).
- Research the GMAT average scores for your target schools. Aim to score within or above their average range to be competitive. The most prestigious MBA programs have average GMAT scores ranging from 540 to 790.
- Think about your strengths and weaknesses in other parts of your application. Remember, business schools also consider your work experience, academic records, essays, and overall fit with their program when making admissions decisions. So, set a goal that balances your GMAT score with these other factors.
What is the Total GMAT Score?
The total GMAT score is the highest possible score you can achieve on the GMAT exam. The GMAT total score (Focus Edition) ranges from 205 to 805, always ending in ‘5’.
Note that in addition to the total GMAT score, your score report will also include percentile rankings. This will depict how you compare to other test-takers. For instance, if you are in the 80th percentile, you have outperformed 80% of other candidates. Notably, the 100th percentile is achievable with a score of 735 and above on the GMAT exam.
What is Considered an Average GMAT Score?
Let's look at the GMAT average scores for the latest incoming classes at some of the world's top business schools:
| Top B-School | Average GMAT Score* |
|---|---|
|
Stanford Graduate School of Business |
738 |
|
University of Pennsylvania (Wharton) |
732 |
|
Harvard Business School |
740** |
|
University of Chicago (Booth) |
729 |
|
Northwestern University (Kellogg) |
733 |
|
Columbia Business School |
732 |
|
MIT (Sloan) |
730** |
|
Yale School of Management |
675** |
|
University of California Berkeley (Haas) |
660** |
|
New York University (Stern) |
733 |
|
London Business School (UK) |
700 |
|
Indian School of Business (ISB) |
710-720 |
|
Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA) |
700 |
* The scores mentioned are indicative and may vary each year based on the applicant pool. Additionally, not all B-schools have updated their GMAT Focus Edition requirements, and these may change. To find out the average GMAT score for your dream B-school and the score you should aim for, connect with our experts!
** Median GMAT scores.
GMAT Percentile Calculation
While your total GMAT score is important, understanding your percentile ranking is equally vital when considering what is a good GMAT score. GMAT percentiles show how well you did compared to other test-takers. For example, if you are in the 75th percentile, you scored higher than 75% of test-takers, while 25% scored higher than you. A higher percentile can help you stand out when applying to business schools and may improve your chances of getting admitted or receiving a scholarship. Keep in mind that while your GMAT score stays the same, your percentile ranking might change slightly over time as more people take the test.
Here's the GMAT score to percentile converter table:
| GMAT Total Score | Percentile |
|---|---|
| 805 | 100% |
| 795 | 100% |
| 785 | 100% |
| 775 | 100% |
| 765 | 100% |
| 755 | 100% |
| 745 | 100% |
| 735 | 100% |
| 725 | 99% |
| 715 | 99% |
| 705 | 98% |
| 695 | 98% |
| 685 | 96% |
| 675 | 95% |
| 665 | 93% |
| 655 | 91% |
| 645 | 88% |
| 635 | 83% |
| 625 | 81% |
| 615 | 78% |
| 605 | 72% |
| 595 | 69% |
| 585 | 62% |
| 575 | 59% |
| 565 | 52% |
| 555 | 49% |
| 545 | 43% |
| 535 | 40% |
| 525 | 35% |
| 515 | 32% |
| 505 | 28% |
| 495 | 25% |
| 485 | 22% |
| 475 | 20% |
| 465 | 17% |
| 455 | 15% |
| 445 | 12% |
| 435 | 11% |
| 425 | 9% |
| 415 | 8% |
| 405 | 7% |
| 395 | 6% |
| 385 | 5% |
| 375 | 4% |
| 365 | 3% |
| 355 | 3% |
| 345 | 2% |
| 335 | 2% |
| 325 | 2% |
| 315 | 1% |
| 305 | 1% |
| 295 | 1% |
| 285 | 1% |
| 275 | 1% |
| 265 | 0% |
| 255 | 0% |
| 245 | 0% |
| 235 | 0% |
| 225 | 0% |
| 215 | 0% |
| 205 | 0% |
Is There a Negative Marking for the GMAT Exam?
As you're preparing for the GMAT, you might be wondering about the exam's marking system. Good news! The GMAT does not have negative marking. But remember, it is important to answer all the questions in each section of the test. If you don’t finish a section within the given time, you will receive a penalty. Unanswered questions can lower your score. To achieve the best possible GMAT score, manage your time well, answer every question, and complete all sections of the test.
What After Getting a Good GMAT Score?
Getting a good GMAT score is a significant achievement. With your impressive GMAT score in hand, the next step is to research and identify business schools that align with your career goals and academic profile. This research phase will help you create a targeted list of schools where you have a strong chance of admission and where you'll thrive academically and professionally.
As you narrow down your list of target schools, it is time to shift your focus to other aspects of your application. Start working on writing your personal statement, updating your resume and reaching out to potential recommenders who can provide insightful and compelling letters of recommendation that complement your application.
Need expert guidance for your GMAT preparation and B-school admissions journey? Our team of experienced consultants is here to help you every step of the way.
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FAQs
Your Gmat total score ranges from 205 to 805 in 10-point intervals. The total score is derived from three equally weighted sections: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights (each section is scored from 60 to 90). The test is computer-adaptive, ensuring more precise assessment.
As of 2025, the GMAT score range spans from 205 to 805. This scale was introduced with the GMAT Focus Edition in November 2023, replacing the previous 200-800 scale.
Admissions committees at B-schools use GMAT scores to evaluate an applicant's readiness for the rigorous quantitative and analytical coursework of MBA programs. However, GMAT scores are not the sole determining factor. Schools also evaluate your professional experience, academic background, essays, recommendations, and interview performance. A strong GMAT score can help balance weaknesses in other areas of your application, while a lower score may be compensated by exceptional accomplishments in your profile.
The GMAT does not have a predetermined passing score. Different business schools have different expectations for GMAT scores. While some might accept scores in the 605 range, top-tier schools typically look for scores above 705. Research the MBA admissions class profile at your target schools to set a realistic goal for yourself.
The average GMAT scores for admitted students at top business schools have been steadily increasing over the years. As of 2025, many elite MBA programs report average scores above 700. For instance, Stanford Graduate School of Business and Harvard Business School often report average scores around 730-740. However, it is crucial to remember that these are averages, meaning many admitted students score both above and below these figures.
The GMAT does not deduct points for guessing or wrong answers. If you are unsure about a question, it is better to guess than to leave it blank. However, since the test adjusts based on your answers, guessing randomly might make future questions easier or harder, which could affect your final score.
Your official GMAT score report is usually available in 3 business days, but in some cases, it may take as long as 20 business days.
You can definitely retake the test but cancelling the score is not an option. Once you receive your official score on your mba.com account, you can review it and decide whether to send it to schools. Programs will not see your score or test details unless you choose to share them.
Yes, B-schools consider your GMAT scores but this is just one part of a business school's admissions process. Schools also consider work experience, academic records, essays, recommendations, and interviews. Leadership, teamwork, and career growth are key factors.
Most business schools accept both GMAT and GRE scores. There is no official comparison tool for the GRE and GMAT. In fact, the GMAC (Graduate Management Admission Council) states that a direct comparison is not possible due to differences in the tests. Some programs, especially those focused on finance, may prefer the GMAT for its stronger quantitative section. However, many schools have no preference, so choose the test that best suits your strengths.
Absolutely. The GMAT tests your ability to think critically and solve problems under pressure, skills that can be honed with additional preparation inclusive of strategies and practice tests.
Make sure you practice managing your time effectively. Remember that early questions have a greater impact on your score. Take extra care with these, but do not spend too much time on any single question. Use the optional breaks between sections to rest and refocus. For the Verbal section, read questions carefully and look for keywords that might indicate the correct answer. For more tested strategies, reach out to our GMAT experts today!
The GMAT Geographic Trend Report 2024 looks at data from the past five years and highlights important trends in test participation and performance. In 2024, 47% of test-takers were under 25, compared to 52% in 2020. This suggests that more experienced professionals are now taking the GMAT, which may affect score trends. Gender representation also changed, with women making up 42% of test-takers in 2024, down from 46% in 2020. Additionally, there was a 33.4% drop in total GMAT exams taken from 2020 to 2024 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected test centers and student mobility. However, it should be noted that score differences across groups are influenced by factors like education, work experience, and access to resources, rather than inherent abilities.
