How Schools Use GMAT Test Scores

Most reputable schools that offer MBA programs require applicants to write a GMAT and submit their test scores for consideration. For admissions committees, the main advantage of the GMAT is that it is a standardized test. For example, some schools may have a higher average GPA than others, which makes comparing applicants from different institutions difficult. However, the GMAT allows admissions committees to easily compare candidates from different programs, schools, and locations.

Exactly how the GMAT score will be used during the admissions process varies from school to school. Obviously, a higher GMAT score is always more favorable than a lower one, but how much of an influence a score will have on whether an individual is ultimately accepted can vary. Here are some common ways that GMAT scores may be used.

Minimum Scores

Some schools may determine that all candidates must obtain a certain score on the GMAT to be further considered for acceptance. For example, if the minimum score was 620, anyone who had a lower score would not be considered further, despite the fact that their GPA may be very high.

Percentiles

GMAT results are given not only in numerical format, but also in the form of a percentile. This figure shows how the test taker's results compared to all other individuals who wrote the test. Schools may decide to only consider applicants whose scores fall within a certain percentile. For example, admissions committees may decide that they will only consider those whose results are within the top 20% of all test results.

How much of a role GMAT scores will play during the admissions process depends on the school. Some value GMAT scores quite highly, while others look at them as just another part of the overall application. Most schools also take university performance, job experience, extracurricular activities, and interviews (if they are required) into consideration. Therefore, while a high score won't guarantee acceptance, obtaining a favorable GMAT result and having a good academic and extracurricular background will greatly increase the chances of being accepted to a top business school or a business distance learning program.