How is the GMAT Scored in 2025-26?

Short Answer

The GMAT score ranges from 205 to 805, combining Quant, Verbal, and Data Insights sections, each scored 60 to 90. Scores reflect accuracy & difficulty. Each GMAT score maps to a percentile: 605 is roughly the 70th percentile (decent), 645 is the 90th (good), and 705+ is the 99th (excellent).

 

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Structure of the GMAT

Key GMAT Scores and Percentiles

Mean Score: 554.67

Sample Size: 531,520

Standard Deviation: 91.18

Overview of the GMAT Scoring

Understanding how the GMAT is scored is essential for setting clear goals for your GMAT prep and interpreting your results effectively. The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) uses a section-based scoring system, combined into a composite score that business schools use to evaluate your readiness for graduate management education. This article offers a clear explanation of how the GMAT is scored, covering each section, the total score, percentile rankings, adaptive testing, and how schools interpret your results. The structure and scoring explained here are based on the current GMAT format, which includes three core sections: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights.

GMAT Overall Score Structure

The GMAT provides a total score that ranges from 205 to 805. This score is calculated by combining the scaled scores from the three sections. Each of the three sections is scored individually on a scale of 60 to 90, in one-point increments. The total score is reported in five-point increments, such as 615, 700, or 750. Each section contributes equally to the total score. All three sections are 45 minutes in duration, and each one is designed to test distinct skills relevant to business school.

The Analytical Writing Assessment is no longer part of the main test and is scored separately if taken. Most business schools do not require it, and it does not affect the 205 to 805 score.

GMAT Sectional Scores

Let us look at how each section is scored and what the scores indicate.

Quantitative Reasoning

This section evaluates your ability to solve mathematical problems and reason quantitatively. It includes 21 multiple-choice questions covering arithmetic, algebra, and related topics. The Quantitative Reasoning section is scored from 60 to 90, in one-point increments. The score depends on the number of correct responses, the difficulty level of the questions, and the pattern of performance throughout the section.

A high score in the Quant section reflects strong numerical reasoning skills, efficient problem solving, and the ability to perform under time pressure. Business schools often pay close attention to this section, especially for candidates applying to quantitative or finance-oriented programs.

Verbal Reasoning

This section contains 23 questions focused on reading comprehension and critical reasoning. It evaluates your ability to understand written material, analyze arguments, and draw logical conclusions. The Verbal Reasoning section is also scored on a scale of 60 to 90. Scoring takes into account the number of correct answers and the difficulty level of the questions answered correctly.

A strong performance in this section shows proficiency in understanding complex texts and thinking logically through verbal information. This score is particularly relevant for programs that require communication, leadership, or strategic analysis skills.

Data Insights

The Data Insights section contains 20 questions that integrate verbal and quantitative reasoning. It includes five question types: Data Sufficiency, Multi-Source Reasoning, Graphics Interpretation, Table Analysis, and Two-Part Analysis. This section is also scored on a scale of 60 to 90. The score reflects your ability to interpret data presented in various formats and apply logical reasoning to draw conclusions. An on-screen calculator is provided for this section.

A high Data Insights score indicates strong data literacy and the ability to evaluate and synthesize information. These skills are considered highly relevant for modern business environments.

Total GMAT Score

The total GMAT score is calculated by combining the scaled scores from the three sections. The composite score ranges from 205 to 805, reported in five-point intervals. The scoring algorithm does not involve a simple average. Rather, it uses a weighted formula that considers the scaled scores from all three sections. However, since all three sections carry equal weight, a balanced performance across all areas is key to a strong overall score.

For example, if a candidate scores 78 in Quantitative Reasoning, 76 in Verbal Reasoning, and 80 in Data Insights, the composite score may fall around 725. The exact formula used to calculate the total score is proprietary to the test maker, but this general pattern holds.

GMAT Percentile Scores

Alongside the scaled scores, candidates also receive percentile scores. These scores indicate the percentage of test takers who scored lower than a given score. For example, a total score of 705 might correspond to the 90th percentile. This means the candidate scored higher than 90 percent of all GMAT test takers. Percentiles provide context for scores. A raw score may seem high or low on its own, but the percentile ranking helps candidates and schools interpret it relative to the testing population. Percentile charts are updated periodically based on three years of test-taker data. However, the variations are typically minor from year to year.

All GMAT Scores and Percentiles

Mean Score: 554.67

Source: mba.com

GMAT Computer-Adaptive Testing

One of the key features of the GMAT is its adaptive format. The GMAT is a computer-adaptive test at the question level. This means that the difficulty of questions within a section is adjusted based on the test taker’s performance on earlier questions in that section. If you answer questions correctly, the test will present more difficult questions. If you answer incorrectly, the questions will become easier. The scoring algorithm takes this adaptive behavior into account when assigning your final score. This system allows for a more accurate assessment of a candidate’s ability and ensures that each test is tailored to the individual. It also discourages random guessing, as the order and difficulty of questions influence the final score.

Review and Editing Feature

Another feature relevant to scoring is the ability to review and edit responses. During each section, candidates may mark questions for review and return to them before the time limit expires. However, candidates are allowed to change the answers to no more than three questions per section. This review feature provides a level of flexibility, but it also requires careful time management. Spending too much time on early questions may reduce the time available for review or completion of the section. Efficient use of the review option can support better scoring outcomes.

How Business Schools Interpret GMAT Scores

Business schools consider the GMAT total score, section scores, and percentiles during the admissions process. While the total score often receives the most attention, some schools may place extra emphasis on specific sections based on the demands of their curriculum. For example, a finance-focused program may give greater weight to the Quantitative Reasoning score, while a program with a strong leadership or communication component may pay closer attention to Verbal Reasoning. A strong Data Insights score may be particularly valuable for candidates interested in analytics, consulting, or strategy roles.

In competitive admissions environments, scores of 645 (~90^th percentile) and above are generally seen as strong while the scores of 705 (~99^th percentile) and above are considered brilliant. However, schools evaluate scores within the context of an applicant’s overall profile, including work experience, academic background, essays, recommendations, and interviews.

Score Validity and Reporting

GMAT scores are valid for five years from the test date. Candidates may choose up to five schools to receive their score report at no extra cost. Additional score reports may be sent for a fee. The official score report includes all section scores, the composite score, and percentile rankings. Most schools receive scores electronically through the test provider’s reporting system. It is also important to note that only official scores are considered valid for application purposes. While candidates receive an unofficial score immediately after the test, schools require the official score for final admissions decisions.

How an Insightful MBA Admission Consultant Can Help Through and Through

An insightful MBA admission consultant can support your journey well beyond just the applications. From the very beginning, the consultant can help you choose the right GMAT preparation resources, plan your strategy, and decide when to take the test. Just as importantly, the consultant can guide your profile-building efforts alongside your GMAT preparation. The GMAT is only half the battle. How you present your strengths, story, and goals matters deeply, and the right guidance can make all the difference.

Parting Thought

The GMAT scoring system is structured, transparent, and meaningful. It combines individual section scores into a single total score that reflects a candidate’s readiness for graduate business education. Each section tests a different set of essential skills, and all three sections carry equal importance in the final score. Understanding the scoring system allows candidates to set realistic goals, tailor their preparation, and interpret their performance with clarity. A well-balanced performance across Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights remains the most effective way to achieve a competitive GMAT score.

 

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