The GMAT score is a critical factor in business school admissions, now ranging from 205 to 805. Understanding the GMAT max score, interpreting GMAT percentiles, and knowing the GMAT average score can enhance your preparation and improve your chances of success.
The GMAT Focus Edition includes three sections—Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights—each with a maximum scaled score of 90 points. However, the overall GMAT score ranges from 205 to 805, which doesn't equal the sum of the maximum section scores (270). This is because the GMAT uses a proprietary scoring algorithm that scales and weights the section scores based on factors like question difficulty and statistical equating across different test versions. The overall score is a composite that reflects a test-taker's performance relative to a standardized scale, ensuring fairness and comparability. Consequently, the overall score is not a simple addition of the section scores but a result of a complex calculation designed to accurately assess a candidate's abilities.
This article compares the GMAT and GRE exams, highlighting the key differences with a slight emphasis on why the GMAT might be the better choice for business school applicants. It covers test structures, scoring systems, program acceptance, and offers tips to help you decide which exam aligns best with your academic and career goals.