How does the GMAT Scoring Work?

Why the Scale Changed for GMAT?

For the GMAT Focus Edition the total score scale is 205–805 as opposed to 200–800 in the previous version. This change allows schools to easily distinguish which test version a candidate has taken.

The update also takes into account changes in the international pool of test takers. Over time, scores had become unevenly distributed and the new scale makes it simpler for schools to differentiate performance levels justly.

What's New in the Focus Edition of GMAT

• The overall score now averages all three section scores equally.

• The test is more oriented towards data literacy, critical thinking and problem-solving ability.

• The scoring formula has been revised. 

• The new Question Review & Edit feature could have an impact on test-taking strategies.

Unofficial vs. Official GMAT Scores

Penalty for Unanswered Questions

If any part of it is left blank, the score is lowered in proportion to the number of unanswered questions. Good GMAT scores are obtained when the questions are answered in the time allowed.

How to Obtain Your Official GMAT Score Report?

Test-takers' official GMAT score report will be available in their mba.com account approximately 3–5 days following the test. They'll receive an email notification when their GMAT result is ready (if it isn't in their inbox, check their spam or junk folder).

The report will contain:

• Test-takers' test date and appointment information.

• Personal data of the test-taker is provided upon registration.

• Percentile ranks, section scores and overall test scores.

No Need to Cancel Your GMAT Score

With the GMAT, candidates won't need to prechoose which schools will receive their scores. This is to say they never have to cancel their scores. They'll just send it to the schools they want to see it.

In case test-takers don't send their report following the test, schools won't receive it. It will remain in their mba.com account for their use alone.

Understanding the GMAT Score Report

When an examinee gets their Official Score Report it might be tempting to only look at the total Score. The percentile ranking though is equally vital to know in order to understand overall performance is given below:

645 is the New 700

A score of 700 was a goal in the previous scale. On the Focus Edition such performance is around 645. Although scores look slightly lower but they are not; this is merely because of the new scoring system. Business schools are aware of this and put serious emphasis on percentile rankings.

Learning Percentile Rankings

A percentile ranking indicates how a candidate scored in relation to others.

For instance, a 75th percentile indicates that the candidate performed above 75% of all the test-takers while 25% performed above. Three equally weighted sections—Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning and Data Insights combine to determine the GMAT Focus Edition's Total Score.

GMAT Focus Edition Score Table 2025

GMAT (Focus) Verbal Reasoning Section Scores with Percentile 

Note: Apart from the scores given above in the table the verbal section score range from 79-60 will have a percentile range from 47% - 1%.

GMAT (Focus) Quantitative Reasoning Section Scores with Percentile 

Note: Apart from the scores given above in the table the quants section score range from 79-60 will have a percentile range from 57% - 1%.

GMAT (Focus) Data Insights Section Scores with Percentile 

Note: Apart from the scores given above in the table the data insights section score range from 79-60 will have a percentile range from 76% - 4%.

GMAT Focus Edition Score Table with Percentile (Score Range 805-715)

Note: The GMAT top score is 805 which is equivalent to 100 percentile

GMAT Focus Edition Score Table with Percentile (Score Range 705 - 605)

Why the GMAT Scores Matter?

The GMAT is designed to test higher-order thinking, problem-solving and data interpretation skills the same critical skills required for success in today's technology-based business world. With a score between 205 and 805 both the Total Score and the percentile ranking in combination give business schools a distinct view of a candidate's graduate-level management study readiness.

How do Business Schools Receive GMAT Scores?

Business schools have two means of obtaining a candidate's GMAT Focus Edition scores one free and one paid.

• Free GMAT Score Report

Prior to taking the exam, up to five business schools can be chosen by candidates where they want their scores sent for free. Once the candidate acknowledges the results of the test GMAT authorities send the scores to those chosen schools directly after the test.

• Paid GMAT Score Report

In case a candidate needs to send their scores to more than five schools they can do so at an extra cost of USD 35 per school.

Improved GMAT Focus Score Report (ESR)

The Improved Score Report provides a comprehensive analysis of a candidate's GMAT performance including strengths and weak areas. Candidates can purchase an ESR for every GMAT attempt at a test centre. The ESR is not available for online tests at this time.

Indian Colleges Accepting GMAT Scores for MBA Programs