Average GMAT Scores for Top Business Schools (2026–2027): US, Europe & Canada

For the Class of 2027, top US business schools report Average GMAT Scores (Focus Edition) between 659 and 689, with M7 schools like Harvard and Stanford consistently posting Focus scores of 685 or higher. European top schools typically range from 625 to 665 Focus, while Canadian top programs average around 675 Focus

Understanding the Numbers: GMAT scores are now reported in two formats. The GMAT Focus Edition (introduced November 2023) uses a 205-805 scale. The GMAT Classic Edition uses the traditional 200-800 scale. A Focus score of 645 is equivalent to 700 on the Classic GMAT– this concordance is based on GMAC’s updated percentiles. Classic scores remain valid for five years from the test date.

What Is the GMAT Focus Edition?

The GMAT Focus Edition fundamentally changed how we interpret test scores for MBA applications. Key changes include:

• Three sections (Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, Data Insights), each 45 minutes long
• Total score range: 205-805 (vs. 200-800 on Classic)
• All scores end in ‘5’ to clearly differentiate from the classic version
• Answer review: test-takers can now change up to three answers per section

Key takeaway:

• A 645 on the Focus Edition places you in the 89th percentile, which is equivalent to a 700 on the original GMAT. For top-tier schools that historically sought 700+ scores, you should now target 645+ on the Focus Edition.
• GMAT Classic Edition scores are still valid for five years from the date of the exam.

Now, let’s explore the average GMAT scores and their significance.

US Business Schools : Average GMAT Scores

Note: The year represents the intake year and not the graduation year. Eg., 2025 means 2025 intake or Class of 2027. All the scores, both focus as well as classic edition, have been fetched from the official class profile of the respective schools.

What this means for you:

The landscape of business education in the United States is as dynamic as it is competitive, with a multitude of renowned institutions vying for top candidates from around the globe.

A critical aspect of evaluating the quality and selectivity of these programs lies in the average GMAT scores of admitted students, and it is fascinating to observe the trends in this data over the past few years.

• Stanford Graduate School of Business consistently ranks as one of the most prestigious MBA programs in the United States, and its GMAT scores reflect its reputation. In 2025, the average GMAT score for admitted students was an impressive 738 on the classic edition and 689 on the focus edition, a testament to the school’s stringent selection process and the caliber of its students. This score remained largely consistent with slight fluctuations in the previous years, reflecting Stanford’s commitment to academic excellence.
• The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania maintains its prestige with a GMAT average of 735 on the classic edition and 676 on the focus edition, showcasing its commitment to academic excellence. The consistently impressive GMAT scores of The Wharton School reflect its enduring commitment to enrolling students demonstrating exceptional aptitude and leadership potential in the business realm
• NYU Stern, situated in the heart of New York City, has seen a steady rise in its GMAT scores over the past few years. In 2025, the school reported an average GMAT score of 737 on the classic edition and 682 in the focus edition, signifying the institution’s increasing competitiveness and the attractiveness of its programs.
• MIT Sloan School of Management maintains consistently high GMAT averages. At 720 on the classic edition and 675 on the focus edition, this M7 business school has long been a leader in the field of business education, and its GMAT scores reflect its enduring reputation for academic excellence.
• The Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University has maintained a consistently strong GMAT average, reporting 733 on the classic edition and 687 on the focus edition in 2025, highlighting its growing selectivity and appeal to top-tier talent.
• The Booth School of Business at the University of Chicago has reported 736 on the classic and 670 on the focus edition in 2025, in line with previous years, underscoring its continued draw among competitive applicants worldwide.
• The Booth School of Business at the University of Chicago has maintained a consistently strong GMAT average, reporting 736 on the classic and 670 on the focus edition in 2025, in line with previous years, underscoring its continued draw among competitive applicants worldwide.
• Columbia Business School, UC Berkeley’s Haas School of Business, and Dartmouth Tuck School of Business all maintain high GMAT averages, with Columbia Business School reporting the highest focus edition score among all schools in 2025,  indicating their continued ability to attract and admit exceptional students.
• Yale School of Management stands out with its 2024 GMAT average of 740, which remains the highest classic edition score and consistently strong over the years. This Ivy League business school’s emphasis on a diverse and collaborative learning environment is mirrored in its admissions process.
• Further down the list, Michigan Ross, Virginia Darden, and Duke Fuqua all maintain respectable GMAT scores, showcasing the strong educational offerings in the Midwest and the South.

In conclusion, these average GMAT scores offer valuable insights into the competitive landscape of business education in the United States. They reflect the commitment of these institutions to attracting the brightest minds and preparing them for leadership roles in the business world.

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European Business Schools : Average GMAT scores

*estimated scores

Note: European Bschools do not release their average GMAT scores anymore. The latest scores available are from the 2024 intake batch.

What this means for you:

The European business school landscape is a diverse and thriving one, offering an array of world-class MBA programs. As you explore your options, understanding the trends in GMAT scores can provide crucial insights into the admission standards and overall competitiveness of these institutions.

• INSEAD, consistently ranked among the top global business schools, boasts a 2024 average GMAT score of 710. This score is a testament to INSEAD’s reputation for academic excellence and its ability to attract high-caliber students from around the world. Despite a slight fluctuation in recent years, INSEAD’s GMAT averages remain competitive.
• London Business School, another stalwart of European business education, reports an average GMAT score of 708 for 2024, indicating a commitment to maintaining high academic standards. Like INSEAD, LBS has kept its GMAT averages consistently competitive over the years.
• Cambridge Judge Business School and HEC Paris reported GMAT averages of  697 and 690 respectively in 2024, showcasing their dedication to admitting students with strong academic aptitude and potential for leadership roles in the business world.  While both schools have shown consistency in GMAT scores over the years, Cambridge has seen a recent increase, underscoring its emphasis on high academic standards.
• IESE Business School reported 2024 GMAT range of 580-750, while Oxford Saïd Business School maintains an average of 680. Both schools have upheld competitive GMAT score averages in recent years, reflecting their ambition to attract high-achieving candidates to their programs.
• IMD, located in Switzerland, maintains a competitive GMAT range of 585-755 in 2024. This consistent score signifies the school’s commitment to its rigorous curriculum and its focus on nurturing future business leaders.
• ESADE Business School, with an average GMAT score of 660 in 2024, provides a more accessible option for candidates looking for a top-notch education in Europe. While slightly lower than some of its counterparts, ESADE’s GMAT average is still competitive and aligns with its mission to offer a diverse and inclusive learning environment.

In summary, the average GMAT scores of top European business schools reveal a landscape of competitiveness and academic excellence. You can use this data to gauge your own qualifications and align your aspirations with the admission requirements of these prestigious business schools.

Whether you aim for the consistently high scores of business schools like INSEAD and London Business School or opt for the diversity and accessibility offered by schools like ESADE, the European business education scene presents a wealth of opportunities for those seeking to further their careers in the world of business.

Canadian Business Schools: Average GMAT scores

*estimated scores

Note: Canadian Bschools do not release their average GMAT scores anymore. The latest scores available are from the 2024 intake batch.

What this means for you:

Canada is increasingly becoming a sought-after destination for business education, with its top-tier business schools consistently raising their standards to attract the best and brightest talent. Analyzing the GMAT scores of these institutions over the past couple of years provides valuable insights into their competitiveness and their commitment to academic excellence.

• University of Toronto – Rotman School of Management is one of Canada’s leading business schools and maintains a GMAT average of 672 in 2024. This score, while slightly lower than the previous year, reflects Rotman’s ongoing dedication to admitting students with strong academic potential.
• York University – Schulich School of Business and Queen’s University – Smith School of Business share a GMAT average of 660 in 2024. These scores are indicative of the competitiveness among Canadian business schools, as they aim to attract candidates with strong academic backgrounds and leadership potential.
• Western University – Ivey Business School, known for its case-based teaching methodology, boasts a GMAT average of 665 in 2024, signalling its commitment to academic rigor and excellence.
• McGill University – Desautels Faculty of Management reports an average GMAT score of 650 in 2024, demonstrating its consistency in maintaining high admission standards. This score positions McGill as a competitive choice for those aspiring to pursue an MBA in Canada.
• University of British Columbia – Sauder School of Business and University of Alberta – Alberta School of Business both maintain a GMAT average of 651 in 2023. This consistent score reflects their commitment to admitting students who meet their rigorous academic standards.
• HEC Montreal, with an average GMAT score of 626 in 2023, provides an option for candidates looking for a more accessible path to business education. While its average GMAT score is lower than some of its peers, HEC Montreal remains a reputable institution that caters to a diverse range of students.

In conclusion, the GMAT scores of top Canadian business schools reveal a landscape of competitiveness and academic rigor. The country’s business schools are committed to fostering future business leaders who can make a significant impact on a global scale.

You can use this data to evaluate their qualifications and align their aspirations with the admission requirements of these esteemed business schools.

GMAT Focus Edition vs. Classic: Score Conversion Table

Final Thoughts

As you reflect on the average GMAT scores for business schools in the United States, Europe, and Canada, several key takeaways should be at the forefront of your mind:

• These scores act as a barometer of the competitiveness and rigor of business school admissions.
• In the United States, where some of the world’s most prestigious institutions reside, the high average GMAT scores signify the intense competition for coveted spots in MBA programs.
• The same holds true for Europe, where many schools maintain rigorous admissions standards to attract top-tier candidates from across the globe.
• In Canada, while average GMAT scores may be slightly lower on average compared to the US and Europe, they still reflect a commitment to academic excellence and a desire to foster future business leaders.
• These scores are not just numbers on a page; they also offer insights into the caliber of your peers. When considering applying to a particular business school, remember that the average GMAT score can give you a sense of the intellectual diversity and talent pool you’ll be surrounded by. It’s an indicator of the caliber of your future classmates and the potential for collaborative learning and networking opportunities.
• Moreover, the significance of GMAT scores extends beyond admissions. They often play a role in securing scholarships and financial aid. Higher scores can open doors to funding opportunities, potentially lightening the financial burden of pursuing a graduate business education.

It’s crucial to remember that GMAT scores are just one piece of the puzzle. Admissions committees also consider your work experience, academic background, essays, letters of recommendation, and your fit with the program’s culture and values.

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