Piecing together your MBA aspirations with a 650 GMAT Score? Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate your journey.
- Understanding the GMAT Scoring System: Know the ins and outs of how the GMAT is scored and what percentile a 650 score falls in.
- Analyzing the effectiveness of a 650 GMAT Score: Explore what opportunities a 650 score can fetch and where it might fall short.
- Improving your 650 GMAT Score: Get tips and strategies on how to boost your score from 650.
Embark on your path to success with confidence in your 650 GMAT score.
Understanding the GMAT Scoring System
The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a standardized examination widely used by institutions to assess an individual’s capability for business and management-oriented courses, most notably Master of Business Administration (MBA) programs. Understanding the GMAT scoring system is crucial to gauge your performance and plan effectively for your application strategy.
Score Components
The GMAT encompasses four sections:
- Quantitative Reasoning (Quant): This section measures your ability to analyze data and draw conclusions using reasoning skills.
- Verbal Reasoning: This assesses your skills in reading comprehension, sentence correction, and critical reasoning.
- Integrated Reasoning (IR): Tests your ability to incorporate information from multiple sources and formats.
- Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA): This measures your critical thinking and communication of ideas.
Each section of the GMAT occupies a particular weightage and contributes to the overall GMAT score.
- Quantitative and Verbal sections: Quant and Verbal sections are scored on a scale from 6 to 51 separately. These are then combined to produce a cumulative scaled score between 200 and 800. This is typically considered the “GMAT score”.
- Integrated Reasoning (IR) section is scored independently on a scale from 1-8.
- Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) is also scored independently, on a scale of 0-6.
GMAT Score Percentile Rankings
A percentile rank is a piece of critical information on your GMAT score report as it indicates the percentage of people who scored less than you. A 650 on your GMAT means that approximately 73% of test-takers scored lower than you, putting you in the top 27%.
However, remember that the percentile rank doesn’t affect your application directly; instead, admission committees use the percentile rank as a benchmark to evaluate your score against other applicants.
Is 650 a Good GMAT Score?
Your GMAT score- that is, 650, is significant and can unlock doors for you to some of the prestigious business schools around the world. But ‘Is it good?’ is a question that is subjective, and the answer lies in your desired Business school’s average GMAT score.
Desired School Performance
A GMAT score of 650 is above average (the global mean GMAT score is around 564). If you are aiming for mid-tier institutions, you will find yourself in a competitive position with a score of 650. For example, institutions like Simon Business School or the University of Alabama have an average GMAT score of 650 for their incoming students. Making it into these institutions with a score of 650 is therefore likely.
So yes, a 650 GMAT score is generally considered a good score to place you in the top tier of test takers (approximately 73rd percentile). However, comparison is essential here – your 650 score is good if it’s higher or competitive to the average score of the Business schools you are targeting.
Is 650 a Bad GMAT Score?
On the flip side, will a 650 GMAT score be a hindrance for a candidate targeting elite business schools? In a competitive application pool, a 650 GMAT score may not be enough.
Challenges with Elite Business Schools
Top-tier schools such as Stanford Graduate School of Business, Wharton School of Business, or the Harvard Business School have average GMAT scores soaring above 720 for their incoming students. So, if you are targeting these premier institutions, a 650 GMAT score can be a challenge and considered low.
It’s pivotal to know that your GMAT score is just one component of your overall application for business programs. Admission committees look at your comprehensive profile, including your undergraduate GPA, work experience, application essays, references, interview, and other factors when making admission decisions. The GMAT is not a stand-alone determinant of your acceptance chances.
How Hard is It to Get a 650 GMAT Score?
The journey to securing a 650 GMAT score can be challenging – it requires diligent effort, rigorous practice, solid strategies, resources, and unwavering focus.
Preparing for the GMAT
To get this score or higher, test-takers often dedicate 120 hours or more on studying for the GMAT. This includes studying various components – grammar rules, math fundamentals, practice problems for the IR section, movement along AWA templates, and much more.
While it takes a considerable investment of time, a GMAT score of 650 doesn’t require mastering every question. Making an effective study plan that caters to your strengths and weaknesses will enable you to work smartly and efficiently to achieve this score.
Specific GMAT Books and Courses
These resources play a crucial role in your journey to a high GMAT score. Some of the most popular GMAT preparation books include the Official Guide for GMAT Review by the organization that makes the GMAT exam (GMAC), the Manhattan GMAT Guides, and the Kaplan GMAT Prep Plus guide.
For a more structured and guided approach, you may consider enrolling in GMAT courses, with options ranging from self-paced online courses to in-person intensive courses.
Scoring a 650 GMAT requires a blend of hard work, smart study strategy, and consistent practice. This score reflects a solid understanding of the material covered on the GMAT, above-average test-taking skills, and a thorough comprehension of the test structure.
650 GMAT Score to GRE
There may often be a requirement, or curiosity, to convert a GMAT score to an equivalent GRE score. Understanding this conversion can help students make strategic decisions based on their scores if the B-schools they’re targeting accept both.
Conversion Process and its Relevance
Candidates targeting business schools often wonder if a 650 GMAT Score can be converted to GRE. While the two tests are different in structure and scoring scales, the Education Testing Service (ETS) does provide a GRE-GMAT conversion tool that can be used to make an estimate.
According to the ETS conversion chart, a 650 GMAT might approximate to somewhere around a combined GRE score of 316 (approximately). However, the conversion isn’t set in stone due to the nature and structures of the two tests.
Implications of Converted Scores
Business schools that accept both GMAT and GRE scores mostly claim not to have a preference for either score. Yet, the converted GRE score can have two implications.
- General Comparison purpose: Schools may use the conversion to get an apples-to-apples comparison of their applicant pool.
- Individual Score Evaluation: It provides the individual test takers an idea of where they stand in the test pool of both exams. However, remember, neither GMAT nor GRE scores are absolute indicators of your overall MBA readiness.
While the converted GRE score may provide some perspective, it’s essential to remember that each exam has its unique components and judges different skills.
Should You Report or Cancel a 650 GMAT Score?
To report or cancel, that is the question! Making this decision hinges on your aspirations for a business school, your candidate profile, and the acceptance criteria of your targeted institution.
Considerations before Canceling
When you receive a score of 650 on your GMAT, there are a few factors to consider before deciding whether or not to cancel. It’s recommended not to rush to a decision; instead, carefully weigh your options.
- Benchmarking with your target schools: If 650 falls within the average GMAT score accepted at your target schools, it could be beneficial reporting the score.
- Overall Candidate Profile: The GMAT score is just one aspect of your MBA application. If you have a strong profile including a high GPA, quality work experience, and compelling essays, you might consider keeping the score.
When to Consider Retaking?
However, if your target schools have way higher GMAT averages or you feel you can significantly exceed a 650 score with a second attempt, consider retaking. But remember, retaking the GMAT should not be an impromptu decision.
- Mapping a Study Plan: If you’re considering a retake, make sure you map a solid study plan taking into account the reasons which held you back the first time.
- Calculating the Return: Weigh the costs – financial and temporal – associated with a retake, along with the potential increase in your score.
Although a 650 GMAT score is respectable in its own right, the crucial aspect is to ensure it aligns with your target school’s admissions criteria.
650 GMAT Score Colleges
With a GMAT score of 650, you have a chance of finding acceptance in a variety of reputable institutions worldwide. Remember, your GMAT score, although critical, is only a fraction of what the colleges assess.
B-Schools Accepting 650
Here are some schools where a 650 GMAT score would likely be competitive:
- Simon Business School – University of Rochester: With a class average GMAT of 650, Simon’s MBA program could offer acceptance with a 650 GMAT score.
- University of Alabama – Manderson: Manderson Graduate School of Business also has an average GMAT score of 650 for their incoming MBA students.
- Texas A&M University – Mays: Mays Business school, with its diverse range of MBA programs, also sees a competitive candidacy with a 650 GMAT.
Assessing Schools & Rankings
A great way to determine where a score of 650 might get you is to inspect the GMAT scores in the US News and World Report’s Annual Rankings of Best Colleges. This involves evaluating:
- Average Scores: Understand the average scores of the incoming class. If your GMAT score is within this range, you’ll stand a chance of acceptance.
- Score Range: Look at the mid-50% GMAT score range. If your score falls within, or preferably above, this range, then you’ll likely have a competitive GMAT score for that program.
Remember, the admissions committee looks at your entire application – a lower GMAT score can be compensated with powerful essays, recommendations, and interviews!
650 GMAT Score Scholarships
An enticing aspect of achieving a good GMAT score is the opportunity to secure scholarships. Some schools offer merit-based scholarships that consider your GMAT score as a criterion. While a 650 score falls within a reasonably competitive range, securing a scholarship can vary across institutions.
Merit-based Scholarships
Most universities offer merit-based scholarships where your GMAT score can be a strong determining factor. Some schools might offer scholarships with a 650 score, depending on the other components of your application.
- University-based Scholarships: Several universities offer scholarships that take into account your GMAT score, along with academic achievements, leadership experiences, etc.
- External Scholarships: Various organizations offer scholarships to MBA aspirants based on different criteria, where GMAT could be one.
Full-ride Scholarships
Securing a full-ride scholarship is usually intensely competitive and typically requires candidates to have a GMAT score well above the 650 mark. These scholarships cover not only the tuition fee but also living and incidental expenses during your study.
Remember, despite competitive GMAT scores playing a role, scholarships are rarely given based on the GMAT score alone. Focus on building an all-around strong profile, including excellent essays, GPA, impactful experiences, and more!
Tips to Improve Your 650 GMAT Score
It’s commendable to score a 650 on the GMAT, but what if you aim to enter a competitive elite B-school program? Or you desire scholarship options with higher GMAT scores? Below are some tips to leap from a 650 GMAT score.
Revision and Practice
Focused revision and practice is an excellent starting point to boost your score.
- Identify Your Weak Areas: Understand which sections you struggled with the most – then put your time and energy into improving these areas.
- Take Mock Tests: Take full-length tests to replicate the test-day experience. Keep track of your timing and stress levels and improve accordingly.
- Plan Your Studies: Make a firm study schedule. A disciplined approach can significantly impact your improvement journey.
Hire a Tutor or Enroll in a Course
If self-study isn’t your thing, consider hiring a tutor or enrolling in an organized course.
- Hiring Tutor: They can provide personalized feedback, helping you focus on your unique challenges and weaknesses.
- Join a Course: A structured study plan with expert guidance can expedite your improvement process.
Aiming high is an admirable goal, but remember the journey to improvement is equally significant. Treat every practice test, revision day as a learning day, and sooner than later, you’ll inconspicuously step into the improvement you desire.
GMAT Scores 200 to 800
| 200 | 210 | 220 | 230 | 240 |
| 250 | 260 | 270 | 280 | 290 |
| 300 | 310 | 320 | 330 | 340 |
| 350 | 360 | 370 | 380 | 390 |
| 400 | 410 | 420 | 430 | 440 |
| 450 | 460 | 470 | 480 | 490 |
| 500 | 510 | 520 | 530 | 540 |
| 550 | 560 | 570 | 580 | 590 |
| 600 | 610 | 620 | 630 | 640 |
| 650 | 660 | 670 | 680 | 690 |
| 700 | 710 | 720 | 730 | 740 |
| 750 | 760 | 770 | 780 | 790 |
| 800 |
Conclusion: Embracing Your GMAT Score & Planning Your Law School Journey
Finally, it’s pivotal to remember that while all these considerations about GMAT scores, percentiles, and business-school rankings are important, they should not be stress inducers. A 650 on the GMAT is a respectable score that represents a solid understanding of the GMAT.
While following the tips listed above can help you understand how to tackle GMAT preparation with a 650 score, remain positive. Celebrate your 650 GMAT as a worthy achievement. Retaining a positive mindset throughout your MBA journey will not only assist you in improving your score, if necessary, but will also help your overall performance, efficiency, and well-being, as you navigate towards your ambitious dream of business school. Remember, as much as your GMAT score is essential, the journey alongside it, defining your personal stories and experiences, is priceless!