Understanding the GMAT Scoring System
The Graduate Management Admission Test, better known as the GMAT, is a piloting standard used extensively by business schools across the globe. Its efficacy stems from the detail it portrays on an individual’s aptitude in a suite of areas considered paramount in the business and management field.
GMAT Components and Scoring Range
The GMAT delivers a score ranging from 200 to 800, factoring in four distinctive aspects. Namely, these include Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, Integrated Reasoning, and Analytical Writing Assessment. It’s worth familiarizing yourself with the potential marks each portion can bring to your overall score.
- Quantitative Reasoning contributes to your score on a scale of 0 to 60.
- Verbal Reasoning, similarly, has a scale that runs up to 60.
- Integrated Reasoning is evaluated over a smaller scale of 1 to 8.
- Analytical Writing Assessment, also graded on a smaller scale, runs from 0 to 6.
Construct of a 200 GMAT Score
A rudimentary approximation of a 200 GMAT score might imply very low scores in all four assessed sections. Given the standard difficulty level, striking such low marks on the GMAT is relatively rare. A taker would likely need to leave substantial portions unanswered or consistently provide incorrect answers to drop to this score.
Is 200 a Good GMAT Score?
A Side-by-Side Look at GMAT Scores
With an understanding of the GMAT score spectrum, we can now evaluate the weight of a 200 score more objectively. When juxtaposed against the average GMAT score, typically around 550, it becomes evident that a score of 200 lies drastically below the median. High performing candidates often hit the 700+ range, placing a 200 GMAT score further away from peak performance.
Admission Potential of a 200 GMAT Score
In the realm of admissions, everything is contextual. Since various business schools maintain differing standards and score preferences, it’s hard to pinpoint a “universally good” score. Nonetheless, a 200 score provides limited admission chances given the scores’ relative infrequency and its distance from top-performing marks.
However, there’s no need to feel discouraged. Some programs might weigh other parts of your application more heavily, such as your experience, extracurricular engagements, or recommendations.
Is 200 a bad GMAT score?
Admittance and Scholarship Opportunities
A 200 score will undoubtedly present a more significant challenge in securing admission, but an even harder hit comes when looking at scholarship opportunities. Most merit-based scholarships consider GMAT scores, with higher scores fostering increased chances. Unfortunately, a 200 score might not meet many scholarship thresholds, largely inhibiting your odds of receiving financial aid based on academic performance.
Perception of a 200 GMAT Score
Perception plays a crucial role in the admissions process, and unfortunately, a score of 200 may not paint a flattering picture. Candidate selection often goes beyond mere score analysis, delving into assessing potential success in the academic program. Therefore, a lower score could signal a lower perceived potential to succeed.
200 GMAT score Percentile
The percentile rating system is a great way to understand your standing among other candidates. It essentially indicates what percentage of test takers you have outperformed.
Position of a 200 Score in Percentile Rankings
A score of 200 places you at the 0 percentile. This percentile rank means a 200 score falls into the lowest performance echelon, indicating that nearly all GMAT test takers have outperformed this score.
200 GMAT Score to GRE
One common confusion lies between GMAT and GRE scores. Both tests are used as admission criteria for various post-graduate programs. Although their scoring scales differ, score conversion charts allow applicants to understand their performance in the context of either test.
GRE Equivalent of a 200 GMAT Score
According to the GRE to GMAT score conversion charts, a 200 score roughly translates to a total GRE score within the range of 264 to 266. In reference to specific subscores, the GRE verbal reasoning lies between 9 – 12, and quant score ranges from 3 – 8.
With this detailed breakdown, it’s easier for you to understand the hurdles associated with a 200 score, and also strategize your study plan to boost your GMAT score the next time round.
Should You Report or Cancel a 200 GMAT Score?
After investing considerable time and energy into GMAT exam preparation and execution, the last step includes deciding whether to report or cancel your score if it isn’t as high as you’d hoped.
Understanding Score Cancellation and Reporting Process
Understanding the GMAT score reporting and cancellation processes is the first step. After completing the exam, each test-taker is prompted with the option to report or cancel their score. Additionally, you may opt to reinstate the score if you initially decided to cancel it, within a period of 28 days.
Parameter for Decision on 200 GMAT Score
Coming across a 200 score on your report can instantly trigger thoughts of cancellation or doubt. However, the decision to cancel should not be made in a rush, but rather backed by thoughtful consideration of several parameters:
- Reflection on preparation: Was it up to the mark? Did unexpected situations during the test affect your performance?
- Application timeline: If business school applications are just around the corner, is a retake possible?
- Considering Retake: The GMAT can be retaken, but certain restrictions apply. It’s important to align your retake plan with the application deadlines of your targeted schools.
Remember, cancelling your score doesn’t erase your test attempt from GMAC’s records. Schools are informed of score cancellations but they are not privy to the actual score.
200 GMAT Score Colleges
Even with a lower GMAT score, there are still numerous colleges and universities that place more emphasis on aspects other than standardized test scores. This brings hope to candidates with a GMAT score of 200.
Masters in Business Programs
Some programs require a completed GMAT for application, but indicate that no minimum score is required for admission. Examples include:
- Eastern Illinois University, Master of Business Administration: No minimum GMAT/GRE score or work experience is required.
- Wright State University, Raj Soin College of Business: GMAT score waivers are available for applicants with a high undergraduate GPA or extensive work experience.
Ordinarily, admission into a reputed business school with a 200 score remains a challenging feet. It is encouraged that enrollees retake the GMAT exam to increase their chances of admission into the school of their choice.
200 GMAT Score Scholarships
While each Business school has its own scholarship criteria, it’s common practice for merit-based scholarships to heavily factor in GMAT scores. As such, a 200 score may limit scholarship opportunities significantly.
Scholarships for Low GMAT Scores
Though, not all is lost! A 200 score might still open doors to scholarships that give precedence to other factors or holistic reviews. Here are a few examples:
- Business School Scholarships: Many schools offer need-based scholarships that focus on the financial need of a student rather than their GMAT score.
- Minority Scholarships: For minority group members, some scholarships may focus more on promoting diversity within their programs over high GMAT scores.
Tips to Improve Your 200 GMAT Score
A low GMAT score doesn’t mean an end to your dreams of pursuing a business degree. Improvement is always possible, and a 200 score is a starting point, not an end point.
Rethink Your Preparation Strategy
Revise and refine your preparation strategy with these tips:
- Understand Your Strength and Weaknesses: Identify areas where you scored less in your previous GMAT exam.
- Choose the Right Study Material: Opt for trusted GMAT exam preparation books and online courses.
- Practice: Use official GMAT materials to simulate real testing conditions, and pay attention to time management.
- Learn from Mistakes: Review each practice test to understand where you stumbled.
Gain Test-Taking Experience
Experience matters. Familiarity with the test format and types of questions can reduce anxiety and improve performance.
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 Business School Journey
End it where you started. A GMAT score is just one contributor to your overall business school application. Though the realization of a low score can be disappointing, remember life offers chances for improvement, learning, and growth – admission into your dreamed-of business school is no exception. With a positive frame of mind, diligent preparation, and forward-thinking, there’s every chance to elevate your GMAT score into a higher echelon.