500 GMAT Score - Is 500 a Good GMAT Score?

Thinking about a 500 GMAT Score? Then this comprehensive guide is for you!

Understanding the GMAT Scoring System: Know how a 500 GMAT Score is calculated and what it includes.
Exploring the Implications of a 500 Score: Find out how this score measures up in the competitive world of GMAT rankings.
Insights on Improving a 500 GMAT Score: Useful tips on how to boost your score for better chances at top-tier business schools.

Continue reading for a deep understanding of all there is to know about a 500 GMAT Score.

Understanding the GMAT Scoring System

The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) stands as the litmus test for business school aspirants globally. It is crucial to understand its scoring system to have a clear understanding of your preparation levels and where you stand in your performance.

An Overview

The GMAT test is divided into four main sections: The Analytical Writing Assessment, Integrated Reasoning, the Quantitative section, and the Verbal section. The total GMAT score ranges from 200 to 800, which represents a combination of the Quantitative and Verbal scores. A fascinating fact is that this combined score is independent of your results in the Analytical Writing Assessment and the Integrated Reasoning sections. About two-thirds of test takers score between 400 and 600.

Deep Dive into GMAT Scoring

Let’s explore each section’s contribution to your overall GMAT score:

Integrated Reasoning (IR) Section: This section assesses how well you integrate data from different sources to solve complex problems. This section does not contribute to the 200-800 total score and is marked separately on a scale of 1 to 8.
Quantitative and Verbal Sections: These sections are computer-adaptive, which means the difficulty level of questions adjusts according to your performance. Overall performance in both of these sections contributes to your combined score, which ranges from 200 to 800.
Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA): In this section, you are expected to analyze an argument and communicate your critique through writing. This section does not contribute to the 200-800 total score. Instead, it is scored separately on a scale of 1 to 6.

Understanding these nuances of GMAT scoring is crucial as it helps you to develop a strategic approach to your GMAT preparation.

Is 500 a Good GMAT Score?

The interpretation of a “Good” GMAT score can be subjective and often depends on your target business schools or the average GMAT score of accepted students in those schools.

Understanding the Score

A score of 500 is pretty significant in the GMAT realm as it falls approximately into the 22nd percentile. This means that 22% of test-takers scored lower than this. So, in a broader perspective, you can hold a sense of achievement if you score a 500 in your GMAT exam. However, let’s explore further to understand if a 500 GMAT score will carry sufficient weight in your business school applications.

Application to Business Schools

When it comes to top-tier business schools, they usually look for a much higher score, because they are seeking students who shine in the overall percentile range. In contrast, many mid-level and smaller business schools consider 500 to be an acceptable score. Certain MBA programs that consider work experience, academic records, or unique skills might look beyond the GMAT score itself.

Thus, while a score of 500 could be a good starting point, your further reach largely depends on your target schools and the competition pool you’re part of.

Is 500 a Bad GMAT Score?

Building on the context set above, a score of 500 isn’t necessarily bad, but it may not be the most competitive in the context of global MBA applications.

Limitations of a 500 Score

When targeting globally acclaimed business schools like Stanford GSB, Wharton School of Business, Chicago Booth School of Business, and Harvard Business School to name a few, a 500 GMAT score can pose challenges. The average GMAT scores for these universities tend to be above 700, indicating a high level of competition and academic expectation.

For aspirants of such institutions, a GMAT score of 500 may not meet the cut-off requirements unless supplemented by a remarkably strong application in other areas.

Importance of a Holistic Profile

On the other hand, it’s crucial to remember that admissions are not solely dependent on GMAT scores. Attributes like past academic record, professional background, personal statement, letters of recommendation, and personal interview can play a pivotal role in your acceptance to a business school program.

500 GMAT Score Percentile

The ‘Percentile Rank’ in your GMAT score report shows the percentage of test takers who scored lower than you. A GMAT score of 500, falling in the 22nd percentile, suggests that 78% of test takers scored higher than you.

Interpreting Your Percentile

This percentile ranking provides a comparative measure for business schools to evaluate your academic prowess vis-à-vis other applicants. For instance, if you’ve scored in the 22nd percentile, you’ve done better than 22% of test takers over the last three years but 78% of test-takers scored above you. Your goal, therefore, should be to achieve a percentile ranking that aligns with your target school’s average GMAT score.

How Hard Is It to Get a 500 GMAT Score?

Obtaining a 500 GMAT score is an attainable task with a dedicated study plan, abundant practice tests, and consistent effort. However, keep in mind that the difficulty level of the GMAT does make it challenging for many.

Creating a Study Plan

Your chances of scoring a 500 on GMAT will significantly amplify if you strategize your preparation by:

Identifying your strengths and weaknesses: The first step should be a diagnostic test to gauge your current standing and recognize areas that need improvement.
Developing a study schedule: Create a study plan that accommodates regular learning, practice, and revisions, aligning with your learning pace.
Choosing the right study materials: Leverage high quality GMAT prep books, online resources, and practice exams to familiarize yourself with the test format and question types.

Persistence is the Key

Regardless of the score you’re aiming for, remember that everyone’s learning path is unique. For some individuals, scoring a 500 GMAT score might need a substantial amount of effort and for others, it could be a part of their continuous progress towards a higher score.

With a commitment to your study plan, willingness to seek help when needed, and continuous practice, a 500 GMAT score, or even higher, can become a reality.

500 GMAT Score to GRE

Deciphering your GMAT score in terms of GRE gives you a greater understanding of your standing and equips you with options when it comes to standard tests. Here’s what a 500 GMAT Score translates to in GRE scores.

GRE Score Conversion

The ETS has provided a broad tool that allows test-takers to convert their GMAT scores to equivalent GRE scores. A GMAT score of 500 equates to approximately a combined GRE score of 304, derived from verbal and quantitative sections.

To break this down further:

Verbal Section: The scaled score would be roughly around 29.
Quantitative Section: The scaled score would be approximately 31.

These numbers should give you a vivid picture of standing when comparing GMAT to GRE. It’s important to remember, though, that direct comparisons can be challenging due to the different exam structures and scoring systems.

GMAT vs. GRE: What’s Right for You?

When it comes to deciding between GMAT and GRE, factors to consider include:

School requirements: Some business schools accept both GMAT and GRE scores, while others may have a preference. Researching your target schools can be instrumental in helping you plan your test preparation.
Testing strengths: GMAT focuses heavily on logic and reasoning skills, while the GRE tests a broader range of math and verbal skills. Evaluate which test format aligns best with your strengths and preferences.
Time and costs: Both tests involve a significant investment of time and resources. You might want to consider convenience factors, like test availability at centers near you, test duration, and process for score reporting.

Should You Report or Cancel a 500 GMAT Score?

After receiving your GMAT score, you have two choices: to report the score or to cancel it. This decision may be challenging for you, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the implications of both options for a 500 GMAT Score.

Reporting Your Score

Choosing to report your score can be an excellent decision depending on your target schools, study program, and overall profile. If your score of 500 aligns with your target range or is near your practice test scores, you may choose to report it.

Factors to consider include:

Your academic profile: If you have a strong GPA or a degree from a well-regarded university, you may rely on your academic record to balance out a lower GMAT score.
Your work experience: Relevant, high-quality work experience could compensate for a lower score. Suppose you’re an MBA applicant with significant business achievement or leadership roles. In such a scenario, the admissions committee may focus more on your professional portfolio rather than exclusively on your GMAT score.
The GMAT range of your target MBA programs: Conduct thorough research to understand the GMAT range in which your target MBA programs typically admit students.

Cancelling Your Score

On the other hand, cancelling your score could be a more viable option in cases where:

Your actual GMAT score is significantly lower than your practice test scores.
You feel that your score does not accurately reflect your capabilities and understanding of the content.
Your target MBA programs’ average GMAT scores are notably higher than your score.

Remember, before making a cancellation decision, ensure you’ve taken into account all elements of your MBA application since a holistic review entails more than just your GMAT score.

500 GMAT Score Colleges

A 500 GMAT score might not promise admission to a top-tier business school, but it could still provide a range of options among mid-ranked and small-sized management programs.

Schools Accepting a 500 Score

Few business schools accepting around a 500 GMAT score include:

University of Phoenix: This institution has well-structured MBA programs that accept a range of GMAT scores, including around 500.
Walden University: This online university offers lucrative business administration, management and leadership programs, considering GMAT scores in the 500 range.
DeVry University’s Keller Graduate School of Management: The institution offers a diverse array of MBA and Master’s in Business programs with flexible admissions criteria.

The schools mentioned above are relatively flexible when it comes to GMAT scores but may have other stringent admission criteria elements like essays, recommendations, interviews, and academic records.

500 GMAT Score Scholarships

While a GMAT score of 500 may limit your opportunities in terms of program admissions and scholarships, several other factors play a role in scholarship considerations.

Broadening Your Scholarship Chances

Here are the key elements that could potentially affect your scholarship chances irrespective of a 500 GMAT score:

Academic achievements: A strong GPA and an impressive academic record might significantly bolster your scholarship opportunities.
Exceptional essays: An exceptional admission essay could make a substantial impact. It’s your chance to share your story, showcase your achievements, and express your aspirations.
Professional experience: Significant and relevant work experience often weighs in for scholarships. If you have achieved considerable professional growth, led teams, or have entrepreneurial experience, your prospects could shine.
Interviews: Interviews provide an ideal platform to reveal your skills, passion, and commitment that GMAT scores may not convey.

Remember, a single GMAT score, including a 500, doesn’t entirely represent you or your potential.

Tips to Improve Your 500 GMAT Score

Boosting your GMAT score from 500 is entirely achievable with the proper study habits, the right resources, and commitment. Here are some strategies.

Formulating Your Study Plan

The first step to improvement is to frame a well-designed study plan that includes:

Understanding your starting point: Take a diagnostic test that mirrors the actual GMAT to understand your current level and identify your strengths and weaknesses.
Setting clear goals: Once you’ve set a target score, it’s easier to map out the way to get there. Break down your larger goal into achievable, smaller goals.
Optimizing your study technique: Adopt efficient study techniques like active recall and spaced repetition, which have been proven to aid long-term memory recall.

Choosing the Right Study Materials

Use top-quality GMAT prep resources, including official guidebooks, relevant textbooks for each section, high-quality online sources, and GMAT practice tests. These resources will help familiarize yourself with the test format and question types.

Practice, Analyze, Improve

Practice as much as you can! Regular practice will sharpen your skills, increase your speed, and boost your confidence. Post-practice, spend substantial time analyzing your performance, understanding your mistakes, and working towards improving them.

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

Whether you’re ecstatic, satisfied, or slightly disappointed with your 500 GMAT score, it’s imperative to understand that your GMAT score is only a part of your business school application. While it’s important to aim for a competitive GMAT score, remember that the journey to business school involves mapping out your passions, demonstrating your dedication, and revealing your unique story.

Embrace your GMAT score as a reflection of your abilities at that particular moment. If you believe you can do better, then by all means, explore the possibility of a retake with a renewed strategy and more preparation. If your score aligns well with your target schools and overall application strength, then proceed confidently with your application and express your capabilities beyond the score.

Remember, at the end of the day, you are more than just a number. So, show your target schools all the unique qualities and experiences that make you an excellent candidate for their program. Good luck!