The short answer
There are no hard GMAT/GRE cut-offs, but competitive scores for top business schools generally fall around a 715–745 GMAT Focus (or 162–168 GRE per section). A score in a school's middle-80% range keeps you competitive; the rest of your profile decides admission.
Top schools publish score ranges, not cut-offs. Your goal is to land inside a school's middle-80% band so the score is not the reason you are rejected.
Target score bands
For M7 and T15 US programs, aim for the upper end of the published range — roughly a 715–745 GMAT Focus or a balanced 162–168 GRE. European elites are often slightly more flexible but still reward strong quant.
Why the score is only a threshold
Once you clear a school's band, essays, recommendations, work impact and interview carry the decision. A record score will not rescue a weak narrative.
Key takeaways
- Aim for a school's middle-80% range, not a mythical cut-off.
- Balance matters — avoid a low quant or verbal sub-score.
- Above the threshold, the rest of your profile decides.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a minimum GMAT score for top MBAs?
No official minimum, but a GMAT Focus score in the school's middle-80% range (often ~715+) keeps you competitive at M7/T15 programs.
Do schools prefer the GMAT or the GRE?
Almost all top schools accept both equally. Choose the test that showcases your strengths.