When I shared my video on the leadership expectations for the Harvard and Stanford MBA programs, the response from my email list was loud!

(My subscribers always get the first look at my latest insights on MBA admissions. So if you're planning to apply soon, make sure you’re on the list—you don’t want to miss out.)

But back to how important is the GMAT REALLY…

I threw out an idea: if you’re aiming for top-tier programs like HBS or Stanford GSB, could focusing too much on academic credentials and test scores actually backfire?

The questions I got in response ranged from "‘What are you saying, Petia, that the test isn’t important?’" to "Can I get into these schools with a score below their average? How much lower is okay?’" 

It seems we really need to unpack this a bit more, so let’s dive into what these test scores are all about and why fixating on them might not be the best strategy.

Breaking Down the Purpose of the GMAT and GRE

What role do these tests actually play in MBA admissions?

I’m here to tell you there are four areas where your GMAT (or GRE) will serve as a signal for certain aspects of your candidacy.

Yes, four of them – and it’s important to know each one if you want to be competitive, my dear MBA hopefuls!

Gauge Academic Ability

This one will come as no surprise. These tests are specifically designed to assess whether you're equipped for the academic rigor of graduate business school. They test your quantitative, verbal, and analytical skills, which are crucial for navigating the coursework and discussions you'll encounter in an MBA program.

Influence Class Profile and Rankings

A strong test score not only highlights your personal academic skills but also elevates the overall academic stature of the class you join. This is vital because the higher the collective test scores of a class, the better the school ranks in those highly-watched MBA rankings. Schools strive for these rankings as they affect their reputation and the quality of applicants they attract.

Measure Commitment

Preparing for these tests requires dedication and time, which is why admissions committees see them as a measure of your commitment. A high score can signal to schools that you’re serious about your management education and willing to put in the work needed to succeed, both in the MBA program and in your future career.

Now, the last area is one that often surprises candidates. I’ve met way too many MBA hopefuls who are underestimating this particular aspect of the MBA admissions race.

What I’m talking about is that your test score also serves as a measure of something important.

Awareness of the Competition

These tests also serve as a reality check about how aware you really are of the very competitive nature of the MBA admissions process. Schools use them to gauge your awareness about where you stand among your peers, many of whom are equally motivated and capable.

They want to see evidence that you are not just ready for the academic rigor but also capable of excelling in a competitive environment.

This is why there is a difference between applying with a lower than average score if you only took the test once or if you tried multiple times. Applying with a lower than average score if you only took the test once might send a signal you are not aware of how competitive top MBA program admission is and not committed enough. Applying with a lower score if you tried more than once can actually be easier to overcome than the former scenario.

Here’s how I like to think about it—imagine these tests are like qualifying for the Summer Olympics. Earning your spot means you’re one of the elite, right? In a typical Olympics around 11,000 athletes compete!

But remember, just like only about 5-6% of those athletes go home with medals, not every qualified applicant will land a spot in their dream MBA program.

So, keep this perspective in mind as you prepare. Your test is crucial, but it’s not the whole story of your MBA application.

If you got to the end and you think “Petia, you didn’t tell me exactly how much the test matters!” then you need to read the “Weight of the MBA Admissions components”.

 Onwards and upwards,

Petia