If Harvard Business School (HBS) is your goal, you already know the competition is intense — and your GMAT Focus score is an important part of your application. But how high does it really need to be to stay competitive? Let’s break down what a “Harvard-level” score looks like under the new exam format.
The Short Answer
Harvard does not publish a minimum GMAT Focus score. Still, based on recent trends and score conversions, successful applicants typically land in the 645–705 range (equivalent to the old 700–760). The median often falls around 675–695.
That said, numbers alone don’t determine your outcome. A 645 won’t guarantee admission — and a sub-675 score doesn’t automatically eliminate you. HBS evaluates applicants holistically, taking into account academics, work experience, leadership, impact, and your personal narrative.
How Your GMAT Focus Score Fits Into the Bigger Picture
Admissions officers use the GMAT Focus to assess your readiness for HBS’s rigorous, analytically demanding curriculum. Here’s how to interpret your score:
- 695+: You’re in the top band of competitive applicants.
- 665–695: Strong range, especially when paired with solid academics, leadership, and professional impact.
- Below 645: Still possible, but you’ll need extraordinary achievements or a unique profile to stand out.
A high score strengthens your application — but it’s only one piece of what earns you a seat in Aldrich Hall.
Should You Retake the GMAT Focus?
If you’re below 645 and believe you can realistically improve by 30+ points with targeted prep, a retake could be worthwhile. Many successful HBS applicants have taken the GMAT Focus more than once.
Just remember: Admissions officers appreciate growth and consistency. A retake should demonstrate improvement — not uncertainty.
What About the GRE?
Harvard accepts both tests and does not claim to prefer one over the other. That said, most MBA applicants still choose the GMAT, which can subtly signal stronger quantitative readiness. If you perform noticeably better on one exam, choose the one that reflects your strengths.
Final Takeaway
A GMAT Focus score in the high 600s puts you squarely in Harvard’s competitive zone — but no single number guarantees admission. What matters most is how your score supports the story your whole application tells: your academic preparation, career trajectory, leadership potential, and impact.
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