Harvard MBA GMAT & Class Profile Requirements

Harvard MBA Class Profile: GMAT Score, Diversity & Tips

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Harvard MBA GMAT & Class Profile Requirements

4 minutes

Understanding the Harvard MBA GMAT Requirements
- Significance of Harvard MBA GMAT in the Selection Process
What are the Additional Factors Except GMAT?
What Does the Harvard MBA Class Profile Reveal?
- Harvard Business School Welcomes the MBA Class of 2025

Key Takeaways:

• Harvard MBA GMAT score for admitted students is around 740.
• HBS does not have a minimum GMAT score requirement for applicants.
• Effective GMAT preparation typically takes 3-6 months of dedicated study.
• Alternative tests like the GRE are also accepted by Harvard Business School.

Harvard Business School (HBS) is a dream destination for countless aspiring business leaders worldwide. As one of the most prestigious MBA programs, gaining admission to HBS requires a combination of academic excellence, leadership potential, and a strong GMAT score. The GMAT is not just a test but a gateway that evaluates your analytical, quantitative, and verbal abilities and skills critical for thriving in the rigorous HBS curriculum. Understanding the GMAT's role in the admissions process is essential for shaping a compelling application.

However, it’s not just about scoring high. HBS adopts a holistic admissions approach, considering professional experience, leadership qualities, and diversity of thought. While a competitive GMAT score demonstrates your readiness, your essays, recommendations, and interviews equally influence your chances. This balance ensures that candidates not only meet the academic benchmarks but also bring unique perspectives and impact to the HBS community.

Understanding the Harvard MBA GMAT Requirements

The Harvard MBA program for the Class of 2025 sets high standards for academic excellence, with a strong emphasis on quantitative and analytical skills. The average Harvard MBA GMAT score for the class of 2025 is 740.

Before paying the tuition fees, during the application stage, the program requires you to submit either a GMAT or GRE score as part of the application process, as it serves as an important indicator of your readiness for the rigorous curriculum of the Harvard MBA program. Here’s the breakdown of Harvard MBA GMAT scores by section:

GMAT		GRE
Median Total	740	Median Total	163

To further calculate your GMAT score, you can utilize GMAT calculator.

Significance of Harvard MBA GMAT in the Selection Process

While the GMAT score is just one component of the holistic application review, it holds significant weight in assessing an applicant's quantitative, analytical, and critical thinking abilities. Here are some key points highlighting the significance of the GMAT in HBS's selection process:

Achieving a GMAT score above the median demonstrates exceptional academic aptitude and can enhance an applicant's chances of securing admission.
There is no minimum GMAT or GRE to apply for, and Harvard does not have a preference for one test or the other.
The GMAT score is particularly important for demonstrating proficiency in verbal, quantitative, analytical, and writing skills, which are essential for success in the MBA program.

Rounds	Your GMAT Test taken should be on or between	Your GRE Test taken should be on or between
Round 1	September 6, 2018	September 6, 2023
Round 2	January 3, 2019	January 3, 2024

What are the Additional Factors Except GMAT?

While preparing for GMAT, remember that the Harvard admissions committee considers a variety of factors beyond test scores, including academic and professional achievements, leadership potential, and communication skills. Read below to get an idea of how you can secure admission to the Harvard MBA program.

1. Undergraduate GPA

Harvard looks for candidates who have demonstrated a strong work ethic, intellectual curiosity, and a commitment to academic excellence. The school is committed to building a diverse class with a wide range of experiences, backgrounds, and perspectives. The average undergraduate GPA irrespective of Harvard MBA GMAT is 3.73.

2. Work Experience

Along with the Harvard MBA GMAT, work experience is integral to HBS MBA admissions, showcasing professional maturity, leadership potential, and diverse perspectives.

It reinforces quantitative skills vital for the program and boosts career prospects after HBS MBA, offering a compelling blend of expertise that appeals to employers seeking well-rounded candidates with a Harvard MBA background. The average work experience for securing admission to the Class of 2025 is 5 years.

3. Letter of Recommendation

Harvard requires two letters of recommendation, preferably from individuals who can speak about your professional and personal qualities. These letters would provide insights into your leadership potential, teamwork skills, and professional achievements.

4. Essays

Harvard looks for candidates who can articulate their career goals, demonstrate self-awareness, and explain how an MBA from Harvard will help them achieve their objectives. These Harvard MBA essays are an opportunity to showcase your:

A consistent display of leadership qualities
Strong analytical skills and a keen interest in analysis
Active involvement in their communities.

5. Interview

After reviewing the application, Harvard may invite you to participate in an interview. Except the Harvard MBA GMAT, essays, letters of recommendation, etc. Harvard MBA interview questions are an opportunity for you to demonstrate your communication skills and leadership potential and to showcase how you would fit with the Harvard community.

What Does the Harvard MBA Class Profile Reveal?

The target audience for the Harvard MBA program is a diverse group of professionals from various industries, including financial services, consulting, technology, manufacturing, healthcare, the nonprofit sector, and the arts. In the MBA 2024 class, 938 students from different nationalities enrolled. The class comprises 39% international students and 45%, women, reflecting the school's commitment to fostering gender diversity.

Average Age	27
GPA	3.73
Undergraduate Majors	25% engineering background, 22% business/commerce, and 21% economics
Average Work Experience	4.9 Year
Class Size	938
Female Students	45%
International Students	39%
Nationalities Represented	61%
Pre-MBA Industry	Consulting (17%), Finance (10%), Technology (13%), Consumer Goods (10%), Other (63%)
Pre-MBA Roles	Consulting (25%), Finance (35%), Engineering/IT (16%), Other (23%)
Average GMAT Score	No minimum requirement
Harvard MBA GMAT Range	500 - 790

Harvard Business School Welcomes the MBA Class of 2025

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Conclusion

In conclusion, this guide offers a thorough examination of the Harvard MBA admissions process. By dissecting key elements such as Harvard MBA GMAT scores, GPA, work experience, and more, it empowers you to assess your candidacy for Harvard's esteemed program (as it is renowed top MBA Colleges in USA). Whether pursuing academic excellence or exploring alternative avenues, this resource serves as a valuable compass for navigating the path ahead.

Is there GMAT Waiver for Harvard MBA?

Unfortunately, Harvard Business School does not offer any GMAT waivers, but the applicants may be asked by the Admissions Committee to retake the GMAT/GRE test before the school offers admission if they feel that their current score is too low. There is always an option for practicing the GMAT test with Harvard Business School's GMAT simulator and preparing for the same.

Is the GMAT Required for HBS?

The school recommends submitting a test score if possible, as it provides additional insights into academic readiness. Hence, HBS accepts both GMAT and GRE scores. Applicants can choose to submit either test.

What is the Average GMAT Score for HBS Admits?

HBS does not have a minimum GMAT score requirement. The average GMAT score for admitted students can vary, but it tends to be in the mid of 500-790. It's important to note that the admissions process is holistic, and a strong application goes beyond just the GMAT score.

Can I Submit GRE Scores Instead of GMAT?

Yes, HBS accepts both GMAT and GRE scores. Applicants can choose the test that best reflects their strengths. There is no preference for one test over the other.

Can I Retake the GMAT to Improve My Score?

Yes, you can retake the GMAT to improve your score. HBS considers your highest score. However, the number of times you've taken the test may be considered in the application process, so it's advisable to retake it only if you believe you can significantly improve your score.

Know Your Author

Abhyank Srinet

Study Abroad Expert

Abhyank Srinet, the founder of MiM-Essay, is a globally recognized expert in study abroad and admission consulting. His passion is helping students navigate the complex world of admissions and achieve their academic dreams. Abhyank earned a Master's degree in Management from ESCP Europe, where he developed his skills in data-driven marketing strategies, driving growth in some of the most competitive industries.

Abhyank has helped over 10,000+ students get into top business schools with a 98% success rate over the last seven years. He and his team offer thorough research, careful shortlisting, and efficient application management from a single platform.

His dedication to education also led him to create MentR-Me, an AI-powered platform that offers personalized guidance and resources, including profile evaluation, application assistance, and mentoring from alumni of top global institutions.

Continuously adopting the latest strategies, Abhyank is committed to ensuring that his clients receive the most effective guidance. His profound insights, extensive experience, and unwavering dedication have helped his clients securing of over 100 crores in scholarships, making him an invaluable asset for individuals aiming to advance their education and careers and leading both his ventures to seven-figure revenues.