NYU Stern MBA GMAT Score: Average, Requirements & Insights

NYU Stern is one of the most competitive MBA programs globally and attracts strong applicants every year from different professional backgrounds. Many candidates apply with clear goals in finance, consulting, technology, and leadership roles. Because of this competition, understanding the NYU Stern MBA GMAT score helps applicants set realistic expectations before applying.

According to the latest official class profile, the average GMAT (10th Edition) score at NYU Stern is 737, with most students scoring between 690 and 760. For the GMAT Focus Edition, the average score is 682, and most scores fall in the 645 to 725 range. There is no fixed GMAT cutoff at Stern. Scores are reviewed along with academic records, work experience, and career plans. In this blog, we explain how Stern looks at GMAT scores and what these numbers mean for your application.

What Is the Average NYU Stern MBA GMAT Score?

The average GMAT score for the NYU Stern MBA class is 737 (GMAT 10th Edition), based on the latest official class profile data. NYU Stern does not set a fixed GMAT cutoff. Instead, GMAT scores are reviewed along with academics, work experience, leadership exposure, and career goals.

Stern also accepts the GMAT Focus Edition, with an average score of 682. A higher GMAT score can strengthen an application, but it does not guarantee admission. In the same way, a score below the class average does not automatically rule out a candidate if the overall profile is strong.

NYU Stern MBA GMAT Score Overview

Minimum GMAT Score Accepted by NYU Stern MBA

NYU Stern does not publish a minimum GMAT score requirement for its MBA program. Based on official class profile data, the lowest GMAT scores seen in the class are around 660 for the GMAT 10th Edition and 595 for the GMAT Focus Edition.

Applicants with scores closer to the lower end of the range are reviewed carefully. Stern places strong emphasis on academic readiness, professional impact, leadership experience, and clear career direction. A lower GMAT score can still be competitive if the rest of the application shows strong potential.

GMAT Focus Edition for NYU Stern MBA Applicants

Does NYU Stern accept the GMAT Focus Edition?

Yes. NYU Stern accepts the GMAT Focus Edition for Full-Time MBA admissions. The school treats the GMAT Focus as a valid standardized test to assess academic readiness, similar to the earlier GMAT format.

According to the latest official class profile, the average GMAT Focus score at NYU Stern is 682, which shows that many admitted students apply using the Focus Edition.

NYU Stern does not publish a preferred or minimum GMAT Focus score. Instead, the admissions team reviews GMAT Focus results in context with the rest of the application, including academics, work experience, leadership exposure, and career goals.

How NYU Stern Interprets GMAT Focus Scores

• GMAT Focus scores are reviewed within the Focus scoring scale and not directly compared to older GMAT scores
• Applicants are evaluated relative to the overall applicant pool using the GMAT Focus format
• Strong section performance helps demonstrate academic readiness for the MBA program
• GMAT (10th Edition) and GMAT Focus scores are not directly interchangeable

For applicants applying in 2025 and beyond, GMAT Focus scores should be judged based on how competitive they are within the Focus format itself. NYU Stern focuses on the full profile rather than test scores alone when making admission decisions.

To get the details of Programs & Admissions | NYU Stern MBA 

How Competitive Is Your GMAT Score for the NYU Stern MBA?

Your NYU Stern MBA GMAT score is reviewed in context, not in isolation. Stern compares your score with the current class profile and then evaluates it alongside your academic background, work experience, leadership exposure, and career goals.

GMAT Below Class Average (Below 690 – GMAT 10th Edition)

The average GMAT score at NYU Stern is 737. A GMAT score below 690 is lower than that of most admitted students, but it does not automatically rule out admission.

This score range can still work if you have:

• Strong academic performance, especially in quantitative subjects
• Solid work experience with clear career progression
• Evidence of leadership, impact, or unique achievements

You should be cautious if:

• Your academic record is weak
• Your profile lacks quantitative exposure
• Your career goals are unclear

In this range, the rest of your profile must clearly compensate for the GMAT score.

GMAT Around Class Range (690–760)

GMAT scores between 690 and 760 fall within the 80% range of the NYU Stern MBA class. Many admitted students fall into this category.

At this level, your GMAT score:

• Meets NYU Stern’s academic expectations
• Neither strongly helps nor hurts the application on its own

What matters most in this range:

• Quality and relevance of work experience
• Leadership roles and demonstrated impact
• Clear and well-structured career goals

Common mistakes at this level:

• Assuming the GMAT score alone is enough
• Writing generic or unfocused essays
• Failing to clearly explain post-MBA goals

In this band, execution matters more than the GMAT score itself.

GMAT Above Class Average (Above 760)

A GMAT score above 760 places you at the higher end of the NYU Stern admitted class.

This level:

• Signals strong analytical ability
• Reduces concerns about classroom readiness

However, it does not guarantee:

• Admission
• Interview calls
• Scholarships

Even with a high GMAT score, applications can be weakened by:

• Weak or unclear essays
• Limited leadership exposure
• Unrealistic or poorly defined career goals

At this level, NYU Stern expects the rest of your profile to match the strength of your GMAT score.

NYU Stern MBA Class Profile

The NYU Stern MBA class brings together professionals from a wide range of industries and academic backgrounds. Students come from finance, consulting, technology, and other sectors, creating a balanced and diverse learning environment. This mix helps applicants understand how their GMAT score and overall profile fit within the broader Stern MBA class.

Should You Retake the GMAT for the NYU Stern MBA?

Many applicants struggle with the decision of whether to retake the GMAT while planning their NYU Stern MBA application. A retake can help in some cases, but it is not always the right move. The decision depends on your current score, how it compares with Stern’s class profile, your overall application strength, and how much time you have before deadlines.

NYU Stern reviews GMAT scores in context. Retaking the test without a clear reason can add pressure and delay your application. This section explains when a retake makes sense, when it does not, and how to think through the decision carefully.

When Retaking the GMAT Helps

Retaking the GMAT may make sense if:

• Your score is well below Stern’s main class range (below 690 on the GMAT 10th Edition)
• Your academic background lacks quantitative strength
• Your target career goals require strong academic credibility
• You have enough time before application deadlines to prepare properly

In these situations, a higher GMAT score can reduce academic concerns and improve overall competitiveness.

When Retaking the GMAT Does Not Help

A retake may not be worth it if:

• Your score is already within or above Stern’s main class range (690–760)
• Your work experience and leadership profile are strong
• Your essays and career goals need more attention
• You are close to application deadlines

In such cases, improving essays, recommendations, and career clarity often has more impact than a small score increase.

Timing Risks and Deadline Considerations

Timing plays a major role in the retake decision:

• Late retakes can clash with essay writing and application preparation
• Rushed preparation often leads to similar or even lower scores
• Delaying submission to a later round can reduce competitiveness

If a retake pushes your application timeline too much, the risk may outweigh the benefit.

Opportunity Cost vs Benefit

Preparing again for the GMAT takes time and energy. Ask yourself:

• Will a higher score clearly improve my chances at NYU Stern?
• Or would that time be better spent strengthening essays, recommendations, and career goals?

A retake makes sense only when the expected improvement is meaningful, not marginal.

NYU Stern MBA GMAT Waiver & GRE Option

NYU Stern does not offer a blanket GMAT waiver for its Full-Time MBA program. Applicants are generally expected to submit a valid standardized test score as part of the application. NYU Stern accepts multiple test options, including the GMAT, GMAT Focus Edition, GRE, and Executive Assessment, depending on the applicant’s profile.

According to the latest official class profile, a significant portion of the incoming class is admitted using alternatives to the GMAT, including the GRE and test waivers granted in specific, profile-based cases. Stern evaluates test scores in the broader context of academics, work experience, leadership, and career goals.

Average GRE Score for NYU Stern MBA

NYU Stern does not publish a single combined GRE average. However, based on the official class profile, strong admitted candidates typically present competitive performance across both the Quantitative and Verbal sections. GRE scores are reviewed in the same way as GMAT scores and are given equal weight during evaluation.

There is no stated preference between GMAT and GRE at NYU Stern. A strong GRE score can effectively demonstrate academic readiness, but it does not guarantee admission on its own.

GMAT vs GRE: Which One Should You Take for NYU Stern MBA?

NYU Stern has no preference between the GMAT and GRE. Both tests are accepted and reviewed equally. The right choice depends on your strengths and which test allows you to perform better.

You should consider taking the GMAT if:

• You are comfortable with quantitative reasoning and data analysis
• Your target roles require strong analytical credibility
• You want to highlight your problem-solving ability

You should consider taking the GRE if:

• You perform better in verbal reasoning
• You already have a strong GRE score
• You are applying to a mix of MBA and non-MBA graduate programs

The key is to submit the test where you can score higher and clearly show academic readiness. NYU Stern focuses more on the strength of your overall profile than on which test you choose.

Tips to Prepare for the NYU Stern MBA GMAT Score

Preparing for the NYU Stern MBA GMAT does not mean aiming for perfection. Stern looks for strong academic readiness, but what matters more is a balanced and realistic score. Your preparation should focus on improving weak areas while keeping both Quant and Verbal sections steady.

Based on the latest class profile, the average GMAT score at NYU Stern is 737, and most students score between 690 and 760. This range is a good reference point when planning your GMAT preparation.

Here are some practical tips to prepare effectively:

• Set a realistic target score: Aim for a score that fits within Stern’s class range. Trying to push for a very large jump can add pressure and often backfires.
• Follow a simple and structured study plan: Plan your week to cover Quant, Verbal, and mock tests. Regular study, even in shorter sessions, works better than long but inconsistent hours.
• Maintain balance across sections: A good overall score with a very weak Quant or Verbal section can raise concerns. Stern prefers balanced performance.
• Use mock tests the right way: Take full-length mock tests to improve time management and identify weak areas. Spend time reviewing mistakes instead of focusing only on scores.
• Know when to stop GMAT prep: If your scores are stable within Stern’s competitive range, it may be better to focus on essays, recommendations, and career goals rather than chasing a small score increase.

A clear and focused GMAT plan that matches NYU Stern’s expectations can help you prepare with confidence and avoid unnecessary stress.

How to Improve Your Chances with a Low GMAT at NYU Stern?

A low GMAT score does not automatically mean rejection at NYU Stern. Stern looks at your full profile, not just your test score. If your GMAT is below the class average, the rest of your application needs to clearly show that you can handle the MBA program and add value to the class.

Admissions decisions are based on academics, work experience, leadership, and career clarity. Many applicants with lower GMAT scores still get admitted because other parts of their profile are strong and well presented.

Here are some practical ways to strengthen your application:

• Show real impact at work: Highlight what you have achieved professionally. This could include leading projects, improving processes, managing people, or contributing to business results. Clear outcomes matter more than job titles.
• Prove academic readiness: If you have a solid undergraduate GPA or have studied quantitative subjects like finance, economics, engineering, or statistics, make sure this is clearly visible in your application.
• Write clear and honest essays: Use your essays to explain your career goals, leadership experiences, and why NYU Stern fits your plans. Be specific and avoid generic answers.
• Choose the right recommenders: Select managers or seniors who truly know your work. Strong recommendations with real examples can make a big difference.
• Do well in the interview: Good communication, clear goals, and confidence during the interview can help reduce concerns about a lower GMAT score.

Even with a lower GMAT, a focused and well-prepared application can still be competitive at NYU Stern. What matters most is how well your overall profile comes together.

The MBA Experience

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Conclusion

The NYU Stern MBA GMAT score is an important part of the application, but it is not the only factor Stern looks at. While the average GMAT score of 737 shows how competitive the program is, admissions decisions are made by looking at the full profile. Your academics, work experience, leadership exposure, and career goals all play a big role alongside your test score.

No matter where your GMAT score stands, what matters most is how well your overall application is put together. A clear career story, strong professional impact, and well-written essays can still make your application competitive. Use the GMAT as a reference point, not a limit, and focus on presenting a balanced and honest profile that fits NYU Stern.