LBS MBA GMAT : Average GMAT Scores to Get Admit

The journey to joining an esteemed MBA program like that of the London Business School (LBS) often begins with a crucial step: preparing for the GMAT or GRE.

These standardized tests play a significant role in your application process, acting as a benchmark for academic readiness and potential. But what exactly are these tests, and why do they hold such weight in your LBS MBA application?

This guide aims to demystify the GMAT/GRE and offer insights into how you can best prepare for them, enhancing your chances of getting into one of the world’s top business schools.

UNDERSTANDING GMAT/GRE FOR LBS MBA

WHAT ARE GMAT AND GRE

Both the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) and GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) are standardized tests used globally to assess the qualifications of applicants for advanced study in business and management. They are designed to measure skills deemed essential for success in a rigorous graduate program.

GMAT

• Focus: Primarily used for business school applications.
• Sections: Includes quantitative, verbal, integrated reasoning, and analytical writing.

GRE

• Focus: Used for a wide range of graduate programs.
• Sections: Includes verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing.

These tests are a way for schools like LBS to level the playing field among applicants from diverse educational and professional backgrounds. They provide a common measure for comparing candidates’ qualifications and readiness for the challenges of an MBA program.

WHY LBS MBA VALUES GMAT/GRE SCORES

LBS, known for its diverse and international cohort, values GMAT or GRE scores as they offer a standardized way to assess academic abilities across a global applicant pool. These scores are not just about raw intelligence; they reflect your ability to think critically, solve problems, and communicate effectively – skills that are essential in the dynamic world of business.

However, it’s important to remember that LBS adopts a holistic approach to admissions. Your GMAT/GRE scores are just one part of your application, and they are considered alongside your academic record, work experience, essays, and recommendations.

THE ROLE OF GMAT/GRE SCORES IN LBS MBA ADMISSIONS

Understanding the weight of GMAT/GRE scores in the context of LBS MBA admissions is key to strategically planning your application. Let’s break down how these scores are evaluated and their implications:

HOLISTIC REVIEW PROCESS

• Comprehensive Evaluation: LBS doesn’t just look at your GMAT/GRE scores. The admissions committee conducts a holistic review, considering all aspects of your application. This includes your academic background, professional experience, leadership potential, essays, and letters of recommendation.
• Balanced Approach: A high GMAT/GRE score doesn’t guarantee admission, nor does a lower score immediately disqualify you. LBS seeks a well-rounded profile in its candidates.

IMPORTANCE OF GMAT/GRE SCORES

• Standardized Benchmark: These scores provide a consistent measure of academic potential across a globally diverse applicant pool.
• Indicator of Academic Abilities: They reflect your capabilities in critical thinking, quantitative and verbal skills – crucial for success in an MBA program.

AVERAGE GMAT/GRE SCORES AND THEIR IMPLICATIONS

Being aware of the average GMAT/GRE scores for LBS MBA candidates can guide you in setting a realistic target for your preparation. Let’s look at the current standards:

LBS MBA CLASS AVERAGE SCORES

• Target Scores: Aim for scores close to the current class average, but remember these are not absolute thresholds.
• GMAT Average: Approximately 702.
• GRE Equivalent: Aim for around 163 in verbal and 164 in quantitative sections.

INTERPRETING THESE SCORES

• Range and Flexibility: The class range varies, showing flexibility in the admissions process.
• A Part of the Whole: A higher score strengthens your profile but focus equally on other application components.

TEST PREPARATION STRATEGIES

Preparing for the GMAT or GRE is a journey in itself, one that requires diligence, strategy, and a clear understanding of your strengths and weaknesses. Here’s how you can effectively prepare for these critical exams:

BUILDING A STUDY PLAN

• Assess Your Baseline: Start with a practice test to understand your current level.
• Customized Study Schedule: Create a study plan tailored to your needs, focusing more on weaker areas.
• Regular Practice: Consistency is key. Regular practice helps in understanding the test pattern and improving time management skills.

UTILIZING RESOURCES

• Official Guides and Online Resources: Use official guides for GMAT and GRE and explore online resources for additional practice and tips.
• Mock Tests: Take full-length mock tests to simulate the actual test environment, which helps in building stamina and focus.

TIPS FOR SUCCESS

• Understand the Format: Familiarize yourself with the test format and question types.
• Focus on Weak Areas: Spend more time improving your weaker sections.
• Time Management: Develop strategies to efficiently manage time during the test.

CHOOSING BETWEEN GMAT AND GRE

One of the crucial decisions in your LBS MBA application process is choosing between the GMAT and GRE. Here’s some guidance to help you make an informed choice:

UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENCES

• GMAT: More business-focused, preferred if you’re solely interested in business schools.
• GRE: More versatile, acceptable for a variety of graduate programs beyond business.

MAKING THE RIGHT CHOICE

• Personal Strengths: Consider which test aligns better with your strengths. The GMAT is more data-driven, while the GRE has a stronger focus on vocabulary and verbal reasoning.
• Practice Tests: Take diagnostic tests for both to see which one you’re more comfortable with.
• School Preferences: While LBS accepts both, some schools have a preference. Research your target schools’ preferences.

ADDITIONAL COMPONENTS OF THE LBS MBA APPLICATION

While your GMAT/GRE score is important, LBS looks for candidates who bring a diverse array of strengths and experiences. Let’s explore the other critical components of the LBS MBA application:

ESSAYS AND SHORT ANSWERS

• Personal and Professional Insights: Use essays to showcase your journey, aspirations, and how an MBA fits into your career path.
• Balanced Approach: Allocate equal attention to essays and short answer questions, highlighting key examples from your life.

RECOMMENDER SELECTION

• Strategic Choices: Choose recommenders who know you well and can vouch for your abilities and potential.
• Beyond Titles: Focus on the quality of the recommendation rather than the recommender’s position.

ARTICULATING YOUR GOALS

• Clarity of Purpose: Clearly articulate why you want an MBA, specifically from LBS, and your career goals.
• Personal and Professional Alignment: Demonstrate how an MBA from LBS aligns with your personal growth and professional aspirations.

FINAL TIPS AND CONSIDERATIONS

As you prepare your application for the LBS MBA program, keep these final tips in mind to enhance your chances of success:

HOLISTIC PREPARATION

• Beyond the GMAT/GRE: Focus on building a comprehensive profile that showcases your strengths across all areas of the application.
• Authenticity Matters: Be genuine in your essays and interviews. Authenticity resonates more than trying to fit a perceived ‘ideal candidate’ mold.

NETWORKING AND RESEARCH

• Engage with the Community: Talk to current students and alumni to gain insights into the LBS experience.
• School-Specific Insights: Understand what makes LBS unique and reflect that in your application.