GMAT 665 Score: What Percentile Is It?
A GMAT Focus total score of 665 places you at the 82nd percentile, a strong result that signals solid quantitative, verbal, and data reasoning skills to admissions committees. This score is comparable to a 660 on the legacy GMAT, making it a competitive benchmark for many top MBA programs.
What percentile is a 665 GMAT Focus score?
A GMAT Focus total score of 665 corresponds to approximately the 82nd percentile of all test-takers. This means you scored higher than about 82% of candidates worldwide, placing you in the top fifth of examinees. Percentiles are updated periodically, but 82nd percentile is a reliable estimate based on recent data.
Is 665 a good score?
Yes, 665 is classified as a "Strong" score for MBA admissions. It demonstrates above-average performance across all sections and is competitive for a wide range of programs. According to our good GMAT score guide, scores in the 80th percentile or higher are generally considered strong by admissions committees.
Which schools are competitive with a 665?
With a 665, you are competitive for many top-tier MBA programs. While it may be slightly below the median for the most elite schools (like Harvard, Stanford, or Wharton), it is a solid score for:
- Top 20-30 U.S. programs (e.g., NYU Stern, Duke Fuqua, Michigan Ross)
- Leading European schools (e.g., INSEAD, London Business School, HEC Paris)
- Strong regional programs and part-time or executive MBA options
Your overall application—work experience, essays, recommendations—will be crucial in determining final admission decisions. Use our GMAT score calculator to see how your score aligns with specific school averages.
How to improve from 665
If you're aiming for the most selective programs, improving your score can increase your chances. Here are targeted strategies:
- Identify weak areas: Review your score report to see which section (Quant, Verbal, Data Insights) pulled you down. Focus your study on that section.
- Take practice tests: Simulate test conditions to build stamina and identify timing issues. Use official GMAT practice exams.
- Review mistakes: Analyze every incorrect answer to understand the underlying concept and avoid repeating errors.
- Consider a prep course or tutor: Personalized guidance can help you break through plateaus.
Even a modest increase of 20-30 points could move you into the 85th-90th percentile, making you more competitive at elite programs. For more details on percentile rankings, visit our GMAT percentile glossary.