Tuck Admissions Insights: Test Scores
By Tim Neil
Associate Director of Admissions, Recruitment & Engagement
We encourage you to lean into the test(s) that work best for you.
At Tuck, all applicants must self-report scores and percentiles from either the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or Graduate Record Examinations General Test (GRE), or be approved for a GMAT/GRE test waiver. I strongly recommend reviewing the GMAT/GRE test waiver FAQs well before applying. While you may qualify for a waiver, the absence of a test score removes a data point in both the holistic admissions review and the subsequent merit-based scholarship evaluation—where academic record and test scores carry greater weight.
Tuck accepts all versions of the GMAT and GRE General Test and we do not have a preference on the exam you choose to take. There are many differences between the exams, including format, structure, length, design, scoring, cost, etc. These factors and your skillset may impact your decision on which exam to choose. You may even want to take a couple free GMAT and/or GRE practice tests to aid you in your decision and preparation. At Tuck, 54% of the Class of 2027 submitted a GRE score. You know yourself the best and we empower you to lean into the test that best enables you to demonstrate our “smart” admissions criterion. At the end of the day, both exams have their own unique designs, but it’s important that you focus on which exam will best highlight your academic abilities. Do not get swayed by what others are doing.
Finally, it’s important that if you are submitting the GMAT or GRE that you submit all valid scores. We want to see your improvements! Additionally, it provides a full picture into your application, your awareness around testing, and where you fall in a typical class at Tuck. Remember, the Class Profile breaks down the range of test scores.
For non-native English speakers, you must also demonstrate your English Language Proficiency unless you qualify for a waiver. This can be done through the Duolingo English Test (DET), the International English Language Testing System Academic (IELTS), Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE), or the Test of English as a Foreign Language iBT (TOEFL), including the online/at home versions of these exams. We do not have a preference on which exam you choose to take and, like the GMAT or GRE, we encourage you to select the exam that best suits you.
As you explore Tuck, make sure test prep is part of your process. Choose your preferred exam (GMAT vs. GRE and an English Language Proficiency exam, if applicable), stick to it, practice, and do not spend time stressing about it. Tests are one indicator of the “smart” admissions criterion, and many other factors go into how we evaluate applicants. When you’ve done your due diligence with testing, move on. Focus your time and energy on another part of the application or exploring opportunities at Tuck. You’ll do far more of that as a student than preparing for admissions tests; we can promise you that!
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