The overall composite GMAT score ranges from 200-800. The composite score is a composed of your verbal and your quantitative scores. These two sections are graphed separately, with scores of 0-60 for each section. Scores below 10 and above 50 are rare. The Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) essays are graded on a scale of 0-6. There are two essays required here. ETS has each essay evaluated by two readers - one human and the other a computer. ETS averages the two, and rounds up the same for added comfort and give you the score.

The Analytic Writing Assessment (AWA) does not count toward your composite score.

A GMAT score is valid for a total of 5 years. Hence, in case you have been taking the test regularly, ETS makes it a point to return you the scores over the past five years.

Nearly all major business schools at all universities demand the GMAT. Although the kind of scores demanded would determine the kind of business school you should apply for, a high GMAT score cannot guarantee you the school of your choice. For this, the academic transcripts, the letters of recommendation, essays, and personal statements would determine a lot more.