the mean score is increasing

[simone88]

I have noted that the mean score is increasing. For example once the 50 at the quant was a 92%, now it is 90%. Is it due because the Gnat is becoming simpler or because there are smarter people than ther were before?

[OfficialGMAT]

Thanks for the question! First, I want to clarify for you that while the mean score does fluctuate over time, it is not correct that the mean score is only increasing. Although the average score for the Quantitative section of the exam went up from 36.6 in 2011 to 37.0 in 2012, a score of 50 ranked at the 92nd percentile in 2011 but went down to the 90th percentile in 2012. The percentile ranking can change over time because each year when we update the percentiles the reference group changes. The percentiles are based on the previous three years of test-takers.

I hope that answers your question!