Genetic Merit Scorecard
An objective, reliable way to describe genetic potential.
Quantify calf performance. The Genetic Merit Scorecard® (GMS) draws on the industry’s largest database to evaluate calf genetics. It projects their performance potential from weaning to the packing plant, using the breeding history of a herd. Scores indicate how cattle will perform in the feedlot and on the rail, with top Grid scores earning the Certified Angus Beef® brand Targeting the Brand™ logo.
Amplify marketing opportunities. Producers are being paid premiums in the marketplace for cattle enrolled in the Genetic Merit Scorecard program. Over time, the return on investment has been extremely good for these programs, as well as others offered through IMI Global.
Simple to use, easy to understand.
Genetic Merit Scorecard gives producers the ability to effectively communicate the genetic merit of their calves to potential buyers and differentiate their calves from others’ on sale day. The program also serves as a platform to track genetic progress to make sure the next calf crop is better than the last.
WHAT DO THE SCORES MEAN?
With the industry average being 100, the higher the score, the greater the genetic potential of the calves.
Want to improve scores?
GMS figures are based on the American Angus Association’s $Value indexes. Year to year, if your scores stay the same, you’ve kept up with the pace of genetic improvement across the industry. The scorecard can also help you document your progress for long-term profitability.
To raise Beef scores: select for higher $B (key EPDs included: WW, YW, FAT, REA, CWT, MARB).
To raise Feedlot scores: select for higher $F (key EPDs included: WW, YW, and RADG and DMI when available).
To raise Grid Score: select for higher $G (key EPDs included: FAT, REA, MARB, CWT).
Figure 1 - Variation in Quality Grade by GMS Beef Score
See how your score ranks across industry standards using this chart:
These percentiles are reflective of the industry. Chart prepared spring 2025.
Turn genetic insights into marketing power!
Capture more value from your investment and stand out in the marketplace with GeneMax® Advantage™. If your herd has at least 10% of females tested with GeneMax, your Genetic Merit Scorecard will automatically be enhanced with GeneMax data.
Already tested with GeneMax? Enrollment is simple.
Complete your AngusLink enrollment, check the box indicating you’ve tested with GeneMax, and a GeneMax-enhanced scorecard will automatically follow.
New to GeneMax? Want to improve your GMS scores?
Get the best of both worlds. Use GeneMax Advantage to unlock your herd’s potential, and market calves with AngusLink’s Genetic Merit Scorecard to capture value on your investment.
Genetic Merit Scorecard FAQs
Scores allow producers to objectively differentiate the performance potential of their calves across four areas - Beef, Feedlot, Grid and Maternal - using a range from 0 to 200, with the industry average being 100. The higher the score, the greater the genetic potential of the calves.
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Beef Score – Describes genetic potential for feedlot performance and carcass value in the group of feeder cattle.
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Feedlot Score – Demonstrates an enrollment group's potential for post-weaning performance.
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Grid Score – Signifies performance potential for carcass grid merit
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Maternal Score - Demonstrates an enrollment group's genetic potential for use as replacement heifers.
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Group Age and Source verification with IMI Global
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A list of sire registration numbers – Sires must be predominantly (50% or more) registered Angus.
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Cow herd breed composition
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Optional: A sire history to help increase the accuracy of your scores – 10 years of sire history is ideal.
Look for the logo. Your Genetic Merit Scorecard will include the GeneMax®Advantage™ logo, confirming that your GeneMax results are incorporated into the scores. If your herd has at least 10% of females tested with GeneMax, the Genetic Merit Scorecard® will automatically be enhanced with your GeneMax data.
Targeting the brand
The Certified Angus Beef® brand Targeting the Brand logo appears on a scorecard when calves meet the USDA Government Live Angus specifications (GLA1), earn a GMS Grid score of 125 of higher, and meet the minimum marbling requirement.
