GMATFE Graduate Management Admission Test Focus Edition

What is the GMAT Exam? 

The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a standardized exam used globally by business schools as part of their admissions process for MBA and other graduate management programs. The GMAT assesses analytical writing, quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, and integrated reasoning skills, which are critical for success in business school. 

Why Take the GMAT? 

1. Admission to Business Schools:
   • The GMAT is widely accepted by top business schools worldwide as a key component of the application process.
2. Showcase Skills:
   • The exam measures skills that are essential for success in business, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication.
3. Strengthen Your Application: 
   • A strong GMAT score can significantly enhance your application, especially if your academic background is not in a business-related field.
4. Scholarship Opportunities:
   • High GMAT scores can lead to merit-based scholarships and financial aid from business schools.

Structure of the GMAT Exam

The GMAT is a computer-adaptive test (CAT) that adjusts the difficulty of questions based on your responses. The exam is divided into four sections

1. Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA): 
   • Time: 30 minutes
   • Task: Write an essay analyzing the reasoning behind a given argument
   • Skills Tested: Critical thinking, ability to communicate complex ideas, and writing skills
2. Integrated Reasoning (IR):
   • Time: 30 minutes
   • Number of Questions: 12 questions
   • Question Types: Graphics interpretation, two-part analysis, table analysis, and multi-source reasoning
   • Skills Tested: Ability to analyze data from multiple sources and synthesize information to make decisions.

• Quantitative Reasoning:
  • Time: 62 minutes
  • Number of Questions: 31 questions
  • Question Types: Problem-solving and data sufficiency
  • Skills Tested: Basic arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and analytical reasoning.
• Verbal Reasoning: 
  • Time: 65 minutes
  • Number of Questions: 36 questions
  • Question Types: Reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and sentence correction.
  • Skills Tested: Ability to understand and evaluate written material, critical thinking, and command of standard written English.

Scoring

• Total GMAT Score: 
  • Ranges from 200 to 800, combining the Quantitative and Verbal sections.
  • Most test-takers score between 400 and 600. A score of 700 or above is considered competitive for top business schools.
• Sectional Scores:
  • Analytical Writing Assessment: Scored on a scale of 0 to 6 in half-point increments.
  • Integrated Reasoning: Scored on a scale of 1 to 8 in one-point increments.
  • Quantitative Reasoning: Scored on a scale of 0 to 60.
  • Verbal Reasoning: Scored on a scale of 0 to 60.
• Score Validity: 
  • GMAT scores are valid for five years. This allows flexibility in applying to business schools.

Registration and Exam Dates

• Registration:
  • You can register for the GMAT online through the official GMAT website (mba.com). Registration fees are typically around $275, but this can vary depending on your location. 
• Test Dates: 
  • The GMAT is available year-round at testing centers worldwide, offering flexibility in choosing a test date. You should register well in advance to secure your preferred date.

Preparing for the GMAT 

1. Understand the Format: 
   • Familiarize yourself with the structure of the GMAT and the types of questions in each section. Knowing the format will help you manage time and reduce anxiety on test day.
2. Practice with Official Materials:
   • Use official GMAT prep materials, including practice tests and questions available from the GMAT website and other reputable sources. These materials provide an accurate representation of the actual exam.
3. Develop a Study Plan:
   • Create a study schedule that allows ample time to cover all sections of the exam. Focus on areas where you need the most improvement, but don’t neglect your strengths
4. Take Practice Tests: 
   • Regularly take full-length practice tests to build stamina and get used to the timing of the exam. Analyze your performance on these tests to identify areas for improvement.
5. Consider Prep Courses: 
   • If self-study isn’t enough, consider enrolling in a GMAT prep course. These courses offer structured learning, expert guidance, and additional resources

Test Day: What to Expect

• Arrival:
  • Arrive at the testing center at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time. Bring a valid ID that matches the name on your registration.
• Security Measures:
  • Expect strict security measures, including digital fingerprinting and photograph verification. Personal items are not allowed in the testing room
• Breaks:
  • You are allowed two optional eight-minute breaks during the exam. Use these breaks wisely to stay refreshed
• Computer-Adaptive Testing (CAT):
  • Remember that the Quantitative and Verbal sections are computer-adaptive. This means the difficulty of questions will adjust based on your previous answers. Your score is determined by both the difficulty of the questions and your accuracy

Sending GMAT Scores to Schools 

• Score Reporting: 
  • After completing the exam, you can choose up to five programs to receive your GMAT scores at no additional cost. You can also send scores to additional programs for a fee.
• Score Preview:
  • Before leaving the test center, you can view your unofficial scores for the Quantitative, Verbal, and Integrated Reasoning sections. You can then decide whether to keep or cancel your scores.
• Retaking the GMAT:
  • You can retake the GMAT up to five times in a 12-month period, with a minimum of 16 days between attempts. Business schools typically consider your highest score, though all your scores may be visible on your score report.

GMAT vs. GRE 

• GMAT vs. GRE:
  • Some business schools also accept GRE scores as part of their application process. If you are considering both exams, it’s important to understand the differences in format, content, and scoring.
• Choosing Between GMAT and GRE: 
  • The GMAT is specifically designed for business school applicants, with sections tailored to assess skills critical for business success. The GRE is more general and accepted by a wider range of graduate programs. Consider your strengths and the requirements of your target programs when deciding which test to take.