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| Learn about the GMAT |
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What is the GMAT and how is it structured?
The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a multiple-choice test for applicants to business
schools. The test is administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), under the sponsorship
of the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC). The GMAT is a computer-adaptive test (CAT),
and consists of three sections:
- Two 30-minute essays to be written on the computer
- One 75-minute, 37-question Math section
- One 75-minute, 41-question Verbal section
What is a CAT and how does it work?
A CAT is a computer-adaptive test, whose software calculates your score based on the number of
questions you answer correctly, the difficulty of the questions you answer, and the number of
questions you complete.
When you take the GMAT CAT, you'll begin each section with a medium-level question and an average
score. If you answer the question correctly, the computer will raise your score and then give you
a more difficult question. If you answer the question incorrectly, your score will decrease and
you'll be given an easier question. The process repeats for each question in the section, to
arrive at your final score for that section.
How is the GMAT scored?
Your GMAT score consists of several different numbers, each of which covers a part of your
performance on the GMAT. The most familiar number is the overall, or composite, score. This
number ranges from 200 to 800, in 10-point increments, and is determined from a combination of
your scores on the Math and Verbal sections of the test. Business schools tend to focus on your
composite score.
Your Verbal and Math sections are graded separately. You will receive a score ranging from 0 to
60 for each section. Scores below 10 and above 50 are rare.
Your Analytic Writing Assessment (AWA) essays are graded on a scale of 0 to 6. There are two
essays, each evaluated by two readers (one human and one computer). ETS averages the four scores,
and rounds to the nearest half point. Your AWA score does not count toward your composite score.
How important are my GMAT scores?
GMAT scores vary in importance at different schools. However, competitive programs tend to weight
your GMAT score more heavily. In addition to your GMAT score, schools consider your age, work
experience, undergraduate GPA, letters of recommendation, and essays. Be sure to contact the
specific programs to which you are applying in order to determine their unique requirements.
Can I cancel my scores?
Yes. You can cancel your scores immediately after you take the GMAT. This is the only time you
can cancel your scores. Unfortunately, you must make the decision to cancel at the testing center
before you see your scores. In addition, the fact that you cancelled your scores will be noted on
your official GMAT score report.
How many times can I take the GMAT?
You may take the GMAT no more than once in any calendar month and no more than five times within a
12-month period.
How do I know if I am ready for the GMAT?
Try our free online GMAT course demo, which includes a full-length test. When you finish the
practice test you'll get a complete score report detailing your strengths and weaknesses. If
you are satisfied with your results, then you may be ready. If you feel you still need help,
check out The Princeton Review's many test preparation options or call us at 800-2Review.
How do I pick a test date?
First, find out the application deadlines for the business schools to which you are applying,
then work backwards from your earliest deadline. Build some extra time into your planning process
for unexpected delays because you can only take the GMAT once per calendar month (including tests
for which you cancel your scores). And remember that it can take as long as four weeks for your
official scores to arrive at your designated schools. The GMAT is offered at testing centers almost
every day. Call your local center for details and to book your test. While in theory you could sign
up for the GMAT with only two days' notice, don't depend upon this luxury. Call at least one month
prior to your desired test date.
What fees are associated with the GMAT?
The fee to take the GMAT is $225 worldwide.
Where can I get more information about the GMAT?
You can contact us here at The Princeton Review by calling 800-2Review. Or you can contact GMAC
by phone at (703) 749-0131 or on their website, www.mba.com.
Once I have taken the test, how do I get help with the admissions process?
We know the business school admissions process can be intimidating and time-consuming. Our
Admissions Consulting Program can help. An experienced Princeton Review admissions consultant
will personally guide you through the entire process, helping you to identify the business
schools that are right for you, craft and edit your essays, update your resume, prepare for
interviews, and market yourself as a top candidate. Call 800-2Review for more information.
How do I enroll in Princeton Review's GMAT course at a discount?
To register for a course, call 800-2Review or visit PrincetonReview.com and provide this unique
promo code to receive a $75.00 discount: NAMBWB
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