Structure of the GMAT
The GMAT exam is divided into four main sections :
- Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) : This section involves writing an essay, where you analyze an argument. This tests your critical thinking and ability to communicate effectively. You have 30 minutes to complete this task.
- Integrated Reasoning (IR) : Launched in 2012, this section tests your ability to evaluate information presented in multiple formats from multiple sources. These skills are necessary for data-driven decision-making in modern businesses. The section includes 12 questions and you have 30 minutes to complete it.
- Quantitative Section : This part of the exam measures your ability to analyze data and draw conclusions using reasoning skills. The quantitative section includes two types of questions: problem solving and data sufficiency, totaling 31 questions over 62 minutes.
- Verbal Section : This section tests your ability to read and understand written material, evaluate arguments, and correct written material to conform to standard written English. It consists of 36 questions over 65 minutes, including reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and sentence correction questions.
Scoring
The GMAT score range is from 200 to 800, with scores based on the Quantitative and Verbal sections only. The Integrated Reasoning section is scored separately on a scale of 1-8, and the Analytical Writing Assessment is scored from 0 to 6. Scores are valid for five years from the date of testing.
Purpose and Usage
The GMAT exam is recognized by over 2,300 business schools and institutions around the world. It is designed to predict how test takers will perform academically in MBA programs. GMAT scores are used by admissions officers to compare applicants from different educational and professional backgrounds.
Preparation
Preparing for the GMAT involves understanding the test format, practicing with real GMAT questions, and taking full-length practice tests to simulate the test day experience. GMAC offers various resources, including the GMAT Official Guide and the GMATPrep software, which provides practice tests and questions directly from the maker of the exam.
Test Availability
The GMAT is available at testing centers worldwide, and more recently, it is also offered online due to testing disruptions caused by global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Candidates can schedule their test date and format based on their convenience and the requirements of the programs to which they are applying.
Overall, the GMAT is a critical component of the business school application process, and a high score can significantly enhance a candidate’s chances of admission into top business schools.
