The GMAT is an exam specifically designed to assess the capabilities of those seeking admission to MBA and other graduate business programs. This article aims to delve into the significance of the GMAT and its role in the admissions process for these programs. Streamline your GMAT Test preparation and ensure your success with Study Zune.
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- Academic
Aptitude: The
GMAT is a tool that gauges an applicant's academic capabilities and predicts
their potential achievements in an MBA program. It evaluates important
quantitative and verbal skills necessary for coursework and participation in
the classroom.
- Standardized
Comparison: MBA programs receive numerous applications
from diverse backgrounds. By offering a standardized benchmark for evaluation,
the GMAT facilitates fair comparisons among applicants by admissions
committees.
- Ranking
and Accreditation: When evaluating the caliber and standing of
MBA programs, both business school rankings and accreditation bodies commonly
take GMAT scores into consideration. A program's ranking and reputation can be
improved by higher average GMAT scores.
- Other
Graduate Business Programs: While commonly associated with MBA
admissions, the GMAT is also approved by many other graduate business programs,
such as Master's in Finance, Master's in Marketing, and Master's in Data
Analytics. These programs often require a similar skill set and emphasize
analytical and quantitative abilities, making the GMAT a valuable assessment
tool.
- Validity
of the GMAT: The validity of GMAT scores is usually five
years. To ensure the applicant's current capabilities are accurately reflected,
admissions committees take into account recent scores. Older scores may be
accepted by certain programs, especially if the applicant can showcase relevant
work experience or additional academic achievements.
- Supplementary
Factors: Although the GMAT is crucial for the application, it
does not solely determine admission. Business schools take a comprehensive
approach, taking into account additional factors like undergraduate GPA,
professional experience, recommendation letters, essays, and interviews.
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Syllabus of GMAT
Here is a division of the syllabus for every
section:
Analytical
Writing Assessment (AWA): A
candidate's capability to analyze and effectively communicate ideas in writing
is measured by the AWA section. The assignment involves one essay prompt, and
participants are allotted 30 minutes to complete it. A specific syllabus does not apply to the AWA section as it measures a candidate's critical thinking,
reasoning, and writing skills in response to a given argument or issue.
Quantitative
Reasoning (QR): The QR section measures a candidate's
mathematical and quantitative reasoning abilities. Some questions cover both problem-solving and data sufficiency included in it. The syllabus
addresses different mathematical concepts, such as arithmetic, algebra,
geometry, and foundational statistics. Within these areas, the content
encompasses percentages, ratios, equations, inequalities, quadratic equations,
circles, triangles, coordinate geometry, probability, and statistics.
Verbal
Reasoning (VR): The VR section evaluates a candidate's
comprehension of written material, analysis of arguments, and ability to
correct written sentences. The syllabus comprises three important areas:
- Reading Comprehension: This portion tests the ability to understand and analyze complex passages on various topics, including social sciences, business, natural sciences, and humanities. Test-takers must answer questions based on the passage's content, structure, tone, and purpose.
- Critical Reasoning: This section evaluates the skills of argument evaluation, logical flaw identification, and conclusion drawing. The questions can include enhancing or undermining arguments, identifying assumptions, and assessing reasoning.
- Sentence Correction: This portion tests grammar, sentence structure, and effective expression. Test-takers must identify errors and improve the grammar, usage, and clarity of sentences.
Here is an overview of the GMAT structure,
including the duration of the test and the time allotted for each section:
- Analytical
Writing Assessment (AWA): The duration of this section is 30 minutes. Test-takers are presented with an argument or
issue and must construct a well-reasoned essay response. In this section, you
will find one essay prompt to analyze the argument, identify flaws, present
evidence, and provide a coherent and persuasive written response.
- Integrated
Reasoning (IR): The duration of the IR section is 30
minutes. It evaluates a test-taker's skills in interpreting and analyzing
complex information presented in different formats. The assessment includes 12
questions that gauge skills in data interpretation, graphical analysis,
two-part analysis, and multi-source reasoning.
- Quantitative
Reasoning (QR): Evaluating a test-taker's mathematical and
quantitative reasoning abilities, the QR section lasts for 62 minutes. The
questions included cover both problem-solving and data sufficiency. The section
contains 31 questions that cover different mathematical concepts like
arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and basic statistics. Test-takers must solve
mathematical problems, interpret data, and make logical deductions based on the
given information.
- Verbal
Reasoning (VR): The test-taker's ability to comprehend
written material, evaluate arguments, and communicate effectively in English is
assessed in the VR section that lasts for 65 minutes. Included are reading
comprehension passages, questions for critical reasoning, and questions for
sentence correction. Test-takers must address questions relating to the
content, structure, and reasoning of the passages, while also identifying and
rectifying errors in sentences.
- Optional Breaks: Two optional breaks are available to test-takers during the test. These breaks are offered after the Integrated Reasoning section and the Quantitative Reasoning section. Rest, restroom usage, or quick snacks can be done during breaks of 8 minutes each for test-takers.
Below are a few guidelines as well as suggested learning resources, assets, and systems to assist exam participants in achieving effective preparation.
Free Online Resources
- GMAT Official Starter Kit: Access free practice questions and exams on the official GMAT website. Link
- GMAT Club: A popular online forum for GMAT preparation, featuring a community of test-takers, experts, and resources. Link
- Beat The GMAT: Offers a range of free resources, comprising study plans, practice questions, and articles on test techniques. Link
- GMAT Prep Now: A YouTube channel with comprehensive video lessons covering various GMAT topics. Link
Mobile Apps
- Official GMAT Mobile App IOS Link, Android Link: Link
- Magoosh GMAT Prep IOS Link: Click Here, Android Link: Click Here
Here are a few well-known
GMAT coaching programs:
- Manhattan
Prep GMAT: Manhattan
Prep provides face-to-face and virtual GMAT classes guided
by experienced mentors. The classes they offer consist of detailed educational
resources, trial examinations, and participatory lectures. Website: Link
- Veritas Prep GMAT: Veritas Prep gives live and recorded GMAT tutorials. These programs include all parts of the test. The courses offer experienced mentors, individualized study strategies, and diverse learning materials. Website: Link
- Kaplan
GMAT: Kaplan provides GMAT preparation courses with options
for in-person, live online, or self-paced online learning. Their programs
incorporate practice exams, adaptive learning technology, and supplementary
study materials. Website: Link
- The
Princeton Review GMAT: The Princeton Review's GMAT prep
courses encompass content review, test strategies, and practice exercises. They
provide personalized study plans and expert instructors to guide test-takers.
Website: Their Website
- Target Test Prep: Target Test Prep specializes in GMAT quant preparation. They offer an online course focused on comprehensive math review, concept drills, and adaptive practice questions to improve quantitative skills. Website: Link
Registration process for GMAT and validity of test
Registration for the GMAT (Graduate Management
Admission Test) requires completing multiple steps. Here is an overview of
the process:
- Create
an Account: Create an account by visiting the
official GMAT website at www.mba.com,the
mandatory personal information is
needed for registration.
- Select
a Test Center and Date: Select a test center
location and date that is convenient for your schedule. Various testing centers
worldwide administer the GMAT exam year-round.
- Provide
Personal Information: Kindly enter your personal particulars,
including your name, contact information, and
identification details. Ensure that the information matches the identification
document you will present on test day.
- Review
and Agree to Terms: Read and accept the terms and conditions
related to test registration, including the test center rules and policies.
- Pay
the Exam Fee: Using a valid credit or debit card, make the
necessary payment for the exam fee. Usually, the GMAT costs around $250-$350,
but this can vary depending on the location.
- Receive
Confirmation: Upon finishing the registration and payment
steps, an email confirming your test date, time, and location will be sent to
you.
- Prepare
for the Exam: Utilize the period before your scheduled
GMAT test date for preparation. Get acquainted with the test format and content
by utilizing study materials, practice exams, and other resources.
Validity of GMAT Scores
The validity of GMAT scores is five years. Business schools accept GMAT scores for five years from the exam date. Your GMAT score will become irrelevant for schools after five years.