GMAT Overview
The GMAT, or Graduate Management Admission Test, is a standardized exam required for admission to many top business schools around the world. It measures the skills needed to succeed in graduate business programs through a predefined syllabus.
The GMAT is widely recognized for its validity and reliability in assessing candidates. As a computer-adaptive test, it evaluates your verbal, quantitative, and analytical writing skills. The computer-based format allows the exam to adjust the difficulty of questions based on your performance. As you answer questions, the system adapts to your level, making the exam both challenging and tailored to your abilities.
GMAT Overview
Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA)
This section evaluates your ability to think critically and convey complex ideas through writing. You’ll be required to analyze and critique an argument, assessing its reasoning and evidence.
Integrated Reasoning
The Integrated Reasoning section tests your ability to analyze data through four types of questions:
Quantitative Section
This section measures your mathematical reasoning skills. It includes:
Verbal Section
The Verbal section assesses your reading and analytical skills. It includes:
Computer-Adaptive Format
The GMAT is a computer-adaptive test, meaning the difficulty of questions adjusts based on your performance. Each question you answer influences the difficulty of the next one. You cannot return to previous questions or change your answers. If you answer a question correctly, the subsequent questions will be more challenging; if answered incorrectly, they will be easier.
Scoring
The scores from the Quantitative and Verbal sections are combined to create a total score ranging from 200 to 800, in 10-point increments. A score of 650 or higher is considered strong.
GMAT Test Format
The GMAT is divided into four sections:
Here’s an overview of the Next Generation GMAT test structure:
| Section | Questions | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Analytical Writing Assessment (Analysis of an Argument) | 1 | 30 minutes |
| Integrated Reasoning | 12 | 30 minutes |
| Optional Break | — | — |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 37 | 75 minutes |
| Optional Break | — | — |
| Verbal Reasoning | 41 | 75 minutes |
Total Duration: Approximately 4 hours, including breaks and tutorials.
Miscellaneous Details
Q. How long is a GMAT score valid?
A. GMAT scores are valid for 5 years. While students can retake the exam to improve their scores, Business Schools will see all scores from the past 5 years. Therefore, thorough preparation before taking the exam is recommended.
Q. When should I consider myself ready to take the GMAT?
A. Our 48-hour module is designed to prepare candidates to be ‘exam ready.’ If a student is still underprepared, we offer additional tutoring, mock tests, and strategic sessions to help them get ready for the GMAT.
Q. Where can I get more information about the GMAT?
A. For more information, fill out the enquiry form on our website, and we will respond promptly. Alternatively, visit a Prolific center or call us. Contact details are available on the ‘Contact Us’ page of our website. Our counselors and faculty are available to assist with any GMAT-related questions.
Q. What is a Computer Adaptive Test?
A. A Computer Adaptive Test (CAT) adjusts the difficulty of questions based on the student’s performance. It begins with questions of moderate difficulty, and as the student answers correctly or incorrectly, the difficulty of subsequent questions is adjusted. This process continues until the test is complete and the student’s ability is accurately assessed.
Q. What admission strategy should an applicant use to improve their chances of acceptance at a Business School?
A. Students should focus on both their GMAT scores and their application essays. Applications should clearly demonstrate readiness for the program and a willingness to contribute positively to the school community.
Q. Is it advisable to retake the GMAT if the initial score is low?
A. Yes, if students believe their initial GMAT score does not reflect their true abilities, it is beneficial to prepare thoroughly and retake the exam.
