GMAT General Test Complete Guide for Students

The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a standardized exam that serves as a significant yardstick for business schools across the globe. The test plays a pivotal role in determining an individual’s aptitude and capability for advanced business and management programs. This article delves into the essence, purpose, and significance of the GMAT, and how it influences the admissions process of business schools.

What is the GMAT?

The GMAT is a computer-adaptive test designed to assess certain analytical, writing, quantitative, verbal, and reading skills in the English language. Developed and administered by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), the test primarily gauges a candidate’s ability to reason and analyze.

Consisting of four main sections:

Analytical Writing Assessment,
Integrated Reasoning,
Quantitative Reasoning, and
Verbal Reasoning,

the GMAT offers a holistic view of an individual’s academic capabilities in the context of business and management.

Purpose and Significance of the GMAT

The purpose of the GMAT is multifold:

Objective Assessment: Given the vast pool of applicants for MBA programs and other graduate management programs, the GMAT offers an objective measure to compare candidates from diverse academic and professional backgrounds. Since grades and accolades can vary significantly from one institution or country to another, the GMAT provides a standard benchmark.
Predictor of Academic Success: Over the years, the GMAT score has been seen as a reliable predictor of a student’s potential success in business school. The skills assessed in the test, such as analytical thinking and problem-solving, are crucial for management programs.
Skill Emphasis: Beyond raw intelligence, the GMAT places emphasis on skills essential for business management. For instance, the Integrated Reasoning section tests the ability to evaluate information from multiple sources, a key skill in today’s data-driven business world.

The significance of the GMAT extends beyond business schools. Many employers, especially in the consulting and finance sectors, consider GMAT scores as part of their recruitment process, recognizing the rigorous and comprehensive nature of the test.

Role of the GMAT in Business School Admissions

In the realm of business school admissions, the GMAT plays a substantial role:

Selection Criteria: For many top-tier business schools, the GMAT score is a critical component of the admissions process. A high GMAT score can significantly enhance an applicant’s chance of admission, especially in highly competitive programs.
Scholarship Opportunities: Beyond admission, a strong GMAT score can open doors to scholarships and financial aid. Many institutions offer merit-based scholarships where the GMAT score is a key determining factor.
Balancing Profiles: For candidates who may have weaker aspects in their profiles, such as lower undergraduate GPAs or less work experience, a high GMAT score can serve as a counterbalance, demonstrating their academic prowess and potential for success in a rigorous academic environment.

In conclusion, the GMAT is more than just another standardized test. It’s a crucial tool for business schools to evaluate the potential of candidates and ensure that they select individuals who will thrive in their programs and later, in the global business landscape.

Test Format and Structure

The GMAT is a computer-adaptive test, which means that the difficulty of questions adjusts in real-time based on the test-taker’s performance.

It comprises four main sections:

The Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA),
Integrated Reasoning (IR),
Quantitative Reasoning (QR), and
Verbal Reasoning (VR).

Sectional Breakdown

Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA): This section requires the test-taker to write an essay that critiques an argument presented in a prompt. The focus is on evaluating the argument’s logic and coherence rather than the test-taker’s personal opinion on the subject.
Integrated Reasoning (IR): This section measures the ability to evaluate and synthesize information from multiple sources in different formats. Questions can be multi-source reasoning, table analysis, graphics interpretation, or two-part analysis.
Quantitative Reasoning (QR): The QR section tests mathematical skills, comprehension, and the ability to reason quantitatively, solve quantitative problems, and interpret graphic data. It consists of two question types: problem-solving and data sufficiency.
Verbal Reasoning (VR): This section measures the test-taker’s ability to read and comprehend written material, reason and evaluate arguments, and correct written material to conform to standard written English. It comprises three main question types: reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and sentence correction.

Scoring Mechanics

Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA): Scored on a range of 0 to 6 in half-point increments.
Integrated Reasoning (IR): Scored on a scale of 1 to 8 in one-point increments.
Quantitative and Verbal Reasoning: Both sections contribute to a combined “total” GMAT score ranging from 200 to 800. This combined score is reported in 10-point increments. The individual Quantitative and Verbal scores range from 6 to 51 and are based on the number of questions answered correctly and their level of difficulty.

Exam Section	Time Limit	Number of Questions	Score Range
Quantitative Reasoning	62 minutes	31 questions	6 – 51
Verbal Reasoning	65 minutes	36 questions	6 – 51
Integrated Reasoning	30 minutes	12 questions	1 – 8
Analytical Writing Assessment	30 minutes	1 question	0 – 6
Total	3 hours 7 minutes	80 questions	200 – 800

Duration and Timing

The entire GMAT test duration, including breaks and instructions, is approximately 3 hours and 7 minutes. Here’s the sectional timing:

Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA): 30 minutes.
Integrated Reasoning (IR): 30 minutes with 12 questions.
Quantitative Reasoning (QR): 62 minutes with 31 questions.
Verbal Reasoning (VR): 65 minutes with 36 questions.

Additionally, two optional 8-minute breaks are typically offered, one before the Quantitative Reasoning section and one before the Verbal Reasoning section.

Preparing for the GMAT requires an understanding not just of the content but also the structure, scoring mechanics, and time constraints to maximize performance.

Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA)

The Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) is the first section encountered by test-takers on the GMAT. Unlike the other sections, which are multiple-choice, the AWA requires test-takers to compose a full-fledged essay. It tests one’s critical thinking abilities and communication skills, specifically the capacity to construct and deliver a well-organized, cogent argument in written form.

Analysis of an Argument Task

For this task, test-takers are provided with an argument (usually related to business or a variety of other subjects). They must critically assess the argument’s strengths and weaknesses. It’s important to note that the focus is not on presenting one’s own views on the topic, but rather on evaluating the presented argument’s logical validity and persuasiveness.

Strategies and Tips for Effective Writing

Understand the Argument: Before beginning to write, take a couple of minutes to fully comprehend the argument’s premises and conclusions.
Plan Before Writing: Jot down your main points or a brief outline. This ensures that your essay is organized and flows logically.
Be Objective: Your task is to critique the argument, not the topic. Stick to analyzing the argument’s validity.
Use Varied Sentence Structure: A mix of short and long sentences can make your writing more engaging.
Proofread: If time allows, go back and check for grammatical errors or awkward phrasings. This can significantly elevate the quality of your essay.

Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) Scoring Criteria

The AWA is graded on a scale of 0 to 6, in half-point increments. Two graders (one human and one computer software called the “e-rater”) assess the essay. They evaluate:

Overall Quality of Ideas: How well you understood the argument and your ability to present a critical analysis.
Organization of Thoughts: The clarity and logical flow of the essay.
Writing Skills: Proper use of grammar, syntax, punctuation, and varied sentence structure.
Relevance of Examples and Evidence: The effectiveness and appropriateness of any examples used to support your critique.

If the human and the e-rater’s scores are significantly different, a second expert reads and grades the essay, and the final score is an average of the two human scores.

Recommended Resources for Preparation

Official Guide for GMAT Review: Published by GMAC, the test’s creators, this guide offers a comprehensive overview of the AWA, including sample arguments and essays.
Manhattan GMAT Strategy Guides: Manhattan’s guides provide in-depth strategies for tackling every section of the GMAT, including the AWA.
Magoosh GMAT Blog: Offers a plethora of tips, tricks, and practice questions for all sections of the GMAT, including detailed posts on AWA strategies.
GMAT Club Forum: An online community where test-takers discuss their experiences and share resources. It has an entire section dedicated to AWA, with many sample essays and feedback from community members.
GMAT Write: An official tool from GMAC that provides feedback on your practice essays, helping to improve your writing skills.

Integrated Reasoning (IR)

The Integrated Reasoning (IR) section of the GMAT, introduced in 2012, evaluates a candidate’s ability to interpret, analyze, and synthesize information presented in various formats and from multiple sources. With an emphasis on data-driven decision making, this section is tailored to reflect the complexities of modern business scenarios.

Types of Questions

The IR section comprises 12 questions, drawn from four different types:

Graphics Interpretation

In this type, test-takers are presented with a graph or a graphical image (such as a scatter plot, x-y graph, bar chart, pie chart, or statistical curve) and are required to interpret and analyze the data. Questions typically involve determining relationships or drawing inferences from the graphical data.

Two-Part Analysis

Questions of this type present a problem with two related questions. Candidates need to select one answer for each question from a shared pool of choices. The questions can be quantitative (involving mathematical calculations) or verbal (involving reasoning or interpretation).

Table Analysis

Test-takers are presented with a sortable table of data, similar to a spreadsheet. The objective is to sort the table to organize the data effectively and answer related questions. This type assesses one’s ability to discern patterns or significant data points within a large dataset.

Multi-Source Reasoning

These questions present data from multiple sources—such as text passages, charts, or tables. Candidates must synthesize the information from these various sources to answer questions. It mimics real-life scenarios where one must extract relevant details from multiple reports or datasets.

Strategies and Tips

Time Management: With 30 minutes for 12 questions, you need to be vigilant about the time. Practice beforehand to get a sense of pacing.
Focus on Details: Ensure you thoroughly read all the data presented. Sometimes, a crucial detail can change the context of a question.
Practice Calculations: For quantitative aspects, brush up on basic arithmetic, percentages, and ratios, as these come in handy.
Use Scratch Paper: Jot down important data points or relationships to avoid repeatedly referring back to the data sources.
Stay Calm and Logical: The IR section tests your ability to stay composed and think critically. Even if you’re unsure, remember that this section does not penalize for wrong answers, so make an educated guess if needed.

Recommended Resources for Preparation

Official Guide for GMAT Review: This guide, released by GMAC, includes real GMAT questions, providing invaluable insights into the IR section’s nuances.
Manhattan Prep’s IR & Essay Guide: A part of the Manhattan Prep GMAT series, this guide offers in-depth strategies and practice questions for the IR section.
Magoosh GMAT Prep: Magoosh offers a comprehensive online course, complete with video lessons and practice questions tailored to the IR section.
GMAT Club Forum: This online community provides a wealth of resources, including discussions on IR strategies, practice questions, and feedback from other test-takers.
Veritas Prep GMAT Question Bank: This free online resource allows users to practice IR questions in a simulated test environment.

Consistent practice, combined with the right strategies and resources, can significantly enhance one’s performance in the IR section, ensuring a strong footing in the GMAT journey.

Quantitative Section

The Quantitative Section of the GMAT gauges a test-taker’s ability to analyze data and reason quantitatively using mathematical concepts from areas such as arithmetic, algebra, and geometry. It evaluates the candidate’s capability to apply these concepts to real-world scenarios without demanding high-level mathematical prowess.

Types of Questions

The Quantitative Section encompasses two primary question formats:

Data Sufficiency

These questions present a mathematical problem followed by two statements. The test-taker’s task is not to solve the problem per se but to determine whether the given statements provide enough information to solve it. There are standardized answer choices for these questions, which remain consistent throughout the test. Understanding the pattern of these answer choices can prove advantageous.

Problem Solving

These are conventional multiple-choice questions requiring the test-taker to perform calculations and select the correct answer from five options. The problems can range from pure mathematical calculations to word problems.

Core Mathematical Concepts to Review

Arithmetic: Basics of numbers, fractions, decimals, percentages, and averages.
Algebra: Equations (linear and quadratic), functions, and concepts related to variable manipulation.
Geometry: Properties of shapes, coordinate geometry, volume and surface area calculations, and the Pythagorean theorem.
Word Problems: Rate, work, mixture, and interest problems.
Number Theory: Prime numbers, factorization, and divisibility rules.

Quantitative Section Strategies and Tips

Understand the Question: Especially for word problems, ensure you know what is being asked before diving into calculations.
Estimation: Sometimes, an approximate calculation can be faster and sufficient to select the correct answer.
Elimination Method: For tough problems, try eliminating the least probable answer choices to increase your chances of guessing the correct one.
Time Management: Practice pacing yourself. It’s better to guess an answer and move on rather than spending too much time on a single question.
Practice Data Sufficiency Strategy: Remember, you’re determining if you have enough data to solve the problem, not necessarily solving it entirely. Familiarize yourself with the consistent answer choices for these questions.
Use Scratch Paper: Always use scratch paper for calculations instead of trying to do them in your head.

To excel in the Quantitative Section, it’s imperative not only to understand the foundational mathematical concepts but also to practice applying them in varied scenarios, enhancing accuracy and speed.

Verbal Section

The Verbal Section of the GMAT evaluates test-takers on their ability to comprehend, analyze, and evaluate written material, as well as to discern and correct written English to conform to standard written conventions. While this section tests verbal skills, logical reasoning plays a pivotal role across all question types.

Types of Questions

The Verbal Section consists of three primary question formats:

Sentence Correction

In Sentence Correction (SC) questions, test-takers are provided with a sentence, part of which is underlined. The goal is to identify the best version of the underlined portion from the given choices. The correct option must adhere to standard written English rules and express the idea in the most clear and concise manner.

Critical Reasoning

Critical Reasoning (CR) questions evaluate the test-taker’s ability to analyze and evaluate arguments. Typically, a short passage or argument is presented, followed by a question that requires understanding, analyzing, or extending the argument. Topics can vary, but prior subject-matter knowledge is not necessary.

Reading Comprehension

Reading Comprehension (RC) passages can range from 200 to 350 words and may cover a variety of topics. The associated questions test the candidate’s ability to comprehend the main idea, infer the author’s tone or purpose, and understand specific details. Some questions also require analyzing the logical structure of the passage.

Verbal Section Strategies and Tips

Active Reading: Engage with the content actively, especially in RC passages. This helps in better retention and comprehension.
Note-taking: For RC and CR, jot down the main idea, author’s tone, or any pivotal points. This can save time from revisiting the passage.
Spotting Errors: For SC, familiarize yourself with common error types—subject-verb agreement, modifiers, parallelism, etc.
Answer Prediction: Before looking at the choices, try to predict an answer. This can prevent getting swayed by trap answers.
Time Management: Allocate time judiciously. While RC questions might take longer due to the associated passage, SC and CR questions should typically be quicker.
Stay Calm and Logical: Especially in CR, ensure your approach is logical and not influenced by personal biases.

6.4. Recommended Resources for Preparation

Official Guide for GMAT Verbal Review: Published by GMAC, this guide is an indispensable resource with real GMAT questions and detailed explanations.
Manhattan GMAT Verbal Strategy Guides: These guides break down each section—SC, CR, and RC—offering in-depth strategies and practice questions.
Magoosh GMAT Prep: Known for its comprehensive content, Magoosh offers video lessons, practice questions, and tips specifically tailored to the Verbal section.
GMAT Club Forum: A valuable community resource, it provides a plethora of questions, debriefs, and strategies shared by GMAT test-takers from around the world.
PowerScore GMAT Critical Reasoning Bible: An in-depth guide focusing exclusively on the CR section, it’s great for understanding argument structures and common question types.

Preparing for the Verbal Section requires a combination of enhancing English language proficiency and sharpening logical reasoning skills. Consistent practice, combined with the right strategies, will pave the way for success.

Test-taking Strategies and Techniques

Time Management and Pacing

Succeeding in the GMAT hinges not just on content mastery but also on adept time management. Each section has a fixed amount of time, so it’s crucial to pace yourself.

Segment Your Time: Divide your time by the number of questions to get an average time per question. Regularly checking the clock will help you adjust your speed.
Avoid Getting Stuck: If you’re uncertain about a question, make an educated guess and move on. It’s better to attempt all questions rather than leave some unanswered due to time constraints.

Handling Test Anxiety

Test anxiety can be a significant impediment, but there are techniques to manage it:

Deep Breathing: If you feel overwhelmed, take a few deep breaths. It can calm your nerves and clear your mind.
Positive Self-talk: Remind yourself of your preparation and hard work. Self-encouragement can boost your confidence.
Mock Exams: Familiarize yourself with the test format and environment by taking several practice tests. This can reduce anxiety on the actual test day.
Rest and Nutrition: Ensure you get a good night’s sleep before the exam and eat a balanced meal. Avoid excessive caffeine.

Practice Test Recommendations

Regular practice tests are invaluable:

Simulate Real Test Conditions: Take the practice test in a quiet environment and adhere strictly to timing. This provides an accurate assessment of your current standing.
Analyze Mistakes: Reviewing mistakes is as crucial as taking the test. Understand where you went wrong and learn from it.
Consistent Practice: Start with a diagnostic test, then take periodic practice tests throughout your preparation to gauge improvement.
Use Official Practice Tests: GMAC offers official mock tests that are closest to the real GMAT experience.

Guessing and Elimination Techniques

Given the GMAT’s structure, leaving questions unanswered can be detrimental. Use these strategies when unsure:

Eliminate Outliers: Remove choices that are clearly incorrect or inconsistent with the question’s context.
Look for Patterns: On quantitative questions, especially Data Sufficiency, patterns or relationships can hint at the answer.
Stick to Grammar Rules: For Sentence Correction, rely on foundational grammar rules to eliminate incorrect choices.
Beware of Extreme Words: In Critical Reasoning and Reading Comprehension, options with absolute words like “always” or “never” are often incorrect.
Trust Your Instincts: Sometimes, your first hunch is correct. Don’t overthink and change your answer unless you find a clear reason.

Effective test-taking goes beyond knowing the material—it’s about approaching the test with a blend of strategy, confidence, and mindfulness. Adopting and adapting the above techniques will play a pivotal role in achieving your desired GMAT score.

Registration and Test Day Logistics

How to Register for the GMAT

To register for the GMAT, follow these steps:

Create an Account: Visit the official GMAT website (www.mba.com) and create a ‘My GMAT’ account.
Fill in Personal Details: Ensure the name you enter matches the name on your identification document to avoid discrepancies on test day.
Choose a Test Date: Once registered, you can select an available test date. Consider picking a date that allows ample time for preparation but also aligns with application deadlines of the business schools you’re considering.
Make Payment: The registration fee for the GMAT can be paid using credit/debit cards. Ensure you review any applicable rescheduling or cancellation fees.

Choosing a Test Center and Scheduling

Location: The GMAT is offered at numerous test centers worldwide. Search for the nearest or most convenient center on the GMAT website.
Availability: Not all test centers will have consistent availability. It’s wise to book well in advance, especially during peak application seasons.
Rescheduling: If necessary, you can reschedule your exam. However, there might be associated fees depending on how much in advance you make the change.

Essential Documents and Items for Test Day

Identification: Bring a valid, government-issued ID (e.g., passport, driver’s license) with a recognizable photo and signature. The name on the ID must match the name used for registration.
Confirmation Letter: It’s advisable to bring the confirmation letter or email received after registration.
Personal Items: You’ll be provided with a locker for personal belongings. However, access during the test will be limited.
Snacks/Water: Consider bringing light snacks and water for breaks.
Clothing: Dress comfortably and in layers to adjust to potential room temperature variations.

Test Day Procedures and Protocols

Arrival: Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled exam time. This gives you time for check-in procedures and settling in.
Check-in: At the test center, you’ll be asked to provide your ID, get your photograph taken, and have your palms digitally scanned.
Personal Items: Most items, including watches, wallets, and mobile phones, aren’t allowed in the testing room. They must be stored in the provided locker.
Breaks: The GMAT has optional breaks. Use them to refresh and recharge, but be punctual. If you exceed your break time, it will cut into your testing time.
End of Test: Once completed, you’ll have the option to either report or cancel your scores. If you choose to report them, you and your selected schools will receive the unofficial scores immediately.
Behavior: Adhere to all test center rules. Any misconduct might lead to disqualification.

Being well-informed and prepared about the logistics of test day can greatly reduce anxiety. By focusing solely on the test, without administrative concerns clouding your mind, you position yourself for the best possible performance on the GMAT.

Post-Test Procedures

Receiving and Understanding Your Scores

After completing the GMAT, you will immediately receive your unofficial scores for the Quantitative, Verbal, and Integrated Reasoning sections, along with the Total score. The official scores, which will include the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) score, will be available within 20 days after the test date.

Total Score: Ranges from 200 to 800 and is based on the Verbal and Quantitative scores combined.
Sectional Scores: The Verbal and Quantitative sections range from 6 to 51, Integrated Reasoning from 1 to 8, and AWA from 0 to 6.

The official score report also includes percentile rankings, indicating the percentage of examinees who scored lower than you over the past three years.

Sending Scores to Business Schools

During registration, you can select up to five business schools to send your scores to for free. Once your official scores are available, these schools will receive them. If you wish to send your scores to additional schools post-test, there’s a fee for each report.

Considering a GMAT Retake

If you’re unsatisfied with your scores:

Wait and Reflect: Understand areas of weakness by analyzing your score report. Give yourself time to decide if a retake is beneficial.
Improvement Potential: Consider a retake if you genuinely believe there’s room for significant improvement.
School Admissions: Check with your target schools about their retake policies. Some might consider the highest score, while others may look at an average.
Retake Limitations: You can take the GMAT up to five times in a 12-month period, but there should be a 16-day gap between attempts.

Additional Resources and Study Aids

Official GMAT Materials and Tools

GMAT Official Guide: An essential resource published by GMAC, containing real GMAT questions and comprehensive explanations.
GMAT Prep Software: Free software from GMAC with two full-length practice tests and a few additional questions.
GMAT Write: A tool from GMAC that offers practice for the AWA section with scoring.

Books and Study Guides

Manhattan GMAT Strategy Guides: Comprehensive set covering individual sections of the GMAT in detail.
Kaplan GMAT Prep: Well-known for its structured approach and practice questions.

Online Platforms and Study Communities

GMAT Club: An online community where test-takers discuss strategies, share experiences, and solve questions together.
Magoosh GMAT: A popular online platform offering video lessons, practice questions, and mock tests.
Veritas Prep: Known for its high-quality practice tests and comprehensive study materials.

In your post-test phase, remember to take informed decisions, whether it’s sending scores, considering a retake, or opting for additional resources for improvement. Your GMAT score is just one facet of your business school application, but with the right strategies and resources, you can ensure it showcases your potential aptly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How long is the GMAT score valid?
A: GMAT scores are valid for five years. Most universities accept scores up to five years old, but it’s always best to check the specific requirements of your target schools.

Q2: How many times can I take the GMAT?
A: You can take the GMAT up to five times in a 12-month period, but there should be a 16-day gap between attempts. Over a lifetime, you can take the test up to eight times.

Q3: Does the order of sections on the GMAT matter?
A: Test-takers have the flexibility to choose the order of the exam sections. The three options are: Analytical Writing & Integrated Reasoning first, Quantitative first, or Verbal first.

Q4: How do business schools perceive multiple GMAT attempts?
A: Most business schools consider the highest score, but they will see all your scores from the past five years. Consistent improvement can demonstrate determination and dedication.

Q5: Can I cancel my GMAT score?
A: Yes, you can cancel your score immediately after the test or within 72 hours after the exam for a fee. However, think carefully before cancelling, as you might not want to retake unless significantly dissatisfied.

Q6: Is there a penalty for guessing on the GMAT?
A: It’s better to make an educated guess than to leave a question unanswered. The GMAT penalizes more for unanswered questions than for wrong answers.

Conclusion and Final Recommendations

The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a pivotal element of the business school admissions process, reflecting your academic readiness and analytical skills. As with any major examination, preparation is the key to success. Here are some final recommendations:

Start Early: Give yourself sufficient time for a comprehensive review, practice, and addressing weak areas.
Practice Regularly: Regular practice tests not only measure your progress but also help in adapting to the GMAT’s timing and format.
Seek Help: If you’re struggling with a particular section or topic, consider joining a GMAT prep course or hiring a tutor.
Stay Informed: Regularly visit the official GMAT website to stay updated on test policies, dates, or any changes.
Holistic Application: While the GMAT is significant, remember that business schools consider other aspects like work experience, essays, and recommendations. Ensure every part of your application shines.
Stay Calm and Confident: Your mindset on test day is as crucial as your preparation. Believe in yourself and your efforts.

By approaching the GMAT with dedication, strategy, and positivity, you position yourself not only for a commendable score but also for a promising journey towards your MBA and career aspirations.