What is the GMAT exam? 

Graduate Management Admission Test or popularly known as GMAT is an important exam for students who seek admission in business schools abroad. The test is based on Multiple choice questions and is a computerized test. More specifically, it is a computer adaptive test which means that your performance on one question will determine the difficulty level of the next few questions. Therefore, the GMAT consists of questions at an advanced level with utmost hardship. 

Duration of GMAT

The duration of the offline GMAT is around 3 hours 7 minutes with additional 30 minutes on account of checking in. Due to the corona outbreak, there is an option to take online GMAT from your home. For the same situation, the duration is 2 hours 45 minutes with additional 15 minutes on account of checking in. Moreover, two optional 8-minute breaks are available for students giving an offline test. 

Structure of GMAT 

The offline GMAT test consists of four sections – 

• Integrated Reasoning (IR) – 12 multiple choice questions

• Verbal aptitude – 36 multiple choice questions

• Quantitative aptitude – 31 multiple choice questions 

• Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) – 1 essay question

However, in the online GMAT, all sections are there except Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA). That is why, online GMAT has less duration. 

Eligibility criteria of GMAT 

1. Age – Any student above the age of 18 years is eligible to appear for the GMAT. However, if you are below 18 years, you need to obtain a proof statement from your guardians. 

2. Nationality – Students of any nationality can appear for this examination.

3. Qualification – Since GMAT is designated for MBA applications, all you need is a graduate degree in any domain from a recognized university. 

Significance of GMAT score in MBA application

GMAT is a significant test indicating the overall aptitude and logical thinking skills of a student. Also, GMAT has gained recognition and trust in business schools worldwide, so, it is an internationally acknowledged test. Moreover, more than 9 business schools out of 10 give more weightage to GMAT score when deciding for the admission. Hence, you should study hard and try to get best scores possible. 

Average GMAT score for top business schools

According to the data obtained from various institutions, the average GMAT score accepted in best 50 business schools in the USA is in the range of 634-734. However, for the best 16 business schools in Europe, 638-709 is the range. Also, for the best 10 business schools in Canada, the average GMAT score is 620. Only top 10% of the test takers are able to score above 700. 

How to prepare for GMAT?

Preparation for GMAT exam will take about 3 to 4 months if you are highly devoted and committed to your preparation. However, it would be good to have a plan in your hand. You should allocate all the topics for certain days and then all you have to do is achieve your daily targets. Practice as many questions as you can as learning and understanding the concepts is not the sole thing which is going to help you score good. Implementation of tricks is the most important thing while preparing for GMAT. 

Moreover, fill your mind with positive thoughts of encouragement, adherence, and the ability that you can do it. Don’t develop bad habits like procrastination instead, seek ways to tackle anxiety which you might face at times. Another important thing is to learn how to employ your time effectively that you end up wasting no time.