GMAT FAQs: All You Need To Know About the GMAT® Exam

Most business schools require the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT®) scores to apply for an MBA program. If you want to enroll in an MBA course, your GMAT score directly impacts your business school application, and you should aim for a high score. Let us explore the most common GMAT FAQs asked by candidates preparing for the exam.

What are the average GMAT test scores?

After completing the test, you should expect five scores, which indicate the section scores for Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Integrated Reasoning, and Analytical Writing Assessment, and the total score.

The average GMAT scores of successful graduate school applicants to the business schools you are applying to will give you a good baseline to work with. Most business schools and MBA programs pay attention to the combined score.

The mean score for the various sections is;

Verbal – 27

Quantitative – 39

Analytical Writing Assessment – 4.4

Integrated Reasoning – 4.2

Combined score – 552

The average GMAT test scores between 2013 and 2015 indicate that 10% of the candidates scored 710, 25% scored 650, and 50% scored 580. The most competitive business schools admitted students who scored 710 and above. Therefore, you should aim to score 710 or higher if applying to top MBA programs.

How is the GMAT exam scored?

The Analytical Writing Assessment segment is scored from 0 to 6 in half-point increments, while the Integrated Reasoning section is scored from 1 to 8 in one-point increments. The quantitative reasoning and verbal segments have a score of between 0 and 60. The Verbal and Quantitative sections have a scale of 0 to 60 each. The total score is your combined performance on the verbal and quantitative segments and ranges between 200 and 800, with 10-point increments reflecting the level of difficulty of questions answered.

How does the computer-adaptive format work?

The GMAT is a Computer Adaptive Test (CAT) that adapts to the candidate’s performance as they take the test. Due to the adaptive nature of the test, you are not allowed to skip questions. Therefore, you should pace yourself to avoid running out of time before completing your test. There are penalties for leaving questions unanswered.

At the beginning of the quantitative and verbal sections, the computer assumes you have the average ability, and the questions presented are of an average level of difficulty. If you answer the question correctly, the computer serves increasingly difficult questions and increases the estimate of your ability. On the other hand, if you give a wrong answer, you get easier questions, and the computer lowers the estimate of your ability.

The algorithm determines your final score based on both what you got right and the level of difficulty of the questions.

A human reader first scores the Analytical Writing Assessment segment, followed by a computerized program on a 6-point scale. Although the Integrated Reasoning segment is not adaptive, you cannot skip questions or return to previous questions. The Integrated Reasoning section is scored from 1 to 8 in one-point increments.

How difficult is the GMAT exam?

The GMAT exam is challenging due to several reasons. First, due to the test’s adaptive format, you have to answer each question. You cannot skip a question or go back to it later. Secondly, your score is for questions answered correctly and the difficulty level of the questions. Therefore, you have to answer increasingly difficult questions as quickly as possible. Additionally, the exam questions constitute various types and formats new to you.

Although the GMAT is tough, you can pass the exam adequately. In addition, it is a skills-based test, and you can learn the skills and get a high score. You should dedicate at least three months to studying for the GMAT—the candidates who scored in the 90th percentile put in at least 90 to 120 hours of study. Enroll in our study plans at Analystprep.com and increase your chances of getting a high score on your first try.

How do I register for the GMAT exam?

The first step is to create your account on the GMAC-run website mba.com. Next, using the web scheduling system, schedule an appointment. Students with disabilities who wish to apply for accommodation for testing should register as test takers with disabilities and wait for approval of their accommodation before scheduling their exams.

How long is the GMAT exam?

The GMAT total exam time is three hours, seven minutes, and two optional eight-minute breaks. This time does not include your check-in time, and we recommend that you arrive at least 30 minutes before your exam.

When is the GMAT offered?

The GMAT exam is available throughout the year at Pearson VUE centers. You can find the list of test centers on the mba.com website. You can take the GMAT once every 16 days, for a maximum of five times within 12 months and a lifetime limit of eight attempts.

When should I take the GMAT exam?

MBA programs have a wide range of application deadlines, and you should conduct adequate research to ensure you get your GMAT results in time. The GMAT scores can take up to 20 calendar days to be processed and sent to the MBA programs you are applying to. Therefore, you should select an early test date to beat your earliest deadline. You can use your GMAT score for five years.

How much does the GMAT exam cost?

The cost to take the GMAT exam in the United States is $275 and includes sending your score report to the five programs you are applying to.

The GMAT exam is challenging, and you need to prepare adequately. You can enroll in study prep plans from Analystprep.com and get a high score on your first try.

These are some of the most common GMAT FAQs asked by aspiring GMAT candidates. Do you still have a question that we’ve not tackled above? Don’t hesitate to reach out to us.