What Is the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)?
Key takeaways
– The GMAT is a standardized, graduate‑school admissions exam used primarily by business schools to evaluate candidates for MBA and other management programs. (GMAC)
– The exam measures analytical writing, verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and integrated reasoning. Maximum score is 800; scores are generally valid for five years. (GMAC)
– As of Aug 2023, the price in the U.S. is $275 for in‑center testing and $300 for the online GMAT. The test can be taken every 16 calendar days, up to eight times total and no more than five times in a 12‑month period. (GMAC)
– The GMAT complements other application materials and is recommended to be used as one element in a holistic admissions review rather than as a single cutoff. (GMAC)
Understanding the GMAT — what it tests and how it’s structured
– Purpose: The GMAT assesses reasoning, problem solving, written communication, and data‑analysis skills that are relevant to business school and management roles. It is administered by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC). (GMAC)
– Four sections:
– Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA): essays that measure written analysis and communication.
– Integrated Reasoning (IR): multi‑source data interpretation (added in 2012 to assess handling of data/technology).
– Quantitative Reasoning: quantitative problem solving and data sufficiency.
– Verbal Reasoning: reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and sentence correction.
– Scoring: The total scaled score ranges from 200 to 800 (Quant + Verbal drive the total score). AWA and IR have separate scores. Scores are typically valid for five years. (GMAC)
– Timing & delivery: The exam is primarily computer‑based; where computer delivery is impractical, paper tests may be provided. The typical total testing time reported in common summaries is about 3½ hours (refer to GMAC for current timing and section order). (Investopedia / GMAC)
How the GMAT is applied in admissions
– Usage: Many business schools (thousands worldwide) use the GMAT as part of their admissions process. GMAC recommends using GMAT scores as one factor in a holistic review rather than as an automatic cutoff. (GMAC)
– Comparisons: Some programs accept the GRE in place of the GMAT; others prefer the GMAT, especially business‑oriented programs. GRE and GMAT scales differ, so scores aren’t directly comparable without conversion tables or a school’s internal mapping. (GMAC / Princeton Review)
– International considerations: Schools and GMAC note that AWA performance can reflect English language proficiency, so admissions committees should interpret writing results with context, especially for international applicants. (GMAC)
Fast fact (at a glance)
– Annual test takers: 255,000+ (reported).
– Programs accepting GMAT: roughly 3,391 worldwide (GMAC reporting).
– Cost (U.S., Aug 2023): $275 at test centers; $300 online. (GMAC)
– Retake rules: test every 16 calendar days; no more than five times in 12 months and no more than eight total attempts. (GMAC)
– Score validity: 5 years. (GMAC)
Requirements to take the GMAT
– Identification: Acceptable ID depends on country. Check the GMAC identification requirements page for the exact documents accepted in your country. (GMAC)
– Eligibility: You should be eligible for graduate study (requirements vary by school). There’s no uniform educational prerequisite for taking the GMAT, but programs may have their own prerequisites.
– Registration: Register through mba.com (GMAC’s official site) and choose either an in‑person test center or the online GMAT option where available. (GMAC)
GMAT vs. GRE — key differences
– Structure: The GMAT has four sections (AWA, IR, Quant, Verbal). The GRE has three scored parts (Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning) and different question formats. (Princeton Review / GMAC)
– Timing & scoring: GRE total score format differs (Verbal + Quant each scored 130–170). GMAT total is 200–800; GRE average reported scores differ by test year and cohort. Because scales differ, scores cannot be directly equated without conversion guidance.
– Program preference: Many business schools accept either test, but some explicitly prefer the GMAT for business programs. Always verify requirements for each program. (GMAC)
Is the GMAT hard or easy?
– Subjectivity: Difficulty depends on your background, preparation, and skills. The test emphasizes critical thinking, reasoning, and time‑pressured problem solving—skills that some candidates may need to practice and strengthen.
– Preparation: Many test takers benefit from a structured study plan, diagnostic tests, targeted review, timed practice, and full‑length practice exams.
Is 700 a bad GMAT score?
– Context: No — a 700 is above average. The reported average GMAT total in recent GMAC reporting was in the mid‑600s (e.g., 651 for 2022). A 700+ is competitive for many top programs, but whether it is “good enough” depends on the target school and program’s typical admitted score range.
– Recommendation: Research admitted score ranges for the specific programs you want and set a target above the school’s average for a competitive application.
Do colleges prefer GMAT or GRE?
– It depends on the program and school. Many business programs accept both; some favor the GMAT for MBA and management programs. Always check each program’s admissions page for up‑to‑date policies. (GMAC / Princeton Review)
The bottom line
The GMAT is a widely used, standardized assessment of reasoning, quantitative, and communication skills intended to help business schools evaluate applicants. It is one part of a holistic application and should be chosen and prepared for strategically based on the programs you wish to apply to.
Practical, step‑by‑step plan to prepare for and take the GMAT
1) Decide whether the GMAT is right for you
– Check target programs: Confirm whether your prospective schools require or prefer the GMAT or accept the GRE.
– Assess background: If your quantitative or grammar skills are weak, the GMAT may require more prep.
2) Set a target score and timeline
– Research: Find the average and range for admitted students at your target programs and pick a target above the school average.
– Timeline: Plan 2–6 months of preparation depending on baseline ability and target score. Typical focused prep is 8–12 weeks for many candidates.
3) Take a diagnostic test
– Take an official or high‑quality practice GMAT to identify strengths and weaknesses and estimate how much study time you’ll need.
4) Create a study plan
– Schedule consistent study blocks (e.g., daily or alternating days). Aim for a mix of content review, strategy, and timed practice.
– Focus areas: Quant fundamentals (algebra, arithmetic, data sufficiency), verbal fundamentals (grammar, critical reasoning, reading comprehension), integrated reasoning practice, and AWA essay templates.
5) Use official materials and practice tests
– Use GMAC official practice tests when possible (they best emulate the test engine and scoring). Supplement with reputable prep books, courses, or tutors if needed.
6) Simulate test conditions
– Periodically take full‑length, timed practice exams to build stamina and refine pacing and strategy.
– Review every practice test thoroughly—understand every mistake and the underlying concept.
7) Register for the test
– Register at mba.com. Choose in‑center or online format, and verify ID requirements for your country before test day.
– Book at least several weeks in advance to secure your preferred date/time and to allow for last‑minute review.
8) Final week prep
– Do lighter, targeted review. Do one final full‑length practice exam 5–10 days before the test, then taper.
– Prepare logistics: travel plan for center test, valid ID, comfortable clothing, and test‑day rules.
9) Test day and score handling
– On test day, arrive early (if in person). For the online GMAT, verify your testing environment and technology requirements.
– After the exam, you will receive an unofficial score (format varies). Learn the procedure for sending official reports to programs—check whether GMAC provides free score reports at the time of testing and any fees for additional reports.
10) Evaluate and retake if needed
– If your score meets or exceeds target, proceed with application submission timing.
– If not, analyze where you fell short, plan targeted improvement, and remember the retake rules (every 16 days, up to five times in 12 months, eight attempts total). (GMAC)
Helpful test‑day tips
– Practice pacing: Many mistakes come from rushing. Learn time per question and stick to it.
– Use the IR and AWA practice to get comfortable with multi‑source and written formats.
– Sleep, hydrate, and avoid cramming the day before the exam.
Sources and further reading
– Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC): Exam Structure; How Is the GMAT Exam Scored?; Structure and Content; Identification Requirements; Exam Payment; Frequently Asked Questions; GMAT Geographic Trend Report: Testing Year 2022.
– Investopedia: “Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)” overview.
– Princeton Review: “About the GRE Test” (for GRE comparisons).
(For the latest fees, exact timing, identification rules, and policy updates, always consult the official GMAC / mba.com site before you register.)
(Continuing from the previous overview)
Additional Sections
Preparing for the GMAT: Practical Steps
1. Decide early whether to take the GMAT or GRE. Check admission requirements for each program you’re considering—some accept either, others prefer the GMAT. (See “Do Colleges Prefer GMAT or GRE?”)
2. Set a target score. Use school published class profiles to set a realistic target (example below).
3. Schedule your test date. Pick a date 10–16 weeks out if you’re starting from scratch; you can retake (subject to limits) if needed.
4. Create a study plan. Combine content review, practice questions, and full-length, timed practice tests. See the sample 12-week plan below.
5. Use official materials. The Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) produces official practice tests and guides—these reproduce the test format most accurately.
6. Track progress weekly and adjust focus (e.g., more verbal if RC and CR lag).
7. Take at least 3 full-length practice tests under test-day conditions before your scheduled exam.
Section-by-Section Breakdown with Examples
1) Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA)
– Purpose: Assess written analysis and communication of complex ideas.
– Task: Analyze an argument, identify assumptions, and critique reasoning.
– Example prompt (typical): “The following appeared in a memo from the director of the Midtown Cultural Center…” — then evaluate whether the argument supports its conclusion and suggest improvements.
– Practical tip: Plan 5 minutes, write ~2 well-organized paragraphs plus intro/conclusion, and leave 2–3 minutes for proofreading.
2) Integrated Reasoning (IR)
– Purpose: Evaluate ability to analyze data presented in multiple formats (tables, graphs, text) and solve multi-step problems.
– Item types: Multi-source reasoning, graphics interpretation, two-part analysis, table analysis.
– Example: Given three short reports and a data table, determine which combinations of statements are supported.
– Practical tip: Practice interpreting complex charts under time pressure; be comfortable switching between data formats.
3) Quantitative Reasoning
– Purpose: Test problem-solving and data sufficiency using arithmetic, algebra, and basic geometry.
– Item types: Problem solving, data sufficiency.
– Example problem (problem solving): “If a and b are integers and 3a + 2b = 13, what is a possible value of b?” (Work through integer solutions.)
– Practical tip: Master fundamental math and learn efficient shortcuts; practice data sufficiency logic (what information is enough).
4) Verbal Reasoning
– Purpose: Evaluate reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and sentence correction (grammar and effective expression).
– Example tasks: Identify the main idea of a passage; select the best answer to strengthen/weaken an argument; choose the grammatically correct sentence.
– Practical tip: Focus on identifying argument structure in CR questions and practice active reading for RC.
Example Study Plan (12-week, 10–15 hrs/week)
Weeks 1–3: Diagnostic + fundamentals
– Take a diagnostic practice test (official if possible).
– Review foundational math and grammar concepts.
– Daily: 1–1.5 hours practice (mix verbal/quant), one 30–45 minute AWA/IR session per week.
Weeks 4–7: Skill building
– Target weak areas from diagnostic.
– Begin timed sections practice.
– Take one full-length practice test every 2 weeks.
Weeks 8–10: Intensify practice
– Increase to 2 full-length practice tests per week (one strict timed, one review-focused).
– Simulate test day once (timed breaks, same sequence).
Weeks 11–12: Taper and refine
– Do light, focused practice and 1–2 final full-length tests.
– Review errors and finalize test-day logistics.
Test-Day Logistics & Checklist (Practical Steps)
1. Bring acceptable identification as required by GMAC (requirements vary by country—check the GMAC site).
2. Arrive 30–45 minutes early for a test-center appointment.
3. For online GMAT: confirm environment rules, reliable internet, approved device setup.
4. Bring water; you’ll be allowed scheduled breaks but know the timing and how breaks affect testing time.
5. Preview your unofficial score at the end of the test and choose whether to accept it or cancel (policies are set by GMAC—confirm current rules on their site).
6. If accepted, send score reports to target programs (follow GMAC steps; schools receive official scores).
Interpreting Your Score: Examples and What They Mean
– Total score range: 200–800 (Quant + Verbal combined). Average in 2022 was 651.
– Example interpretations:
– 700+: Strong for top-tier MBA programs; competitive for most elite business schools.
– 650: Solid for many good programs and some top programs depending on profile (work experience, essays, recommendations).
– 600 and below: May be acceptable for many programs, particularly with a strong overall application, but could be weak for highly selective schools.
– Score validity: Scores are generally valid for five years.
Retake Strategy and Limits
– How often: You can take the GMAT every 16 calendar days, up to five times in a rolling 12-month period, and no more than eight times total in your lifetime (confirm current limits on GMAC).
– Practical steps before retaking:
1. Review performance reports from your previous test to diagnose weaknesses.
2. Focus your study on high-impact areas.
3. Take additional official practice tests to ensure score gains are stable.
GMAT vs. GRE — Practical Guidance for Applicants
– Many business schools accept either test; however, the GMAT remains the preferred exam for many MBA programs because it is specifically designed for business admissions.
– Differences to weigh:
– Format and question types: GMAT has integrated reasoning and data sufficiency; GRE has different verbal emphases and scoring scale.
– Converting scores: GRE and GMAT are not directly comparable; use each school’s guidance or official concordance tables if available.
– Practical step: If you’re stronger in vocabulary and general math, compare practice scores on both tests and choose the one where you score relatively higher and feel more comfortable.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
– Pitfall: Over-focusing on one section. Fix: Keep a balanced study plan and schedule mixed practice.
– Pitfall: Not simulating test conditions. Fix: Take full-length timed practice tests with realistic breaks.
– Pitfall: Ignoring IR and AWA because they are “secondary.” Fix: Practice these too; some programs review them and they affect overall preparedness.
– Pitfall: Panicking on test day. Fix: Familiarize yourself thoroughly with test format and logistics beforehand.
When the GMAT Might Not Be Necessary
– If a program explicitly waives standardized tests or only requires the GRE, you might skip the GMAT.
– If your profile is exceptionally strong in other areas (extensive relevant work experience, exceptional career accomplishments, or specialized degree), some schools may weigh other parts of your application more heavily.
– Practical step: Confirm with target programs whether the GMAT is required, preferred, optional, or waived.
Examples: How Applicants Use GMAT Scores in Context
– Example A: Applicant with 5 years of consulting experience, 680 GMAT, strong essays and recommendations — competitive for many top-20 programs.
– Example B: Recent graduate with 2 years of work, 720 GMAT, weaker GPA — high GMAT can offset some academic concerns, but schools will evaluate holistically.
– Example C: Career-switcher to finance, 650 GMAT, excellent internships — solid but may need exceptional interviews/essays to get top finance-focused programs.
Frequently Asked Questions (short)
– How long is the GMAT? About 3½ hours total for all sections (confirm current timings on GMAC).
– How much does it cost? As of August 2023: $275 at a test center and $300 online in the U.S. (confirm updates on GMAC).
– How many schools use the GMAT? Around 3,391 graduate programs and institutions worldwide (GMAC reporting).
– How long are scores valid? Typically five years.
Final Practical Checklist Before You Book
1. Confirm which test(s) each target program accepts.
2. Take a diagnostic test to set a baseline.
3. Set your target score using program class profiles.
4. Build a study schedule with regular practice and timed tests.
5. Register for a test date with enough time for a retake if needed.
6. Prep logistics (ID, test center directions, online test environment).
7. Practice stress-management techniques (sleep, nutrition, time management).
Concluding Summary
The GMAT is a specialized, widely used admissions exam designed to assess the quantitative, verbal, analytical, and integrated reasoning skills relevant to graduate management studies. It is best approached with an organized plan: choose your target schools and target score, diagnose strengths and weaknesses, use official practice materials, and simulate test-day conditions. While score thresholds (for example, 700+) can help you set goals, admissions decisions are holistic: work experience, academic record, essays, and recommendations matter, too. Finally, check current GMAC policies (fees, ID requirements, retake rules) and program-specific preferences when planning whether and when to take the GMAT.
Sources
– Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC): “GMAT Exam Structure,” “How Is the GMAT Exam Scored?,” “GMAT Geographic Trend Report: Testing Year 2022,” “Exam Payment,” “Frequently Asked Questions,” “Structure and Content,” “Identification Requirements.”
– Investopedia: “Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)” (source summary provided).
– Princeton Review: “About the GRE Test.”
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