In this article, we will provide you with detailed information about the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test), its significance, and the process of taking the exam.
GMAT scores are valid for 5 years.
To begin with, the GMAT – Graduate Management Admission Test is an exam taken for admission to foreign business schools and master’s programs related to economics and management. For most MBA programs, the GMAT test is required. The GMAT tests the skills you’ll need to succeed as a business student: the ability to think critically, quickly analyze information find solutions to complex problems, and express yourself clearly and concisely.
GMAT scores remain valid for 5 years, offering flexibility in utilizing them for admission purposes.
Exam Structure:
The GMAT exam comprises four sections:
- Analytical Writing Assessment: In this section, you have 30 minutes to write an essay analyzing a given argument. You need to identify strengths, weaknesses, and missing information in the argument and support your viewpoint with examples. The assessment is based on a scale from 0 to 6 points, in 0.5-point increments, considering literacy, style, and thought structuring.
- Integrated Reasoning: This section includes 12 tasks to be completed in 30 minutes. Tasks involve interpreting graphics, performing two-part analysis, analyzing tables, and evaluating information from various sources. Mathematical and language skills are essential for this part, requiring quick data analysis and evaluation. A calculator may be used.
- Quantitative Reasoning: This is the mathematical part of the exam, featuring two types of tasks: Problem Solving (choosing an answer from five options) and Data Sufficiency (determining necessary information to solve a problem). Calculators are not permitted in this section.
- Verbal Reasoning: This language section comprises 36 tasks divided into Reading Comprehension, Critical Reasoning, and Sentence Correction. Tasks assess your ability to work with different types of texts, analyze arguments logically, and correct sentences based on grammar and language standards.
* Reading Comprehension – tests your ability to work with text. You will be asked to read 2-4 passages and answer 3-4 questions for each of them. These can be texts on natural, social sciences and humanities, as well as texts on business topics. All the information needed to answer the question is in the text.
* Critical Reasoning – assesses analytical skills. You will be asked to read the so-called argument, that is, a certain logical judgment, and answer the question based on information from this judgment. For example, find among the answers the one that makes the judgment more logical or, conversely, less convincing, adds the missing part of the judgment, describes the correct structure of the judgment, and so on.
* Sentence Correction – requires impeccable knowledge of grammar and sense of language. From five sentence options, you will have to choose the one that most meets the standards of American business English.
Exam Special Features and Distinctions:
The GMAT is a computer-based adaptive test, meaning task difficulty adjusts based on your performance. Harder questions earn more points, while incorrect answers lead to easier subsequent questions with fewer points. Before the exam, you have 2 minutes to choose the order of the four sections. Tailoring your approach to the exam’s difficulty level can optimize your performance, helping you manage stress and achieve the best possible result.
Understanding these details about the GMAT will aid you in making informed decisions and effectively preparing for this important exam.
