The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is a standardized exam lasting three hours and thirty minutes, widely utilized by business schools globally for student admissions decisions. This article aims to address the challenge of preparing for the GMAT exam with only thirty days available. Before delving into the preparation strategies, let's address two commonly asked questions: "Is it better to take the GMAT or the GRE for an MBA?" and "Do business schools prefer the GMAT over the GRE?"
The response is straightforward. GMAT scores are accepted by "7,000 programs at 2,300 universities" worldwide. In contrast, the GRE is recognized by a limited number of programs, but this list includes prestigious institutions such as Harvard, Stanford, London Business School, INSEAD, and others. If the MBA colleges of your interest accept both GRE and GMAT scores, the choice between them is flexible. However, if the GRE is not accepted, the GMAT becomes the obvious and preferred option.
How Does a Good Score In GMAT Look?
For individuals aspiring to pursue an MBA, the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) holds paramount importance as a decisive factor in the admission process. Setting a score goal is the initial step in this journey, and understanding what constitutes a good score is crucial.
The GMAT exam comprises four sections, each assigned a separate score. On a scale of 0-60, the average GMAT scores are as follows:
- Verbal: 26.86
- Quantitative: 39.4
- Integrated Reasoning (IR): 4.23 on a scale of 1-8
- Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA): 4.44 on a scale of 0-6
Additionally, there is a fifth combined Quantitative/Verbal score on a 200-800 scale, which is the score that colleges primarily consider when evaluating students. Achieving a score above 700 is generally regarded as a good GMAT score. However, it's essential to align your target score with the specific requirements of your desired MBA program.
For instance, if your goal is admission to Harvard Business School, where the median score for the Class of 2020 is 730, your target GMAT score should exceed 730. This principle applies to most top B-schools; aiming higher than a good GMAT score is necessary for admission to these prestigious institutions.
Ideal Score of Different GMAT Sections
As of the latest figure here are the ideal score for different sections that you can aim for in order to get admission to a good university.
- Median Verbal: 42
- Median Quantitative: 49
To position yourself in the top 10% of all GMAT exam takers, target a sub-score of 51 or above in Quantitative and 40 or above in Verbal. Alternatively, a generally accepted good score falls within the range of:
- Quantitative: 48-50
- Verbal: 35-39
Although the Integrated Reasoning (IR) and Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) sections don't contribute to the overall score, they should not be overlooked. Optimal scores in these sections would ideally be:
- Integrated Reasoning: 7-8
- Essay: 5.5-6
Section Wise Preparation Tips for GMAT Exam
To enhance your performance in the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA), familiarize yourself with model essays to grasp their writing style. Additionally, thoroughly review the essay prompts available on the official GMAT website and create concise notes. These notes will serve as a valuable resource in case a similar prompt appears in the actual test, ensuring thorough preparation.
In the Integrated Reasoning (IR) section, practice is key. Keep in mind that a single question may comprise multiple parts, and each part must be answered correctly to earn credit. It's important to note that the GMAT doesn't provide partial credit for partially correct answers.
When tackling the Quantitative section, refrain from visually estimating angles or areas, especially in data sufficiency questions, as they are not drawn to scale. Make optimal use of the provided note board; solving problems by writing aids comprehension. Before calculating the answer, review the answer choices to expedite problem-solving.
For the Verbal section, recognize that expert knowledge on specific topics is not necessary. Solely rely on the information provided in the passage to answer questions, avoiding the application of additional insights. Maintain a clear understanding of the specific requirements of each question and respond accordingly.
Last-Minute Strategies for Your GMAT Attempt
Below are some strategies that you should keep in mind and go through once right before you are about to attempt GMAT exam. This will help you to increase your efficiency and reduce your errors. These strategies are -
The Verbal section typically presents a correct answer alongside a second-best response. Take the time to carefully distinguish between the two options and select your answer only when you are certain.
When dealing with problem-solving questions, be attentive to choices that may reflect computational mistakes. Always write down your calculations and double-check them for accuracy.
It is essential never to leave a question unanswered, as the GMAT grades unanswered questions as incorrect. For every incorrect answer, the test subsequently provides an easier question with fewer credits, contributing to a lower overall GMAT score.
If you encounter a question where you are unsure of the answer, avoid making a random guess. Instead, attempt to eliminate at least two choices from the given options. Then, make an educated guess from the remaining choices, improving the probability of selecting the correct answer.
Once a question is answered, keep in mind that you cannot go back to review it. Therefore, ensure confidence in your choice before moving on.
Avoid spending excessive time on a single question. If three minutes have passed and you haven't arrived at an answer, it's advisable to make an educated guess and proceed to the next question. If you have any queries regarding MBA funding, drop us your query on GMAT Club here.
