GMAT Online Physical Whiteboard [Master Topic]

GMAT Online Physical Whiteboard

GMAT online has been extended to July 17 and starting June 12, you can take the GMAT online at home with a physical whiteboard. Those who have taken GMAT Online with the virtual whiteboard are allowed to retest. So far that is the only case that allows re-testing.


Physical Whiteboard specifications (as of 6/14):

• 1 erasable whiteboard no larger than 12 inches x 20 inches (30 centimetres x 50 centimetres)
• Up to 2 dry erase markers
• 1 dry erase whiteboard eraser

The following items are NOT allowed:

• Whiteboards with grids or other markings
• Whiteboards with background colors
• Paper
• Pen / Pencil
• Permanent Marker
• Tissues, Paper Towels, Napkins
• Whiteboard Spray
• Paper in a clear slide
• Boogie Boards
• Chalkboards
• Writing Tablets

Some thoughts of Wisdom:

• Note that you will have to show your whiteboard (both sides to the proctor) before the test starts and when it ends (including before/after the break).
• The whiteboard does not have to be visible to the proctor on the camera
• No, you do not need to hang it on the wall and solve on it as you did back in the third grade (someone asked that )
• Your whiteboard should probably lay on the desk in front of you/your computer. Make sure you don't get the biggest allowed whiteboard only to realize you can't fit it in
• It is OK if your whiteboard has edges/border/frame - yes, someone asked about that too

Q: Can I use the MGMAT Test-taking booklet?
A: No, GMAC clarified in their list of prohibited items that in addition to boogieboards (so ridiculous to even list this), you cannot use a whiteboard with gridmarks or color, which eliminates MGMAT and other practice booklets with laminated sheets


Q: Which Marker should I use?
A: You should get the dry-erase (different from non-permanent) and my best experience so far has been with the EXPO dry erase Ultra fine tip - see below an image with a comparison of different markers including the test-center grade marker. The ultra-fine tip was the best but it degrades over time so make sure you get 2 (as rules allow for 2 markers). They also tend to dry up in the hours of test-taking but it is not terrible really. With the ultra-fine tip you will be able to use a dry erase board for 4-8 questions before you have to wipe it, likely 4-6. The big "classic tip" markers will cut that capacity down to 2 questions.


Which whiteboard should I use?
A: Any kind you can get in your country that meets the size requirements. You will have it sitting on your desk so something without crazy frames/big attachments would be best. Here are some examples from Amazon:

1. Large 11x17 (2 letter size sheets of paper put together)
https://amazon.com/School-Smart-633746- ... th=1&psc=1
I would take 2 sheets and see if that size is OK or perhaps it is too big for your desk/comfort. There is such thing as a whiteboard that's too big.....

2. Letter or Legal size (11x8.5 or 11x14)
https://amazon.com/Brands-Contempo-Magn ... th=1&psc=1


Q: Can I use a whiteboard that has 2 sides?
A: All whiteboards have 2 sides so go ahead and use it. You are welcome to use a whiteboard that has both writeable sides or only one. You can use only one side if your other side is a chalkboard or colored surface.



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