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04 May 2023, 13:53
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In Person vs. Online GMAT - Pros and Cons
Now that the online and test center GMAT options are available and the test-taking has settled down, there are some distinct differences between in-person test-center based GMAT and Online versions of the test. Lots of details are floating around including mba.com but not in single place so putting it all together here - differences and tips how to choose:
Tips on How to Choose:
Use GMAT Online If:
Use Test Center GMAT If:
Bottom line:
I feel most people can take the test on their home computer. Be prepared to a bit of a lag when you click next which may cost you a few seconds on the test but the flexibility and convenience of the online test will outweigh most downsides related to administration challenges.
Even More Tips:
You can take Online test and test-center test independent of each other without wait or delay. Usually there is a 15-day wait time between tests but that rule only applies to the tests of the same type. Thus, in case you struck a disaster with an online test, you can retake at a test center the following day or vice versa.
Make sure you review what's allowed and not allowed at a testing center. Many people get burned for having a piece of paper or touching their phone during a break at the center - you cannot use those items during the test even if you are on a break.
Now that the online and test center GMAT options are available and the test-taking has settled down, there are some distinct differences between in-person test-center based GMAT and Online versions of the test. Lots of details are floating around including mba.com but not in single place so putting it all together here - differences and tips how to choose:
| Test Center/ In Person GMAT | GMAT Online | |
PROS |
|
|
| CONS |
|
|
Show SpoilerAlternate Table
| PROS | CONS | |
| Test Center/ In Person GMAT |
|
|
| GMAT Online |
|
|
Tips on How to Choose:
Use GMAT Online If:
- - If you are unable to focus or are easily distracted or cannot use ear plugs for 3.5 hrs
- Have a good internet connection, computer setup and a private room to take the test
- Prefer the flexibility to take it at 1 AM
- You googled reviews of your testing center and it is a dump (some international locations are poorly maintained but continue to be used to lack of options)
- Live far away test center or not available. Duh.
Use Test Center GMAT If:
- - You don't have a second chance. There is always a risk that you may be interrupted by a technical or administrative issue. If you have a deadline to meet, don't risk it and take the test at a testing center. This will also ensure your score is reportable ASAP and will not get held up in a review
- Cannot get used to dry-erase whiteboard
- If you mumble while reading or talk to yourself during the test
- Your living situation is an issue, internet is not very reliable, etc
Bottom line:
I feel most people can take the test on their home computer. Be prepared to a bit of a lag when you click next which may cost you a few seconds on the test but the flexibility and convenience of the online test will outweigh most downsides related to administration challenges.
Even More Tips:
You can take Online test and test-center test independent of each other without wait or delay. Usually there is a 15-day wait time between tests but that rule only applies to the tests of the same type. Thus, in case you struck a disaster with an online test, you can retake at a test center the following day or vice versa.
Make sure you review what's allowed and not allowed at a testing center. Many people get burned for having a piece of paper or touching their phone during a break at the center - you cannot use those items during the test even if you are on a break.
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