Math Concerns for 1st Time Test Taker

Question

I have concerns about taking GMAT.

I graduated from High School in '82
Receive A.A.S. in '92 (Criminal Justice)
Receive B.S. in '07 (Business)

Took the easiest math courses I could in order to graduate
from all of the above. Believe it or not, I have no algebra or
calc (though I have a basic understanding of algebra from being self taught).

Can I pass the GMAT? In feel confident in the other areas, as they
play to my strenghts. But Math? I am concerned.

The program I am planning to attend uses a formula for entry. My final undergrad GPA was 3.69, therefore they require I score at least a 450 to be admitted. That's probably low for some of you, but I'll take it.

Should I be concerned about the math?
What can I do to improve my chances?
I'm using Princeton Reviews GMAT Review and their Math Workout Book as well.

Thanks!

bean2809 · Answer

Review fundamentals and practice plenty of questions. This isn't rocket science, most of the math is built off of principles from high school and prior. Watch out for tricks and read tips posted in the math forum. Once you are familiar with the types of questions you'll get into the swing of things. Good luck!

bb · Answer

That's right. This is high school math, though chances are you forgot most of it. What score are you shooting for? 
You would need to get a good math refresher book such as  Kaplan GMAT Math Workbook  or  Manhattan GMAT Math Book .

These books have some exercises, but mainly their focus is to build strong math principles. In addition, you can get  The Official Guide for GMAT Quantitative Review . This book, though does not really have any strong information on math or strategies involved on the GMAT has real GMAT questions that you need to get very familiar with.

bb · Answer

Thanks for your email - I understand a number of things are private but we try to encourage folks to post in the forum (that way more people get to provide feedback and also the 90% that read but not post have a chance to learn something). In private situations, it is best to us PM (Private Messaging) - just unspoken rules I guess

Math can be a challenge, but for the score you are shooting, should not be a problem. Age does interfere with your ability to crack these little things - I can relate, but again, a few weeks of 2-hours a day should get up to a good level. Instead of just attacking questions at this time, try to start with theory and fundamentals, don't rush to take the tests. If you do want to know your level (if you don't know it), you can download GMAT Prep - this test is distributed by GMAC and MBA.com and is the official GMAT simulator, but don't waste these tests for nothing -they are way too valuable. They are based on retired GMAT questions from real tests, so they are the closest to the real GMAT and give you the best assessment.

thequest · Answer

Thanks for the advice as it is appreciated!

I have laid out my schedule and should be able to manage 10 hours a week to prepare for the test. I am planning on taking the test in June and need a score of 450 or better to be accepted to my university of choice.

I am excited about the challenge!!

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