Hi All,
Just want to share my experience with you.
My test was scheduled to start at 5 PM IST on June 15 2021. As required, I logged into the system at 4:45 PM IST, and completed the required system and room check formalities. The test then began at its scheduled time (5:07 PM IST). The first section went smoothly i.e. Quant, without any technical hiccups. However, after the first break, when I reported back at 6:20 PM IST to start the second section (Verbal), the system malfunctioned - neither did it allow me to submit my answer to the first question, nor did it allow me to move to the next question. The Proctor kept trying to figure out and resolve the issue, while the timer kept running. It was only after 8-10 minutes that she paused the exam and asked me to restart my computer and rejoin. It, however, took us around 40 minutes to get the secured browser working; but the system again got stuck at the first question itself - leaving me and the proctor clueless as to the further course of action- wasting another 5 minutes of my alloted time. As a last attempt, we tried disconnecting my laptop from the external power (I was specifically instructed to keep my computer connected to external power to ensure smooth sailing of the test ), and it was only then that the test resumed. I had lost 15 precious minutes of my test time by this time. Adding on to this, this entire ordeal of unsuccessfully attempting to get the system started took a huge toll on my mental peace. The physical and mental harassment that I underwent during this entire one-hour obstruction in my test had a drastic effect on my performance throughout the remainder of the test.
As if this wasn't sufficient, I faced the same issue in my third section of the test. The third section too could only be started after 15 minutes of constant attempts at getting the system to function.
Resultantly, the scheduled 3 Hours 23 Minutes test lasted for 4 Hours 35 Minutes while the effective time for which I could actually access the test got reduced by around 15 minutes. Consequently, I didn't even get to read some of the questions, let alone apply my mind and answer them. Additionally, these continual disruptions throughout the test cumulatively caused me immense pressure and frustration, and failed to provide me a peaceful and disruption-free exam-friendly atmosphere, which, in turn affected my performance.
This was a horrible and disturbing experience for me.
I have given the online GMAT test once in January 2021 using the same laptop and configuration. And that went smoothly.
But now this time, it was a mess.
I had never expected this from GMAC because we are paying such high fees for an exam only to torment ourselves and so that they can play with our dreams.
I have already taken 2 attempts and no idea when the situation will be normal to take the test in the exam center.
And I was planning to apply for January intake.
I think even the proctor and GMAC are not aware of the secure browser software they are using.
GMAT Score is crucial for the future of a lot of people, they should not just take this lightly.
Now, I don't know what am gonna do. With this score, I won't be able to get admission in the university I want. And I won't get a chance next year.
My dream to do MBA is shattered. All thanks to the new enhanced GMAT.
My GMAT Score: 600
Quant (first section): 49
Verbal (second): 24
IR (third): 5
I have sent an email to GMAC, but don't think they will reply soon.
Please help me, if anyone faced a similar situation and got any helpful response from them.