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JANUARY 14, 2020
Over the next couple of weeks we’ll be running a short series on GMAT information and test-taking tips to help you on your way to a higher score.
The GMAT test comprises a total of 4 sections, two of which form the bulk of the test:
Two sections called Analytical writing and Integrated Reasoning, both of which take 30 minutes are done before the subsequent Quantitative and Verbal sections and give a separate score of 1-6 and 1-8 respectively. These scores do not influence the overall score out of 800, so are rarely taken into consideration by business schools.
The GMAT test comprises a Quantitative section made up of 37 questions to test quantitative analysis and logical reasoning, and an English Verbal section involving 41 questions based on reading comprehension, grammar and analytical writing. 75 minutes are allocated to both sections. The Maths in the Quant section is considered 11th Grade level, but calculators are not allowed.
The GMAT is a computer-adaptive test (CAT) meaning the level of difficulty of the next question depends on how you perform in the previous question so your score depends on the level of difficulty of the questions you answer and the percentage of questions you answer correctly. It’s important to spend time on the first few questions in particular to allow a higher score. All answers are final so you can’t have second thoughts.
Few candidates score over 700 so it’s comforting to know that you can re-sit the test 31 days later if necessary. However, at $250 a time, it’s best to revise hard before attempting a first go! While all reputable MBA programmes require a GMAT score in their application pack, schools use this score in different ways. An engineer or scientist with a logical/analytical mind will probably do better than a creative profile so measure the time needed for revision and plan accordingly. Test centres are few and far between so it’s best to book a test date early and work towards it with a revision schedule.
While there is a lot of debate into how relevant the GMAT is in an MBA programme, the EDHEC Global MBA admissions service is firm that no waivers should be granted. “The GMAT is an excellent warm up exercise for an MBA programme,” explains Nikki Harle, Global MBA Admissions Manager. “It puts candidates back into a test taking situation, obliges them to face the constraints of revision and generally reminds them of what it’s like to be a student again. Sure, it doesn’t test leadership skills or tell us how well the candidate will perform in some of the more creative classes, but these are elements that are tested elsewhere. The GMAT puts everyone on the same level and gives the selection committee an idea of who is willing to accept rules or who is ready to put in extra effort. Schools offering GMAT waivers tend to have lower admissions standards so while this might seem attractive, candidates should consider what this probably means in terms of the quality of the rest of their peers. Besides, our scholarship policy encourages candidates to perform well on GMAT and invites the possibility to retake in order to benefit from a scholarship upgrade.”
Start your GMAT preparation by taking our GMAT Mini-Quiz to determine your approximate level of knowledge.
Operating from campuses in Lille, Nice, Paris, London and Singapore, EDHEC is one of the top 15 European business schools, ranked 1st worldwide for its Master in Finance. Fully international and directly connected to the business world, EDHEC commands a strong reputation for research excellence and the ability to train entrepreneurs and managers capable of breaking new ground. EDHEC functions as a genuine laboratory of ideas and produces innovative solutions valued by businesses.
The School’s teaching is inspired by its research work and a focus on “learning by doing”, all with the aim of equipping people with the skills to succeed in business.