Are you an international student planning to pursue a graduate degree in business administration in the United States or other English-speaking countries? If so, you may need to take the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), a standardized exam designed to assess your analytical, quantitative, verbal, and writing skills. In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about GMAT as an international student.
What is GMAT Exam?
GMAT is a computer-adaptive test that measures your ability to think critically, solve problems, and interpret data in a business context. It is a requirement for admission to most business schools in the United States, Canada, and other countries. The test comprises four sections: Analytical Writing Assessment, Integrated Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Verbal Reasoning.
As an international student, taking the GMAT can help you stand out in the highly competitive business school admissions process. A good GMAT score can demonstrate your proficiency in English and your readiness for graduate-level business courses. Moreover, some business schools use GMAT scores to award scholarships and financial aid.
What will you find in GMAT?
The GMAT is primarily a test of your critical thinking abilities, even while it does assess facts and rules, such as language, as well as quantitative topics in arithmetic, algebra, statistics, and geometry. It assesses your capacity for logical thought, problem-solving within time constraints, and the analysis and evaluation of verbal and quantitative information. The secret to getting a high GMAT score is understanding how to effectively reason through and analyze material.
Sections of GMAT
The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is a computer-adaptive test that assesses the analytical, quantitative, verbal, and writing skills of test-takers. The exam consists of four main sections, as follows:
1. Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA):
This section measures the test-takers ability to analyze an argument and write a coherent essay based on the given prompt. The test-taker has 30 minutes to complete this section
2. Integrated Reasoning (IR):
This section assesses the test-takers ability to analyze complex information and draw conclusions from data presented in multiple formats. The section consists of 12 questions, and the test-taker has 30 minutes to complete it.
3. Quantitative Reasoning:
This section measures the test-takers ability to solve quantitative problems and apply mathematical concepts to real-world situations. The section consists of 31 multiple-choice questions and has a time limit of 62 minutes.
4. Verbal Reasoning:
This section assesses the test-takers ability to analyze written material and evaluate arguments. It also measures the test-takers ability to understand and use correct English grammar and syntax. The section consists of 36 multiple-choice questions and has a time limit of 65 minutes.
Test scores of GMAT and Timing
The GMAT has a total testing time of 3 hours and 7 minutes, including two optional breaks of 8 minutes each. The test-taker’s performance on the four sections is combined to generate an overall score on a scale of 200-800, with higher scores indicating better performance.
The GMAT score is a critical component of the business school application process and is often used to evaluate the applicant’s academic potential and readiness for graduate-level coursework in business administration.
How to prepare for GMAT
Preparing for GMAT requires dedication and effort, but there are several resources available to help you succeed. Here are some tips:
- Start early: Give yourself plenty of time to study and practice before the exam. Set a study schedule and stick to it.
- Familiarize yourself with the exam format: Take practice tests and review the exam format, structure, and timing to know what to expect on test day.
- Develop your English language skills: As an international student, it’s essential to develop your English language skills, especially in reading and writing. Consider taking an English course or hiring a tutor to improve your skills.
- Use GMAT prep materials: There are several GMAT prep materials available, including books, online courses, and coaching programs. Choose the ones that work best for your learning style and budget.
- Take advantage of resources: Many business schools offer GMAT prep courses, tutoring, and practice tests. Additionally, you can join online forums and study groups to connect with other test-takers and share study tips and strategies.
Differences of GMAT and GRE
The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) and GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) are both standardized tests that are commonly required for admission to graduate programs in the United States and other countries. However, there are some key differences between the two exams:
- Purpose: The GMAT is specifically designed for admission to graduate business programs, while the GRE is a more general exam that is accepted by a wider range of graduate programs.
- Content: The GMAT focuses on testing analytical, quantitative, verbal, and writing skills that are specifically relevant to business management and administration. The GRE covers a broader range of subjects, including verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing.
- Scoring: The GMAT score range is from 200-800, while the GRE score range is from 130-170 for the verbal and quantitative sections, and 0-6 for the analytical writing section.
- Test format: The GMAT is a computer-adaptive test, meaning that the difficulty level of questions is adjusted based on the test-takers performance. The GRE can be taken as a computer-based test or a paper-based test, and the questions are not adaptive.
- Test duration: The GMAT has a testing time of 3 hours and 7 minutes, while the GRE has a testing time of 3 hours and 45 minutes.
Ultimately, the choice between the GMAT and GRE will depend on the specific graduate program you are applying to, as well as your individual strengths and weaknesses. It is important to research the admission requirements for your desired program and determine which exam will best showcase your skills and aptitude for graduate-level coursework.
GMAT Registration
As an international student in Bangladesh, you can register for the GMAT in the following steps:
- Create an account on the official GMAT website. You will need to provide some personal information and create a username and password.
- Choose a test center in Bangladesh where you would like to take the exam. You can search for test centers on the GMAT website.
- Select a test date and time that works for you. Make sure to choose a date that is at least 21 days before your application deadline, as it takes about 20 days for your scores to be reported.
- Pay the registration fee using a credit or debit card. The current registration fee for the GMAT is US $250.
- Schedule an appointment at your chosen test center. You will receive a confirmation email with details about your test appointment.
- On the day of your test, arrive at the test center at least 30 minutes before your scheduled start time. Bring a valid, government-issued photo ID, such as a passport or national ID card. You may also bring a clear water bottle and a snack, as long as they meet the test center’s guidelines. Follow the test center’s instructions to check in, provide your biometric information, and complete the exam.
After completing the exam, you will receive your unofficial GMAT scores for the verbal and quantitative sections. The official scores, including the analytical writing assessment and integrated reasoning sections, will be available online within 20 days.
GMAT Test Centres in Dhaka
At Executive Study Abroad, we are committed to your success. Throughout your GMAT preparation journey, we will provide continuous support and guidance. We are dedicated to ensuring that you feel supported and confident as you approach the GMAT exam. Once you are done with your exam, we are here to help with your admission process.
Helpful Tips
- If you are interested in joining an online community where GMAT aspirants share their experiences, study tips and strategies, this place is for you. It will offer you a variety of GMAT prep materials and tools.
- If you are looking for online GMAT Prep courses that include personalized study plans, interactive video lessons and practice tests, you might choose to go here.
- There is an official guide for GMAT Exams. It is a series of books published by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), which administers the GMAT exam. The books include practice questions, detailed explanations and test-taking strategies.
Endnote
The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is a crucial exam for students seeking admission to graduate-level business programs. It is designed to assess analytical, quantitative, verbal, and writing skills that are essential for success in business management and administration. As an international student, taking the GMAT requires careful planning and preparation, including registering for the exam, selecting a test center, and scheduling an appointment.
By dedicating time and effort to studying for the GMAT and performing well on the exam, international students can demonstrate their academic abilities and increase their chances of being accepted into top-tier business programs around the world.
