All CoursesA common question MBA aspirants ask is why the GMAT exam is required? Through the course of this article, we will be answering this question. However, before we do that, we will acquaint you with the GMAT exam — its sections, scores, pattern and more.
About the GMAT Exam
The Graduate Management Admissions Test is a globally accepted, standardised examination organised by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC). The exam is specifically designed to test skills that you must possess to be eligible for graduate management programs. Over 21,000 universities accept GMAT scores as a necessary eligibility criterion. This is because the GMAT exam has been an indicator of academic success globally for over 60 years.
The GMAT consists of four sections — Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, Integrated Reasoning, and Analytical Writing Assessment. Each GMAT section tests a specific skill or ability required to be successful in today’s competitive management environment.
Let us take a quick look at the GMAT exam pattern.
| GMAT Section | Score Range | Duration |
| Verbal Reasoning | 6 to 51 | 65 minutes |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 6 to 51 | 62 minutes |
| Integrated Reasoning | 1 to 8 | 30 minutes |
| Analytical Writing Assessment | 0 to 6 | 30 minutes |
| Total | 200 to 800 | 3 hours 30 minutes |
The sum of the scores of the Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning sections make up the total GMAT score. The scores of the Integrated Reasoning and Analytical Writing Assessment do not contribute to the total score but they do add significant value to your university applications.
Benefits of Taking the GMAT Exam
The GMAT proves to be beneficial in more ways than one.
Gets You Admission into Best MBA Programs
As mentioned earlier, the GMAT is accepted by over 21,000 universities all over the world for management programs. Hence, it is well-established that if you are looking to pursue an MBA, then the GMAT is a must.
You Have a Chance of Getting Scholarships for Your MBA Degree
While a good GMAT score can help you secure a seat in prestigious business schools. An excellent GMAT score combined with a strong profile fetches you numerous scholarship opportunities.
Opens Doors to Numerous Job Opportunities
A common misconception is that the scope of the GMAT score only extends to B-school applications. But, this is not the case, the GMAT is designed to measure your intellect and aptitude. A recent study has depicted that recruiters look for strong communication, analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills in a candidate — all of which are tested on the GMAT. These are some qualities that recruiters look for in potential employees.
Gets You Lucrative Packages
A good GMAT score not only ensures you get into the top business schools but also gets you excellent salary packages. Most MBA candidates have experienced an exponential increase in their salaries after having completed their MBA degrees. They have also observed growth in their career trajectory with them being offered managerial roles.
We hope we have helped you understand why the GMAT exam is required and how it is beneficial.
FAQs
- What is the full form of GMAT?
The full form of GMAT is Graduate Management Admission Test.
- What is the total duration of the GMAT exam?
The GMAT examination lasts around 3 hours and 30 minutes.
- Do the scores of the Integrated Reasoning section contribute to the total GMAT score?
No, the scores of the Integrated Reasoning section do not contribute to the total GMAT score. However, they do add significant value to your MBA applications.
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