The Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) is a key component in deciding admissions to MBA program. Unlike the undergraduate GPA or work experience, the test score is the easiest part of the application to improve upon quickly.
GMAT Computer Adaptive Format
The test recently changed from a paper test to a computer adaptive exam. In this new format, the exam begins with the computer choosing a moderately difficult question. If the candidate answers the question correctly, the computer picks a harder subsequent question from its database. Otherwise, the computer picks an easier next question. Because of this format, test takers may not go back to a previous question or skip a question.
The biggest problem with the computer adaptive exam for most test takers is the ticking clock on the screen. It is very hard to focus and concentrate on the exam for the first few minutes. It doesn't help that the first few questions will likely increase in difficulty. In order for test takers to get used to this format, they need to have experience with computer adaptive format via GMAT practice exams.
The Graduate Management Admissions Council (GMAC), the makers of the GMAT, has released two free computer adaptive GMAT exams. These two exams are the best in predicting the score on the actual exam since they come from the makers of the test. Unfortunately, there are only two of them. It is advisable not to use these two tests until the latter stages of a study program. However, most GMAT prep companies offer many practice tests in the computer adaptive format.
Before taking any sample exams, fundamental knowledge of the exam and test taking skills are needed. Those can be gained from books and prep courses.
GMAT Prep Books and Guides
Among the most popular and helpful guides for high scorers are the Official Guide for GMAT Review 12th Edition [Wiley, 2009] as well as books written by Kaplan and Princeton Review. The Kaplan book is a good all around guide while the Princeton Review book seems to focus on tricks and shortcuts over reviewing fundamental knowledge. For the high achievers, Kaplan's GMAT 800 [2008] book is very popular for those who want to rise above the high 600s.
GMAT Prep Courses
As far as test preparation courses, the Manhattan GMAT course is a very popular choice for people with two or three months to prepare. The Manhattan course focuses on knowledge as well as test taking techniques for getting answers.
Another popular option is Kaplan, which offers everything from short crash courses to long preparation courses. For those going for the highest scores, Kaplan offers an advanced course for those shooting for a 700 or above.
By combining computerized practice exams with good preparation, an aspiring MBA student can use good GMAT test prep to greatly improve the chances of getting into a top-25 MBA program. While a GPA improvement of 0.3 points may take years to accomplish, a 100 point improvement on the test can be done in as few as two months.
Readers interested in this topic may also want to learn about No GMAT MBA programs.
Reference:
GmatClub.com - "Everything You Need to Prepare for the GMAT (Revised)"
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