The Graduate Management Admission Test® (GMAT®) is an examination that helps graduate program administrators determine if applicants for business and management graduate programs are adequately qualified. Although the test utilizes a computer and a computer-adaptive format, it is designed to be administered in a controlled setting that includes timing and proctoring. A person cannot take the GMAT® online, because that makes it virtually impossible to verify that the rules were followed and no cheating occurred. While it is not possible to take the test online, it is possible to register for the GMAT® online, study for the test online and gather other useful information online.
The GMAT® is offered at a variety of testing centers, both inside and outside the United States, though it is only offered in English. The test taker uses a computer, which provides a starting question from a large selection of questions pertaining to the appropriate subject matter. Once the test taker answers that first question, the computer scores it and picks the next question based on whether the question was answered correctly. If it was answered correctly, the next question is likely to be harder; if not, it is likely to be easier. This method means the test taker will have a preliminary score when he leaves the testing site, but he will not be able to skip questions or change a response to a question once it is entered.
The GMAT® is widely used, with close to 5,000 graduate management programs at more than 1,900 schools using the test results as a part of their evaluation of each candidate. The test is administered year-round. Frequency of testing is based on demand, and tests are scheduled to suit current needs in each area. Students can find local testing centers and schedules for the GMAT® online through the GMAT® website.
There are many sources of materials designed to aid students with test preparation, and studying for the GMAT® online is an option. The cost of such programs varies widely, as does the quality. For students wanting to be as prepared as possible, the place to start may well be the GMAT® website. Although the site does offer some study materials for sale as of 2011, it also has high-quality test-prep software available for free download, advice on how to prepare to take the test, and other pertinent information.
For students who have concerns that entrance exams such as the GMAT® do not adequately showcase all of their skills, it is important to note that the exam is only intended to evaluate certain abilities. Graduate programs also look at other factors. Admissions staff are well aware that there are many additional success factors involved for each student, including interpersonal and study skills, creativity, motivation and, possibly, a history of successful employment. Applicants should check with the colleges they are considering for specific details on how the test results are used. Some of that information also can be found online on individual college and university websites.
