GMAT

Published: 23 November 2016 | by Thomas Graf

When you apply for business masters such as the Master in Management (MIM) or the MBA you will find that many schools require the GMAT. GMAT stands for Graduate Management Admission Test and includes quantitative and verbal parts. Test takers receive a final score ranging from 200 to 800 points as well as individual scores for each sub-part of the test.

 

Click here to find:

● more info on the format and timing of the GMAT

● a GMAT mini quiz to see how many questions you get right

● practicing sample questions

● and the Free GMATPrep® software

 

The GMAT and career success

In the Global MIM Survey 2014, we found positive correlations between the average GMAT score of Master in Management students and their average salary after graduation as well as between the GMAT minimum score that programs require and the number of students who found a job within three months of graduation. The GMAT, hence, appears to be a tool for many business schools to select more capable students and by this increase the likelihood that their students start successful careers afterwards. 

GMAT and other tests

Yet, not all business schools require the GMAT. About half of the schools do not require an analytical test at all for their Masters in Management and the other half differs with respect to whether they require the GMAT only or whether they allow for alternative tests as well (Source: Global MIM Survey 2014). If applicants do not know in advance for which schools they will apply, the GMAT, hence, may be the best option as it keeps all doors open - particularly when the applicant achieves a high score.

The origin of the GMAT: GMAC

The GMAT was created by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) and is conducted through test centres worldwide who are licencees of the test. GMAC offers mock tests, preparation material, and statistics on GMAT test takers worldwide. GMAC provides more information on the GMAT here.

What's a good score?

Business Schools differ with respect to minimum GMAT scores they require and the actual average scores of their students. Many schools require less than 600 on their websites - but unofficially, admission managers from internationally accredited schools often mention 600 as an expected mninimum score. Students from highly selective and top-ranked schools even achieve average scores from 650 to more than 700. As a rule of thumb: With 600 you should be fine for most schools that require the GMAT for their pre-experience Masters in Management; many schools will accept you with less as well; and a few schools will expect higher scores.

 

Click here to find:

  • more info on the format and timing of the GMAT
  • a GMAT mini quiz to see how many questions you get right
  • practicing sample questions
  • and the Free GMATPrep® software