GMAT is the standardized test for entrance into reputed business schools abroad. It is an international entrance exam to get admitted to the business management programs. GMAT is a comprehensive exam, and there are multiple facets to explaining whether it is difficult. Some perceive the exam as unattainable, whereas some find it easy. Every year almost 20000 aspirants appear for the exam across the globe. But out of all the aspirants, only 6% of the candidates crack the exam with a score of 700 and above. A score of 700+ in the GMAT exam will help you secure a seat in your esteemed institution.
Why Do People Perceive the GMAT as Difficult?
If you are skeptical about how hard is GMAT, here are a few things you need to know.
Seven hundred and above is the ideal score in GMAT to gain entry to the best business schools. Only 6% of students out of the 200000 aspirants qualify for the exam. The top 10 business schools across the globe set the benchmark at 720. But is it the low success rate that alone makes the exam difficult?
GMAT centers around questions based on higher-order thinking skills. Several questions test the students’ analytical power and critical reasoning skills. First, business schools rely on their performance in the GMAT exam to accept students. The questions are mainly from the business domain, and the GMAC states that the skills tested in these questions of the GMAT exam are essential to prove whether the candidate is ready for business studies. Second, good scores in the GMAT exam are valid indicators that a particular student will perform well at business schools. Third, the B-Schools use the GMAT scores as the filter for admission.
Before appearing for the GMAT exam, students have to understand two things: the questions can be off-beat and will test their practical skills and how well they can perform under pressure. Second, the GMAT is challenging with the proper preparation; it is easy to crack. GMAT is a standardized test, and the pattern of such tests is slightly different than the other entrance exams. The exam has its particular demands, and you must understand the needs of the exam before you start preparing for it. Thinking of GMAT, how to prepare? – follow a suitable strategy and you can crack it.
How Hard is GMAT -What Makes GMAT Difficult?
Certain factors make GMAT harder than most other contemporary exams. Let us learn about them in detail:
Computer-Based Test
GMAT is a computer-adaptive test. Candidates who lack computer aptitude may find the exam increasingly challenging to score. Reading and assessing questions on the screen is more complex than doing them on pen and paper. Time management is a grave issue for CBT tests. Unfortunately, many candidates don’t score optimally simply because it is an adaptive computer test. When considering how hard is GMAT, also consider the test format.
Time Management
Time management is a major concerning factor for GMAT. Standardized tests put time pressure on students. The first question in your mind must be how long is the GMAT – GMAT tests are 3 hours long. Usually, the total time for the test becomes 4 hours with the added formalities. Only through regular dedicated practice can you answer them in time. To learn better time management for the GMAT, practice test papers. The more you practice them, the better you manage your time. Sometimes, the verbal section may consume more time than the quant section. Comprehension and analysis usually take more time if you are not a pro at them.
Content
GMAT is based on core concepts of high school quant like algebra, statistics, geometry and statistics. The verbal section of the GMAT includes basic grammar, reading comprehension and inferences. The syllabus may seem easier at a glance, but the questions are mostly application based. Some questions are also business ideas related. GMAT also tests some undergraduate commerce ideas. Thinking about how hard is GMAT – well, only a little if you can prepare well.
Format
There are four major sections in the GMAT question paper: Quantitative reasoning, integrated reasoning, verbal reasoning and analytical writing assessment. Each of these sections features different types of questions. It is not a flat exam pattern, so the questions are different. Most questions will be tricky and test the analytical and reasoning power of the students. However, there are several questions that need to be clarified. Integrated reasoning and AWA (Analytical Writing Assessment) are the two particularly challenging sections of the exam.
Strategies to Prepare for GMAT
Here are the proven strategies to crack the exam:
Understand the Demand for the Exam
GMAT is a unique standardized test with distinct characteristics like unique question patterns. To prepare well for the exams, candidates must understand the exam’s nature well. You have to be familiar with the design of the questions and the tidal exam format. Each section must be tackled with a different strategy. Creativity matters the most in some sections, whereas comprehension power will fetch more marks in some. It is curricula to understand how to deal with each of them. Scoring a 720+ is not easy, and if you genuinely want to achieve success, it is crucial to pay equal importance to all the actions unbiasedly.
Create a Personalized Study Plan
Regarding study plans for GMAT, the one fit for all models won’t work. Students have distinct strengths and weaknesses. Before you prepare a study plan, identify your strength and weakness and also pay attention to your routine. The study plan you create should comply with your current lifestyle. You have to pay particular importance to three objectives when planning – the targets to be achieved and a monthly timeline for the same, the daily routine and how much time you spend each day section-wise and the third to the outcome of your efforts. With an adequately scheduled three months study plan, it is possible to crack the GMAT exam with a 700 + score.
Choose the Right Resources
Choosing trustworthy resources for preparation is crucial for performing well in GMAT. Many students make history with their GMAT scores because they choose the right resources for practice. Many online and offline resources are available for GMAT preparation; you must create a solid filter to sieve the best out of them. Check out some of the best educational websites for the GMAT material before deciding on the best one. You can also trust trusted reviews about the resources. In addition, you must perform the task of choosing resources well in advance.
Along with choosing resources, stay updated with the notifications and progress of the exam. You can also join test series to prepare better and test your progression. GMAT books from trusted authors and publishing houses are the best resources. A data-driven preparation will make GMAT more accessible.
GMAT is a challenging exam, but proper preparation can make it easier. Stay confident on the test day and give your best. With the appropriate practice, you can give your best, expect the best scores, and undoubtedly have a seat at our institution.
