Table of Contents
1. Your First Steps to Take the GMAT Exam
1.1 How Important is GMAT?
2. What do the 4 Parts of the GMAT Show Schools?
2.1 Quantitative Reasoning (31 questions- 62 minutes)
2.2 Verbal Reasoning (36 multiple choice questions- 65 minutes)
2.3 Integrated Reasoning (12 multi-part questions- 30 minutes)
2.4 Analytical Writing (1 essay question- 30 minutes)
3. What Scores Are Most Important?
4. Why GMAT is Required for MBA/Master?

Your First Steps to Take the GMAT Exam

You’ve decided you want to take the GMAT, this is great news! Here’s a brief beginner’s guide to everything first-timers ask about the business school admissions exam, requirements, and sections.

How Important is the GMAT?

When applying for university admissions, most people stick to the bare minimum which reflects normality. Business schools will know you are taking the process seriously if you complete the GMAT exam.

The GMAT is composed of four parts: Analytical Writing, Integrated Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Verbal Reasoning. All the tests coagulate to show you and your school of choice what program of business study is the best niche for you. Since you took an added step by finishing the exam, it proves motivation, dedication, and an overall commitment to your individual business strengths- which sets you apart from other applicants.

What do the 4 Parts of the GMAT Show Schools?

1. Quantitative Reasoning (31 questions- 62 minutes)

As it is all about numbers and logic, this section exhibits your problem-solving and data sufficiency abilities. Determine whether you have enough information to solve the problem, and what clause provides you the information you need. 

2. Verbal Reasoning (36 multiple choice questions- 65 minutes)

This section is adaptive, so questions are curated based on previous answers’ validity. If you miss a difficult question, you will find easier questions appearing. Schools are interested in this component of the GMAT because it expresses your correctional ability, reading comprehension, and critical reasoning skill level. You must consider all elements, form a conclusion, and evaluate the solution for completion.

3. Integrated Reasoning (12 multi-part questions- 30 minutes)

Your strength in this section reflects your data interpretation and evaluation skills. You need to be able to understand what the question is asking you, pull clear conclusions, and answer confidently after analyzing charts. The key is to show you are able to work efficiently and independently with data management. 

4. Analytical Writing (1 essay question- 30 minutes)

This section demonstrates that you have a persuasive tone in argumentative writing, can spot flaws in competitor explanations, and have high attention to detail.

What Scores Are Most Important?

When you apply to schools, the overall GMAT score will be the most notable value. Quantitative and Verbal Reasoning scores hold the most weight and reflect the highest on your abilities. All the sections have a bold emphasis on problem-solving and critical thinking. 

Why GMAT is Required for MBA/Master?

Most business schools require the GMAT for a core two reasons:

  1. It has been found, by multiple sources, to be an accurate prediction of students’ future performance in business programs.
  2. It is standardized, so everyone takes it fairly. Since grades and experience are more subjective, this offers an easy way to cross-examine candidates.

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