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The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is required by most business
schools. It is a standardized test, similar to the SAT. The test includes a
variety of multiple choice questions to test verbal and math problem-solving
abilities. It also includes a writing sample.
The GMAT is now administered on computer terminals at test centers
throughout North America. The test can be taken by appointment on any one of
several days each month. More information on the GMAT is available from the
MBA Explorer, the official website of the Graduate Management Admission
Council.
Test scores are calculated and reported on a scale of 200-800. For
example, Boston College's MBA program reported an
GMAT score of 610
among incoming students, and other MBA programs in the Boston area reported GMATs between 540 and 580. Top business schools usually report average GMATs
in the 640-680 range. Conventional wisdom suggests that, to be a competitive
applicant at a top program, your GMAT score should be at least 600.
Several test-preparation resources are available. Many different books
are published annually with GMAT practice questions and test-taking
strategies, and are available at any bookstore. It is recommended that you
use one of these books to aid you in your preparation. If you find yourself
needing further GMAT preparation, you may elect to enroll in a course
offered by one of several test prep companies. These courses can often cost
several hundred dollars, so gauge your progress and preparation needs
carefully before choosing a prep course.
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