GMAT FACTS

What is it?

The GMAT (Graduate Management Admissions Test) is a four hour test which examines writing skills, mathematical reasoning and verbal reasoning. A new section called integrated reasoning will be introduced from June 2012. The test is marked out of 800 points.

Why is it necessary?

The GMAT is designed to assess aptitude for business school, although no prior business knowledge is necessary. It is required for entry to MBA programmes across the world. The GMAT is compulsory for entry to UCD Smurfit School’s Full-time and Executive MBA programmes. It provides the School with a quantitative measure to assess candidates from across a wide variety of educational, national and professional backgrounds.

What is a computer adaptive test?

The GMAT is a computer adaptive test. The first question is always of medium standard. Depending on your performance, the questions will get easier or more difficult.

How long is it valid? Can I re-sit?

The test score is valid for five years. The test may be taken more than once – the highest score will be accepted by UCD Smurfit School regardless of when taken. However, re-sits are only permitted after a 31 day break, therefore it is wise to take the test well before the start date of your MBA programme to allow for a re-sit if necessary.

Where do I take the test?

In an approved test centre. You can book your test date anywhere in the world at www.mba.com. Test centres in Ireland are located in Dublin and Belfast.

PREPARE TO SUCCEED

The GMAT content is not above school leaving level. However, you are required to complete multiple choice questions within two minutes. Most experienced professionals find the detailed level of the quantitative section most challenging as it can be many years since they reviewed mathematics. Whether you study alone or attend prep classes, you first need to study and understand the material and then practice applying that knowledge under time pressure.

Practice, practice, practice!

Successfully preparing for the GMAT usually takes studying a number of hours a week for six-eight weeks.

· 100 hours needed to score 650 plus – Scholarship candidates take note!
· 60-70 hours needed to score 550 plus – Full-time MBA minimum
· 50+ hours needed to score 500 plus – Executive MBA minimum

GMAT COURSES

Kaplan Test Prep and Admissions offer will offer four courses in Dublin in 2012. These will take place over two weekends in the UCD Smurfit School of Business, Blackrock. Courses are scheduled for February, April, July and November. See link for details.

18/19 & 25/26February 2012:

Booking is now open at http://www.kaptest.ie/courses/graduate/gmat-mba/live/gmat-classroom

TestPrepDublin offer a range of study options from courses taken over a number of weeks to individual tuition. For advice and full course details see http://www.testprepdublin.com/

RESOURCE INFORMATION

General GMAT information: www.mba.com

Study Guides: The Official Guide to the GMAT and practice tests

http://www.mba.com/store/product-info.aspx?productid=21

http://www.mba.com/the-gmat/download-free-test-preparation-software.aspx

www.amazon.com (to purchase other texts as required such as Kaplan, Princeton Review

Online forums: http://www.beatthegmat.com/ and http://gmatclub.com/

GMAT FACTS

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