How to Prepare for GMAT Online Exam?

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Cyril Zachariah
Updated on May 17, 2023 02:25 PM IST

Interested in attempting the GMAT online exam? Check out this article and the preparation strategies you can choose to crack the GMAT exam. Learn about the tips and tricks for different sections of the test.

How to Prepare for the GMAT Online Exam?

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced many educational institutions to switch to online classes for the 2020-21 academic year. Similarly, entrance tests for admission to foreign universities are also being conducted in completely online mode to ensure student safety. One such exam is the Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT). The remote or online testing procedure i.e., in this case, the GMAT Online Exam can be attempted at home or in a space where the candidate is completely safe. For the GMAT Online Exam, the council has made certain changes in the exam pattern, primarily the omission of a section. If you are appearing for the test, then read through the article and check out the changes in the GMAT online exam pattern, topics and more.

In this article, we shall discuss the methods how to prepare for GMAT Online Exam. You can also check out the syllabus for the online exam and the different books or preparation strategies that you can use to achieve a better score.

Revised Exam Pattern for GMAT Online Exam

Due to time restraints in the GMAT Online Exam, the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) has first omitted the Analytical Writing section of the exam. As of now, the AWA section has also been added to the GMAT online exam. On the other hand, GMAT's Quantitative, Verbal and Integrated Reasoning will continue to be part of the exam.

As per the table given below, each candidate will be offered the following time for the different sections, under which they should be able to complete the test.

Section

Number of Questions

Time Allotted

Quantitative Reasoning

31

62 Minutes

Verbal Reasoning

36

65 Minutes

Integrated Reasoning

12

30 Minutes

Analytical Writing Assessment 01 30 Minutes

Note: It should be noted that out of the three hours allotted for the test, the candidates will have to spend 15 minutes for the check-in process to the online proctored system.

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General Preparation Tips for GMAT Online Exam

If you have chosen to take the GMAT exam, then your only possible method of appearing for the test is through online mode. With the revised exam pattern for GMAT Online Exam, the candidates will have more time to prepare for the more difficult sections of the exam.

Check out the general preparation tips for GMAT online exam as defined below:

  • Practice makes Perfect: The saying is applicable, as practice would train and put you into the grove of attempting questions correctly and efficiently. While students can learn all there is to know about each specific topic in the exam, the ability to write or attempt the question within a limited time span is something to train for.

  • Plan Your Study Times: Spending as much time possible in preparing for the test may seem the logical answer, however, easing into the studying process may allow your brain to collect and store data more efficiently and effectively. Nonetheless, it is also advisable to slowly add more time to prepare for the test, as and when the test date comes closer.

  • Plan the Topics for Preparation: While it is necessary to plan the study time for GMAT online exam, it is also necessary to individually prepare each and every topic. It is advisable to maintain a study journal that records each topic and sub-topic that have been covered and that are yet to be covered. This will help you in being efficient in preparing for the test with limited stress.

  • Prepare Each Section Every Day: Experts claim that preparing for the test as a whole will train you for the test at hand, which is true. However, in the case of the GMAT, universities and colleges also focus on the scores you secure in each section. Therefore, focus on each section and prepare for each section.

    • It should be noted that you should practice each section every day to allow as it allows for a better understanding of the testing process and it will also keep your mind fresh.

  • Educated Guessing May Be the Play for You: While it is not recommended for each question and section, having the ability to make an educated guess can help you a long way. Certain questions that will be asked in the test will require making educated guesses. Educated guesses require eliminating the wrong answers and guessing the right answers. Therefore, working on your educated guesses while preparing for the test may prove helpful for you.

  • Attempt Mock or Practice Tests: One of the more effective methods of finalising your preparation for the GMAT Online Exam is to attempt practice papers or mock tests. Attempting practice tests or mock tests will help in improving the speed and accuracy of attempting the test.

  • Analysing Your Performance: The best method to understand one's capacity in their knowledge is by analysing your performance in the respective practice or mock tests. Each practice test or mock test will include answer sheets which you can use to check whether your answers are correct. This will allow you to gauge your knowledge of a particular topic and help you understand your strengths and weaknesses.

Note: These steps or tips are just general techniques you can use to help boost your efficiency in preparing for the test. However, it is suggested that you use the best method suited for you. You know your learning abilities, strengths and weaknesses. Therefore, you must prepare a strategy that allows you to minimise time consumption and maximise your learning capacity.

Subject-Wise Preparation Tips for GMAT Online Exam

When preparing for the GMAT Online Test, candidates must individually focus on each section. As mentioned above, spending a certain amount of time every day on each section will help keep the mind fresh and also allow you to remember key points for the different sections. Here are a few tips and tricks you can use in your preparation for GMAT Online Exam.

GMAT Online Exam: Quantitative Reasoning Tips and Tricks

  • As per the exam pattern, you have 62 minutes to answer 31 questions, in other words, you have two minutes per question to answer each of the questions.

    • Given that you may not need two minutes to solve every question while some may require you to spend over two minutes, it is advisable to plan your route.

  • Attempt easier questions first, whether you are practising or attempting the main exam, it is always better to answer the easier quantitative questions first. This allows you to allocate more time to the trickier and more difficult questions.

  • Memorize as many mathematical equations and theories as possible. This is the basics of attempting any quantitative reasoning question. Once the equations have been memorised, all you would need to do is choose the right equation & formulas and calculate the result.

  • Practice data sufficiency and problem-solving questions.

  • Go through the best books for GMAT Online Exam and subject-wise best books for the quantitative reasoning section. This will give you access to the type of questions usually asked in GMAT tests.

GMAT Online Exam: Integrated Reasoning Tips and Tricks

  • Topics such as table and graphics analysis, multi-source reasoning and two-part analysis are some of the more important to prepare.

  • Here, the ability to understand and analyse various topics and the information provided will be tested, therefore, practice is the only method forward with this section.

  • Referring to a few best books for Integrated Reasoning or Logical Reasoning for GMAT will help you understand the questions and answers that are expected of you.

  • Asking seniors or your mentors to assist you through the preparation of this section will also help build your strength in the section.

GMAT Online Exam: Verbal Reasoning Tips and Tricks

  • For this section, your grasp of the English Language will be crucial. Therefore, study different English Grammar books and read English editorial columns of good & reputed English newspapers.

  • While attempting practice papers, attempt as many questions that test your grammatical skills and understanding. A number of questions will be asked testing this area of expertise in this section.

  • Subjects such as Subject-Verb Agreement, Reading Unseen Passages, Sentence Correction, Critical Reasoning and Idioms will be important topics to cover to secure a good score.

  • Guidebooks or seeking help from experts for this section may also be an option that you may want to look into.

GMAT Online Exam: Analytical Writing Assessment Tips and Tricks

  • GMAT Timed practice exams will help you pace yourself during the exam, allowing you to avoid penalties for missed questions. This will help you boost your confidence and, as a result, increase your chances of getting a decent grade.

  • In order to build up a fully formed and organised response, take a minute to consider the question and decide which side of an argument to support. Do not think about selecting the 'correct side of an issue' to debate on; simply choose the one that can support your argument strongly.

  • Follow an ideal structure to write your AWA essay. The finest essays are organised since it helps the examiner understand what you are writing about. Additionally, it gives you a clear outline of how you intend to make your points.

  • Keep in mind that you only have 30 minutes to complete this section. Allow enough time to yourself to re-check your response and make any necessary corrections. To keep yourself on schedule for the real thing, time yourself when taking the GMAT practice exams.

Wat to know how to score a perfect 800 on GMAT? Check out the tips and tricks for GMAT preparation

As explained throughout the article, it is always helpful to seek help in the form of guides or reference books for the test. In the technology-driven world, you will be able to search for digital and hard copies of such books on Google or other online book-selling platforms. Given below are the best books for the GMAT Online exam, which you can refer to for your preparation for the test.

Section

Name of Books

General Books for GMAT Preparation

The Complete GMAT Strategy Guide

GMAT Official Guide Verbal Review by GMAC

GMAT Official Guide Quantitative Review by GMAC

Sentence Correction GMAT Preparation Guide by AVI Gutman

GMAT Verbal Reasoning

Objective General English by SP Bakshi Published by Arihant Publication

Descriptive English for Competitive Examinations by SJ Thakur and SK Raut.

English Language Comprehension Skills by Sachchida Nand Jha

GMAT Integrated Reasoning

Logical Reasoning by Arihant Publications

How to Prepare for Logical Reasoning for CAT by Arun Sharma

Logical and Analytical Reasoning by Ashok Gupta

A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning by RS Aggarwal

GMAT Quantitative Reasoning

Quantitative Aptitude for CAT by Arun Sharma

Quantitative Aptitude for MBA Entrance Examination by Abhijit Guha

Mathematics for MBA by RS Aggarwal

Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT 2018 by Sarvesh K Verma

GMAT Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA)

GMAT: Answers to the Real Essay Questions

Writing skills for the GRE and GMAT tests

The Official Guide For GMAT Review, 12th Edition

These are just a few of the books that you can access from a sea of guides and reference books which are designed to train and qualify you to clear and crack the toughest exams on the planet. Check out the Best Books for GMAT Preparation.

Our Tips and Tricks to Crack the GMAT Online Exam

With the world crumbling into pieces at the hands of COVID-19, it is especially necessary for us to be positive and motivated to help the world stand back on its legs. Attempting examinations can be really testing on a few while others may just enjoy them. In both cases, students need to be mentally, physically and emotionally strong. Here are our tips and tricks to crack the GMAT Online Exam.

  • Be at Peace: Before preparing for the test or even appearing for the test, take a few moments out to breathe and clear out your thoughts. A mind clear of distractions will not only help you concentrate but help you understand the topics, attempt the questions and understand the logic, reasoning and solution behind each question clearly.

  • All Work and No Play: It is extremely important to rest, play and engage in activities that are not academic in nature. While devoting as much time to prepare is necessary, it is also necessary to rest and engage in non-academic activities such as playing games, working out, cooking, sleeping/napping or even reading a book

  • Be Healthy: Maintaining health, especially during these unprecedented times is one of the better ways to ensure your ability to crack the test. Staying home as much as possible and taking the necessary social distance when in public. Maintaining a healthy diet and staying hydrated are some of the ways to keep yourself Healthy.

Learn More About GMAT

Click on the following links to learn more about the GMAT exam.

GMAT Eligibility

GMAT Exam Pattern

GMAT Exam Syllabus

GMAT Mock Tests

GMAT Score Validity

GMAT Cut-off Results

GMAT Participating Colleges

GMAT Score Calculator

Top Colleges and Universities Abroad for International Students

If you are looking to pursue education abroad, then check out this list of colleges and universities in the world for you, in the table given below.

Name of College

Disciplines Offered for Bachelors

Disciplines Offered for Masters

Suffolk University Boston

Engineering

Computer Science

Journalism

Applied & Pure Sciences

Management

Commerce

Management

Commerce

Southampton University

Engineering

Computer Science

Applied & Pure Sciences

Management

Engineering

Computer Science

Commerce

Dublin City University

Engineering

Management

Applied & Pure Sciences

Commerce

Arts

Applied & Pure Sciences

Management

Engineering

Berlin School of Business and Innovation

Humanities and Arts

Management

Hospitality

Health & Medicine

Wellington Institute of Technology

Computer Science

Engineering

Management

Health & Medicine

Management

Computer Science

Engineering

Hope this article helped you to get familiarised with the detailed exam pattern of the GMAT Online Exam as well as the best books to ace the GMAT exam. If you are opting for the self-study option, follow the section-wise tips and tricks mentioned above to score high on the GMAT Online Exam.

To clarify your exam-related queries or to avail of our international education and admissions services, write to us at abroad@collegedekho.com.

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FAQs

Is the GMAT online exam available in India?

Yes, the GMAT online exam is available in India. GMAC has introduced the GMAT Online Exam for students who would want to take the GMAT admission exam from the comfort of their homes. Now, Indian students have the choice between taking the GMAT exam online or at a GMAT recognised test centre close to them.

Can I take the GMAT online exam more than once?

Yes, you can take the GMAT online exam more than once. However, online exam attempts will still count towards your overall GMAT exam attempt limits of 5 in a rolling 12-month period and 8 in your lifetime. You have the option of taking each exam attempt in person, online, or a combination of the two.

Do I have to take the GMAT online exam or can I still take the GMAT at a test centre?

There are no such rules that a candidate has to take the GMAT online exam, you can still take the GMAT at a test centre. The GMAT online exam is an assessment option for candidates who choose to take the GMAT exam in the comfort of home. You can always choose from either one to help you fulfil your application deadlines.

Is the GMAT online exam recorded?

Yes, the GMAT online exam is recorded. The exam session is recorded beginning with the check-in process. The recording will continue until the exam is completed. A qualified moderator will supervise your exam session, and both audio and video recordings will be taken.

Is there any way to account for differing environments and technologies used by test takers?

Yes, there are many ways to account for differing environments and technologies used by test takers as every test-taker has a different environment. For this, all test takers must meet minimal system requirements and appropriate workspace norms. Externally connected devices such as expanded keyboards, monitors, writing tablets, touchscreen styluses, or other similar on-screen writing equipment are not permitted.

Is there a security protocol in place to ensure the fairness of the GMAT online exam and to prevent cheating?

Yes, there is a security protocol in place to ensure the fairness of the GMAT online exam and to prevent cheating. Before beginning the test, each test taker will be validated using a digital photo and a live check-in with a human proctor. Additionally, the desk area is carefully examined and inspected both before and throughout the assessment. The exam is continuously monitored by human proctors assisted by AI technologies via the live video feed.

What happens if there is a technical issue before or during my GMAT online exam?

If there is a technical issue before or during your GMAT online exam which might prevent you from starting the exam, your proctor will help you to fix the issue. Your appointment will be cancelled if your problem cannot be fixed. However, you will still be eligible to sign up for and take the exam.

What if I experience a technical issue on one or both of my GMAT online exam attempts?

If you experience a technical issue on one or both of your GMAT online exam attempts which might prevent you from completing the exam then, it will not be considered one of your GMAT exam attempts. If you repeatedly encounter technological problems, you might be asked to take the test at a test centre. The GMAC reserve the authority to investigate all technical problems and accept additional attempts.

Is Aadhar Card accepted as valid ID proof for GMAT online exam?

Yes, Aadhar Card is accepted as valid ID proof for GMAT online exam for Indian students. The GMAC Beginning on April 8, 2021, GMAC has started accepting Aadhar Cards as legitimate ID proof for the GMAT Online exam. However, during the registration procedure, applicants will need to prove their identity using an Aadhar Card or passport.

Which is better, the GMAT in-centre or GMAT online exam?

There is no difference between the GMAT in-centre and GMAT online exam. For both tests, the section and overall scores, percentiles, and score scales are the same. In both the exams, the total score comes from Verbal and Quant. Also, both the exams have the same score validity for five years.

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