Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a standardized test that is an admissions requirement for most business schools in the United States and other countries. The GMAT is owned and administered by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC). The test was first introduced in 1953.

According to GMAC, the GMAT aims to measure analytical writing, problem-solving, data sufficiency, logic, and critical reasoning skills that are vital for real-world business and management success. The content of the GMAT consists of specific quantitative, verbal, and integrated reasoning sections. The GMAT is offered as a computer-adaptive test administered at various testing centers worldwide. In the business school admissions process, the level of emphasis placed upon GMAT scores varies widely between schools and departments within schools. The importance of a GMAT score can range from being a mere admission formality to a critical selection factor.

The GMAT was developed in 1953 as a standardized test to help business schools select qualified applicants. The first institutions to utilize the GMAT for admissions were Harvard Business School, Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, and Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management.

STRUCTURE
The computer-adaptive GMAT consists of four main sections. The first section is the Analytical Writing Assessment, which involves analyzing an argument. The next sections include Integrated Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Verbal Reasoning. These sections test the candidate's ability to evaluate information presented in multiple formats, mathematical reasoning, and understanding and evaluating written material.

SCORING
The GMAT scores range from 200 to 800, with each section scored separately. Analytical Writing Assessment scores range from 0 to 6 in half-point intervals, Integrated Reasoning scores range from 1 to 8 in single-digit intervals, and both Quantitative and Verbal Reasoning scores range from 0 to 60. The total GMAT score is calculated based on the Quantitative and Verbal sections and ranges from 200 to 800.

GMAT SUBJECT TESTS In addition to the General Test, GMAC does not offer specific subject tests; however, the GMAT includes an Integrated Reasoning section that tests data analysis and interpretation skills, which are crucial for business education.

SCORE VALIDITY
The test scores are valid for five years from the date of the test. This allows candidates to apply for business schools for several years after taking the test without retaking it.