Study Abroad: 20% Test-Taker Surge Fuels Business School Dreams as GMAT Scores Big in India

Significant Rise in GMAT Test-Takers in India, a Boon for Business School Aspirations. There’s good news for Indian students aiming for business schools abroad! The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) saw a significant increase in test-takers from India in 2023. This surge indicates a growing interest in pursuing graduate management programs like MBAs.

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GMAT Popularity on the Rise

The organisation responsible for the GMAT reported a substantial 20% increase in Indian test-takers compared to 2022. This translates to roughly 35,000 Indian students taking the GMAT in 2023. Notably, India currently accounts for around 30% of all GMAT tests conducted globally, placing it among the top contenders alongside the US and China.

NMAT Sees Similar Growth

While the GMAT witnessed a 20% rise, the NMIMS Management Aptitude Test (NMAT) experienced an even higher growth rate of 35% in 2023. This translates to a total of 75,000 NMAT tests conducted last year.

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What is the GMAT?

The GMAT, established over 50 years ago, is the leading international entrance exam for business schools. It’s a crucial component of the application process for graduate business programs, particularly MBAs. The GMAT is meticulously designed to assess a candidate’s skills in various areas:

• Analytical Thinking
• Verbal Communication
• Quantitative Reasoning
• Writing Ability

Interestingly, an analysis of GMAT test-takers from India revealed that 75% opted for MBA programs, while 17% pursued Master in Management (MIM) courses. The remaining 8% is aimed at other management-related programs.

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Factors Behind the Rise

Gaurav Srivastava, the regional director for South Asia responsible for the GMAT, attributes the rise in Indian test-takers partly to the introduction of the GMAT focus edition. This edition may have motivated students by providing a more streamlined testing experience.

Another contributing factor could be the overall increase in Indian students studying abroad. According to a report, the number of international students from India has reached a record high of 268,923 in the academic year 2022-23, reflecting a 35% jump compared to the previous year. This trend suggests a growing ambition among Indian students to pursue higher education overseas, potentially explaining the rise in GMAT and NMAT test-takers.

What This Means for You

The significant increase in GMAT test-takers indicates a competitive landscape for business school admissions. If you’re an Indian student aspiring for an MBA or a related program abroad, here’s what you can do:

• Start Preparing Early: Begin preparing for the GMAT well in advance. Familiarize yourself with the exam format, content areas, and scoring system. Numerous resources like practice tests, study guides, and online courses are available to help you excel.
• Focus on Your Strengths and Weaknesses: Identify your strengths and weaknesses in the tested areas. Allocate more study time to areas that require improvement.
• Consider Coaching: Explore coaching options to gain personalized guidance and strategies for tackling the GMAT.
• Research Business Schools: Research business schools that align with your academic goals and career aspirations. Consider factors like program curriculum, faculty expertise, and career placement services.

By taking these steps, you can enhance your chances of securing admission to your dream business school. Remember, the rising number of GMAT test-takers highlights the growing competition. With thorough preparation and a strategic approach, you can stand out from the crowd and achieve your academic goals. Want more such updates? Make sure you follow Leverage Edu News Updates.