In these days of uncertainty and isolation, where work activities are being carried out differently, classes are at a distance and many of the plans have completely changed, prospects to apply to a graduate degree wonder how can I take my GRE test or GMAT, admission requirements, if the application centers are closed?
If you were thinking of taking your GMAT or GRE standardized exam in the following months, and due to the coronavirus situation it is no longer possible, a digital alternative has been proposed with which you can take these exams at home. The initiative is presented mainly so that this requirement can be adequately fulfilled, in a context in which several of the most competitive graduate programs have postponed their deadlines or created other rounds of admission. With the At Home exams , scores can be delivered on time, so those programs where they are needed can consider you a competitive candidate.
Major changes in the GRE or GMAT distance standardized tests
Among the main changes that are compared to the GRE or GMAT exams face-to-face can be observed:
- The GMAT Online exam has a shorter resolution time than the face-to-face exam , since it does not contain the Analytical Writing Assessment section.
- The GMAT Online exam does not allow the use of paper or physical pizza, a virtual whiteboard has been programmed with which you can take notes and do the exercises. This does not apply to the GRE At-Home exam , as it does allow the use of acetate sheet paper, or a white board.
As of June 11, the GMAT Online will allow the use of a white board, with dimensions no larger than 30 x 43 centimeters, as well as an erasable marker. It must strictly be a physical white board. - The GMAT Online exam is USD $ 50 cheaper than the face-to-face GMAT The GRE At Home has the same cost.
- The GRE At-Home exam allows you to view an unofficial score upon completion of the test, while the GMAT Online does not.
This modality is introducing many doubts, as well as advantages and disadvantages, so we have compiled and condensed the relevant and specific information so that you can easily view it in the following table:
Comparison table between GRE at Home and GMAT Online
| Information | GRE at Home | GMAT Online |
| First day of application | March 27, 2020 | April 20, 2020 |
| Last day of application | September 30, 2020 | December 31, 2020 |
| Application schedule | All day from Friday to Monday.Starting July 1, 24/7 | 24/7 |
| cost | $ 205 USD | $ 200 USD |
| Exam duration | 3 hours, 45 minutes | 2 hours, 37 minutes |
| Differences to the application center | None | There is no Analytical Writing Assessment. |
| Break | 1 minute rest between each section (in front of the webcam)10 minute break after the third section (can be separated from the webcam). | Optional 5 minute break before the final section. |
| Can you take notes? | Notes on a white board with a erasable marker or a paper with a transparent sheet protector and a water marker. | Without a blackboard or paper, but it is possible on a virtual whiteboard that is given to you.Starting June 11, 30 x 43 physical white board. |
| Quant Reasoning | 40 questions / 70 minutes | 31 questions / 62 minutes |
| Verbal Reasoning | 40 questions / 70 minutes | 36 questions / 65 minutes |
| Integrated Reasoning | Does not apply | 12 questions / 30 minutes |
| Analytical Writing | 2 exercises / 60 minutes | Does not apply |
| Unofficial score after the test | Yes, with the exception of Analytical Writing Section | Not |
| Cancellation of scores after the test | Yes | Not |
| How many times can it be taken? | Those necessary with the restocking policy restrictions, that is, less than 5 times in a period of one year. | Once. |
| Official score results | Available between 10-15 days. | Sending by email in 7 days. |
| Replacement policy | You have to wait 21 days between each exam; up to 5 tests can be taken within 12 months. | None. You can cancel or reschedule it up to 24 hours before, for free. |
| Exam availability | Iran and Mainland China are excluded. | Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Sudan, Slovenia and Mainland China are excluded, |
| Accepted Operating Systems | Windows 10, 8 or 7.Mac with Windows installed. | Windows 10 or 8.1.Mac OS 10.13 and its later updates. |
| Specific software | ProctorUExam software provided by ETS. | PearsonOnVue. |
| Search engines | Chrome or Firefox | Microsoft Edge, Safari, Chrome, Firefox, Internet Explorer 11 |
| Specific hardware | Internal / external speakersInternal microphone
Internal or external webcam |
Internal / external speakersInternal microphone
Internal or external webcam |
| Surveillance staff | Yes | Yes |
| Consumer Goods | None | Water in clear glass |
| accessories | Dress appropriately.Jewelry, tie clips, cufflinks, ornate clips, combs, barrettes, headbands, and head or hair accessories are not allowed. | Dress appropriately. |
| Places to do the test. | It should be taken in a private place, only the person and no one else entering the room. | It should be taken in a private place, only the person and no one else entering the room. |
| Facilities for the disabled | Yes | Yes |
According to TOPSCHOOLSINTHEUSA, great changes have occurred in recent months, we have to prepare mentally and adapt to this situation to take the best of opportunities to fulfill ourselves professionally. Preparation and commitment for these exams is extremely important as it will determine your acceptance to the graduate degree you want. The GRE at Home and GMAT Online exams are alternatives that will allow you to demonstrate your skills and, if you are ready to send your admission documents, it is recommended that you present one of the two.
