
Click on a topic below to read associated questions. Then, click on bulleted questions to read answers.
Will the ManhattanGMAT preparation course cover all the content tested on the GMAT?
ManhattanGMAT's 9-Session Courses are designed to cover all content areas tested on the Official GMAT. Our courses focus on real quantitative and verbal content, rather than test-taking tips and tricks. By learning how to apply this material to real GMAT questions drawn from past exams, students emerge with skills, strategies, and a confident approach to every problem type.
How is ManhattanGMAT different from competitors?
The biggest difference between ManhattanGMAT and our competitors is our commitment to hiring only the most qualified Instructors. We pay our Instructors $100 per hour, up to four times the industry standard. This allows us to hire and retain the most qualified Instructors.
All of our Instructors have scored in the 99th percentile on the GMAT - currently a 760 or above. In addition, candidates are required to have extensive teaching experience in order to qualify for an interview. Those selected for interviews are flown to New York to audition in front of our CEO and Instructor Development team. When we hire an Instructor (historically only 1 of every 5 invited to New York), he or she undergoes 100+ hours of unpaid training and a final assessment before teaching our students. Read more about our individual Instructors.
In addition to instructor caliber, our approach to course content and our singular focus also differentiate us form other test prep companies. Our curriculum is based on the academics of the test, not tricks or quick fixes to get around the material. Our books delve deep into the mathematical and verbal concepts that underlie each question on the GMAT and our course aims to make sure that you are fully versed in all of these concepts before applying them to real GMAT questions. Because we focus solely on the GMAT, we're able to devote all of our developmental resources to creating and refining the very best approach to teaching this test.
How do I sign up for a course?
We offer two easy ways for you to register for our courses: online or over the phone. If you would like to register online, simply select your location. A schedule of courses open for registration will appear. Once you have determined which course you would like to sign up for, simply click through to the course registration page and select "Sign Me Up!" You will be asked to login with an existing username and password or create a new profile. Once you have completed your order and submitted your payment information, you will receive a confirmation email verifying your order. If you prefer to register over the phone, simply contact Student Services at 800-576-GMAT(4628) and we will be happy to get you signed up.
What resources are included in the ManhattanGMAT prep course?
When you enroll in a ManhattanGMAT course you receive a complete set of prep materials, including the 8 ManhattanGMAT Strategy Guides (5 Quantitative, 3 Verbal) and the 3 Official Guides for GMAT Review, which contain real questions that have appeared on past Official GMAT exams. You will also receive a Test Simulation Booklet, which allows you to practice with the same kind of laminated scrap paper provided at official testing centers. Additionally, you will receive access to all of ManhattanGMAT's online resources, including our Computer Adaptive Practice Exams, 8 Question Banks, Online Labs, Challenge Problem Archive, and full-length Class Recordings. Course enrollment also provides you with 30 minutes per week of Office Hours, allowing you to discuss homework or other questions you may have one-on-one with an Instructor outside of class.
When will I receive my materials?
Students who sign up for in-person courses at the following ManhattanGMAT centers will receive their materials on the first day of class: Boston, Chicago, New York, San Francisco, Santa Monica, Silicon Valley, Washington, D.C., and West Hollywood. Students who sign up for Live Online courses or in-person courses at any ManhattanGMAT location not mentioned above will be shipped their materials upon registration. Materials will be received by the first day of class, as long as the registration process is completed before 4:30 PM (EST) one business day before the course is scheduled to begin, or five to seven business days for international students. Access to all online resources will be available immediately after you complete the course registration process; simply login to the ManhattanGMAT Student Center.
How much homework can I expect each week?
You should plan on having 15 to 20+ hours of homework each week. We recommend studying for a few hours every day, rather than cramming all of your assignments into a day or two, which makes retaining the course material more difficult.
What is the homework before the first class session?
The only thing we ask you to complete before your first class session is a full length practice exam in order to receive a baseline score that you can use to gauge your progress during the course. You can take the practice exam by logging into the Student Center.
What should I bring with me to the first session?
The only things you need to bring with you to your first class session are a notebook and a pen or pencil to take notes. You can leave your Strategy Guides, Official Guides, and Test Simulation Booklet at home, as these materials will be used exclusively for homework and self-study.
Can I get help outside of class?
Yes, there are many ways to get the help you need. With enrollment in any 9-Session course, you receive weekly Office Hours. These are private half-hour phone sessions with an Instructor you use to have questions answered, work out difficult problems, get homework help, etc. How you wish to use this time is completely up to you! For more information about the Office Hours included in other programs, please contact Student Services.
If you have additional questions after your office hours are up, you are always welcome to post questions on the ManhattanGMAT Forums. If you post a question here, one of our expert Instructors will get back to you with an answer promptly.
Additionally, you are welcome to call or email our Student Services department if you have any logistical questions about the GMAT and GMAT preparation.
If, after exhausting all of these resources, you find you still need more help, you might want to consider a session or two of Private Tutoring. Often students can get all of their additional questions and concerns answer in just a few sessions.
How much do your students improve on the GMAT after taking the course?
Each student comes into the program at a different level, making improvement "averages" ineffectual and misleading. For example, someone might come into the course having done no preparation whatsoever, and improve his or her score by a large margin. Another student might start off already scoring in the upper 600s, and just break into the 700s after finishing our course. Both students see extremely positive results, having achieved their desired score improvements.
Clearly, score improvement averages don't tell the whole story. They don't accurately reflect what you really want to know: how satisfied students are with our courses. For more specific feedback on exactly how our courses have helped our students, please see our Student Testimonials page. If you would like information on our students' reported GMAT scores, please call Student Services at 800-576-GMAT(4628).
How long after the course is over should I take an official GMAT?
When you schedule the exam will depend on how much time you are able to devote to studying over the course of the 9-week program. We recommend allowing at least 1-2 weeks after your course ends for review, a final practice exam, or simply a chance to relax before your test date. If you are able to complete all homework assignments each week, you should be well-prepared to take the exam within this time frame. If you are not able to devote 15+ hours to homework each week, we recommend allowing yourself an extra 3-6 weeks after your course ends to review and catch up on assignments you were not able to complete during the course.
When scheduling your test date, it is important to consider the other components involved in your b-school applications. In addition to studying for the GMAT, you'll have essays and personal statements to write, a resume to revise, school visits to make, and recommendations to solicit. Consider how much work you have left in each of these areas when estimating how much time you can devote to studying each week.
My course schedule lists a skip date. What does this mean?
Typically, 9-Session Courses meet for nine consecutive weeks. Skip dates indicate that the class session will not meet during a particular week, and that the next class session will meet the following week at the regularly scheduled time. Hence, if your 9-Session course has a skip date on the day that would otherwise have been your session #5, your class will continue with session #5 the following week and the course will end after ten weeks instead of nine.
What are my options if I am going to miss a class session?
In-person course students may attend up to 3 make-up classes. Live Online course students will be able to review recordings of each of their class sessions after they take place. All students, both in-person and online, will have access to a complete set of class recordings in their Student Center accounts. To schedule an in-person make-up class, please contact ManhattanGMAT at 800-576-GMAT(4628) to reserve a seat in an alternate session.
What can I do if I fall behind in class?
There are a few options available to you should you fall behind in class. If you have missed any of your class sessions, you can take advantage of the options for making up classes (see Question #6) or review the class recordings in your Student Center. If you have attended all class sessions but haven't kept up with your homework assignments, you will have access to all online resources for 3 months after your course ends. If you need additional time to prepare, contact Student Services and we will arrange an extension for you, free of charge. And remember, each week, you can sign up for one 30-minute Office Hour Session. Each session is a great time to review content you have not fully grasped yet.
I signed up for a 9-Session course, but I want to switch out. Can I do this?
If you are enrolled in a course that has not yet begun, you may switch into another course with no penalty by contacting Student Services at least 48 hours prior to the start of the class you are currently enrolled in. If your course has already begun, you can switch into another upcoming course for $300. Unfortunately, due to the strict class sizes we enforce, we cannot make any exceptions to this rule. However, we do provide you with 3 sit-ins that you can use to make up a class session at a later date, and your Student Center is equipped with online recordings of all nine class sessions in case you need to fill in any content gaps. Finally, if you do believe you can't make up the course work in this manner, you may retake the course at a discounted rate.
Can I retake a 9-session course?
Yes, if you have completed a 9-session course, you are eligible to retake a course for a discounted fee. If you would like to retake a Live Online course, you can pre-pay $600 to guarantee yourself a spot in any upcoming course. Or, if your schedule is more flexible, you can pay $300 to retake a Live Online course that has not sold out after its first session. If you would like to retake an in-person course, you can pre-pay $800 to guarantee yourself a spot in any upcoming course. Or, you can pay $300 to retake an in-person course that has not sold out after its first session.
I don't have time for a full course. What are my options?
If you are in this situation, don't worry! You still have several options:
a. Private Tutoring
This is often the best option for students looking to prepare for the GMAT quickly but effectively. Our expert Instructors create personalized syllabi and develop effective study programs to fit students' busy schedules. The amount of personalized attention you receive as a private tutoring student is unparalleled, and you will be able to cover the content of a 9-session course in a condensed time frame. For more information on private tutoring rates and packages, please visit our Private Tutoring page. If you have questions about how private tutoring works and how to decide if this option is right for you, please see our Private Tutoring FAQs below.
b. Guided Self-Study
This option is great for students who want to prep on their own schedule and who have the discipline to stick to a study plan without the direct oversight of an Instructor. To find out more about what is included in the Guided Self-Study packages, please visit our Guided Self-Study page.
c. Accelerated Courses/Special Programs
Roughly once each quarter, we offer a GMAT Boot Camp in New York. This is an intensive two-week study program designed for individuals who need or want to learn GMAT material quickly, but do not want to sacrifice any content knowledge in the process. For more information on our Boot Camp, visit our 2-Week Boot Camp page.
In the fall, we also hold accelerated courses that cover all 9 sessions in 4-5 weeks. These are generally held online or in New York. Please check the 9 Session Course page in your location here to see if an accelerated course is being offered.
d. Utilizing course recordings and/or sit-ins
If you still want to take a course, but can't devote all 9 weeks to the class, you still have a couple of options. If, for example, you know you are going to have to take your GMAT in two months, and you just don't quite have time for a full 9-Week course, you can utilize your make-up options to complete some of the class sessions ahead of schedule. For more information, or to schedule your sit-ins, please contact Student Services using the form above.
If I put a deposit down for a course, when is the balance due?
Complete payment for your course is due by the first class session. You can pay your balance prior to the first session at any time by logging into your Account History, or by contacting our office at 800-576-4628 or 212-721-7400. Outstanding balances remaining after the first class session will be automatically charged on the following business day. All payments made to ManhattanGMAT, including automatically-charged outstanding balances, are nonrefundable. (View our full policy here)
Are there any tax, shipping charges, or other fees?
Nope. The tax and shipping charges are included in the price of our 9-Session Courses, Guided Self-Study, and Private Tutoring packages. There are no hidden fees.
All payments made to ManhattanGMAT are nonrefundable. Due to the proprietary nature of our materials, our limited class size, the scheduling/booking costs of our Instructors, and our own administrative costs, we are not able to provide refunds to students for any reason. This applies both to deposits and any other payments for all courses, private tutoring, workshops, product sales, and all other purchases. Please note that refunds are not issued for missed class sessions, course withdrawals, or unused private tutoring hours. (View our full policy here)
How do I know which Instructor is best for me?
While we encourage you to read the Instructor bios on our website, we strongly recommend that you choose a course based on what best fits your schedule, rather than who is teaching the course. You can feel confident knowing that ManhattanGMAT adheres to the strictest requirements when hiring Instructors. First, all of our Instructors must score at the 99th percentile (currently a 760+ out of 800) on the official GMAT in order to be considered for our staff. Additionally, they must have extensive prior teaching experience, and most importantly, must be engaging and interactive in the classroom. We therefore require all candidates to go through an intensive in-person audition process. Of those we invite to our headquarters in New York to audition, only 1 in 5 are hired. Once hired, new Instructors must complete a 100+-hour training process unmatched by any other test prep company. In order to attract and retain these high-quality individuals, Instructors are compensated $100/hour plus bonuses - this is not only up to 4 times the industry standard, but the highest in the industry.
With that said, all of our Instructors have detailed bios on our website, which we invite you to read through before selecting a course.
Are there any differences between the in-person and Live Online course?
The content covered and the quality of instruction are exactly the same in our in-person and Live Online courses. There are, however, a few logistical differences between the in-person and the Live Online courses:
1) Live Online courses are led by two Instructors instead of one, to allow for substantial interaction among students and Instructors.
2) The process for making up missed class sessions is different for in-person and Live Online courses.
3) Live Online courses are a bit less expensive than in-person course.
What is the course registration deadline?
Registration for any 9-Session course will close the day of the second class session, or when the class reaches capacity, whichever comes first.
I'm a Trial student. If I want to sign up for a full course, is my seat guaranteed?
Your status as a Trial student does not guarantee you a seat in the full course. If you would like to secure your seat in a course, you must pay the $300 deposit.
The class I want to register for is sold out. What can I do?
We generally post waiting lists for our sold out classes, but the odds of getting off of a waitlist are low. We recommend selecting another class that fits your schedule.
Can I register for your class and receive a student visa?
ManhattanGMAT is a private company and not a licensed educational institution; therefore, we cannot issue or endorse visas of any sort.
How interactive is the Online Platform? (Online)
Our Online Platform, Elluminate, is designed to reproduce a classroom experience over the computer. The software features:
1) VoIP connections, which allow students and Instructors to communicate verbally.
2) A Chat Box window where you can ask questions on the fly during your class lecture. Messages can be sent to the room or privately to Instructors, who will get back to you during class.
3) An Interactive White Board that allows our Instructors to showcase sample problems and edit them in real time.
If you would like to test out the online platform for yourself, watch a recording of a Free GMAT Preview. This session, in addition to demonstrating the online platform, will provide you with background information on the GMAT and one of our Instructors will guide you through a GMAT problem. You are also welcome to attend an upcoming live online preview.
How do I log into class? (Online)
Logging onto your Live Online class is easy. First, you will need to install and set up ManhattanGMAT's e-learning platform, Elluminate. The program takes about five to ten minutes to set up, and is both Mac and PC compatible. Read complete set up instructions here. You should complete this process before the first day of class. If you have any trouble setting up Elluminate, please contact Tech Support. While we work hard to answer all questions as soon as possible, please allow one business day for a response to your email.
On the day of your class, log into Elluminate with your ManhattanGMAT username and password. If you can't remember this information, check your Live Online course confirmation email. Once logged in, click on the "Display Schedule" button. Click the "Join" button next to the name of your class. The classroom will open in a separate window.
Please note that your access to the online classroom will be activated approximately 1 hour before the start of your first class session. You may not have access to the course prior to this time.
I missed a class. How can I make it up? (Online)
Students in Live Online courses have two options for making up a missed class. Each of your nine class sessions is recorded and accessible through Elluminate, our Live Online e-learning platform. You can login and watch recordings of your specific class, taught by your Instructors, whenever you've missed a session. You can also utilize these recordings to re-watch previously attended classes that you found difficult or need a refresher on. Recordings are available through Elluminate almost immediately after a class session ends.
A second option is to review the set of prerecorded class sessions in your Student Center. Theses pre-recorded classes will likely be taught by different Instructors from your course; however, this is a great way to hear a different perspective on a topic you might find challenging.
How do I view my class recordings? (Online)
To view your class recordings:
1) Go to www.elluminate.com/member.jsp and log-in with your username and password
2) Select the 'Utilities' tab
3) Click on the 'Playback' icon with the speaker graphic on it
4) Set a date range inclusive of your class session and select 'View Recorded Session List'
5) Hit 'Play' next to the class session you would like to watch
Can I see a demo of the online class? (Online)
We have a demo of Elluminate, the virtual platform used for our online classes, available. If you would like to participate in a sample Live Online class before registering for a complete course, you may sign up for a Trial Class. Registering for a Trial Class allows you sit in on the first session of a 9-week Live Online course before committing to the full program. You will be sent a headset so that you can fully participate along with the other students in the class. Note that signing up for a Trial Class does not guarantee you a spot in the course, which may sell out before the first session takes place.
Why do the online classes have two Instructors? (Online)
The online class structure allows you two options for communicating with your classmates and Instructors. You're not only able to speak aloud to the class, but also utilize the chat feature to send messages to you Instructors. Two Instructors are assigned to each online class so that one Instructor is available to monitor student questions in the chat window while the other is teaching.
How do I know tutoring is right for me?
When choosing any test preparation method, you have to consider your score goals, your application timelines, how you study best, and what is within your budget. Private tutoring can be an excellent choice for many different reasons: it is a great method for reaching aggressive score goals, it is extremely effective for students who prefer strong guidance and customization in their test preparation program, and it can be a great method to use if you have Business School deadlines quickly approaching.
Private tutoring can be utilized in two different ways: as a supplement to your current test prep program, or as your primary preparation program. You can go through all the material covered in our 9-week course in your private tutoring sessions, all with extensive customization. Or, conversely, you can use a la cart tutoring to give you some extra help in conjunction with our 9-week course or guided self-study.
The decision, of course, will come down you your specific situation and needs. Please feel free to give our Student Services department a call at 800-576-GMAT(4628) to discuss what options might be best for you.
How do I sign up for private tutoring?
Signing up for private tutoring is simple. First, create an account if you haven't already done so. Then, give our Student Services department a call at 800-576-GMAT. When you call, we will ask you questions to get an idea of your score goals and availability, so we can best match you with an appropriate tutor. This process will take approximately 5 minutes. We will then take a $20 deposit to put you on our Private Tutoring Roster. Shortly thereafter, usually within 1-2 weeks, you will receive a call from your assigned tutor regarding setting up your first session. You will then pay for your session or package.
Please note that during certain times of the year we may have a waiting list for private tutoring. It is highly recommended that during the peak season of early fall you call at least 4 weeks in advance to schedule private tutoring.
How many hours of tutoring should I sign up for?
The number of tutoring hours you sign up for depends on your GMAT prep experience to date, the amount of time you have available during the week, and your application deadlines. These factors will be different for everyone, which is why we suggest that you call Student Services at 800-576-GMAT(4628) to speak to a representative about designing a customized tutoring package.
What resources are included with tutoring?
Students who sign up for a Standard, Premium, or Deluxe Private Tutoring Package (consisting of 15, 20, and 25 hours respectively) will receive the Complete ManhattanGMAT Curriculum at no additional cost; this includes The Complete Prep Set, as well access to all of our online resources. Students who sign up for a Light Private Tutoring Package (consisting of 10 hours) will receive the Complete Prep Set at no additional cost. Students who are not sure if they want to commit to a package can opt for hourly tutoring (with a 2 hour minimum). All hourly tutoring sign-ups will receive access to our bank of six Computer Adaptive Practice Exams. Books and other online resources must be purchased separately. If after conferring with your Instructor, you decide to upgrade to a Package, we will make sure you receive the appropriate books and/or online resources included with that Package. If you purchased any of these resources separately, we will credit your account for the associated costs and apply that credit toward your private tutoring package.
I have a specific weakness on the GMAT. Do you have Instructors that specialize in this?
All of ManhattanGMAT's Instructors are equally proficient in teaching quantitative and verbal content, as well as strategies for approaching each question type. Through our incredibly selective hiring process, intensive Instructor training, and ongoing evaluations, we ensure that our Instructors are experts in all aspects of the GMAT. If you have specific weaknesses, your tutoring sessions will be tailored accordingly so that your personal needs are addressed.
How long is each tutoring session?
Generally, sessions last for two hours. This is the time frame that our Instructors have determined to be optimal for one-on-one study. That being said, each student has different needs, and Instructors have different schedules, so you may be able to work out alternate arrangements. Keep in mind, however, that our Instructors cannot tutor for fewer than 1.5 hours per session.
What will be covered during my first session?
First and foremost, your Instructor will assess your ability level and areas of weakness to help you formulate a plan of study. Additionally, you will cover some content and receive an assignment to be completed by your next tutoring session. If you are only planning on completing one 2-hour tutoring session, then your first (and only) session will consist of a thorough assessment of your skills, tips to improve your performance, and specific takeaways you can use to practice for the exam after the session ends.
How often will I meet with my tutor?
While it may be tempting to plan for multiple tutoring session each week, remember that to maximize your time with your Instructor, you should plan on spending 10-15 hours completing assignments between sessions. For most working professionals, meeting with a tutor once a week is ideal.
Can a tutor accommodate my schedule?
We will take your schedule into account when assigning you a tutor. Once we find an Instructor with a matching schedule, he or she will contact you to determine a schedule that works for both of you. Please note that we require that you give your Instructor 24 hours notice if you need to reschedule a tutoring session. We reserve the right to charge you for the session if you do not give adequate notice.
Where does tutoring take place?
If you are located near a ManhattanGMAT center, your tutoring sessions will most likely take place at that center. Alternate meeting locations may be discussed with your tutor, but you should plan on meeting your tutor at the center.
If you are not located in a city where ManhattanGMAT has a permanent center, you and your tutor will decide on a mutually convenient location, such as a library or coffee shop, to hold your sessions.
If you sign up for Live Online tutoring, your sessions will take place in an interactive virtual classroom. Special login instructions will be provided prior to your first session.
You are welcome to let us know your preference for a particular Instructor. We will do our best to accommodate your preference, but scheduling issues prevent us from guaranteeing that you will work with a particular Instructor.
If I start off by paying the hourly rate, what happens if I upgrade to a package?
When you upgrade from the hourly rate to a tutoring package, or from a smaller package to a larger one, you receive the larger package rate, retroactively applied to your order. For instance, if you sign up for 4 hours of tutoring at the regular hourly rate and then decide to do a total of 10, you get a Complete Prep Set for free; if you upgrade to the 15 hour package, you get a free Complete Prep Set and a price break; etc.
How does Live Online tutoring work?
This format is very similar to in-person tutoring in most respects. You receive the same level of interaction and personal attention from a Live Online tutor, and he or she is able to evaluate and assist you in the same manner an in-person tutor. Sessions are conducted via our e-learning platform, Elluminate, where you and your tutor can share a mutual online workspace. Simply sign into your tutor's online classroom at the beginning of your session and you're ready to go!
What if I have to cancel or arrive late to a tutoring session?
We ask that you provide at least 24 hours notice to your Instructor if you must cancel or change a tutoring appointment. In addition, you are responsible for arriving on time to your scheduled meetings. Appointments that are not canceled at least 24 hours in advance will be billed as if they had occurred. Additionally, if late arrivals to appointments result in waiting time for your Instructor, this waiting time will be counted as part of your private tutoring hours.
How do I register for the GMAT?
To register for the GMAT, visit www.mba.com and click on "Take the GMAT". You'll be directed to a scheduling dashboard that will allow you to learn more about the test, check for seating availability, and schedule an official test appointment by following the on-screen instructions.
How much does it cost to take the GMAT?
The registration fee for the GMAT is $250 USD worldwide. You can register for the exam and select a testing center near you by going to www.mba.com.
Excluding major holidays, you can take the GMAT 6 days a week in most metropolitan areas. The times at which the test is offered will depend on the test center, though generally testing is available in the mornings, afternoons, and evenings.
How many times can I take the GMAT?
You can take the GMAT up to 5 times per year, no more than once in a 31 day period. This is important when it comes to planning out your exam schedule. Since we recommend that students plan on taking the test twice, make sure you have time to allow for 31 days between the two exam dates.
How long is my official GMAT score good for?
Your GMAT score is good for five years. Most business schools accept GMAT scores from tests that were taken within five years of your application date. Other business schools only accept scores from tests taken five years before your matriculation date, which may be a year after you apply. As a result, if you took the test four or five years before you plan on applying, you should check the specific policies at the schools in question.
What should I bring with me to the testing center?
The only thing that you are allowed to bring into the testing room is a current government-issued photo ID. All other items, including pens, calculators, watches, snacks, etc., can be stored in a locker assigned to you by the testing center. When you arrive, you will be assigned to a testing station and given an erasable notepad and felt tip pen for scratch work.
Each school has its own standard for what constitutes a competitive GMAT score, and the schools with the highest rankings don't always have the highest GMAT averages. As a point of reference, the average of student GMAT scores at the top 20 MBA programs in the country is around 700, while the average of scores at the top 10 programs is around 710. You can find the standings and average GMAT scores of the top 20 programs in country as ranked by US News & World report.
Remember that the GMAT is only one aspect of your application and, while important, will not be the only criterion schools consider.
The essay, or Analytical Writing Assignment (AWA), will be graded by both a human grader and a computer. The computer focuses on grading the spelling, grammar, vocabulary, and complexity of sentence structure; the human grader focuses on your identification and analysis of your stance on the argument or issue, organization, and other qualitative elements. The grades from both graders will be averaged together unless there is a significant difference in the two scores. In the event that the scores are not similar, the essay will be re-graded entirely by a second human grader.
When do I get my score report with my final essay grades?
You will receive your test score, which reflects the quantitative and verbal portions of the exam only, immediately when you complete the exam. You will receive your official score report, including your essay grade, about 10-14 days later.
How do I submit my scores to business schools?
When you register for the exam, you are given the option of sending your scores to up to 5 business schools for free. If you wait until after you complete your exam to send your scores, you will be charged a fee for each school. Please note that all of your scores from the last 5 years will be visible on future score reports, so there is no disadvantage to sending your scores for free and submitting additional scores later on if you choose to take the exam again.
If I feel that I have done poorly on the GMAT, should I cancel my score?
The only chance you'll have to cancel your score will be immediately before the score is revealed to you. If you do cancel, you will never know what score you would have received. Hence, unless you ran out of time at the end of a section and left many questions blank or randomly answered, we never recommend canceling your score. If you aren't yet convinced, consider the fact that canceled scores will be noted on your score reports when they're sent to business schools.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule my official test date?
If you need to reschedule or cancel your official test date, you will be charged a fee based on the amount of time remaining until your test. If you reschedule your exam at least seven full calendar days before your appointment, you will be charged $50 to change your exam date. If you reschedule within seven full calendar days, you will be charged the full registration amount. If you need to cancel your test date and you do so at least seven full calendar days before your exam, you will be refunded $80; otherwise, you will lose your registration fee.
What are the application deadlines for business schools?
Application deadlines for full-time programs are usually divided into three rounds: 1st round in September/October, 2nd round in December/January, and 3rd round in February/March (note that not all schools offer a third round). Part-time programs generally have deadlines around April or May. Please check with individual schools to confirm their application deadlines.
Overall, how important is the GMAT to my business school application?
The GMAT is an important part of the business school application process because a low score can preclude your application from consideration - but a high score does not guarantee your admission. While most schools claim that they do not have a minimum score, top 10 business schools generally look for GMAT scores above a minimum of 650, and average incoming GMAT scores are around 700. If you have a low undergraduate GPA, the GMAT will be even more important. That said, the most important components of your application will be your work experience and your personal statements.
What GMAT score do I need to get into a top business school?
The national average GMAT score for test takers is 537. However, to be considered for competitive business schools, you will need a score of at least 600. In fact, the top 20 business schools report that their average GMAT scores are in the 660 to 715 range, with scores above 700 being the average for top 10 MBA programs. View the top 20 business school program rankings according to US News & World Report, along with the average GMAT score for each program.
Will schools see all of my GMAT scores?
Business schools will receive the scores from all of the exams you have taken in the past 5 years. However, most schools only take your highest score into consideration, even if it is not the most recent.
Will schools average my GMAT scores together?
Admissions committees will only consider your highest GMAT score, and will not average your scores.
Can I send in my application to a business school without including my GMAT score?
Some schools will allow you to submit your application without your GMAT score listed, or with only a self-reported score, if your official score report is pending. However, please note that different schools have very different policies about when you are allowed to submit your GMAT scores, and you should check with the schools you are interested in to find out exactly what their policies are.
Are there any differences between application rounds?
In most cases, there is no difference between applying during a first round or second round deadline. If you are unable to make the second round deadline and are faced with the prospect of applying in the third round, you should strongly consider putting off your application until the next year. In the third round, you are applying with a large candidate pool containing people who submitted their applications in earlier rounds, and you are competing for a small fraction of remaining seats.
Please note that some schools operate on a 4-round application process. In these cases, third round deadlines act as the general second round deadline and fourth rounds act as the general third round deadline. Hence, if you apply after the third round, you should strongly consider waiting until next year.
Do you offer Admissions Consulting?
We do not offer Admissions Consulting ourselves, but we can refer you to four organizations that we know and trust:
MBAMission - Jeremy Shinewald, President and CEO of MBAMission, is a good friend of ManhattanGMAT. He has hosted many free consultations with ManhattanGMAT students, and his guide to applying to business school comes with every set of course books we hand out to students.
ClearAdmit - Great resource for specific business school guides that detail important statistics essential to any prospective applicant.
Accepted.com - A useful resource for business school application guides and other b-school tips.
Stacy Blackman - An industry veteran, Stacy Blackman has helped many students get into the business schools of their choice.
If you are searching for an Admissions Consultant, keep in mind that many online organizations offer free 30-minute phone consultations that you can use to get a better feel for which one best fits with your profile and aligns with your goals.
Where can I get my application essays reviewed?
While ManhattanGMAT does not provide application essay review or other admissions consulting services, we do recommend a few consulting firms to our students. These firms offer free initial consultations, allowing you to discuss your situation with a representative before purchasing any services. You can find information on our recommended firms in the question above.
What is the difference between the Complete Prep Set and the 8 Strategy Guides?
The 8 Strategy Guides represent the core of the ManhattanGMAT curriculum. These books contain all of the mathematical and grammatical concepts that will help you learn the content on the exam.
The Complete Prep Set is more comprehensive and comes with more material to help you prepare for the exam, including:
8 ManhattanGMAT Strategy Guides
3 Official Guides for GMAT Review (11th Ed, Verbal Review, and Quantitative Review)
ManhattanGMAT Test Simulation Booklet
ManhattanGMAT Stop Watch
The 3 Official Guides, published by GMAC, contain questions that will help you practice what you learn in the 8 Strategy Guides. In fact, each Strategy Guide comes with sets of recommended problems from the Official Guides. The Test Simulation Booklet, which mimics the laminated scrap paper you receive at official testing centers, will help you recreate a more realistic testing environment for your practice exams.
How do I access my practice tests?
Use your username and password to log into the Student Center. (If you forget your login information, check your confirmation e-mail).
Once you login, you will be taken directly to the CAT Exam section of your Student Center. Scroll to the bottom of the page and click the "Start" link next to your first exam.
I received my books; how do I register them to access the online material?
If you enrolled in a course or a Guided Self Study program, your online material is already accessible through your Student Center. If you purchased the material separately, you'll want to register the book using the 32 digit registration code that can be found on a sticker inside the back cover of your ManhattanGMAT Strategy Guide. Follow the directions on page 7 of the book to register it.
If I register one book, does this automatically register all of my others?
No, each book must be registered separately to receive access to the individual book's question bank. Howevever you need to register just one book to obtain access to the 6 CAT tests.
If you purchased the book through our website, just email us at operations@manhattangmat.com and we can grant you access. If you purchased your book through Amazon or Barnes & Noble, please e-mail us a copy of your receipt and we can enable your online access.
*NOTE: You must purchase your book directly from Amazon, LLC or Barnes & Noble (i.e. not one of the third party "new & used" sellers) for us to enable your access.
Do you sell your Strategy Guides at any bookstores in India?
We currently sell our guides at two bookstores in India:
BOOKZONE
172, D.N.RD.,
FORT, MUMBAI - 400 001
INDIA
# 91 22 22054616/ 17
EMAIL: customerservice@bookzone-india.com
www.bookzone-india.com
GOELS COMPUTER HUT
126,BUDHWAR PETH,
PUNE-411002
MAHARASHTRA
INDIA
TEL: +91-20-24451958 / 59
Mob: 09890789550
E-Mail: compuhut@pn2.vsnl.net.in
At this time, these are the only official locations that offer ManhattanGMAT Strategy Guides in India. If you do not live near one of the above bookstores, you can purchase our Strategy Guides through our Online Store or another online bookseller such as www.amazon.com.
Please read the instructions for taking the CAT Exam thoroughly. If you scroll to the bottom of the page you will see a red box with the title of your first CAT Exam. Directly to the right is a link that reads "Start." Clicking this link will allow you to begin your exam.
My Student Center only displays 1 CAT exam. I thought I had 6. Where are the rest?
Due to the adaptive nature of the test, you must complete one test at a time before the next exam appears in your Student Center. Once you fully complete your first CAT Exam, the second one will appear. This is true for each of your six exams.
*NOTE: If you have a Free GMAT Exam in your account, that will appear before CAT 1. The Free GMAT is a full-length practice test that counts as the exam that you need to take before Session 1.
It says "resume" next to my last exam. How do I take the next exam?
You must complete each exam before proceeding to the next. Please click the link labeled "resume" to finish before starting your next exam.
How do I reset my Question Banks?
Question Banks consist of 25 non-adaptive questions. You can redo each question bank as many times as you'd like by clicking the "retake" link. Each attempt will be permanently saved in your account.
Can I extend my online access after it has expired?
Former 9-Session Course and Guided Self Study students are eligible for a free extension. Individuals who have purchased Strategy Guides and have obtained CAT and Question Bank access are not, but get to keep these resources for a longer time than course students. If you qualify for an extension, please e-mail studentservices@manhattangmat.com or call 800-576-GMAT(4628) to request an extension.
If you extend my online resources, will the work I've completed be erased?
Extending your online access will not alter your work in any way. This includes Question Banks and Labs as well.
Can I give my friend the resources in my account?
ManhattanGMAT online resources are non-transferable.
How do I schedule an in-person practice exam at your center?
At present, our New York Center is the only facility with a testing lab. Additionally, this resource is only available to course students. To schedule an exam, please make sure you have selected "New York" in the drop-down menu labeled "Select a Location". A tab will appear in your Student Center labeled "Schedule an Exam".
Which courier service do you use?
FedEx
Which countries do you ship to?
ManhattanGMAT ships to any country serviced by FedEx, which delivers packages to 210 countries.
When will I receive my tracking information?
You will receive tracking information for your order one business day after it is processed. Orders placed by 4:30pm EST will be processed the same day. Orders placed after 4:30pm EST will be processed the following business day.
How much does shipping cost overseas? Where does it list the price on the site?
We have two rates available for international shipping:
International Economy: 7 Business Days
International Priority: 5 Business Days
The prices associated with these rates vary depending on your country. For a complete list of rates, read our Shipping Policy.
Is there any way to receive my materials earlier?
At present, we offer overnight, next day, 2-day, and ground shipping. The prices for each option vary according to the transit time.
If I'm enrolled in class, how much do I pay for shipping?
If you enroll in a class or a Guided Self Study program with ManhattanGMAT, you receive free shipping.
Do I need to be home to sign for my package?
If you are not home and there is a secure area to leave your package, FedEx will leave that package for you. If not, FedEx will attempt to deliver your package 3 times before it is returned to us. If you do not receive your package within this time frame, please call our office at 800-576-GMAT(4628) for assistance.
I try to resume my CAT exam and I see "You do not have permission to view this item." Why?
This error usually occurs if you have not completed a Manhattan GMAT exam within 180 days of registering. If you have exceeded the time limit, contact techsupport@manhattangmat.com to resolve the issue.
I can't see the figures in the geometry section when taking my CAT exam. How do I make them appear?
This problem is most likely being caused by your browser. Try the following steps to resolve the problem:
1. Clear your browser's cache (Directions)
2. Add http://www.manhattangmat.com to the trusted sites list and lower the security settings (Directions)
I accidentally quit my CAT exam while in the middle of taking it. How can I reset it?
Simply contact techsupport@manhattangmat.com to resolve this issue.
If you are experiencing this issue and you are using a wireless connection, try switching to a wired connection. We suggest using a wired connection to ensure the least disruptive experience possible. If you have switched to a wired connection and are still experiencing the above issue, try the steps below:
1. Clear your browser's cache (Directions)
2. Clear out any temporary files in your internet browser.
a. Internet Explorer
Quit Internet Explorer and quit any instances of Windows Explorer.
Click Start, click Control Panel, and then double-click Internet Options.
On the General tab, click Delete Files under Temporary Internet Files as well as Delete Cookies.
In the Delete Files dialog box, click to select the Delete all offline content check box, and then click OK.
Click OK.
b. Firefox
Click the Tools menu.
Click Clear Private Data.
Check Cache. Please note that all checked items will be cleared, so make sure that only the items you want selected are checked.
Click the Clear Private Data Now button.
How do I stop my exam from quitting after I take a long time on one question and hit "confirm."
If you are using a wireless connection, make sure that you have a strong signal.
1. Clear your browser's cache (Directions)
2. Clear out any temporary files in your internet browser.
a. Internet Explorer
Quit Internet Explorer and quit any instances of Windows Explorer.
Click Start, click Control Panel, and then double-click Internet Options.
On the General tab, click Delete Files under Temporary Internet Files as well as Delete Cookies.
In the Delete Files dialog box, click to select the Delete all offline content check box, and then click OK.
Click OK.
b. Firefox
Click the Tools menu.
Click Clear Private Data.
Check Cache. Please note that all checked items will be cleared, so make sure that only the items you want selected are checked.
Click the Clear Private Data Now button.
Test questions are taking a long time to load or they are not loading at all. Why?
If you are using a wireless connection, make sure that you have a strong signal.
1. Clear your browser's cache (Directions)
2. Clear out any temporary files in your internet browser.
a. Internet Explorer
Quit Internet Explorer and quit any instances of Windows Explorer.
Click Start, click Control Panel, and then double-click Internet Options.
On the General tab, click Delete Files under Temporary Internet Files as well as Delete Cookies.
In the Delete Files dialog box, click to select the Delete all offline content check box, and then click OK.
Click OK.
b. Firefox
Click the Tools menu.
Click Clear Private Data.
Check Cache. Please note that all checked items will be cleared, so make sure that only the items you want selected are checked.
Click the Clear Private Data Now button.
Is it possible to clear the record of the CAT tests that I have already taken so I can start over?
If you've taken 6 CAT exams, then we cannot reset the pool and erase your history. It is programmed this way to track your progress. However, for example, we can reset CAT 1A and you would be able to take the exam from that point on. To reiterate, these CAT exams are to track your progress, so think twice before requesting them to be reset, as this is not reversible once they have been reset.
Can I reset my time options for the practice tests once I start?
There is no way to modify the time limit for the essays. However, you can pause the essay timer to give yourself more time as needed.
I own a Mac. Are your course materials compatible?
All ManhattanGMAT resources are compatible with Macs or have alternative downloads specially created for Apple users.
Why do I see "exceededing the maximum number of log in attempts" when I try to log in?
If you close the browser out and re-open it, you'll bypass the maximum login attempts message.
I forgot my username and password. How can I retrieve this information?
You need to contact techsupport@manhattangmat.com to resolve this issue.
I'm trying to login to the Guided Self Study Dashboard, but can't gain access. What should I do?
Try clearing the cookies from your browser and logging in again. (Directions)
Why am I not able to copy and paste the results from OG stopwatch to the OG tracker.
You can only paste results into the OG tracker while the filter is off. The sheet was designed to work only if you do the questions in that order.
When I try to access the Official Tracker download page, I am denied access. Why?
The OG Tracker is only available for our class students. If you have just purchased the book, you will only get access to the 6 CAT exams, OG stopwatch and the Question Bank for the book you have bought. If you need further assistance, please contact studentservices@manhattangmat.com for all non-technical questions.
I have a Mac, is there a separate OG Tracker and Study Organizer available to me?
Yes. For the Study Organizer, Mac users would download MGMAT Study Organizer (Excel 2003) - Unfiltered and with NO Pivot Tables. Also, for the OG Tracker, Mac users would download MGMAT Official Guide Tracker (Excel 2003) - Unlocked and Unfiltered (for Mac).
For all questions related to Elluminate, please consult the Elluminate Support Page first.
If you are still unable to find an answer to your question, please contact techsupport@manhattangmat.com or call us at 800-576-4628(GMAT).