The GMAT is a computer-adaptive test that is designed to measure aptitude, rather than achievement. It currently consists of an essay section, which requires two free-response essays of 30 minutes each; and two multiple choice sections, one quantitative and one verbal.

The writing samples constitute the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) score, which is scaled from 0-6 in half-point increments. The “Total Score,” comprised of the quantitative and verbal sections, is exclusive of the writing assessment, and ranges from 200 to 800. Though the Graduate Management Admission Council® (the organization that owns the test) claims that scores for the quantitative and verbal sections run from 0-60, it is commonly believed that scoring above a 51 on either section is now impossible. Two-thirds of test takers score between 400 and 600. The 99th percentile begins at 740 or 750, depending on the individual test.