Should You Take the GMAT Online or In-Person?

As of December 14th, 2023, the online GMAT Focus Edition and the in-person GMAT Focus Edition will be nearly identical. Still, there are a few important differences that you should consider when making the decision about which test format to sign up for: 

1. While this may change in the future, you currently cannot order an Enhanced Score Report (ESR) with an online exam. This is an important consideration for your first GMAT attempt. If you do not reach your target score, it is extremely beneficial to get the data from the ESR, particularly on the verbal section of the exam. This information gives a clearer picture of what you did wrong on the exam and will help guide subsequent preparation. 
2. The “scratch paper” is different on the two versions of the test, but both iterations work well. For the in-person exam, you get 5 sheets of double-sided laminated graph paper and a fine-tip marker (always ask for two from the proctor!). You can buy the exact kit here if you want to prepare with the same set-up during your practice tests. For the online test, you need to buy an erasable whiteboard that meets these guidelines. Here is one option for purchasing the whiteboard required for the online test and make sure you also purchase two fine-tipped markers and an eraser (many options). While the online test also offers an online whiteboard, it is cumbersome and should be avoided. 
3. You are more likely to have a technical glitch at home with the online test than at the test center. While glitches do rarely occur at the test center, online tests are often cancelled at home because of some network or other technical glitch. Make sure you have a reliable computer and internet connection and do a test of your system ahead of time at this link. 

Overall, we recommend the following course of action:

• For your first exam, try to schedule it in-person at a test center so you can order the ESR if needed.
• It is a good idea to take one of each exam type—some people perform much better in one of the two environments. Remember: there is no waiting time required between the two different types of exams.
• Practice with the appropriate type of whiteboard so you are prepared for the full test experience. 

Both formats work very well so mainly the decision relates to convenience and scheduling. For additional information on our GMAT services, please contact us here.

Regardless of the location of the test, timely and efficient preparation is key. Menlo Coaching offers a tailored GMAT prep course to help you achieve your desired score.

Official Comparison Charts

Test Center vs. At-Home

(Source: MBA.com)

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