The Graduate Management Admissions Council (GMAC) offers MBA hopefuls two options for taking the GMAT Focus Edition. You can choose to take the test in person at a test center or online at home. So, you may be wondering how to make the GMAT online vs. test center decision.
Whichever version you choose, you’ll face the same exam: the same content, section order selection, and format. Additionally, the timeline and process for receiving and sending your score report is the same.
Thus, your choice of how to take the GMAT comes down to differences in how the test is administered. So, in this article, we’ll discuss the differences between the GMAT Focus Online vs. in-person exams. We’ll consider whether business schools favor one exam over the other and whether one version is tougher than the other. Finally, we’ll look at some benefits of taking the GMAT test online. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll have your answer to the question, “Is the in-person or online GMAT Focus better for me?”
Here are all the topics we’ll cover:
- GMAT Online vs. Test Center: What Are the Differences?
- Do Business Schools Prefer One Exam Over the Other?
- Is the GMAT Focus Tougher Online Than at the Test Center?
- Benefits of Taking the GMAT Focus Online
- Checklist for Taking the GMAT Focus Online
- GMAT Online vs. Test Center: Key Takeaways
- What’s Next?
To start, let’s look at the different characteristics of the two exams.
GMAT Online vs. Test Center: What Are the Differences?
There are some important “logistical” differences between the online and in-person GMAT Focus that may influence your decision about which to take. Those differences are:
- test appointments and availability
- system requirements
- whiteboard options
- test environment
- accommodations
Let’s discuss each.
Test Appointments and Availability
One perk of the GMAT Focus Online is that you don’t have to conform to a GMAT test center schedule. Rather, testing time slots are available 24/7. So, you can schedule your test for any day of the week and any time of day. This added flexibility is welcome news to early birds and night owls — and of course to test-takers who work full-time.
So, when you register for your GMAT, your scheduling options depend on which exam you choose. If you choose the in-person GMAT Focus, you will select a test center and choose from available time slots. If you’re taking the GMAT Focus Online, you can select whatever date and time suits you best.
Of course, you will have more limited choices for the in-person exam. Some exam slots may already be booked to capacity. Additionally, GMAT test centers don’t offer testing slots at all hours of the day and night. So, test centers never offer any 4 a.m. or midnight exam slots, for example (at least not yet).
The good news is that, regardless of which exam you take, GMAT test dates are available year-round. Note however that your GMAT Focus options depend on your location. Wherever you are in the world, you can check the status of test centers near you here.
KEY FACT:
The GMAT Focus Online offers round-the-clock test appointments.
System Requirements
One of the biggest differences between the two testing options is the technical requirements for taking the GMAT at home. If you take the in-person exam, you’ll use the provided equipment: desk, chair, computer, and marker and dry-erase notepad. However, if you take the GMAT at home, you’ll need to have all your own equipment on hand.
Of course, you can’t just use whatever equipment you feel like using to take your exam. There are technical specifications your computer must meet in order to run the GMAT Online test software. Furthermore, there are specific guidelines for the type of note-taking implements at-home test-takers can use. These guidelines ensure that at-home test-takers don’t gain any advantages over people taking the GMAT at test centers.
So, before you decide to take the GMAT Focus at home, review the system requirements for the online test. Then, run a system test on the computer you will use for your exam.
Luckily, GMAC has made the online test as widely accessible as possible. So, you don’t need to have some crazy advanced technical setup in order to take the test. You will need to have a webcam, microphone, and speakers, since the GMAT Online is a remote-proctored exam. But you can use either a desktop or laptop computer, and the exam software works on both PCs and Macs.
TTP PRO TIP:
Before you choose the GMAT Focus Online, ensure that your computer meets GMAC’s system requirements and run a system check.
Now, let’s talk about the scratch paper options for each version of the GMAT Focus.
Whiteboard Options
When you take the GMAT Focus at a test center, you receive a booklet of 5 laminated legal-sized pages. You also get dry-erase markers for doing scratch work and taking notes.
When you take the GMAT at home, you are given the option of what to use. You can use a virtual whiteboard accessible within the exam itself, an erasable, physical whiteboard, or both.
The physical whiteboard must be no larger than 12 inches by 20 inches (30 centimeters by 50 centimeters). You are also permitted 2 dry-erase markers and 1 eraser. You may not use tissues or towels to erase; you must use the dry-erase eraser.
As you’d expect, the online whiteboard allows you to enter text. You can also draw shapes and lines, either with a virtual pen or using shape and line tools. Some test-takers find that the online whiteboard is “more trouble than it’s worth.” Since you can expand or minimize the online whiteboard whenever you like, you may choose to ignore it altogether. If you choose to ignore it, your note-taking experience won’t be terribly different for either the in-person or online test.
If you’d like to use the online whiteboard, here are 7 whiteboard strategies to help you make the most of it. Obviously, if you use both the online and physical whiteboard, or just the online whiteboard, your note-taking experience will be a bit different for the GMAT Online than for the in-person exam.
KEY FACT:
GMAT Focus Online test-takers can use a physical whiteboard, the online whiteboard, or both.
We know how the in-person and online GMAT differ in terms of system requirements and note-taking. Now let’s talk about the other major — and probably most obvious — difference between the two exams: the testing environment.
Test Environment
Clearly, if you take the GMAT Focus at home, the test-taking experience is going to feel pretty different from that at a test center. At home, you’re in your element, and at a test center your workspace is new and you’re surrounded by others. Additionally, if you take the GMAT at home, you need to be in a private space. In other words, you need to be able to sit for roughly 2.5 hours without interruptions.
That said, GMAC has tried to create parity between the two tests as much as possible. So, while you can control the temperature and lighting in the room where you take your GMAT at home — things you can’t control at a test center — your workspace still needs to be “test center-like.”
Your desk must be cleared of all items except your computer and physical whiteboard. Even the walls have to be cleared. So, although your test environment at home will be quite different from the test center environment, don’t select the online test thinking that you’ll be surrounded by all the “creature comforts” of home during your exam.
One creature comfort that you are allowed to have is water, in a clear container on your desk. At a test center, you can store drinks (and snacks) in your locker, but you cannot take them into the exam room. You have access to them only during the designated break.
KEY FACT:
Online test-takers are allowed to have water in a clear container on their desks. In-person test-takers must store all drinks in lockers outside the exam room.
Now, let’s talk about the nature of taking a remote-proctored exam vs. an exam with an in-person proctor.
Remote Proctor
At a test center, all GMAT test-takers are monitored by a test administrator. So, during the exam, you can raise your hand to ask the test administrator for assistance. You can ask a question, report a problem, request additional supplies, etc.
Of course, for the GMAT Focus Online, a test administrator can’t be in the room with you. Thus, the GMAT Online uses a remote proctor. The remote proctor monitors you throughout your exam to answer your questions and address any computer issues. The remote proctor will watch you through your webcam and listen through the microphone. Need to ask the proctor a question during your exam? Simply click a chat button at the top of your screen.
At first, this setup may sound a bit unsettling — creepy, even. However, in practice, it’s not much different from being monitored by a proctor in person. At a test center, the proctor can watch your every move and hear you sniffling or tapping your fingers. In fact, all GMAT test center exam rooms are recorded during exams. So, you are still being “watched.” In either setting, the proctor can stop your exam if it is determined that you are not following GMAT rules.
The bottom line is this: unless you have an issue during your exam, you should be able to pretty much tune out the proctor regardless of which exam you take.
However, since the proctoring system is different for each exam, the check-in process is also different. Let’s discuss.
You should be able to pretty much tune out the test proctor regardless of which exam you take.
Check-In Process
If you take the GMAT Focus at a test center, arrive about 30 minutes earlier than your scheduled time. Doing so will give you plenty of time to check in. For instance, you may have to wait while other test-takers check in, or you may want to store personal items in a locker.
In fact, it’s best to expect that check-in will take some time. Don’t be concerned if you don’t breeze right into the exam room. When you do check in with the test administrator, you will have to present your valid form of identification. (Here is a complete list of what to bring to the GMAT test center on test day.) Also, the administrator will take a photograph of you and record your palm vein pattern.
For the GMAT Focus Online, you’ll log in 15 minutes before your scheduled time to complete the check-in process. The process is completed using your computer’s webcam. To start, you’ll take a headshot photo of yourself and show your ID. Then, you’ll do a 360-degree room scan to confirm that your workspace complies with GMAT Online rules.
TTP PRO TIP:
For stress-free check-in, report to your test center at least 30 minutes prior to your scheduled time. For the GMAT Online, log in at least 15 minutes prior to your scheduled start time.
One other difference to consider is whether each version’s accommodation options meet your needs.
Accommodations
Both the in-person and online GMAT Focus provide accommodations to test-takers who can prove a need for them. However, the in-person test allows for some types of accommodations that are not possible with the online test.
Both tests offer 50% and 100% extra time and extended breaks. However, the in-person GMAT can also provide a reader who can read items to you, a recorder who can record your responses, and special software to assist visually impaired test-takers.
Regardless of which exam you take, if you plan to seek accommodations, wait for approval before scheduling your test.
KEY FACT:
The in-person GMAT Focus offers a wider array of accommodations than the GMAT Focus Online.
We see that there are some important differences to consider in terms of exam logistics and the test-day experience. These differences may impact your decision about taking the GMAT Focus in person or online. You may also be wondering if business schools prefer one version to the other. Let’s talk about that next.
Do Business Schools Prefer One Exam Over the Other?
Let me do away with any suspense and give you the short answer first: no. Business schools do not prefer one GMAT Focus version over the other. They do not consider the online test a “lesser” exam. You will not be penalized for taking the GMAT Focus at home rather than at a test center.
So, if you’re hesitant about the GMAT Online because you’re worried that business schools will think you “took the easy way out,” don’t worry!
KEY FACT:
MBA programs view online and in-person GMAT Focus scores equally.
Now that we’ve gotten that worry out of the way, let’s talk about whether one exam is tougher than the other.
Is the GMAT Focus Tougher Online Than at the Test Center?
Some students are under the impression that the online exam is more difficult than the in-person test. The bottom line, though, is that the two exams draw from the same question bank. They use the same scoring algorithm, and both offerings have the same average scores and percentiles.
In the early days of the legacy GMAT Online, some differences led students to perceive the online version as more difficult. Those differences do not exist with the GMAT Focus. So, the playing field is pretty much level for the two exam options.
It is up to you to decide which test option is best for you. Because the content is the same, you should consider the other aspects of the two exams in order to choose the one that appeals more to you.
TTP PRO TIP:
Consider the non-content aspects of the two exams in order to choose the one that appeals more to you.
Finally, let’s talk about some benefits of taking the GMAT Focus Online that you may want to consider.
Benefits of Taking the GMAT Focus Online
We’ve already discussed quite a few of the benefits of taking the GMAT Focus at home instead of in person. Let’s consider a few more major benefits now.
No Commute!
For many test-takers, one notable benefit of the online test is not having to commute to a test center right before a grueling test experience. Depending on where your local GMAT test center is, not having to commute can be a pretty significant plus.
The fact is, GMAT Focus test day can be stressful and nerve-racking even if you’re well-prepared. Commuting can sometimes add to that stress. Maybe you don’t live very close to the nearest test center. Maybe you live in or would need to drive through an area where traffic tends to be heavy or unpredictable. Or, if you’re not able to drive, maybe your public transportation options aren’t all that convenient. In many cases, commuting can significantly prolong what is already a long test day, or make planning when to start your day somewhat difficult.
If you think a commute will add to test-day stress, you may want to seriously consider the GMAT Focus Online.
TTP PRO TIP:
If you’ll have a long, stressful, or unpredictable commute to a test center, consider taking the GMAT Focus Online.
There’s No Place Like Home
Another major advantage of taking the GMAT at home for many test-takers? They’re simply more comfortable in a familiar environment, where they have more control over their surroundings.
You’ve probably read the stories online: the test center was freezing, the person next to me kept coughing, etc. Simply put, there are fewer things that could possibly distract or annoy you when taking your GMAT at home. Being able to eliminate those possible distractions and annoyances can be important for some test-takers.
Even if you don’t think you’ll be bothered by the test center environment, you might simply be more comfortable at home. You can use your own restroom, grab whatever snack you want, and not wear shoes if you don’t want to.
Another aspect of the comfort factor actually comes into play before test day. One of the biggest advantages of having a “home test center” is better simulating test day during your practice exams. When test day rolls around, you’ll feel that much more accustomed to the testing experience.
Why not take advantage of having a “test center” and give yourself as close to the genuine GMAT experience as possible? Doing so can only help better prepare you mentally for test day.
In addition, taking the real test in your practice environment adds an extra level of comfort.
TTP PRO TIP:
If you take the GMAT Focus Online, make your practice tests accurate simulations of test day.
If you’re thinking that the GMAT at home might be right for you, use the checklist below to ensure you meet the requirements.
Checklist for Taking the GMAT Focus Online
Ask yourself these questions before you register for your GMAT Focus Online:
- Is there a private room where I can take the exam free of interruption and meet the workspace requirements?
- Does the computer I intend to use meet the system and equipment requirements, including a functional webcam, mic, and speakers?
- If I want to use a physical whiteboard, am I able to purchase the correct whiteboard, dry-erase markers, and eraser?
- If I require test accommodations, are the online test accommodations sufficient for my needs?
Still not sure which exam to take? The key takeaways will help you further evaluate your options.
GMAT Online vs. Test Center: Key Takeaways
Here are the key differences between taking the GMAT Focus at home and at a test center. In making your decision, consider them carefully.
- Test appointments
- Online: available 24/7
- In person: 7 days a week, according to individual test center hours
- Check-in time
- Online: 15 minutes
- In person: 30 minutes
- Scratch paper
- Online: virtual whiteboard, physical whiteboard, or both
- In person: notepad of 5 laminated legal-sized sheets
- Accommodations
- Online: extra time and extended breaks
- In person: extra time, extended breaks, resources for vision- and hearing-impaired test-takers
What’s Next?
Now that you have the information to decide whether to take the GMAT Focus in person or at home, check out these tips to get you ready for test day.
Looking for more information about the sections of the GMAT Focus? Check out our guides to the Verbal, Quant, and Data Insights sections.
Interested in expert GMAT Focus help? Sign up for a free consultation to learn how working with a TTP tutor can help you reach your GMAT Focus goals.
This is inaccurate information as of October 2021: “you can sit for the GMAT Online only twice.”
Am I correct? No online GMAT can betaken as often as the in person.
Thank you for bringing this to our attention, and you’re absolutely right. We’ve updated that section. If you have any more insights or questions, feel free to share.