Understanding the GMAT Scoring Algorithm

The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is a standardized computer adaptive test used for admission to graduate management programs, such as MBA programs. The GMAT scoring algorithm is designed to provide an accurate assessment of a test taker's abilities and potential for success in business school.

1. Scoring Scale
- The GMAT is scored on a scale of 200 to 800, with the majority of test takers scoring between 400 and 600.
- The score is based on the test taker's performance in the Verbal and Quantitative sections of the exam.

2. Verbal and Quantitative Sections
- The Verbal and Quantitative sections each have a raw score ranging from 0 to 60.
- The raw score is determined by the number of questions answered correctly, with no penalty for incorrect answers.
- The raw score is then converted to a scaled score ranging from 0 to 51, using a statistical formula that takes into account the difficulty level of the questions answered.
- The Verbal and Quantitative scaled scores are then combined to calculate the total score.

3. Integrated Reasoning Section
- The Integrated Reasoning (IR) section is scored separately on a scale of 1 to 8, in single-digit intervals.
- The IR score is based on the number of questions answered correctly, with partial credit given for questions that require multiple responses or have multiple parts.

4. Analytical Writing Assessment
- The Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) section is scored separately on a scale of 0 to 6, in half-point intervals.
- The AWA score is based on the quality of the test taker's analysis and writing skills, as evaluated by human raters.

5. Final Score Calculation
- The total GMAT score is calculated by combining the Verbal and Quantitative scaled scores, while the IR and AWA scores are reported separately.
- The Verbal and Quantitative sections contribute the most to the total score, with the Verbal section having a slightly higher weight.
- The IR and AWA scores are less influential in the overall score but are still considered by admissions committees.

Conclusion
Understanding the GMAT scoring algorithm is important for test takers to gauge their performance and assess their strengths and weaknesses. By knowing how the test is scored, test takers can focus on improving their skills in specific areas and aim for their target score.