Gmat Test Center Monitors: California's Standardized Screens

The GMAT test is a crucial step in the business school application process, and test-takers often wonder about the specifics of the test environment, including the size of the monitor they will be using. While the GMAT test software runs in fullscreen mode, taking over one's computer screen, there is some variation in monitor sizes across test centres. In the Boston area, for instance, test centres have monitors of at least 17 inches, while a test taker in Dubai reported having taken the test on a 13-inch monitor. Test-takers in California have reported that their test centre had monitors in the 19-21-inch range.

Test centre screen resolution

When it comes to the screen resolution at a GMAT test centre, the test software runs on full-screen mode, taking over your computer and filling the entire screen. The resolution is about 640 x 480, and this is the case for all test-takers. This means that the text is very easy to see, and there is no need to adjust the screen or font size.

In the Boston area, all test centres have monitors of at least 17 inches. Outside of the United States, monitor sizes can vary. For example, in Dubai, monitors are reportedly about 13 inches.

Test-takers are advised to visit their nearest testing centre ahead of time to familiarise themselves with the setup. This is a good idea, especially if you have specific requirements or preferences for screen size and resolution. It is also worth noting that the GMATPrep Practice Test software has a resolution of about 640 x 480, so practising with this software will give you an accurate idea of the screen resolution on the day of your test.

Monitor size

The monitor size at a GMAT test centre varies, but it is typically between 17 and 21 inches. In the Boston area, for example, all test centres have monitors of at least 17 inches. However, one person who took the test in Dubai reported that the monitors were about 13 inches.

The GMATPrep Practice Test software has a resolution of about 640 x 480 and takes over the entire screen. The text is very easy to see, and the resolution is good for most people. However, some people have reported that they found the text too large. Unfortunately, it is not possible to adjust the screen resolution or font size at a test centre.

Test day checklist

Before the Test

• Confirm your appointment date, time, and location.
• Review the exam policies to understand the test policies and avoid any violations, which may result in your score being canceled.
• Familiarize yourself with the route to the test center, accounting for travel time and potential traffic delays.
• Plan to arrive at the test center at least 30 minutes before your appointment time to complete the check-in process.
• Double-check that you have a valid photo ID that complies with your local ID requirements and that your name exactly matches your registration.
• Get a good rest before your appointment.

Items Allowed in the Test Center

• GMAT-approved identification
• Appointment confirmation email from Pearson VUE
• Prescription eyeglasses, without the case, including tinted lenses
• A light sweater or light non-outerwear jacket
• Permitted comfort items, subject to visual inspection by the test administrator

Items You Can Store in a Locker at the Test Center

Communication devices

Prohibited Items

• Food, drink, and candy, unless expressly pre-authorized as an accommodation
• Weapons, including firearms, knives, or any object that could be used as a weapon, are prohibited from the test center, including the testing room and waiting areas. This policy also pertains to off-duty law enforcement and persons with conceal-and-carry permits.

During the Test

• You will be provided with up to five noteboards to use as an aid during the exam.
• You can only access snacks and medications during your break.
• You cannot use any technology until after the test is over.
• The testing room will be completely silent. If you need help or have a question, raise your hand, and the administrator will come to assist you.
• If you need to leave the testing room at any time other than the scheduled breaks, the time will be deducted from your testing time.

After the Test

Your scores will be available within 20 days of your test date.

Test centre rules

When taking the GMAT exam at a test centre, there are several rules and procedures that must be followed to ensure a smooth and fair testing experience. Here are the key test centre rules for the GMAT exam:

Before the Exam:

• It is recommended to book your preferred GMAT test centre at least 2-3 months in advance to secure your desired date and time slot.
• A few days before the exam, confirm your appointment details, including the date, time, and location. Review the exam policies to avoid any violations that may result in your score being cancelled.
• Familiarise yourself with the route to the test centre and account for travel time and potential traffic delays. Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early to allow for the check-in process.
• Bring a valid photo ID that complies with the local ID requirements, ensuring that your name matches your registration exactly.

Check-In Process:

• Upon arrival at the test centre, you will be required to present appropriate identification, such as a government-issued photo ID.
• Provide a palm vein scan (where permitted by law) as proof of identification. This measure ensures that each test taker has a single GMAT record and prevents individuals from taking the test for others.
• Provide a digital signature, acknowledging your understanding and agreement to the Test Taker Rules & Agreement.
• Sit for a digital photograph to be taken.

Allowed and Prohibited Items:

• You can bring your GMAT-approved identification, appointment confirmation email, prescription eyeglasses (without the case), and a light sweater or jacket into the testing room.
• Certain comfort items are permitted but are subject to visual inspection by the test administrator. If you wish to bring an item not on the permitted list, submit an accommodation request.
• Food, drink, and candy are not allowed unless expressly pre-authorized as an accommodation.
• Weapons, including firearms and knives, are strictly prohibited in the testing room, waiting areas, and on your person. This policy applies to everyone, including off-duty law enforcement and individuals with conceal-and-carry permits.

During the Exam:

• The exam includes one optional 10-minute break that you can take after the first or second section. If you skip the break after the first section, you cannot take another break after the second section.
• During your break, you may leave your desk to use the restroom, but you must keep your camera running at all times.
• You are not allowed to access your phone or any other devices during the break. You cannot alter any settings at your desk/workstation.
• If you do not return from your break within the allotted time, the extra time spent will be deducted from the next section of the exam.
• If you leave your computer during the exam for any reason other than the scheduled break, the proctor will end your session, and you will be unable to continue testing.

Additional Considerations:

• Test centres are required to provide adequate lighting, ventilation, and comfortable seating and work surfaces for test-takers.
• Monitor positions should be adjustable to allow each candidate to establish a comfortable testing position, and room lighting should be sufficient while avoiding screen glare.
• Test centres must separate candidates within the testing room, either by using walls or privacy partitions or by maintaining a distance of at least four feet (1.2 meters) on all sides.
• Noise and distractions should be minimised during the exam.
• Test centres are required to provide lockers or suitable storage for personal belongings. Items such as pagers, paper, books, and briefcases are not allowed in the testing room.
• Some test centres may offer earplugs or headphones to help with noise isolation during the exam.

Test centre location

When it comes to selecting a test centre location for your GMAT, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, it is advisable to book your test centre at least 2-3 months in advance to ensure your desired date and time slot is available. The GMAT is offered at test centres in over 100 countries worldwide, so you may have a lot of flexibility in choosing a location.

To find a test centre near you, visit the official GMAC website and search for test centres by inputting your address, zip code, city, or state. This will pull up a map of the nearest test centre locations, along with specific information like name, address, and distance from your location. You can select up to three locations to compare available appointments.

When deciding on a test centre location, consider the proximity to your home, school, or job. Think about the time of day you will be taking the test and plan your route accordingly to avoid getting stuck in rush-hour traffic. It is recommended to test out the route to the test centre beforehand to ensure you don't get lost, especially if the centre is located in an office park or a large building.

Additionally, consider the size of the test centre. Test centres can range from small (two test stations) to large (up to 15 test stations). If you are easily distracted, you may prefer a smaller centre with fewer test-takers. However, larger centres may offer more scheduling flexibility.

Reading reviews of the test centres can also help you make an informed decision. Websites like Yelp, Beat the GMAT, and GMAT Club often have reviews from previous test-takers, giving you insights into the facilities, administration, and overall experience.

Finally, check the availability of appointments at your preferred test centres. Some centres may only offer early morning or evening start times, so choose a date and time that fits your schedule and strengths. Ensure that you also consider when your scores are due and allow yourself enough time to prepare.

Frequently asked questions