How to Get a High GMAT Score in the AWA

On their website, GMAC have the current essay questions and sample texts freely available for the analysis of an argument question. In order to score highly in the GMAT AWA section, all participants should ensure that they practice using these questions, and are familiar with what is required in their answers.

Structure is of huge importance throughout the GMAT AWA. As the test is in a Computer Adaptive Test (CAT) format, the structure of the test can be more important than in conventional essays. Here, the computer will look for certain words or phrases to ascertain the structure of an essay, and so it can be extremely beneficial to plan a structure behind your essays. This should always include a worthwhile introduction and conclusion.

In fact, as a result of the CAT format of the test, many GMAT preparation lecturers advise their most able students to dumb down their language, using words that are more commonly used, rather than original and thought provoking language, which will be lost on the computer and the rushed-human examiner alike.

The AWA section is scored separately to the Quantitative and Verbal sections of the GMAT, and will not affect participants’ final score out of 700. However, the AWA score is still provided to business schools, and will be marked between one and six, with six being the highest.

The importance that each business school places on the AWA score varies considerably, and is usually kept a close secret. However, it is safe to assume that the more competition for places at a particular school, the more likely that your AWA score will count towards your application. While many GMAT test-takers incorrectly assume that the AWA section is not an important part of the MBA admissions process, for some it can be deciding factor in gaining an admissions interview.

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