I got 3 scores in a row of 50 on the quant section for the Kaplan tests and i'm concerned they are inflated with how Kaplan calculates the number. I also did the Princeton tests, untimed, and I was in the mid 40s. I know this subject has been beaten to death but thats a pretty big percentile swing of around 20%. Any one take multiple Kaplan tests and score way lower?
Hi mikep741852,
Based on what you've described, there are a number of obvious factors that would affect your score (as well as a number of other factors that you might not have considered):
1) Different CATs from different companies will have their own "built-in biases", so comparing one Scaled Score to another can be problematic.
2) Taking a CAT UNTIMED is NOT realistic, so I would find any score earned under those conditions to be questionable.
3) The big benefit of taking a CAT is that it allows you to measure your OVERALL PERFORMANCE. Since you admit to have taken sections untimed, I have to ask if you took the ENTIRE CAT? Skipping the Essay and IR sections is NOT realistic and you would likely score better in the Quant section if you did not complete the first hour of the Test.
4) Percentile data can be dubious because the pool of Test Takers who take any given exam will likely be different.
If you're looking for the MOST realistic assessment of your abilities (beyond taking the actual GMAT), then you should take a FULL GMAC CAT under realistic conditions.
GMAT assassins aren't born, they're made,
Rich
