Hi emilyg,

Yep - the initial diagnostic test is fairly important because it helps students break the ice by taking a full-length GMAT and it also gives Instructors a baseline score by which they can track your progress during the class. If you are completely pressed for time, you don't necessarily HAVE to take it the night before. However, we recommend that students take it before the class begins since you shouldn't have to worry about completing homework AND finishing a full-length GMAT, which will take about 3 and a half hours. When you take the exam, you should also take the test timed so you can simulate a real GMAT experience. The sooner you get used to pacing yourself and performing under a high-pressure situation, the easier it will become over time.

Best,

Thanks so much for your response, Michael.

One more question -- are the essays included in the practice exam? Will I be writing those as well as doing the verbal and math sections as part of the practice exam? I'm confused because I read somewhere that those aren't scored until week 6 of my course.

Thanks so much, Emily

Hi emilyg,

The essay section of the Manhattan GMAT CAT Exams will NOT be graded by your course instructor. However, we do provide you with two essays per CAT Exam (just like the real GMAT) so you can practice your writing skills and simulate a real GMAT. Your responses to the essays are recorded for your convenience.

To help you with your essay performance, we have provided all of our students with a free license to GMAT Write, a program released by the makers of the GMAT, which grades essays using the same exact algorithm featured on the real exam. With each copy of GMAT Write, you get two "Issue" questions and two "Argument" questions to answer. After submitting a response, you will receive a number score and brief analysis of your work.

Best,