Confused about total score algorithm!

[erdnah]

Hey,

I scored a 690 in total, 48Q and 38V. Now I read in the "I beat the GMAT"-forum, that someone with 46Q and 38V also got a 690 (https://www.beatthegmat.com/viewtopic.php?t=4421)... how is this possible? This is a difference of 2 points!!

And now the most frustrating thing: In the "I beat the GMAT"-forum there is also someone, who scored another 2 points more (50Q and 38V), and got a 740 (https://www.beatthegmat.com/viewtopic.php?t=4962)... ahhhh!!!

Does someone know an answer, or should I perhaps contact GMAC?

erdnah

[beatthegmat]

Don't try to interpret the algorithm. Different raw score combinations can produce slightly different total results--sometimes depending on day or season. I haven't quite figured it out myself.

Be proud of your 690!

[erdnah]

You receive scores in Q and V with internal decimal places, such as 47.5 and 37.5. These are rounded to 48 and 38.

[jsackmann]

Also, GMAT scores are curved based on the population of test-takers at that time in that general geographic area. The curve doesn't make too much of a difference -- the same Q and V scores aren't going to be off by more than 10 or 20 points most of the time -- but there can be slight differences, even in the same place a few months apart.

[sarit]

Dear erdnah,

did you figure out how the difference came in final scores??

[erdnah]

Yeah, see my post from September, 17th!

[Stacey Koprince]

FYI the scores and percentile rankings are NOT based on geographic area - they are valid for the entire population of test-takers, worldwide. They can (and do) vary over time, however.