Question for recent test-takers from an Expert

[SticklorForDetails]

Hey all;

Usually I just answer questions here, but today I actually have a question for the community:

I have heard that the new IR section is being tried out as a bonus extra section after the GMAT, and furthermore that if you do really well on it, they'll give you back your $250 registration fee (as a way of motivating people to try to do well on it, so they can gather useful data). I'd like to know, from people who have taken the GMAT recently, if this is in fact true.

The reason I'm so curious is that I've long wanted to re-take the test -- I got a 780 in December 2009 and would really like to try for the elusive 800, but I'm not willing to spend $250 just for the sake of bragging rights, or for when I'm debating with Ron Peruwal, lol. So, if this IS true, then I will take the test (expecting to earn a free pass) soon and write a very nice review for everyone here of what the hardest questions looked like.

So, have you taken the test recently? Did you get a sample IR section, and if so, was there a reward mentioned? Does anyone know where there is confirmation of any such policy? Please let me know. Thanks, and see you around BTG!

--Adam

[Frankenstein]

Hi Adam,
IR section has been tested till 19th August(from 5th July to 19th August). As far as I know, GMAC never said it would refund 250$, but it did say it would reward something around 30$(don't remember exactly but definitely not more than 50$) if we put efforts on that section. So, there is no free GMAT for you!

[saketk]

Hi Adam, I took the test recently and got some $30 back few days after the exam date

To answer your question -- there was no reward mentioned but I got an email from GMAC a week before my exam date. The email contained a link where 3 sample questions are listed. In the note section it was mentioned that if you perform well then GMAC will reward you appropriately. So, I guess I did few question correctly after a long session.

The funny part is that you have to finish this section before you can see your GMAT score. After spending 15 mins I was really getting anxious and desperately wanted to see my score. The next thing I remember is the "NEXT" button.

[kiwi001]

I took the test on 17 Aug. I received $30 back for making an honest attempt at the IR questions. There was also mention of draw for a $250 refund for lucky test takers.

[sunny.bhasin]

Even i have given test recently but i have not got any refund.How to know if i got any refund.I have not received any e mail.

[akhilsuhag]

Even I heard, it is just a 20-30$ refund.
Guess you will have to drop your plans!!