Inside the GMAT

Inside the GMAT is the podcast designed for anyone considering, applying to, or preparing for business school. Whether you’re just beginning to explore the MBA path, knee-deep in applications, or focused on mastering the GMAT exam, this show is your inside track to smarter decisions, expert advice, and strategies that work. Brought to you by GMAC (the makers of the GMAT exam) each weekly episode features candid conversations with admissions leaders, test prep experts, and successful students. You’ll get practical tips for excelling on the GMAT, insights into how schools evaluate candidates, and real stories from people who’ve walked the same path. From study strategies and score reports to networking, career pivots, and big-picture trends shaping graduate management education, Inside the GMAT brings you the guidance and confidence you need to succeed. If you want the inside scoop on the GMAT, admissions, and how to get the most out of your business school journey, this podcast is for you.

Which Test is Best? Choosing a Business School Exam with Charles Bibilos, GMAT Ninja 09/10/2025

Which Test is Best? Choosing a Business School Exam with Charles Bibilos, GMAT Ninja “Sometimes with more choice comes more anxiety. And the decision of which exam to take ends up being part of the process that can be complicated and painful.” Deciding which exam to take can be tough - but it doesn't have to be! In this episode of Inside the GMAT, GMAC Zach is joined by Charles Bibilos, founder of GMAT Ninja, to discuss the complexities of choosing between the GMAT, GRE, and Executive Assessment (EA) for MBA admissions. They explore the unique features of each test, the psychological aspects of test-taking, common myths surrounding standardized tests, and effective preparation strategies. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding one's own strengths and weaknesses in relation to the tests, as well as the need for a balanced approach to studying and mental well-being. Links: GMAT Ninja: Straight Talk with GMAC on Take the GMAT: Takeaways: Choosing the right test can be a source of anxiety for MBA applicants. The GMAT, GRE, and EA each serve different purposes and audiences. Understanding the structure and content differences is crucial for test-takers. Test anxiety can significantly impact performance; managing it is essential. Many myths about standardized tests can lead to unnecessary stress. The GRE is a general admissions test, while the GMAT and EA are tailored for MBA programs. Preparation should include physical and mental well-being for optimal performance. Cramming is ineffective; consistent study is key to success. Understanding the reasoning behind questions is more important than memorizing formulas. Test-takers should focus on their individual strengths when choosing a test. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Standardized Testing Choices 05:03 Choosing the Right Test for Your Goals 07:25 Exploring the Options: GMAT, EA, and GRE 12:06 Content Differences Between GMAT and GRE 18:51 GMAT's Data Insights Section 23:55 The Best Test for Each Type of Student 27:21 EA vs GRE, GMAT 30:21 Improving Your Quant Skills 35:15 Each Exam's Major Myths 42:03 Most Underrated Prep Tip /episode/index/show/insidethegmat/id/38128900

From Setback to Success: Turning Persistence into a 685 09/03/2025

Beyond a Perfect Score 08/27/2025

Skills-Based Approach to GMAT Prep 08/20/2025

Skills-Based Approach to GMAT Prep “Knowledge used to be power, but it no longer is power. What you do with that knowledge—that’s the skill.” In this must-watch episode for test takers, GMAC Zach speaks at length with Sergey Kouk from Admit Master about a skills-based approach to GMAT preparation. They discuss the common misconceptions surrounding the GMAT, the importance of reasoning skills over mere knowledge, and how to effectively prepare for the test using strategies akin to learning to drive a car. Sergey shares insights on building confidence, the significance of practice, and section-by-section analysis. The conversation emphasizes that the GMAT is not just about memorizing formulas but about developing critical thinking and reasoning skills necessary for success in business school and beyond. About Our Guest: Sergey Kouk is a rocket scientist turned GMAT instructor, who achieved a score of 750 on the GMAT after just 2 weeks of studying. He credits his success to the amazing teachers and mentors, who taught him advanced reasoning skills early in his career. He is the Co-Founder and CEO of Admit Master, a test preparation and admissions consulting company headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Sergey holds 3 university degrees, including an MBA. When he is not teaching prep classes, he spends time snowboarding or sailing a boat with his family. Sergey brings to this podcast over 15 years of experience teaching the GMAT to thousands of business school candidates, as well as insights from other experienced GMAT instructors and MBA Admissions Consultants at Admit Master, to help you get a great GMAT score and gain admission to your dream business school. Contact Admit Master: Register for the GMAT: Chapters: 01:17 Sergey's Journey into Test Prep 03:13 Misconceptions About the GMAT 04:57 Knowledge vs. Reasoning Skills 12:06 The Importance of Practice and Feedback 18:35 The Role of an Instructor 22:30 Breaking Down Higher Order Thinking Skills 26:43 Applying Reasoning Skills to the GMAT 29:32 Questions to Ask in the Quant Section 32:05 Understanding Problem-Solving Strategies 33:27 The Power of Elimination in Reasoning 34:55 Effective Questioning Techniques 37:05 The Importance of Strategy Over Formulas 38:11 Comparing Quantitative and Verbal Skills 42:39 Preparing for Verbal Section 47:53 Integrating Data Insights with Reasoning 50:00 Building Confidence for Test Success 52:40 Starting Your GMAT Journey 54:38 Achieving High Percentiles on the GMAT 56:00 The Student Journey with Admit Master /episode/index/show/insidethegmat/id/37861865

Inside the GMAT Official Guide 08/13/2025

Keep it Simple, Score Higher 08/06/2025

The Hidden ROI of an MBA 07/30/2025

How to Choose the Right Type of MBA Program 07/23/2025

Season 5 Coming Soon! Plus Announcements! 07/01/2025

Replay: Reduce Exam Anxiety and Get the Results You Want (2023) 06/04/2025

The GMAT Explained 05/28/2025

Using AI in Your Application 05/21/2025

Using AI in Your Application Artificial intelligence is here, but how much is too much when it comes to your MBA application? This week, host Zach Fernebok sits down with Loubna Bouamane, founder of and former Director of MBA Admissions, to explore the nuanced role AI now plays in business school applications. From brainstorming essays to managing deadlines, AI tools like ChatGPT can support candidates, but there's a fine line between using AI and outsourcing your voice. Loubna shares the real risks of overrelying on AI, explains how admissions teams are adapting to this new landscape, and offers actionable advice on preserving authenticity in an increasingly automated world. If you're considering using AI in your MBA journey (or already are) this episode is your guide to staying smart, ethical, and unforgettable. Admission Concierge: Key Takeaways 1. AI can help, but it can’t (and shouldn’t) tell your story. Using AI for structure, grammar, and idea generation can be helpful, but outsourcing your personal voice leads to generic, shallow, and forgettable applications. 2. Authenticity is your biggest competitive edge. Admissions officers can spot essays that lack real reflection. What stands out isn’t perfect prose. It’s self-awareness, emotional honesty, and clarity of purpose. 3. Schools aren’t anti-AI. They’re anti-fake. Top programs are updating their policies to emphasize ethics. Many condone AI for brainstorming, but warn against using it to write essays or letters of recommendation. 4. Interviews and real-time assessments are gaining importance. Expect more behavioral, values-based, and spontaneous prompts as schools look to assess consistency between your written and spoken narrative. 5. Use AI wisely: treat it like a project assistant, not a ghostwriter. Smart uses include organizing deadlines, shortening essays, or improving clarity, not generating full drafts or making up content. Chapters 00:55 - The Beginning of AI in Applications 02:48 - The Role of AI in Application Strategy 05:29 - Common Uses of AI by Applicants 09:45 - Business School Response to AI 12:03 - Smart and Responsible AI Usage 12:54 - The Risks of AI in Applications 15:09 - The Importance of Authenticity 17:45 - Strategies for Authentic Writing 18:51 - Exercises for Developing Personal Narratives 20:50 - Real-Life Examples of Authenticity 22:53 - Future of Admissions in the Age of AI 24:31 - Final Thoughts /episode/index/show/insidethegmat/id/36547765

What to Expect at an MBA Tour 05/14/2025

What to Expect at an MBA Tour Thinking about business school? Don’t go it alone. In this episode, we’re hitting the road as we explore , the global events that bring top business schools and aspiring students together under one roof. Host Zach is joined by Maggie Cooley, Director of Events and Marketing for GMAC Tours, to unpack why these MBA & Masters Tour events are more than just information sessions. They’re networking goldmines, resume-boosting bootcamps, and overall application game-changers. You’ll hear what really happens at a Tour event, how to make a lasting impression, and why attending one could help you discover your best-fit program (especially one you’ve never considered before). Whether you’re years away from applying or finalizing your target school list, this episode will help you make the most of one of the most impactful tools on your business school journey. Find a Tour near you: Key Takeaways 1. GMAC Tours are free, curated events designed for every stage of the b-school journey. Whether you're exploring your options or ready to apply, there’s value for everyone—from keynotes and meetups to resume clinics and GMAT info sessions. 2. The biggest asset? Face time with admissions reps. Attendees meet directly with decision-makers from top global business schools, building authentic relationships that can strengthen applications and inform school selection. 3. Thoughtful preparation goes a long way. Doing research ahead of time, preparing smart questions, and showing genuine curiosity helps you stand out, both in scheduled meetups and casual booth chats. 4. Be open to discovering new schools. 80% of attendees consider a new program they hadn’t previously thought about. Don’t just target the usual suspects—use the event to explore your full range of options. 5. Your application can benefit directly. From resume feedback to application tips and admissions insights, the information (and impression) you gain at a Tour event can translate into a stronger, more personalized application. Chapters 01:12 - What is a Tour Event? 03:25 - Who Should Attend? 05:24 - Overview of Activities 06:55 - About School Meet-Ups 10:04 - About Resume Review Clinics 11:20 - About B-School Talks 12:01 - About the GMAT Info Session 13:16 - Planning Your Schedule 14:52 - Benefits of Attending 16:57 - Using the Event to Strengthen Your Application 17:56 - Success Stories 21:07 - Tips for Attending 23:06 - Making a Great Impression at Networking Events 25:07 - Common Mistakes to Avoid 28:42 - Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts /episode/index/show/insidethegmat/id/36546875

What Business School Candidates are Thinking 05/07/2025

What Business School Candidates are Thinking In this episode, Zach sits down with friend and colleague Andrew Walker, Director of Industry Communications at GMAC, to unpack the latest insights from the . They dive into what 5,000 prospective business school candidates around the world are thinking about today — from the growing demand for hands-on AI experiences to the rising importance of human skills, like grit and adaptability. You’ll hear why more candidates are prioritizing ROI over program rankings, how financial planning is evolving, and why in-person programs are making a surprising comeback. Whether you’re actively applying, just starting to explore your options, or simply curious about what’s shaping the future of graduate management education, this conversation offers data-backed insights and practical takeaways you won’t want to miss. Takeaways: 46% of business school candidates prioritize AI experiences in their curriculum. Employers value human skills like emotional intelligence and adaptability alongside technical skills. Cost remains a significant barrier for candidates considering business school. Only 29% of candidates prioritize program rankings first when researching schools. Candidates are increasingly looking for direct information from school websites, not AI. The MBA remains the most preferred degree, but interest in business master's programs is growing. Candidates prefer full-time in-person programs over hybrid or online formats post-pandemic. Financial aid is becoming a more significant part of funding education for candidates. Candidates are considering a multi-dimensional approach to their return on investment from business school. Chapters: 01:04 - What is the Prospective Students Survey? 03:00 - The Role of AI in Business Education 07:28 - Financial Considerations for Business School Candidates 11:49 - The Importance of Program Rankings 15:43 - Shifting Preferences in Business Degrees 18:09 - Program Delivery Formats and Trends 22:23 - Key Takeaways and Future Insights /episode/index/show/insidethegmat/id/36467115

Essays, Interviews, & Stress 04/30/2025

The "Dead Zone" 04/23/2025

Exam Prep 101 04/16/2025

Exam Prep 101 In this episode, Stacey Koprince from discusses the essential considerations when preparing to take a business school entrance exam. Stacey breaks down her top prep strategies and emphasizes the importance of understanding your study timeline, effective study techniques, recognizing when to take breaks, and the value of collaborative study. Additionally, she highlights the significance of practice tests in gauging progress and structuring a personalized study plan to ensure GMAT success. And of course, no conversation about GMAT prep is complete without covering all three sections of the exam: Quant, Verbal, and Data Insights. Resources: Takeaways: Preparing for business school starts before studying begins, and sometimes that prep even includes choosing a school/program. Even if a school/program is test optional, an entrance exam can enhance your application. Aim to start studying 3-5 months out, with five or six days of study each week. Prep tips: take breaks, set a timer for short study sessions can help overcome procrastination, and study in groups. Practice tests are essential for gauging progress, identifying weaknesses, and establishing a baseline score. Focus on actionable takeaways from mistakes to improve performance. Structuring your study in phases can lead to more effective learning. You have strengths and weaknesses in your review process. Understand the different question types and strategies for each. Utilize free resources and official materials from GMAC and Manhattan Prep for effective preparation! Chapters 00:00 Introduction 03:48 Choosing a Program 10:24 Exam Requirements 19:09 The Right Time to Take an Exam 23:40 Part-Time vs Full-Time Programs 27:51 GMAT Prep Timeline 32:24 Prep Motivation Techniques 37:13 Studying with Others 41:47 Practice Exams 45:34 How to Retain What You've Learned 52:46 GMAT Study Phases 59:36 Exam Best Practices 01:10:17 Recommended Prep Products 01:14:15 Key Takeaways 01:17:21 Conclusion /episode/index/show/insidethegmat/id/36160045

MBA Myth Busters 04/09/2025

Telling Your MBA Story 04/02/2025

Telling Your MBA Story Summary In this episode, Petia Whitmore from delves into the intricacies of the MBA application process, emphasizing the importance of storytelling, clarity of purpose, and the evaluation criteria used by admissions committees. Petia shares insights from her experience as a former Dean of MBA Admissions, outlining the two phases of the application process: evaluation and selection. She highlights the significance of crafting a unique narrative that showcases a candidate's impact and authenticity, while also addressing common misconceptions about test scores and work experience. The discussion culminates in practical advice for prospective applicants on how to approach their applications with curiosity and a sense of possibility. Takeaways Your application is more than just numbers. Craft a narrative that tells your unique story. Evaluation determines admissibility; selection determines desirability. Clarity of purpose is crucial in your application. Demonstrated impact can come in many forms. Authenticity is key to standing out. Quality of experience is more important than quantity. Test scores indicate academic preparedness but are not the sole factor. Timing your application can influence your chances of admission. Approach the application process with curiosity and openness. Chapters 01:38 - Overview of the MBA Application Process 05:34 - About Admissions Committees 07:26 - Three Pillars of a Strong Application: Clarity, Impact & Authenticity 10:34 - Demonstrating Impact 12:03 - Applicant Authenticity 14:45 - Defining Program "Fit" 17:51 - Introspection and Self-Discovery 23:44 - Quality vs. Quantity 27:26 - Understanding the Role of Test Scores 30:00 - Navigating Test Waivers and Their Implications 32:22 - Timing Your Application: Round One vs. Round Two 36:15 - The Value of Starting Early in the Application Process 38:42 - The Interview Process: What to Expect 45:31 - Finding Your Why: The Key to a Strong Application /episode/index/show/insidethegmat/id/35911825