MBA Center Global 
Nicholas Barnard
Meet Nicholas Barnard! He is the owner of GMAT Zurich, a full-service prep and admissions advisory helping people get into the best schools for MBA's, EMBA's, etc. We recently had the opportunity to have a conversation with him. So, continue reading for the full interview.
How important is it to have a good GMAT score in the application process?
Nicholas: I think there's a misconception among students that due to Covid, some of the schools waive the GMAT, or they have made it optional. Many candidates were happy about that, but honestly, none were accepted, and people with good GMAT scores were. Even if some schools have made it optional, I am not personally convinced.
Of course, it's widely known that there is a direct correlation between GMAT scores and the rankings of the schools, which also links to job opportunities, salaries, etc. Just look at the statistics of any top schools, websites and business media! The GMAT score is like an entry ticket to any good B-School. If you have a good GMAT score, they will look at your profile, so it's important to have one.
Could you please tell us a few things that a candidate must consider while preparing for the GMAT?
Nicholas: What I found didn't work was taking a very theoretical approach. We haven't had good results with this. The other thing that doesn't work is doing this at the last moment. I have seen people writing all the essays, preparing LORs, and then deciding to take the GMAT at the last moment with a tight deadline. It is difficult to estimate how much time one should put aside to achieve a good GMAT score. We estimate about 100 hours, but it depends on the person.
What piece of advice would you like to give to the candidates preparing for the GMAT?
Nicholas: There's a misconception that the GMAT is the only consideration. It's important, but it's not for everybody because people don't have the resources, time, or energy to do the research or take the GMAT. Anyone who is a successful student can pass the test if they have the right mindset, but for various reasons, some people don't have the time, energy, and motivation, so you can still go to a good school as there are alternatives.
However, having a good GMAT score helps you get into some of the top B-Schools. And in case you are not getting the idea, you can get professional help and the right strategy from The MBA Center. Talk to us initially, so you have enough time to prepare!
Also read: GMAT Scores Soaring at Top BSchools
