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 ...
…
continue reading
Graduate Management Admission Council Podcasts

1
Advancery: Your Ideal Business School Planner
18:46
18:46
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
18:46Application and test prep season can feel overwhelming with deadlines, essays, recommendations, and GMAT prep all colliding at once. In this episode of Inside the GMAT, GMAC Zach sits down with Alexis Meares, Manager of New Product Development at GMAC, to unpack what a realistic business school application plan looks like. Together, they explore wh…
…
continue reading

1
Which Test is Best? Choosing a Business School Exam with Charles Bibilos, GMAT Ninja
44:23
44:23
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
44:23“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 complex…
…
continue reading

1
From Setback to Success: Turning Persistence into a 685
17:08
17:08
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:08“The most important thing is to not give up and to believe that it’s possible.” What does it take to turn setbacks into success? In this episode, GMAC Zach sits down with recent GMAT test taker Ana Marie Dias, who shares her candid journey from underestimating the exam to earning a competitive score of 685 that opened doors to her dream program in …
…
continue reading
“Prepping for the GMAT was one of the biggest, most self-motivated projects of my adult life. It gave me concrete feedback I hadn’t experienced in years. Improvement wasn’t visible every day, but I could see how my effort turned into results.” In this episode of Inside the GMAT, GMAC Zach sits down with Julia Shackelford, who earned a perfect GMAT …
…
continue reading
“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 reasoni…
…
continue reading
The GMAT Official Guide is more than just a book. It’s your direct line to real GMAT questions and the best possible test-day preparation. In this episode, GMAC Zach is once again joined by Stacey Koprince from Manhattan Prep to explore how to get the most out of the Official Guide and other GMAT official tools. You’ll learn why practicing with rea…
…
continue reading
“Don’t prepare until you can get the questions right. Prepare until you can’t get them wrong.” What if mastering the GMAT wasn’t about doing more—it was about doing less, but smarter? In this episode of Inside the GMAT, Zach is joined by Scott Woodbury-Stewart, Founder and CEO of Target Test Prep, to explore how simplifying your prep can lead to be…
…
continue reading
An MBA can open doors to top jobs and bigger paychecks—but what about the value that doesn’t show up on a resume? In this episode, Zach is joined by Melody Jones, founder of Vantage Point MBA Admissions Consulting, to uncover the hidden ROI of business school: confidence, personal growth, lasting relationships, and the transformational power of hum…
…
continue reading

1
How to Choose the Right Type of MBA Program
41:18
41:18
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
41:18Not sure whether you should pursue a full-time, part-time, or executive MBA program? You're not alone! Oren Margolis from Pinetree & Palm Consulting joins the pod to dive deep into the crucial decision-making process of choosing the right type of MBA Program. As an experienced MBA admissions consultant and executive coach, Oren and Zach explore the…
…
continue reading
Season 5 is on the way! In this quick update, host Zach shares what’s coming in the next season of Inside the GMAT, how you can get involved, and one big announcement: the Official Guide 2025–2026 is out now! Whether you're prepping for the exam or just starting your journey, this is your moment to get ahead. 📝 Get the new Official Guide: mba.com/p…
…
continue reading

1
Replay: Reduce Exam Anxiety and Get the Results You Want (2023)
44:03
44:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
44:03This episode was originally published on September 7, 2023. GMAC's Eric Chambers is joined by Charles Bibilos, Founder of GMAT Ninja, where they do things a bit differently by tackling your test anxiety head on. Charles talks all things assessment anxiety, from how it can manifest in an exam environment to how to overcome it, with a lively discussi…
…
continue reading
It’s the season finale, and we’re going deep! In this solo episode, host Zach breaks down everything you’ve ever wanted to know about the GMAT exam. Whether you’re just starting to explore business school or already deep in prep mode, this is your all-in-one explainer for what’s on the exam, how it’s scored, how to prepare, and how to use your scor…
…
continue reading
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 Admission Concierge and former Director of MBA Admissions, to explore the nuanced role AI now plays in business school applications. From brainstorming essays to managing deadlines…
…
continue reading
Thinking about business school? Don’t go it alone. In this episode, we’re hitting the road as we explore GMAC Tours, 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…
…
continue reading

1
What Business School Candidates are Thinking
25:15
25:15
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
25:15In this episode, Zach sits down with friend and colleague Andrew Walker, Director of Industry Communications at GMAC, to unpack the latest insights from the 2025 Prospective Students Survey. 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 experience…
…
continue reading
In this episode, Shaifali Aggarwal, founder and CEO of Ivy Groupe MBA Admissions Consulting, dives deep into MBA application essays and school interviews. She discusses the importance of each in the application process, emphasizing the need for authenticity and self-reflection. Shaifali also shares practical tips for writing compelling essays, comm…
…
continue reading
In this episode, Zach is joined by Melody Jones from Vantage Point MBA to discuss the often-overlooked period between MBA acceptance and the start of classes, sometimes referred to as the 'Dead Zone.' They explore various strategies for academic readiness, networking, and personal development, as well as the logistical considerations for incoming s…
…
continue reading
In this episode, Stacey Koprince from Manhattan Prep 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…
…
continue reading
Summary In this episode, Travis Morgan from MBA Whisperer discusses the intricacies of applying to business schools, debunking common myths and providing valuable insights into the application process. He emphasize the importance of resumes, essays, and understanding school fit over rankings. The discussion also covers the significance of test scor…
…
continue reading
Summary In this episode, Petia Whitmore from My MBA Path 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 …
…
continue reading
Introducing Inside the GMAT. A weekly show with interviews with experts and advice on how you can navigate through your graduate business school admissions process. Subscribe to the show on your favorite podcast app or YouTube!By Inside the GMAT
…
continue reading

1
Reduce Exam Anxiety and Get the Results You Want
44:03
44:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
44:03Host Eric Chambers is joined by Charles Bibilos, Founder of GMAT Ninja, where they do things a bit differently by tackling your test anxiety head on. Charles talks all things assessment anxiety, from how it can manifest in an exam environment to how to overcome it, with a lively discussion about how GMAT Focus Edition helps reduce your chances of e…
…
continue reading
In this episode, we’re joined by Manish Dharia, Director of Product Marketing at GMAC. Manish talks all things GMAT Focus Edition, covering how and why we made the decision to bring you the latest evolution of the GMAT; what the changes to each section, scoring and score report are; the many benefits these changes add to your testing experience and…
…
continue reading

1
What Do Test Prep Tutors Really Think of GMAT Focus?
20:44
20:44
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
20:44Are you interested in GMAT Focus, but haven't spoken to a professional tutor about whether it's the right test for you? This episode has got you covered - our guest, Hailey Cusimano, Director of Tutoring at Menlo Coaching, shares her insights on the test and helps you decide if it's ultimately right for you. As an added bonus, our host, Eric Chambe…
…
continue reading

1
From Army to B-School - One Man’s Epic Journey
35:12
35:12
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
35:12In this episode, our UK-based host, Nalisha Patel, has a riveting chat with Sunil Kandola, Vice President of Coin Systems Strategy at Onyx by JP Morgan. You'll hear all about Sunil's fascinating career path – from the British Army to studying an MBA at the prestigious Saïd Business School at Oxford University to landing his role at JP Morgan. Sunil…
…
continue reading

1
Overcome Imposter-Syndrome and Craft Your Story
33:10
33:10
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
33:10In this episode we're joined by Alexis Jeffries, Head of Business Product Marketing at Glassdoor. Amongst other impressive endeavors, Alexis is paving the way in her thriving tech career and is the Adjunct Professor of Entrepreneurship at University of Southern California's Marshall School of Business. Learn from Alexis how you can overcome imposte…
…
continue reading

1
Could an Early-Career MBA Be Right for You?
28:07
28:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
28:07In this episode, Zach chats with Baylor University - Hankamer School of Business Clinical Professor, Dr. Erik Davidson, alongside HSB alum and Walt Disney Company's Strategic Sourcing Specialist, Corrie Tebay, on everything you need to know about the Early-Career MBA. Corrie gives incredible insight into pursuing the right program and career fit fo…
…
continue reading

1
Your Guide to GMAT Focus Prep - in Under 10 Minutes
8:25
8:25
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
8:25In this episode, guest host Zach Fernebok interviews Ana Kyper, Senior Director of Product Management, GME Prep and Readiness. In just under 10 minutes, Ana will walk you through the 6-week GMAT Focus™ Exam prep journey - including the practice needed, your time commitment, and tips to maximize your GMAT Focus exam success. Episode resources: Offic…
…
continue reading
To kickoff Season 3, we are joined by our very own CEO, Joy Jones, as she navigates us through the decision behind the new GMAT Focus Edition and shares with us her thoughts on the future of education. She talks about her personal education story, from her own experience studying for the GMAT and her career-defining experience at Stanford Graduate …
…
continue reading
We're back for a new season! Join us on June 1st, bi-weekly, for Season 3 of Inside the GMAT, your official source on all things GMAT and related products. We'll cover all things GMAT Focus, from regular updates and how to prepare to expert opinions on the GMAT's evolution. We'll also cover relevant, trending topics in education across the globe wi…
…
continue reading

1
Navigating The Business School Admissions Process
23:17
23:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
23:17We are joining by Rodrigo Malta, Managing Director from the University of Texas at Austin McCombs School of Business, to discuss the big questions that surround the b-school admissions process. Listen for tips on how to strengthen your application and learn the one question you should ask yourself before going to business school. Listen now!…
…
continue reading
Are you ready to start your business graduate program, but need to level up your core business knowledge before you enter the classroom? Business Fundamentals is for you! In this episode, we invite Ana Kyper and Brian Carlidge to discuss what Business Fundamentals is and how the courses offered can help you succeed in your business school program. …
…
continue reading

1
REPLAY: 6 Steps to Requesting a Testing Accommodation
20:32
20:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
20:32Inside the GMAT Replay: Did you know that GMAC offers accommodations for test-takers with disabilities? In this episode, Kailin Burns invites Jason Northup, the Senior Manager for Test Accommodations at GMAC to discuss how you can apply for testing accommodations on your GMAT or Executive Assessment, what testing accommodations GMAC offers, and opt…
…
continue reading
We are back from a break! In this episode, we invited Stacey Koprince of Manhattan Prep to discuss retaking the GMAT exam. We discuss how schools retakes, does retaking the GMAT look bad, and most importantly, how to know when you should retake the GMAT. Stacey gives you all of the insights of retaking the GMAT so you can create a plan to raise you…
…
continue reading

1
SPECIAL EPISODE: Part 3: MBA Interview Strategy With LBS & INSEAD
31:56
31:56
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
31:56MBA interviews can be the most nerve-wracking part of your whole application. But there’s plenty you can do to prepare, and put your best foot forward. In the third and final episode of this three-part mini-series, BusinessBecause writer Bethany Garner asks admissions directors from two top programs to offer up tips and tricks for making your inter…
…
continue reading

1
SPECIAL EPISODE: Part 2: Acing Your MBA Essays With HKUST
20:19
20:19
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
20:19Once you’re ready to apply for an MBA, how do you make your application stand out? In the second episode of this three-part mini-series, BusinessBecause writer Bethany Garner asks April Leung, head of MBA admissions at HKUST, to share her insights on what makes a stand-out written application From creating a winning resume to avoiding common pitfal…
…
continue reading

1
SPECIAL EPISODE: Part 1: What Makes A Strong MBA Candidate?
29:16
29:16
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:16What makes a strong MBA candidate? In the first episode of this three-part mini-series, BusinessBecause writer Bethany Garner speaks with Eric Askins—Executive Director of Admissions for the full-time MBA program at the University of California, Berkeley, Haas School of Business—to find out. Eric will take you through everything an MBA admissions t…
…
continue reading
Did you know that you can prepare for the Executive Assessment in just 4 weeks? Sarabeth Dobbs, the Product Development Manager for Assessments joins the show to tell you about the new 4-week study planner for the Executive Assessment. Sarabeth lets you know what to expect, how to prep, and gives some advice about the Executive Assessment. Download…
…
continue reading
On our last episode, we had a great panel of admissions professionals from three business schools tell you how they use the GMAT exam in the admissions process. We discussed the advantages of taking the GMAT exam even as some programs may be test-optional this year. This week, we continue that conversation, this time gaining the perspectives of a p…
…
continue reading

1
The Benefits of Taking the GMAT Exam in a Test Optional World
37:51
37:51
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
37:51Why should you take the GMAT exam when it is not required for admission to business school? This week our guests Imran Kanga from Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto, Bruce Delmonico from Yale School of Management, and Jessica Krom from Jones Graduate School of Business at Rice University all join the show to explain how the GM…
…
continue reading
Ana Kyper, the Senior Director of GME Prep and Readiness, joins the show to discuss the GMAT's verbal reasoning section. Ana breaks down each question type and gives you tips on approaching and preparing for sentence correction, critical reasoning, and reading comprehension. Get started with verbal reasoning practice with the GMAT Official Practice…
…
continue reading

1
REPLAY: Exploring GMAT Advanced Questions
20:19
20:19
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
20:19Enjoy this replay of our GMAT Advanced Questions episode. Are you ready to take your GMAT Exam prep to the next level? Are you looking for harder questions as you prep for the GMAT? Learn about the GMAT Official Advanced Prep. Join Pam Brown the Director of Product Management of the Assessments at GMAC as she discusses what Advanced Prep is, who ca…
…
continue reading

1
Help Business Schools Discover You with GMASS
17:05
17:05
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:05Business schools are looking for the best candidate for their program: You. In this episode, Christa Johnson-Perkins the Product Director, Marketing Solutions at GMAC Connect joins the show to tell you about the Graduate Management Admission Search Service, better known as GMASS. Learn how you can utilize this free service, and enroll to have schoo…
…
continue reading
Do you want to connect at a personal level with business school representatives and staff members that would provide you access and interaction with the actual decision-makers in the business school admission process? You can by being a part of the MBA Tour. Danielle Boland the Managing Director of The MBA Tour, to tell you how the MBA Tour works, …
…
continue reading

1
Everything You Wanted to Know About the GMAT IR Section
19:41
19:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
19:41This week we discuss preparing for the Integrated Reasoning (IR) section of the GMAT exam. Chris D'Ambrosio the Product Manager for Assessments at GMAC joins the show to discuss tips and tricks and how you can make a study plan to prepare for the IR section. Chris discusses the structure, the types of questions, and what the IR is.…
…
continue reading
This week Ana Kyper, Senior Director of GMAT prep joins the show to discuss a new assessment called Soft Skills. GMAC’s Soft Skills Assessment is an online assessment that provides you the opportunity to enhance your application to a graduate management program. Ana discusses what the Soft Skills Assessment measures, and how you can take it.…
…
continue reading
Prep is a very important part of the GMAT exam, and did you know that over 80% of test-takers who scored over a 700 on their GMAT exam used GMAT Official prep products in their GMAT preparation plan? To help you get a little more insight on prep for your GMAT exam, Shaifali Gupta the Product Management Senior Manager for the GMAT Prep is here to di…
…
continue reading
The Executive Assessment is a 90 minute, 40 question assessment that evaluates your business school readiness. But how do you prep for it? Manish Dharia, Director of Product Management at GMAC returns to the show to discuss prep options, how to prepare, and what to expect on your assessment day. Check out the Free Executive Assessment Questions Sam…
…
continue reading
GMAT exam prep is essential to your success on the exam. But did you know you can tailor your prep to match your personal study style and exam score goals? Ana Kyper, Senior Director of GMAT prep joins the show to discuss what GMAT prep options candidates have, what resources are available, and how you can tailor your prep to accomplish your goals.…
…
continue reading
Getting an MBA is not a one-size-fits-all degree. You can tailor your MBA to fit your needs, your preferences, and your goals. Part-time, full-time, online, as well as focusing on a particular area of study, are all topics we discuss with our guest Nita Swinsick, the Assistant Dean, Recruitment and Admissions, Executive and Specialized Degree Progr…
…
continue reading