- What is Computer Based Testing (CBT)?
- What computer skills are needed to take tests via CBT?
- Does it take more time to complete the computerized test as compared to the paper version?
- Is some support available for differently abled test takers?
- What are the advantages of a CBT over paper-and-pencil (p & p) test?
- How can a test taker contact the NMAT by GMAC?
What is Computer Based Testing (CBT)?
CBT is a method of administering tests at a pre-determined testing location in which the responses are electronically recorded, assessed or both.What computer skills are needed to take tests via CBT?
The user interface is designed to minimize reliance on computer skills. Test takers do not need to have prior computer experience to use CBT. At the beginning of the test, each test taker will receive a brief introductory tutorial that will instruct him/her on how to use the computer to answer questions and review responses. No typing skills are needed. The test taker will use the computer mouse to highlight and confirm the response selected as each question appears on the screen. An invigilator will always be available to answer questions regarding navigation throughout the duration of the test. A demo test is also offered free on the website for test takers to acclimatize themselves before the test.Does it take more time to complete the computerized test as compared to the paper version?
Experience with computerized testing reveals that it usually takes less time to complete the test. There are no test booklets and answer sheets to manage and no need to transfer answers manually to an answer sheet with CBT.Is some support available for differently abled test takers?
Our test delivery partners are fully committed to comply with the Persons with Disability (Equal Opportunities, Protection of Rights and Full Participation) Act, 1995 for test takers with documented proof of impairments.
Exam at the Test Centre in India: Test takers who wish to request for special assistance must fill the details in the online application while registering. The test takers must scan their Disability Certificate and upload to the registration application in order to be approved for necessary accommodation. Each application will be reviewed on a case-to-case basis. MeritTrac will contact the candidate to schedule his/her test at their preferred test centre, date and time with the approved accommodation and will ensure proper assistance is provided to them.
Online Proctored Exam at Home: Test takers who wish to request for special assistance must fill the details in the online application while registering. The test takers must scan their Disability Certificate and upload to the registration application in order to be approved for necessary accommodation. Each application will be reviewed on a case-to-case basis. After the application has been approved test takers will be allowed to book exam through the candidate dashboard.
What are the advantages of a CBT over paper-and-pencil (p & p) test?
Experience with computerized testing reveals that it usually takes less time to complete the test. There are no test booklets and answer sheets to manage and no need to transfer answers manually to an answer sheet with CBT.
- Time saving – Test takers generally have to report at a p & p test centre much ahead of the scheduled time for the test, start at the same time and take mandatory breaks and lunches to prevent test takers moving in and out of the testing room at different times. In a CBT environment, conditions are much more flexible. Test takers can report up to half an hour prior to the test time and choose to take breaks as per their convenience.
- Flexibility in scheduling – A p & p test is offered at a limited number of test locations on limited test dates, therefore test takers may have to incur high travel costs and forgo opportunities as a result of the limited access to the test event. The greater frequency of administration dates and venues provides test takers with increased access and scheduling flexibility, thus resulting in savings for them.
- Test security – Test security is enhanced due to controls built into the delivery systems that limit questions to be seen by the test taker (test taker can only see one question at a time) and limit test access to authorized individuals only.
- Differently abled test takers – Most CBT interfaces are easy to use and they offer a standard testing environment that can be effectively adapted for test takers with special needs.
- User interface – User Interface is designed to minimize reliance on computer skills. Test takers are not required to have prior computer experience to use CBT. At the beginning of the test, each test taker receives a brief introductory tutorial that instructs him or her on how to use the computer to answer the questions and review responses. No typing skills are required. As each question appears on the screen, the test taker uses the computer mouse to highlight and confirm the response selected. An invigilator is always available to answer questions regarding navigating throughout the duration of the test.
- Format – the NMAT by GMAC™ exam is a test which gives each candidate a personalized test, one question at a time, based on responses to previous questions. Due to the nature of the exam, candidates will not be able to review or change answers to preceding questions.
- On-site assistance – Adequate on-site support is provided in the event that test takers need assistance during the testing session.