General Aptitude Questions (GAT)

The Graduate Aptitude Test for Master’s and Doctoral students is designed to assess the aptitude and readiness of candidates for advanced graduate study. The test evaluates key skills across various domains, including analytical, quantitative, verbal, and subject-specific knowledge. It is structured to be completed within 3 to 4 hours and consists of multiple sections tailored to measure different competencies.
The Quantitative Reasoning section examines mathematical skills, focusing on problem-solving, data analysis, and interpretation across topics such as algebra, geometry, statistics, and probability. The Verbal Reasoning section evaluates comprehension, critical reading, and vocabulary skills, featuring tasks like reading comprehension, text completion, sentence equivalence, and critical reasoning.
In addition to these sections, the Analytical Writing portion measures critical thinking and writing abilities through tasks that require candidates to present arguments on given topics and critique existing arguments. The Subject-Specific Section is exclusively for Doctoral candidates and assesses knowledge in the candidate’s intended field of study. This section varies by discipline, covering areas such as literary analysis in the humanities, experimental design in the sciences, research methods in the social sciences, and technical problem-solving in engineering.
The test employs a comprehensive scoring system, including scaled scores for the quantitative and verbal sections, a holistic score for analytical writing, and a discipline-specific score for the subject-specific section. Candidates are encouraged to prepare thoroughly using recommended textbooks, practice tests, and online resources. The test serves as a crucial predictor of success in graduate programs, providing valuable insights into a candidate’s readiness for the rigors of advanced study.