You've probably heard about the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) essays on the GMAT. They're nothing to fear, but you should know that the way they are graded is different from what you're used to.

The best way to prepare for the GMAT essay is to write one and have it graded by an expert, using the same guidelines that are used for the real GMAT. GMAT Essay LiveGradersm helps you to do just that.

LiveGrader sm is a tool that we've developed to help you prepare for the GMAT. All Princeton Review classroom, online, and tutoring students can submit their GMAT essays which will then be graded by one of our GMAT experts. Not only will our expert grader score your GMAT essays, but he or she will also provide personalized feedback that will help you maximize your score on the AWA portion of the GMAT.

Frequently Asked Questions about GMAT Essay LiveGradersm

How is my GMAT essay graded?

After you submit your GMAT essay, one of our expert graders will score it using the same guidelines that are used for the GMAT. Essays will be scored holistically, which means that your GMAT essay will be judged as a whole, not just on the basis of particular traits.

Who will grade my GMAT essay?

A trained and certified Princeton Review expert grader will grade your GMAT essay. Our experienced graders know what makes a strong GMAT essay; many have graded thousands of essays.

Do I have to write about a specific topic for my GMAT essay?

Yes. The essay "prompts" ask you to write on specific topics; one will ask you to analyze an argument, the other will ask you to analyze an issue. Your GMAT essay must address the issues presented in the prompts. GMAT essays written on any other topic will receive a score of zero.

How are the GMAT essays different from the essays I wrote in school?

Unlike many essays you write in school, you'll only have 30 minutes, and you won't be able to use reference materials. Graders won't be expecting perfection; they will be judging your GMAT essay for what it is: a first draft. Furthermore, the person grading your GMAT essay will only spend 2–3 minutes evaluating your writing.

When I use LiveGradersm, will I receive just a score, or will I get comments too?

Your GMAT essay will be given a score ranging from 0–6. LiveGrader will also provide you with personalized feedback. Your report will tell you what worked well on your GMAT essay and how you can improve it to earn a higher score on the real GMAT AWA.

How do I get my score?

We will e–mail your score and personalized feedback within 3–5 days after you submit your GMAT essay. You can also access your score on the website, once it has been posted.

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