The Executive Assessment (EA) is a trusted predictor of business school readiness that EMBA and MBA programs utilize for admissions to their programs. Administered by the General Management Admissions Council (GMAC), it measures higher-order reasoning, critical thinking, analysis, and problem-solving skills. It is designed for more experienced professionals and is used to determine whether a candidate has a base level skill set necessary for success in an EMBA degree program. For more experienced candidates, their accomplishments drive their candidacy and so an exemplary score is not necessary. This is in contrast to the GMAT, where the goal is often as an exceptional score as possible.. For most top tier EMBA programs, aiming for a 155 or above will check the box for an admissions committee.
What Is the Executive Assessment Exam?
The EA is a multiple-choice, computer-adaptive test (CAT). This means that the difficulty of later questions is determined by your performance on earlier questions. On the EA your performance on the first half of each section will inform the exam on how to adapt to your performance by modulating the complexity of questions on the latter half of each section. If you answer most of the first section’s questions correctly, the following block of questions becomes more challenging. This adaptive nature ensures an accurate assessment of your skills across various domains in a relatively short amount of time over very few (12-14) questions.
Why Take the Executive Assessment Exam?
While most people take the EA to gain admission to top EMBA and MBA programs, its value goes beyond a tool for admissions. As it evaluates key competencies such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and data analysis, preparing for the EA provides an upskilling opportunity to enhance creative problem-solving skills and develop additional cognitive competencies.
GMAT vs EA: Which One Should You Take
The GMAT and EA are intended to serve different audiences. The EA is particularly suited for busy professionals who need a concise, flexible exam that values their real-world experience. On the other hand, the GMAT is generally for MBA and business oriented graduate candidates applying to a wider range of graduate business programs like Master’s of Finance or Master’s of Management. Here’s a comparison:
| Feature | GMAT | Executive Assessment |
| Total Time | 2 hours, 15 minutes | 90 minutes |
| Number of Sections | 3 | 3 |
| Score Range | 205-805 | 100-200 |
| Adaptive Nature | Question Adaptive | Sub-Section Adaptive |
| Score Validity | 5 years | 5 years |
| Cost | $275 | $350 |
| Intended Programs | Broad range: MBA, Master’s in Finance, Master’s in Management etc. | Primarily EMBA programs for experienced professionals |
| Ideal for | Candidates seeking a rigorous comprehensive test with broad applicability across business graduate programs | Experienced professionals needing a flexible, efficient test focused on core business skills |
For a more detailed comparison, check out GMAT vs EA.
Overview of the Executive Assessment Exam
The EA is tailored for professionals who have more than seven years of work experience. The total score ranges from 100 to 200, though practically, the scores possible to achieve range from 126-174, with most scores in the 140-160 range. The entire exam takes 90 minutes to complete in three 30 minute sections, and there are no breaks during this time. The three sections are equally weighted in calculating your overall score. Below, find a breakdown of all three EA sections:
Integrated Reasoning
The Integrated Reasoning (IR) section measures your ability to interpret data from multiple sources and formats. It consists of:
- Problems: 12, each with 2-3 questions
- Time: 30 minutes
- Scoring: 0 to 20
There are four type of problems on the exam. Click the links to learn more about the specific problem sub-types:
- Multi-Source Reasoning
- Graphic Interpretation
- Two-Part Analysis
- Table Analysis
Quantitative Section
The Quantitative section assesses your ability to analyze data and solve quantitative problems using reasoning skills. This section includes:
- Data Sufficiency
- Problem-Solving
- Format: 14 questions
- Time: 30 minutes
- Scoring: 0 to 20
Verbal Reasoning
The Verbal Reasoning section measures your ability to read, evaluate, and edit written material in standard English. It consists of:
- Reading Comprehension
- Critical Reasoning
- Sentence Correction
- Format: 14 questions
- Time: 30 minutes
- Scoring: 0 to 20
How Is the Executive Assessment Scored?
The EA scoring scale goes from 100 to 200, but not all scores are utilized. Each section has a score ranging from 0 to 20, with most scores ranging from 7-13. Your overall score is computed from these sectional scores (using a proprietary scoring algorithm), and each section is equally weighted within the algorithm. You receive your unofficial score immediately after the test, and the official score is generally available within 24 hours. Take a deep dive into the EA scoring in this article.
Executive Assessment Score Calculator
The Executive Assessment (EA) uses an adaptive scoring system designed to assess both the difficulty and number of questions you answer correctly. Each section of the EA (Integrated Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Verbal Reasoning) contributes equally to your overall score, which ranges from 100 to 200. The scoring algorithm takes into account:
- Question Difficulty: More challenging questions carry more weight. Answering these questions correctly boosts your score more than answering easier questions.
- Accuracy: While the difficulty of the questions is essential, your accuracy—getting more questions right—still plays a fundamental role in determining your final score.
- Adaptive Sections: The EA is structured so that each section adapts to your performance. The first part of a section helps gauge your skill level, and the latter part adjusts to challenge you further. Consistent accuracy across both parts typically results in a higher score.
Executive Assessment Percentiles
Your score on the Executive Assessment (EA) reflects your performance compared to other test takers and can provide insight into your competitiveness for top EMBA programs.
- 150: 50th Percentile – A score of 150 is an average score, placing you at the median among EA test takers.
- 155: Target Goal – Most top EMBA programs recommend aiming for a score of 155 or higher, as this generally satisfies admissions requirements and demonstrates a strong skill level.
- 160: 75th Percentile – Scoring 160 or above puts you in the top 25% of EA test takers, showcasing above-average ability and readiness.
- 168: 90th Percentile – A score of 168 or higher places you in the 90th percentile, distinguishing you as a high achiever and a strong candidate for competitive EMBA programs.
- 170+: 99th Percentile – Scoring above 170 typically ranks you in the top 1% of test takers, signaling exceptional proficiency and significantly enhancing your application to elite programs.
How to Prepare for the EA Test: Tips and Tricks
The Executive Assessment (EA) is designed not just to measure what you know but to evaluate how you think. Effective preparation goes beyond traditional test strategies, emphasizing critical thinking, efficient problem-solving, and a flexible approach. Here’s a guide to help you prepare with depth, focus, and adaptability.
Identify Strengths, Weaknesses, and Thinking Patterns
Begin with a diagnostic set of problems to understand both what you know and how you approach problems. Identify areas where rigid methods or default habits may limit you. Look beyond surface-level strengths and weaknesses to focus on refining problem-solving approaches that drive efficiency and clarity in thinking.
Unlearn Default Solving Mechanisms
The EA rewards agile, adaptive thinking—not rigid formulas. Challenge yourself to see beyond standard approaches, even if you’ve arrived at the correct answer. If you’re locked in calculations, step back: it’s a signal to search for a more streamlined path. Developing the skill to recognize these “test signals” will allow you to pivot quickly, bypassing complexity for insight.
Design an Adaptive Study Plan
Create a study plan that not only covers each section but adapts as you progress. Allocate time to practice recognizing patterns in problems, not just solving them. Each session should build skill layers, moving from foundational understanding to more flexible, real-world application.
Use Accurate Prep Resources
Rely on official prep materials from mba.com or reputable providers like Apex Tutoring. High-quality practice questions reflect the actual exam’s difficulty and format, and many problems out there fall short. While they may appear the same they’re often not representative of the subtleties the real EA bakes into each problem.
Introduce Practice Exams Later in Prep
Avoid practice exams too early; they can reinforce bad solving habits and enhance stress. These don’t align with the EA’s unique demands. Focus initially on building robust, efficient problem-solving skills. As you approach readiness, use full-length exams to refine timing, mental stamina, and adaptive strategies, so you’re primed to perform optimally under real test conditions.
Study with a Tutor for a Tailored Approach
The EA demands more than generic prep; consider one-on-one tutoring to transform your approach, especially if you’re short on time or well removed from your academic career. Our EA tutors are experts in cognitive empathy—they work with you to understand your unique thought process, helping you replace ineffective methods with strategies optimized for EA success. This personalized approach ensures every minute of prep is purposeful.
Do You Need Help with the Executive Assessment Test?
The Executive Assessment requires more than just knowledge; it demands strategic thinking and adaptive problem-solving. Apex’s one-on-one tutoring offers a personalized, high-impact approach that goes beyond standard test prep. Our expert tutors focus on understanding how you think, helping you build critical thinking and decision-making skills that will serve you well beyond the EA.
With Apex, you’re not just working toward a score—you’re transforming your approach to complex challenges, developing skills that will stay with you and remain relevant throughout your career. Schedule a free consultation today to see how we can help you excel on the EA and in the professional opportunities ahead.
Executive Assessment: Frequently Asked Questions
What is on the Executive Assessment test?
The EA includes Integrated Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Verbal Reasoning sections. It measures analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
Is the Executive Assessment exam hard?
The difficulty of the EA varies depending on individual strengths and weaknesses. It is generally considered easier than the GMAT due to its focus on practical skills and real-world experience.
Is the Executive Assessment easier than the GRE?
The EA is often viewed as more manageable for experienced professionals compared to the GRE, as it focuses on business-related skills rather than a broad range of academic competencies.
How hard is it to get 150 on the Executive Assessment?
A score of 150 places you in the 50th percentile. Achieving this score requires a solid understanding of the exam sections and consistent preparation.
Should I take the exam online or at a test center?
The EA is available online and at Pearson VUE test centers. Choose the option that provides the most comfortable environment for you.
How much does the EA cost?
The EA costs $350, which includes sending your scores to up to five schools. Additional fees apply for rescheduling or cancellations.
What should I do if I fall sick on the exam day?
If you fall ill on the exam day, you can reschedule. Rescheduling 24-48 hours in advance incurs a $75 fee. Rescheduling more than 48 hours before the appointment is free.
What can I bring with me to the test center?
You can bring EA-approved identification, your confirmation letter, and any pre-approved comfort items. Personal belongings like phones and bags must be stored in provided lockers.
What can I expect at the test center?
Test centers provide a quiet environment with individual testing stations. You’ll need to check in with your identification and confirmation letter before starting the exam.