EDT: The Executive MBA Diagnostic Test
The Executive MBA Diagnostic Tool (EDT) measures the basic mathematical and analytical skills you will need to successfully work with the course material of the Omnium program.
The test has been designed by test development specialists at the University of Toronto with the support of the Rotman Executive MBA faculty. Its purpose is to ensure that candidates have a smooth transition into the program. Soon after writing the EDT, you will receive a feedback form that will help you identify and strengthen any areas of weakness before you begin your studies.
The EDT does not presuppose any specific knowledge of business or other content areas, nor does it measure achievement in any particular subject areas. The test does not measure subjective factors important to academic and career success, such as motivation, creativity, interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence, study skills, or overall success on the job. The focus of the EDT is on your quantitative and logical reasoning skills. Candidates should note that the EDT is entirely in English.
What we are looking for
We will test basic arithmetic and algebraic understanding, graphical data interpretation, and logical reasoning. In addition, we will ask you to write a short memorandum as part of the test to give us an impression of your English language skills. We will ask you to show us the train of thought and logic by which you derived the answer. This will help us provide meaningful feedback.
Who needs to write the test?
All candidates for the Omnium program will be required to pass the EDT, unless they have already written a Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) and achieved a minimum score of 500 within five years of their application to the Omnium program.
All candidates without an undergraduate degree must write the GMAT and achieve a minimum score of 500. Candidates who have already taken the GMAT and achieved the minimum 500 score are exempt, provided that their test date falls within five years of their application to the Omnium Program.
What is the format of the EDT?
The EDT has three major sections: Algebra and Arithmetic, Graphical Analysis, and Logical Reasoning. All sections require you to show your work — there are no multiple-choice questions. The logical reasoning section tests your ability to problem solve, not necessarily with mathematical derivations and formulas, but with common sense and intuition. This section provides the test-taker with information and asks a series of questions. The passages that are given can vary immensely in content; so it is not knowledge of the material that is being tested, but, rather, the candidate’s ability to put the information together, extract relevant facts, and arrive at a conclusion.
Preparation
A workbook will be provided in advance. The workbook will contain sample questions and solutions to give you a quick review of your skill level. Working through the sample questions will help you prepare for the test. Although the sample questions represent the general nature of the test, it is possible that a type of question not illustrated may appear in the test or that material illustrated may not appear.
How much time you should allow for preparation between getting the sample workbook and taking the test will depend on a number of factors, including how long you have been out of a formal testing environment or school and your comfort level with the material covered by the sample questions.
Taking the EDT
Tests will be scheduled at the Rotman School of Management or the University of St. Gallen, as required. Special arrangements will be made at international testing centres for those candidates who cannot write in Toronto or St. Gallen.
Please arrive 30 minutes early for your test and bring photo ID for verification. There is no need for you to bring additional materials. We will provide paper, pencil, and a calculator. Please allow three hours for the test itself. You may repeat the test if required.
Grading
The EDT is scored as a typical university exam is. In assessing your performance, we will look for more than a simple correct answer. Significant consideration will be given to the thinking that led you to your answer and to the clarity and completeness with which you demonstrate that thinking. Uniquely, the EDT grades not just final answers but your basic skills, thought processes, and problem-solving capacities.
The EDT is graded by the faculty at Rotman, who will provide feedback to the candidates on their performance. The faculty will provide advice on areas of strength and weakness to help students fully prepare for the course work that lies ahead.
Candidates will be assigned a score out of 100 for each of the three sections; 80 is a pass. The written memorandum is scored on the basis of its overall quality, with emphasis on organization, content, grammar, coherence, and fluency.
Your results
Your test scores and feedback will be provided via e-mail. Successful test scores will also be used for admissions purposes and kept on file with your application.
At the Rotman School, we review all requirements for admission, including your EDT score, your academic history, your work history, the results of your interview, and your references.
Registration
To register for the test at Rotman, please phone us at +1 416 978 4441 or e-mail at execed@rotman.utoronto.ca, or at the University of St. Gallen in St. Gallen, Switzerland, please contact Dr. Wolfgang Jenewein at +41 71 224 27 01 or via e-mail wolfgang.jenewein@unisg.ch.
Please contact us at least two business days before you wish to write the test. Upon confirmation of registration, you will be notified of the time, date, and location of your test. Please allow three hours to complete it. A staff member will be assigned to invigilate. If you decide to reschedule your test appointment, please contact our office no later than 24 hours before your scheduled appointment.
Fees
The fee to take the test for candidates is covered in your application fee.
