The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a critical step for individuals aspiring to pursue a graduate business degree, such as an MBA. As one of the most widely recognized and respected standardized tests in the business education realm, the GMAT plays a significant role in the admissions process for top-tier business schools worldwide.
Get ready to conquer the GMAT with this all-in-one guide—covering everything from what the test is and how it works to registration, pattern, scoring, and key strategies. Whether you’re just starting out or aiming to sharpen your edge, we’ve got you covered.
What is the purpose of the GMAT?
The purpose of the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is to assess the readiness of individuals who are seeking admission into graduate management programs, particularly MBA (Master of Business Administration) programs.
The GMAT is used by many business schools and institutions around the world as part of their admissions process. It provides a standardized measure of an applicant’s aptitude in key areas considered essential for business education. The test helps admissions committees assess candidates’ abilities to think critically, reason logically, analyze and interpret data, solve problems, and communicate effectively.
GMAT Eligibility
The GMAT eligibility criteria are as follows:
- Minimum Age: 18 years old.
- Parental Consent: If the candidate is between 13 and 17 years old, they should have permission in writing (NOC) from their parents or legal guardian.
- Language Proficiency: Ability to read and understand English is essential, as the GMAT is administered in English.
- Disability Accommodations: Available for candidates with documented disabilities. Requests can be made during the registration process.
GMAT Format and Syllabus
The GMAT is a 2-hour and 15-minute exam made up of three key sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Data Insights—each lasting 45 minutes.
Here’s a brief overview of each section:
| Section | Number of Questions | Time Allocated |
|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Reasoning | 21 | 45 minutes |
| Verbal Reasoning | 23 | 45 minutes |
| Data Insights | 20 | 45 minutes |
| Total | 64 | 2 hours 15 minutes (plus an optional 10-minute break) |
Quantitative Reasoning (QR)
- Duration: 45 minutes
- Format: 21 questions
- Description: The Quantitative Reasoning section evaluates your ability to analyze and interpret quantitative problems using basic math and reasoning skills. It does not require advanced math knowledge, but a solid understanding of arithmetic, algebra, and word problems is essential.
- Question Types:
- Problem Solving – Apply logic and math skills to solve quantitative problems.
Verbal Reasoning (VR)
- Duration: 45 minutes
- Format: 23 questions
- Description: The Verbal Reasoning section tests your ability to understand written material, analyze arguments, and draw logical conclusions.
- Question Types:
- Critical Reasoning – Analyze arguments and identify underlying assumptions or flaws.
- Reading Comprehension – Read passages and answer questions that test your understanding and interpretation.
Data Insights(DI)
- Duration: 45 minutes
- Format: 20 questions
- Description: The Data Insights section measures your ability to interpret and analyze data presented in different formats. It reflects the growing importance of data literacy in business decision-making and carries equal weight in your overall GMAT score. An on-screen calculator is available for this section.
- Question Types:
- Data Sufficiency – Assess if the data provided is adequate to solve a problem.
- Multi-Source Reasoning – Analyze and synthesize information from various sources like text, tables, and graphs.
- Graphics Interpretation – Interpret data from visuals such as charts and graphs.
- Two-Part Analysis – Solve complex problems involving two related components.
The GMAT is a computer-adaptive test (CAT), which means the difficulty level of the questions adapts based on the test taker’s performance. The test begins with medium-level questions, and subsequent questions become easier or more challenging based on correct or incorrect responses.
Duration of the GMAT
- Total Duration: 2 hours and 15 minutes
- Optional Break: One 10-minute break.
- Sections: Three main sections (Verbal, Quantitative, Data Insights), each lasting 45 minutes
Test takers have the option to take a short break between sections, but it’s not mandatory. You can skip the break and move directly to the next section if you prefer.
You can also consider taking the GRE for business school admissions. Check out this article to help you decide which test suits you best: GMAT vs. GRE.
GMAT Section Order
In GMAT, you can choose the order in which you take the three sections: Quantitative Reasoning (Quant), Verbal Reasoning (Verbal), and Data Insights (DI). There are 18 different section order combinations, with the option of one 10-minute break that can be taken after the first or second section—or skipped entirely.
📋 GMAT Exam Section Order Options
| Option | Verbal–First Order | Quant–First Order | DI–First Order |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1, 2, 3 (No Break) | Verbal → DI → Quant | Quant → Verbal → DI | DI → Verbal → Quant |
| 4, 5, 6 (Break after Section 1) | Verbal → Break → DI → Quant | Quant → Break → Verbal → DI | DI → Break → Quant → DI |
| 7, 8, 9 (Break after Section 2) | Verbal → DI → Break → Quant | Quant → Verbal → Break → DI | DI → Verbal → Break → Quant |
| 10, 11, 12 (No Break) | Verbal → Quant → DI | Quant → DI → Verbal | DI → Quant → Verbal |
| 13, 14, 15 (Break after Section 1) | Verbal → Break → Quant → DI | Quant → Break → DI → Verbal | DI → Break → Quant → Verbal |
| 16, 17, 18 (Break after Section 2) | Verbal → Quant → Break → DI | Quant → DI → Break → Verbal | DI → Quant → Break → Verbal |
You can choose any section order you want in the GMAT Focus Edition Exam. Know more in this article on GMAT Focus Edition.
How GMAT score is calculated?
The GMAT exam consists of three key sections, each contributing to your total score. Your performance in these sections will result in scaled scores that determine your final GMAT score. Here’s a breakdown of how each section works:
| Section | Scaled Score Range | Number of Questions | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Reasoning | 60–90 | 21 | 45 minutes |
| Verbal Reasoning | 60–90 | 23 | 45 minutes |
| Data Insights | 60–90 | 20 | 45 minutes |
| Total GMAT Score | 205–805 | 64 | 2 hours 15 minutes |
What is a Scaled Score on the GMAT?
A scaled score is a transformation of your raw score (the number of correct answers) into a standardized range. This ensures fairness, accounting for differences in difficulty between test forms. Here’s how it works:
Raw Score vs. Scaled Score
- Raw Score: The total number of questions you answer correctly.
- Scaled Score: Adjusted based on the difficulty of the questions you answer. This allows all test-takers to be compared on a consistent scale, regardless of which test version they take.
Why Use Scaled Scores?
- Fair Comparison: Scaled scores ensure all test-takers are evaluated on the same scale, even if the test forms vary in difficulty.
- Consistency: A score of 75 in any section reflects the same proficiency, no matter the specific version of the exam you take.
How Your Total GMAT Score is Calculated
Your total GMAT score (ranging from 205 to 805) is a combination of your scaled scores from the Quantitative, Verbal, and Data Insights sections. Here’s how it works:
- Equal Weighting: Each section’s scaled score (60–90) has an equal impact on your final score.
- Balanced Performance: Scoring well in all sections tends to result in a higher total score. For example, a high score in one section paired with a low score in another may not yield as strong a total score.
Example:
- Quantitative: 82
- Verbal: 78
- Data Insights: 80
- Your total score might be 605.
However, if one section is significantly lower, your total score could be negatively affected—even if you excel in other areas.
The Adaptive Testing Algorithm
The GMAT is computer-adaptive, meaning the difficulty of questions adjusts based on your performance. Here’s how this works:
How It Adapts:
- Starting Point: You begin with a question of medium difficulty.
- Correct Answer: If you answer correctly, the next question will be more difficult, testing your upper limits.
- Incorrect Answer: If you answer incorrectly, the next question will be easier, helping the test adjust to your skill level.
Impact on Scaled Scores:
- Challenge Level: Correctly answering harder questions boosts your scaled score, emphasizing not just accuracy but also your ability to tackle more challenging material.
GMAT Score : Key Takeaways
- Each section is scored from 60 to 90, adjusted for difficulty.
- Total score ranges from 205 to 805, based on a combination of all three section scores.
- Computer-adaptive testing means your accuracy and ability to handle harder questions both matter.
- Strategic review options help you refine answers and avoid easy mistakes.
GMAT Percentile : How is it Calculated?
GMAT Scores also include a Percentile Ranking. This number indicates the percentage of test-takers that you performed better than. While your score will not change, the Percentile Ranking may as GMAT Percentiles are recalculated every summer using exam data from the prior three years.
Now, let’s compare these scores with the corresponding percentiles.
Total GMAT Score
GMAT Verbal percentile ranking
GMAT Quant percentile ranking
GMAT Data Insights percentile ranking
GMAT Score Validity
The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) score validity refers to the duration for which GMAT scores are considered valid and can be used for admission purposes. Here are the details regarding the GMAT score validity:
GMAT scores are typically valid for a period of 5 years. This means that business schools and institutions will accept GMAT scores that are no more than 5 years old at the time of application. After the 5-year period, the scores expire and are no longer considered valid for admissions purposes.
It’s important to note that the score validity period starts from the date the test taker takes the GMAT, not from the date of application to business schools. So, if you took the GMAT in June 2023, for example, your scores would be valid for applications until June 2028.
When can you take the GMAT?
The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is available for test takers year-round at home or at a test center. The specific dates and times for GMAT exam appointments can vary depending on the location and availability of testing slots if you wish to take the GMAT at a test center.
Here are some important points to know about scheduling the GMAT:
- Test Center Availability: GMAT is administered at authorized test centers worldwide. Test takers need to find a test center that is convenient for them and offers available test dates.
- At-Home GMAT Online: GMAT Online is available in most locations worldwide, allowing test takers to access the test remotely without needing to visit a physical test center. This test can be take 24X7
- Availability of Dates and Times: Test dates and times are typically offered on a first-come, first-served basis. It’s advisable to schedule the GMAT well in advance to secure your preferred date and time slot.
GMAT Registration
Here are the steps on how to register for the GMAT for test center exam and at-home GMAT Online:
Step 1: Create an mba.com account.
You can create an account on the GMAT website. You will need to provide some basic information, such as your name, email address, and date of birth.
Step 2: Select your exam delivery method.
You can choose to take the GMAT at a test center or at home through the GMAT Online. If you choose to take the test at a test center, you will need to select a testing center and a date and time for your exam. If you choose to take the GMAT Online, you will need to select a date and time for your exam.
Step 3: Pay the registration fee
The registration fee for the GMAT is US $275 for the test center exam and US $300 for the GMAT Online. You can pay the registration fee with a credit card, debit card, or cheque.
Step 4: Verify your profile
Once you have paid the registration fee, you will need to verify your profile. This includes providing your passport information and a recent photograph.
Step 5: Download the GMAT software
If you are taking the GMAT Online, you will need to download the GMAT software. The software is available for Windows and Mac computers.
Step 6: Take the GMAT
On the day of your exam, you will need to arrive at the test center or log in to the GMAT Online at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time. You will need to bring your passport and a photo ID.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind when registering for the GMAT:
- You can only register for the GMAT once every 16 days.
- You can cancel or reschedule your exam up to 4 days before your scheduled date.
- You can take the GMAT a maximum of 5 times in a 12-month period.
GMAT Cost
The cost of taking the GMAT includes the registration fee, the score report fee, and the additional services fee.
The GMAT costs vary depending on the type of service or action. The base GMAT exam fee is US$275 for the test center delivery option and US$300 for the online at-home delivery option. If test takers choose to purchase an Enhanced Score Report at the time of registration, an additional fee of US$30 applies, although this option is not available for the online delivery. Additional Score Reports can be requested at a cost of US$35 each, regardless of the delivery format.
There are also fees associated with rescheduling and cancellation. Rescheduling fees depend on the time frame before the appointment, ranging from US$55 to US$165 for test center delivery and from US$60 to US$180 for online delivery. Cancellation fees are based on the timing of the cancellation, with refunds ranging from US$55 to US$110 for test center delivery and from US$60 to US$120 for online delivery.
In addition, there are fees for specific actions such as canceling or reinstating scores, which are applicable only to the test center delivery option. The cost to cancel a score is US$25, while reinstating a score incurs a fee of US$50. AWA Essay Rescoring, which is available for both delivery options, carries a fee of US$45.
| GMAT Fee Category | Delivered at a Test Center | Delivered Online |
| GMAT Exam | US$275 | US$300 |
| Enhanced Score Report | US$30 | Not Available |
| Additional Score Report | US$35 each | US$35 each |
| Cancel score (via mba.com My Account page after the exam) | US$25 | Not Applicable |
| Reinstate score | US$50 | Not Applicable |
| AWA Essay Rescoring | US$45 | US$45 |
| Reschedule Fees | ||
| More than 60 days before appointment | US$55 | US$60 |
| 15-60 days before appointment | US$110 | US$120 |
| 14 days or less before appointment | US$165 | US$180 |
| Cancellation Fees | ||
| More than 60 days before appointment | US$110 refund | US$120 Refund |
| 15-60 days before appointment | US$80 refund | US$90 Refund |
| 14 days or less before appointment | US$55 refund | US$60 Refund |
GMAT Retake
The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) retake policy allows test takers to retake the exam if they are not satisfied with their initial score or wish to improve their performance. Here are the key points of the GMAT retake policy:
- Frequency of Retakes: Test takers can take the GMAT up to 5 times within a rolling 12-month period. The rolling 12-month period starts from the date of the first exam taken. Once you have taken the GMAT, you must wait for at least 16 days before retaking the exam.
- GMAT Retake Fee: Each GMAT retake requires a separate exam fee payment of US $275 for for the test center delivery option and US$300 for the online at-home delivery option
GMAT -Summary
| GMAT Aspect | Description |
| Purpose | Standardized exam for admission to graduate management programs, such as MBA |
| Format | Computer Adaptive Test (CAT) |
| Eligibility | Must be at least 13 years old and must be able to read and understand English |
| Sections | Three sections: Quantitative Reasoning (QR), Verbal Reasoning (VR), and Data Insights |
| DI | Measures your ability to interpret and analyze data presented in different formats |
| QR | Assesses mathematical and quantitative problem-solving abilities |
| VR | Evaluates reading comprehension, and critical reasoning, and s skills |
| Duration | 2 hours and 15 minutes (optional 10 Min break ) |
| Scoring | Total score range of 205-805; Each section is scored from 60 to 90, adjusted for difficulty. |
| Score Validity | Scores are valid for five years |
| Availability | Offered year-round in various test centers worldwide and at-home online 24X7 |
| Fee | The GMAT fee is USD 275 (test center) and USD 300 (at-home online) |
| Retake Policy | 16-day gap between consecutive attempts. Can take the test up to 5 times in a rolling 12-month period, 8 times in a lifetime. |
Final Thoughts
The GMAT is a gateway to renowned business schools and a stepping stone to new opportunities. With a solid understanding of the exam’s nuances, diligent preparation, and a belief in your abilities, you can conquer the GMAT and pave the way for a rewarding and fulfilling future in the world of business.
Good luck on your GMAT journey, and may your dedication and hard work yield the results you desire. Embrace the challenge, stay focused, and remember that the pursuit of excellence extends far beyond the boundaries of a single exam.
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