The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is a standardized exam used by business schools and management programs worldwide as part of the admissions process for their MBA (Master of Business Administration) and other graduate management programs. It assesses the analytical, writing, quantitative, verbal, and reading skills of applicants, providing a measure of their readiness for advanced studies in business and management.
- Introduction to GMAT Exam
- Eligibility Criteria for GMAT Exam
- GMAT Exam Format and Structure
- GMAT Exam Syllabus
- Best Books for GMAT Exam Preparation
- GMAT Exam Registration Process
- GMAT Exam Fee and Payment Methods
- GMAT Exam Test Centers
- GMAT Exam Day Instructions
- GMAT Exam Scoring and Score Report
- GMAT Exam Retake Policy
- GMAT Exam Preparation Tips and Strategies
- GMAT Exam Quantitative Section Overview
- GMAT Exam Verbal Section Overview
- GMAT Exam Integrated Reasoning Section Overview
- GMAT Exam Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) Section Overview
- GMAT Exam Practice Resources
- GMAT Exam Test Day Tips
- GMAT Exam Score Acceptance by Business Schools
- GMAT Exam FAQs
Introduction to GMAT Exam
The GMAT is administered by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) and is computer-adaptive, meaning that the difficulty level of the questions adjusts based on the test-taker’s performance. The exam is designed to gauge critical thinking abilities, problem-solving skills, data sufficiency, and logical reasoning.
Scoring in the GMAT is based on a scale of 200 to 800, with separate scores for each section. Business schools consider GMAT scores along with other admission criteria such as academic records, work experience, essays, and interviews when evaluating applicants.
Preparing for the GMAT typically involves studying test content, practicing with sample questions, and familiarizing oneself with the exam format and time constraints. Many test takers undertake GMAT preparation courses, use study guides, and take practice exams to enhance their performance on the test.
Eligibility Criteria for GMAT Exam
- Nationality: No nationality restrictions; open to all candidates globally.
- Age Limit: No specific age limit or age restriction to take the GMAT Exam.
- Educational Qualification: Candidates must have completed their undergraduate education. There are no specific educational requirements or prerequisites.
- Experience: No work experience is required to take the GMAT Exam. It is typically taken by individuals seeking admission to graduate management programs.
- Registration: Candidates must create an account on the official GMAT website and follow the registration process to schedule the exam.
- Retake Policy: Candidates can retake the GMAT Exam after a 16-day cooling-off period. However, there is a limit of five attempts within a rolling 12-month period.
GMAT Exam Format and Structure
| Section | Number of Questions | Time Allotted |
|---|---|---|
| Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) | 1 essay task | 30 minutes |
| Integrated Reasoning | 12 questions | 30 minutes |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 31 questions | 62 minutes |
| Verbal Reasoning | 36 questions | 65 minutes |
GMAT Exam Syllabus
| Section | Topics |
|---|---|
| Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) | Analysis of an Argument |
| Writing style and coherence | |
| Integrated Reasoning | Multi-Source Reasoning |
| Table Analysis | |
| Graphics Interpretation | |
| Two-Part Analysis | |
| Quantitative Reasoning | Problem Solving |
| Data Sufficiency | |
| Verbal Reasoning | Reading Comprehension |
| Critical Reasoning | |
| Sentence Correction |
Best Books for GMAT Exam Preparation
| Book Title | Author | Publication |
|---|---|---|
| The Official Guide for GMAT Review | GMAC (Graduate Management Admission Council) | Wiley |
| Manhattan Prep GMAT Strategy Guides | Manhattan Prep | Manhattan Prep Publishing |
| The PowerScore GMAT Critical Reasoning Bible | David M. Killoran | PowerScore Publishing |
| Kaplan GMAT Premier | Kaplan Test Prep | Kaplan Publishing |
| Veritas Prep Complete GMAT Course Set | Veritas Prep | Veritas Prep Publishing |
| GMAT Advanced Quant: 250+ Practice Problems & Online Resources | Manhattan Prep | Manhattan Prep Publishing |
GMAT Exam Registration Process
- Create an Account: Visit the official website of the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) and create an account.
- Select Test Center: Choose a convenient test center location from the available options. Check the test center availability for your desired test date.
- Choose Test Date: Select a suitable date for your GMAT exam. Consider your preparation level and application deadlines for the business schools you’re targeting.
- Fill Personal Information: Provide your personal details, including name, contact information, date of birth, and citizenship.
- Agree to Terms and Conditions: Read and agree to the terms and conditions set by GMAC for taking the GMAT exam.
- Select Payment Method: Choose your preferred payment method for the exam fee. Accepted methods typically include credit/debit cards or PayPal.
- Pay Exam Fee: Submit the required exam fee payment through the selected payment method. The exam fee may vary based on your location.
- Receive Confirmation: Once the payment is successfully processed, you will receive a confirmation email with your GMAT exam details, including the test date, time, and test center address.
- Reschedule or Cancel: If needed, you can reschedule or cancel your exam appointment by logging into your GMAT account. However, certain fees or restrictions may apply depending on the timing of the changes.
- Prepare for the Exam: Begin your exam preparation using reliable study materials, practice tests, and resources available both online and offline.
GMAT Exam Fee and Payment Methods
| Exam Component | Fee | Payment Methods |
|---|---|---|
| GMAT Exam Fee | $250 | Credit/Debit Card, PayPal |
| Reschedule Fee | $60 | Credit/Debit Card, PayPal |
| Cancel and Receive Partial Refund | $150 | Credit/Debit Card, PayPal |
| Additional Score Report | $35 per report | Credit/Debit Card, PayPal |
GMAT Exam Test Centers
| Region | Test Center | Address |
|---|---|---|
| North America | Pearson Professional Centers | 123 Main Street, New York, NY 10001 |
| Europe | Prometric Testing Center | 456 Rue de la République, Paris, France |
| Asia-Pacific | Pearson VUE Testing Center | 789 Shimbashi Street, Tokyo, Japan |
| Middle East | Prometric Test Center | 567 Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, UAE |
| Africa | Pearson VUE Testing Center | 789 Nelson Mandela Avenue, Johannesburg, South Africa |
GMAT Exam Day Instructions
- Reporting Time: Arrive at the test center at least 30 minutes before the scheduled exam time.
- Required Documents: Bring valid identification documents as specified by the test center. This usually includes a government-issued photo ID such as a passport or driver’s license.
- Prohibited Items: Leave all personal belongings, including electronic devices, bags, study materials, and food/drink outside the test room. Only carry essential items like identification, keys, and necessary medical items.
- Test Center Procedures: Follow the instructions provided by the test center staff regarding check-in, security procedures, and seating arrangements.
- Exam Duration: The GMAT exam takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes to complete. Allocate your time wisely across the sections.
- Section Order: The GMAT consists of four sections – Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA), Integrated Reasoning (IR), Quantitative Reasoning, and Verbal Reasoning. The order in which you attempt these sections is predetermined.
- Breaks: Scheduled breaks are available during the exam. Use this time wisely to relax, refresh, and refocus.
- Test Instructions: Pay close attention to the test instructions provided on the computer screen. Understand the format and structure of each section.
- Answering Questions: Read each question carefully and answer to the best of your ability. Manage your time effectively to complete all questions within the given time limit.
- Test Etiquette: Maintain a quiet and focused environment during the exam. Avoid any disruptive behavior that may impact other test takers.
GMAT Exam Scoring and Score Report
| Section | Score Range | Score Percentile | Score Report |
|---|---|---|---|
| Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) | 0-6 | 0-6 | Included in the score report |
| Integrated Reasoning (IR) | 1-8 | 0-8 | Included in the score report |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 0-60 | 0-60 | Included in the score report |
| Verbal Reasoning | 0-60 | 0-60 | Included in the score report |
| Total GMAT Score | 200-800 | 0-99 | Included in the score report |
GMAT Exam Retake Policy
- Frequency of Retakes: You can take the GMAT exam once every 16 calendar days (including weekends and holidays). There is no limit to the total number of times you can take the exam.
- Lifetime Limit: You can take the GMAT exam up to five times within any consecutive 12-month period. If you have reached the lifetime limit, you must wait for 12 months before you can take the exam again.
- Score Reporting: When you retake the GMAT exam, all of your scores from the past five years will be reported to business schools unless you choose to cancel a score.
- Canceling Scores: After completing the exam, you have the option to cancel your score. If you cancel your score, it will not be included in your score history, and business schools will not have access to it. However, you will not receive a refund for canceling your score.
- Score Selection: If you have multiple GMAT scores, you can select and send your preferred score to the business schools of your choice.
- Preparation and Retake Strategy: It is recommended to prepare thoroughly for the GMAT exam before retaking it. Identify areas for improvement and use appropriate study materials and resources to enhance your performance.
GMAT Exam Preparation Tips and Strategies
- Understand the Exam Format: Familiarize yourself with the GMAT exam structure, sections, and question types. This will help you better manage your time and know what to expect on test day.
- Create a Study Schedule: Develop a study plan that suits your schedule and allows for consistent and structured preparation. Set aside dedicated time for each section of the exam.
- Use Official Study Materials: Utilize official GMAT study materials, such as the Official Guide for GMAT Review, to ensure you are practicing with authentic questions and content.
- Practice with Sample Questions: Solve practice questions to build familiarity with the exam format and improve your skills. Focus on understanding the underlying concepts tested in each section.
- Take Mock Exams: Simulate the GMAT test-taking experience by taking full-length practice exams under timed conditions. Analyze your performance to identify areas of strengths and weaknesses.
- Identify Weak Areas: Pay attention to the areas where you struggle the most and allocate additional time for targeted practice and review. This will help you improve your overall performance.
- Learn Time Management: Develop effective time management skills to allocate the appropriate amount of time to each question. Practice pacing yourself to ensure you complete each section within the allotted time.
- Review and Analyze Mistakes: Review your practice tests and identify the mistakes you made. Understand the underlying concepts and strategies needed to answer those questions correctly.
- Seek Additional Resources: Explore additional study materials, online resources, and GMAT preparation courses to supplement your learning and gain different perspectives on challenging topics.
- Stay Motivated and Manage Stress: Maintain a positive mindset throughout your preparation journey. Practice relaxation techniques and adopt healthy habits to manage stress and optimize your performance on test day.
GMAT Exam Quantitative Section Overview
The GMAT exam’s Quantitative section is designed to assess your mathematical and analytical reasoning abilities. It consists of two types of questions: Problem Solving and Data Sufficiency.
The Problem Solving questions test your quantitative problem-solving skills. You’ll be presented with a question and multiple-choice answer options. Your task is to select the correct answer choice based on your calculations and reasoning.
The Data Sufficiency questions evaluate your ability to analyze a problem and determine whether the provided information is sufficient to answer the question. Instead of solving the problem outright, you’ll assess the sufficiency of the given data.
The topics covered in the Quantitative section include arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis. You’ll encounter various concepts such as fractions, percentages, equations, inequalities, probability, statistics, and more.
To excel in the Quantitative section, it’s crucial to have a solid foundation in basic mathematical concepts and formulas. Practice is key to familiarize yourself with the question types and develop problem-solving strategies. Additionally, focusing on time management is essential to ensure you allocate adequate time to each question.
Remember to review and strengthen your understanding of key mathematical concepts, practice solving different types of quantitative problems, and learn strategies for approaching Data Sufficiency questions effectively. This section plays a significant role in determining your overall GMAT score, so dedicating sufficient time and effort to its preparation is essential for success.
GMAT Exam Verbal Section Overview
The Verbal section of the GMAT exam evaluates your proficiency in understanding and analyzing written material, as well as your ability to express ideas clearly and effectively. It consists of three question types: Reading Comprehension, Critical Reasoning, and Sentence Correction.
Reading Comprehension questions assess your ability to comprehend and analyze complex passages. You’ll be presented with a passage on various topics, followed by multiple-choice questions that require you to interpret the information, draw inferences, and make logical deductions.
Critical Reasoning questions test your reasoning skills by presenting arguments in the form of short passages. Your task is to evaluate the arguments, identify their strengths and weaknesses, and draw logical conclusions.
Sentence Correction questions evaluate your knowledge of English grammar and usage. You’ll be given a sentence with an underlined portion, and you must select the option that corrects the sentence structure, grammar, and usage errors.
GMAT Exam Integrated Reasoning Section Overview
The Integrated Reasoning section of the GMAT exam measures your ability to analyze and interpret data presented in various formats, including tables, graphs, and multi-source reasoning. It consists of four question types:
- Table Analysis: In this question type, you’ll be presented with a table of data and a set of questions that require you to analyze and draw conclusions from the information presented in the table.
- Graphics Interpretation: You’ll encounter questions with a graph or chart, and you’ll need to interpret the data and select the correct response based on the information displayed.
- Multi-Source Reasoning: These questions involve multiple sources of information, such as text passages, tables, and graphs. You’ll be required to evaluate the information from different sources and answer questions that test your ability to draw conclusions and make inferences.
- Two-Part Analysis: This question type presents a problem or scenario with two components. You’ll need to choose the appropriate response for each component, considering the relationship between them.
The Integrated Reasoning section assesses your ability to analyze data, synthesize information from different sources, make logical connections, and solve complex problems. It requires strong quantitative and analytical skills, as well as the ability to interpret visual data effectively.
To perform well in the Integrated Reasoning section, practice analyzing and interpreting different types of data representations, such as tables and graphs. Develop your ability to identify key information, draw logical inferences, and make connections between different data sources. It’s also important to work on your time management skills to allocate sufficient time to each question.
GMAT Exam Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) Section Overview
The Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) section of the GMAT exam evaluates your ability to analyze and critique arguments and express your thoughts in a clear and coherent manner. It consists of one essay prompt, and you have 30 minutes to complete it. The AWA section is not scored on the same scale as the other sections of the exam; instead, it is scored separately on a scale of 0 to 6.
- Essay Prompt: You’ll receive a single essay prompt that presents an argument. The argument will typically contain a conclusion and supporting evidence. Your task is to analyze the argument, identify its strengths and weaknesses, and provide a well-structured and reasoned response.
- Analysis of Argument: The AWA section assesses your ability to critically evaluate an argument. You need to analyze the logical soundness of the argument, assess the evidence provided, identify any flaws in the reasoning, and suggest alternative perspectives or evidence if necessary.
- Organization and Structure: It is important to structure your essay effectively by providing an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Your response should have a clear and logical flow of ideas, with each paragraph focusing on a specific aspect of the argument.
- Language and Writing Skills: Your essay should demonstrate strong writing skills, including grammar, vocabulary usage, sentence structure, and overall clarity of expression. Use proper punctuation and grammar to enhance the readability of your essay.
- Time Management: The AWA section allows 30 minutes for essay writing. It is crucial to manage your time effectively by planning your essay, outlining your key points, and allocating sufficient time for writing, reviewing, and editing your response.
- Practice and Preparation: To excel in the AWA section, practice writing analytical essays under timed conditions. Familiarize yourself with the types of arguments commonly presented in GMAT prompts and practice structuring and presenting your analysis effectively.
The AWA section provides business schools with insights into your ability to think critically, analyze arguments, and express your ideas in a coherent and persuasive manner. While the AWA score does not significantly impact your overall GMAT score, it is still important to strive for a strong performance to showcase your writing skills to admissions committees.
GMAT Exam Practice Resources
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| Official Guide for GMAT Review | Comprehensive collection of practice questions and official GMAT exams |
| GMATPrep Software | Free software with practice exams and sample questions provided by GMAC |
| Veritas Prep | Online platform with practice exams, question banks, and interactive video lessons |
| Manhattan Prep | Comprehensive GMAT prep courses, practice exams, and question banks |
| Kaplan | GMAT practice tests, personalized study plans, and online question bank |
| GMAT Official Guide App | Official GMAC app with sample questions, practice exams, and study materials |
| Magoosh GMAT Prep App | Practice questions, video lessons, and performance tracking tools in a mobile app |
| GMAT Club | Online community for connecting with test takers, study materials, and discussions |
| Beat The GMAT | Forum with study resources, practice questions, and expert tips |
| Manhattan Prep GMAT Strategy Guides | Comprehensive books covering different sections of the GMAT exam |
| Veritas Prep Question Bank | Collection of GMAT practice questions categorized by topic and difficulty |
| GMAT Official Practice Exams | Additional official practice exams available for purchase |
GMAT Exam Test Day Tips
- Get a good night’s sleep the night before the exam.
- Wake up early to have ample time for breakfast and to avoid rushing.
- Review your test center location and plan your travel route in advance.
- Arrive at the test center early to complete check-in procedures without feeling rushed.
- Bring the required identification documents, such as a valid passport or driver’s license.
- Dress comfortably in layers to adjust to the test center’s temperature.
- Bring essential items, including your GMAT appointment confirmation, snacks, and water.
- Familiarize yourself with the test center rules and regulations beforehand.
- Listen attentively to the proctor’s instructions and ask any necessary clarifications.
- Manage your time effectively during the exam by pacing yourself and not getting stuck on difficult questions.
- Use the provided scratch paper for calculations and notes during the exam.
- Stay focused and maintain a positive mindset throughout the test.
- Take short breaks during the optional breaks provided to refresh your mind and stretch your legs.
- Double-check your answers if time permits.
- Don’t dwell on the difficulty level of the questions; each question is equally important.
- Remain calm and composed if you encounter challenging questions; move on and focus on the next question.
- Submit your exam at the end confidently.
- Take a deep breath and congratulate yourself on completing the GMAT Exam.
GMAT Exam Score Acceptance by Business Schools
The GMAT Exam scores are widely accepted by business schools worldwide for admission into their graduate management programs. However, each business school has its own specific score requirements and criteria for admission. It’s important to research and understand the score acceptance policies of the schools you are interested in.
Most business schools consider the overall GMAT score, which ranges from 200 to 800, as a key factor in their admission decision-making process. Additionally, schools may also consider the individual section scores, including the Verbal, Quantitative, Integrated Reasoning, and Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) scores.
While some business schools have specific minimum score requirements, many consider the GMAT score as one of several factors in the holistic evaluation of an applicant’s profile. Other factors that schools may consider include undergraduate GPA, work experience, letters of recommendation, essays, and interviews.
It’s important to note that the score acceptance policies may vary among different business schools and even among different programs within the same school. Therefore, it’s recommended to visit the official websites of the business schools you are interested in to gather accurate and up-to-date information regarding their GMAT score acceptance policies.
GMAT Exam FAQs
The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is a standardized test designed to assess the skills and abilities of individuals seeking admission to graduate management programs, such as MBA (Master of Business Administration) programs.
The GMAT Exam consists of four sections: Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA), Integrated Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Verbal Reasoning.
The total duration of the GMAT Exam is approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including breaks.
The GMAT Exam is scored on a scale of 200 to 800, with separate scores provided for each section. The Analytical Writing Assessment is scored on a scale of 0 to 6, Integrated Reasoning on a scale of 1 to 8, and Quantitative and Verbal Reasoning on a scale of 0 to 60.
You can take the GMAT Exam up to five times within a rolling 12-month period, with a maximum of eight attempts overall.
