GMAT Exam Guide
Overview
The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is a standardized test used for admissions to business schools and MBA programs worldwide. It evaluates analytical, quantitative, verbal, and integrated reasoning skills, providing schools with a common measure to assess applicants’ readiness for graduate-level business education.
The GMAT is accepted by thousands of business schools globally and is a key component of MBA applications, along with academic transcripts, work experience, and recommendation letters.
Exam Structure
The GMAT consists of four main sections:
Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA)
- Duration: 30 minutes
- Task: Analyze an argument and write a well-structured essay
- Focus Areas: Critical thinking, organization, clarity, grammar, and logical reasoning
Integrated Reasoning (IR)
- Duration: 30 minutes
- Number of Questions: 12
- Focus Areas: Multi-source reasoning, table analysis, graphics interpretation, two-part analysis
- Skills Tested: Ability to evaluate and synthesize information from multiple sources
Quantitative Reasoning
- Duration: 62 minutes
- Number of Questions: 31
- Focus Areas: Problem-solving, data sufficiency, arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and word problems
- Calculator: Not allowed; mental calculation and reasoning are emphasized
Verbal Reasoning
- Duration: 65 minutes
- Number of Questions: 36
- Focus Areas: Reading comprehension, critical reasoning, sentence correction
- Skills Tested: Grammar, comprehension, and analytical thinking
Registration
GMAT registration can be completed online via the official GMAT website:
- Create a GMAT Account: Visit www.mba.com and sign up
- Select Test Date and Location: GMAT is offered year-round at test centers and online
- Provide Required Information: Enter personal, educational, and professional details
- Upload Identification: A valid passport or national ID is required
- Pay the Exam Fee: Payment is made online during registration
Exam Fees (2025)
- GMAT Exam: $275
- Additional Fees: Rescheduling, test center changes, and additional score reports may incur extra charges
Preparation
Effective GMAT preparation involves focused practice and strategy development:
- Understand the Test Format: Familiarize yourself with question types, timing, and scoring
- Review Quantitative Concepts: Algebra, geometry, statistics, and problem-solving strategies
- Enhance Verbal Skills: Grammar, reading comprehension, and critical reasoning
- Practice Integrated Reasoning: Use multiple sources of information to solve complex problems
- Use Official GMAT Prep Materials: GMAT Official Guide, practice tests, and online resources
- Take Full-Length Practice Tests: Simulate test-day conditions to improve timing and endurance
- Analyze Mistakes: Identify weak areas and refine strategies for improvement
Tips for Top Scores
- Focus on time management and pacing during all sections
- Build strong mental math and quantitative reasoning skills
- Practice critical reasoning and sentence correction daily
- Take multiple timed practice tests to improve endurance
- Review and refine strategies for Integrated Reasoning
Score Reporting
- Total Score Range: 200–800 (Quantitative + Verbal sections)
- Analytical Writing Assessment: 0–6 (half-point increments)
- Integrated Reasoning: 1–8 (single-point increments)
- Scores are valid for five years
- GMAT allows free score reports to up to five schools on test day; additional reports cost $35 each
FAQs
Q: How often can I take the GMAT?
A: The GMAT can be taken once every 16 days, up to five times in a rolling 12-month period, and no more than eight times in total.
Q: How long does it take to receive GMAT scores?
A: Unofficial scores are available immediately after the test; official scores are available within 20 days.
Q: Is the GMAT required for all MBA programs?
A: Many competitive MBA programs require GMAT scores, but some programs may accept GRE or waive the requirement.
Q: Can I cancel my GMAT scores?
A: Yes, scores can be canceled immediately after the test or within 72 hours online for a fee. Canceled scores cannot be reinstated after 4 years.
By understanding the GMAT’s structure, scoring, and preparation strategies, candidates can approach the exam with confidence and maximize their chances of admission to top business schools.
