Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) Exam
GMAT Exam
The GMAT Focus Edition name has been changed to the traditional one; GMAT Exam. On this page, we will be discussing all the latest updates on the GMAT exam.
GMAT Exam: GMAT is a computer adaptive test to measure candidates' analytical, verbal, reading, writing and quantitative skills in English. GMAT scores are used for admission to higher management courses, like the MBA/ PGDM. GMAT is a globally recognised test, conducted by the Graduate Management Admission Council. GMAT scores are accepted in 110+ countries with more than 600 test centres located in the same. Keep reading to know everything about the GMAT exam.
| GMAT Full Form | Graduate Management Admission Test |
| Conducting Body | GMAC (Graduate Management Admission Council) |
| Maximum Attempts | 8 Times |
| Admission For | MBA/ PGDM in India and abroad |
| GMAT Fees | $275 (INR 22,000 aproxx.) |
| GMAT Exam Structure |
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| Exam Duration | 2 hours 15 minutes |
| Exam Mode | Computer-based adaptive test |
| GMAT Score Range |
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| Official Website | https://www.mba.com/exams/gmat-exam |
GMAT Latest Updates
The Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) has changed the name of the GMAC Focus Edition to the GMAT Exam. The name will be officially changed from onwards. GMAT Focus Edition served as a different version from its predecessor; GMAT. However, both these test versions have been merged and now the test will be known as the ‘GMAT Exam’. Candidates must note that only the name has been changed and the entire exam structure and scoring system will be the same.
What is the GMAT Exam?
GMAT, Graduate Management Admission Test, is conducted by the GMAC. GMAT is conducted to measure a candidate’s English Analytical Writing, Verbal, Integrated and Quantitative Reasoning. Through GMAT, aspirants can pursue management programs in India and abroad. Top universities like Harvard, Stanford and Cambridge accept GMAT scores for admission to MBA programs. GMAT scores allow aspirants to pursue an MBA at B-Schools. ‘GMAT Focus Edition’ was earlier introduced as a separate version from the previous one. However, there is only one GMAT version available now. So, the traditional ‘GMAT Exam’ name will be used onwards.
GMAT Full Form
GMAT stands for the Graduate Management Admission Test. It is a standardized test conducted by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) to measure a candidate's readiness for admission to higher management programs. A good score on GMAT can offer candidates admission to an MBA at Harvard or any other top university in the world.
Why Does the GMAT Matter?
GMAT scores are important for admission to top business schools in India and abroad. Any student planning to pursue an MBA or a management course at a reputed university can appear for the GMAT. GMAT matters because it shows how much an aspirant values education and his preparedness for the course.
- GMAT is a standardised test, that allows business schools to evaluate aspirants based on their performance in the exam and their passion for the course.
- It is a globally recognised test accepted in more than 110 countries in the world. This exam allows you to compete against candidates from different fields and academic backgrounds.
- Candidates having GMAT scores are certainly at an advantage where they can easily get admission to a management program.
- GMAT scores are proof of a candidate's willingness to invest time and effort for the desired program and they can have a basic understanding of the field.
- A good GMAT score can offer you scholarships to pursue an MBA at your dream university.
GMAT Eligibility
The GMAT, the organization behind the GMAT, does not outline specific eligibility criteria for taking the exam. However, candidates need to adhere to the eligibility requirements set by the university or college they intend to apply to after completing the GMAT.
Age Criteria for the GMAT Exam
- Candidates must be at least 18 years old.
- There is no upper age limit.
- Candidates aged 13 to 17 must provide written permission (NOC) from their parents or legal guardian.
Educational Qualifications for the GMAT Exam
- GMAC has not released any official statements regarding the required qualifications for the GMAT.
- Candidates aiming for MBA programs typically need a bachelor's degree from a recognized university in any discipline.
Work Experience Requirement for the GMAT Exam
- The GMAT itself does not mandate work experience; it primarily assesses academic abilities and skills relevant to graduate management education.
- However, some MBA programs may require applicants to have a certain amount of work experience.
GMAT Registration
GMAT registration can be completed within 24 hours to 6 months before the exam date. However, aspirants must prepare thoroughly before registering and booking their GMAT slot. GMAT registration can be done in three ways:
- Online registration
- Phone
- Postal Mail
How to Register for GMAT?
GMAT registration is divided into four (4) steps. The below-listed steps will help aspirants register for the GMAT.
- Visit the official website at mba.com and complete your registration.
- After completing your registration, make your GMAT profile and enter details of your educational background, name of the country and university where you want to study, etc.
- The next step is to verify all the details you have entered.
- After completing your GMAT profile, select your test centre, exam date and time.
- The final step is the pay the GMAT registration fee.
- Once the registration fee is paid, students will receive a confirmation email about the status of the application.
GMAT Fees in India
GMAT Fees can be paid via VISA, Mastercard, American Express and Discover Network Cards. The GMAT Focus Edition fee is USD 275 (INR 22,961) at the delivered test centre and USD 300 (INR 24,989) for the online test. The table below highlights all the details related to GMAT fees in India.
| GMAT Services Fee | Offline Test Centre | Online Test |
|---|---|---|
| GMAT Exam | $275 | $300 |
| Additional Score Report | $300 | $35 each |
GMAT Reschedule Fee
GMAT allows candidates to reschedule their exam within a specified time. A candidate can reschedule his or her test within 60 days to 24 hours before the test appointment. However, candidates will have to pay some additional amount to reschedule their test. If any candidate reschedules his or her test 60 days before the test appointment, he or she is required to pay $55. Check the table below for more details.
| Reschedule Fees | Delivered at Offline Test Centre | Delivered for Online Test |
|---|---|---|
| More than 60 days before the appointment | $55 | $60 |
| 15 to 60 days before the appointment | $110 | $120 |
| 14 days or less before the appointment | $165 | $180 |
GMAT Cancellation Fee
GMAT aspirants are allowed to cancel their test anytime before the test appointment. If any candidate cancels the test more than 60 days before the test appointment, he or she will receive a refund of $110. The table below discusses all the details about the GMAT cancellation fee.
| Cancellation Fees | Delivered at Offline Test Centre | Delivered for Online Test |
|---|---|---|
| More than 60 days before the appointment | $110 Refund | $120 Refund |
| 15 to 60 days before the appointment | $80 Refund | $90 Refund |
| 14 days or less before the appointment | 55 Refund | $60 Refund |
*Note - An additional $10 will be charged for candidates applying via the call centre.
GMAT Exam Dates
The GMAT exam is conducted several times a year. GMAT exam dates are not fixed. It means candidates are free to choose GMAT exam dates according to their convenience. In India, metropolitan cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, Pune, Hyderabad, Trivandrum, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, etc. have their exam dates. GMAT exam dates depend on the number of candidates applying for the same date and the availability of the exam centre. Candidates must check the official website of GMAC to know everything about the GMAT exam.
GMAT Test Centres
While filling out the GMAT application form, candidates are required to select their GMAT test centres according to their convenience. There are a total of 33 GMAT test centres in India and these are offered on-demand. The table below highlights the GMAT centres in India.
| Ahmedabad | Bangalore | Pune |
| Nagpur | Hyderabad | Ranchi |
| Delhi | Kochi | Indore |
| Vishakhapatnam | Mumbai | Chennai |
| Chandigarh | Coimbatore | Jaipur |
| Kolkata | Lucknow | Vijayawada |
| Vadodara | Bhubaneshwar | Bhopal |
| Amritsar | Ludhiana | Jalandhar |
| Guwahati | Noida | Mysore |
| Manipal | Raipur | Surat |
| Tiruchirapalli | Dehradun | Kanpur |
GMAT Exam Pattern
The GMAT exam pattern allows candidates to understand the exam structure, types of questions asked, total number of questions, exam duration and other exam-related details.
The table below discusses the GMAT exam pattern in detail.
- There will be a total of 80 questions divided into four sections; Analytical Writing Assessment; Quantitative Reasoning; Verbal Reasoning and Integrated Reasoning.
- The duration of the exam will be 2 hours 15 minutes.
- There will be a 10-minute break in between the exam.
- Scores will be ranged from 200 to 800 points.
The table below highlights the GMAT exam pattern in detail.
| GMAT Test Sections | Questions | Time | Score Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Reasoning | 21 | 45 | 60-90 (1-point Increment) |
| Verbal Reasoning | 23 | 45 | 60-90 (1-point Increment) |
| Data Insight | 20 | 45 | 60-90 (1-point Increment) |
| Total | 64 | 2 hours 15 Minutes (10 minutes of Break) | 205-805 (10-point Increment) |
GMAT Syllabus
GMAT syllabus includes three topics: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning and Data Insight. The duration of the exam will be 2 hours 15 minutes. Aspirants will also get a 10-minute break and can attend any section first and then move on to the next.
Quantitative Reasoning
GMAT quant sections measure the mathematical and numerical skills of aspirants. A total of 21 questions will be asked under this section. Topics in this section include algebra, arithmetic, and critical and analytical reasoning. Students must prepare all the topics thoroughly to score well in this section.
Verbal Reasoning
GMAT Verbal reasoning includes reading comprehension, critical reasoning and sentence completion. There will be a total of 23 questions. Candidates will be evaluated on their ability to understand and draw conclusions from written material to arguments.
This section consists of a mixture of two types of multiple-choice questions:
- Reading comprehension passage followed by a set of questions to test your ability to analyse the text, draw assumptions from it, and identify logical relationships between content elements.
- Critical reasoning measures your ability to conclude short arguments.
Data Insight
GMAT Data Insight syllabus tests candidates' ability to read and analyse multiple formats, such as tables and graphic interpretations. This section will include a total of 20 questions on topics like data sufficiency, graphics interpretation table analysis, and multi-source reasoning.
The table below discusses the entire GMAT syllabus in Detail.
| Test Sections | Total Questions | Duration | Topics Covered |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Reasoning | 21 | 45 |
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| Verbal Reasoning | 23 | 45 |
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| Data Insight | 20 | 45 |
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How the GMAT is Scored?
GMAT Score: The GMAT score report is released after the completion of the test. Aspirants can either accept the score report or reject it. Once accepted, candidates and their selected institutions can view the GMAT results. After the examination, candidates will be able to download their non-official GMAT results. Candidates will receive their GMAT score report and AWA scores within the next 20 days.
GMAT Score Calculation
GMAT scores are calculated on a fixed scale. The GMAT total score report includes Quantitative and Verbal Reasoning only. The GMAT score report is calculated based on the following elements:
- Quantitative Score (0 to 60) with percentile.
- Verbal Score (0 to 60) with percentile.
- Total GMAT Score (200 to 800) with percentile.
- AWA Score (0 to 60 half-integers) with percentile.
- Integrated Reasoning score (1 to 8)
GMAT Score Range
The minimum and maximum scores GMAT score range is 200 to 800. The table below highlights the section-wise GMAT score range.
| Sections | Score Range | Mean Score |
|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Reasoning | 0 to 60 | 38 |
| Verbal Reasoning | 0 to 60 | 37 |
| Analytical Writing Assessment | 0 to 6 | 4.5 |
| Integrated Reasoning | 1 to 8 | 4 |
| Total | 200 to 800 | 548 |
GMAT Score Valitidy
GMAT scores are valid only for 5 years after the declaration of the result. Candidates must keep themselves informed on university admissions and GMAT exam dates. Keeping informed about the test and university admissions will help candidates avoid last-minute rush.
How to Check GMAT Scores?
The below-listed steps will help candidates check their GMAT scores.
- Check your email inbox, where you will receive an ID from GMAC.
- The email will carry all the instructions to check your GMAT scores and will guide you with further instructions.
7 GMAT Preparation Strategies
Whether you are doing self-study or taking GMAT classes, you must have sufficient study materials to effectively prepare for the test. GMAT preparation books, mock tests, and online practice tests will help you prepare for the test. GMAT aspirants can follow these 7 preparation strategies to score well on the test.
- Start by understanding the GMAT exam pattern and structure. GMAT is divided into four sections: Analytical Writing Assessment, Integrated Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Verbal Reasoning.
- Understand your strengths and weaknesses to know where you currently stand and how much you have to focus on your weaknesses.
- Make a detailed study plan, one that includes all the exam topics based on your strengths and weaknesses.
- Use official GMAT preparation materials, such as practice tests and questions provided by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC).
- Practice answering questions within the allotted time for each section to improve your pacing and ensure you complete the exam on time.
- Every time you complete a topic or even practice tests, try to review your answers thoroughly. Understand why you made mistakes and learn from them to avoid similar errors in the future.
- Once you have completed the entire GMAT syllabus, try to prepare with additional study materials such as GMAT prep books, online courses, or tutoring. This will help you cover any details you missed during your preparation.
GMAT Preparation Books
Having sufficient and right GMAT preparation books is crucial to score well on the test. The following books will help you prepare for the GMAT test.
| Name of the Book | Author/ Publisher |
|---|---|
| All The GMAT | Manhattan Prep |
| GMAT Official Guide | Wiley |
| GMAT Focus Edition: Unofficial Guide | Career Launcher |
| GMAT Critical Reasoning | Manhattan Prep |
| GMAT Official Advanced Questions | mba.com |
GMAT Mock Tests
GMAT mock tests are crucial for exam preparation. GMAT mock tests allow students to acclimatise to the exam environment and experience the real situation. Every GMAT aspirant must solve GMAT mock tests for better understanding and it will also provide them with an overview of their exam preparation.
GMAT Online Practice Tests
The Graduate Management Admission Council, the official GMAT conducting body, offers official GMAT online practice tests. These are paid online practice tests, for which you have to make the online payment before starting your practice tests. At just $107.99, aspirants can have access to 6 GMAT practice tests.
GMAT Cut-Off
GMAT Colleges
GMAT is a globally recognised management standardised test. Business schools in more than 110 countries offer management courses to students with GMAT scores. Any GMAT aspirant planning to study MBA at Harvard, Cambridge, or Oxford must score at least 720 or above on their GMAT.
Colleges in India Accepting GMAT
Take a look at the top colleges in India and their courses for GMAT aspirants.
| Universities/ Business Schools | Names of Management Programs |
|---|---|
| IIM Bangalore | Executive Post Graduate Programme in Management (EPGP) |
| IIM Ahmedabad | MBA-PGPX |
| IIM Calcutta | MBA for Executives Program |
| ISB Hyderabad | Post Graduate Program in Management |
| IIM Indore | Executive Post Graduate Programme in Management (EPGP) |
| SP Jain | PGDM |
| IIM Lucknow | MBA Executive |
| Amity Business School | MBA |
| BITS Pilani | MBA in Busines Analytics |
| Christ University | MBA |
Frequently Asked Questions
GMAT, Graduate Management Admission Test, is conducted by the GMAC. GMAT is conducted to measure a candidate’s English Analytical Writing, Verbal, Integrated and Quantitative Reasoning. Through GMAT, aspirants can pursue management programs in India and abroad.
Visit the official website at mba.com and complete your registration. Once your registration is completed, select the exam date and exam centre and then pay the registration fee online.
The total GMAT registration fee is $300. GMAT Fees can be paid via VISA, Mastercard, American Express and Discover Network Cards.
Candidates scoring 700 or more on their GMAT are offered scholarships to pursue MBA or management programs by universities or business schools. Universities like Harvard and Stanford offer up to $10,000 of scholarships to GMAT aspirants, based on their merit and needs.
The GMAT exam is used to measure a candidate’s preparedness for higher management programs. GMAT is a computer adaptive test to measure candidates' analytical, verbal, reading, writing and quantitative skills in English.