GMAT Exam: Registration, Syllabus, Pattern, Books, Mock Tests, Preparation
The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is available throughout the year at test centers worldwide. GMAT Focus Edition, the updated version of the exam, features a streamlined format with three sections and can be taken either at test centers or online from home. The exam fee is $275 for test center and $300 for online.
GMAT is a computer-adaptive test required for admission to most MBA and business master's programs globally. The GMAT Focus Edition has a total testing time of 2 hours and 15 minutes, significantly shorter than the previous version. Scores are valid for 5 years and accepted by more than 7,000 programs worldwide.
Registration for GMAT can be done online through the official MBA.com website. Test dates are available year-round, and candidates can schedule their exam as per their convenience. The GMAT score ranges from 205 to 805 in the Focus Edition, with separate section scores for Quantitative, Verbal, and Data Insights.
What is GMAT?
GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is a computer-adaptive standardized test designed to assess analytical, writing, quantitative, verbal, and reading skills for admission to graduate management programs such as MBA. The test is owned and administered by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC).
Key Features of GMAT Focus Edition:
- Three sections: Quantitative, Verbal, and Data Insights
- Total testing time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Computer-adaptive format
- Available at test centers and online
- Score range: 205-805
- Score validity: 5 years
Why GMAT is Important?
GMAT is the most widely used assessment for business school admissions globally. Top business schools like Harvard, Stanford, Wharton, INSEAD, and ISB consider GMAT scores as a crucial component of their admission process. The test measures skills that are essential for success in business school and management careers.
GMAT Exam Highlights
GMAT Focus Edition key details are tabulated below:
| Highlights | Particulars |
|---|---|
| Full Form | Graduate Management Admission Test |
| Exam Level | International |
| Conducting Body | Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) |
| Exam Frequency | Year-round availability |
| Exam Mode | Computer Adaptive Test (CAT) |
| Exam Duration | 2 hours 15 minutes |
| Number of Sections | 3 |
| Total Questions | 64 |
| Score Range | 205-805 |
| Official Website | https://www.mba.com |
GMAT Exam Dates 2025
GMAT is available year-round with flexible scheduling:
| Testing Option | Availability | Registration |
|---|---|---|
| Test Center | Year-round, based on center availability | Up to 6 months in advance |
| Online Exam | 24/7 availability | Up to 24 hours in advance |
Note: Test dates and times vary by location. Candidates can schedule their exam through the official MBA.com website based on available slots at their preferred test center.
GMAT Eligibility Criteria
To appear for GMAT, candidates must fulfill the following eligibility criteria:
Note: While GMAC has minimal eligibility requirements, individual business schools have their own admission criteria including undergraduate degrees, work experience, and minimum GMAT scores.
GMAT Registration Process
GMAT registration is done online through the official MBA.com website. Follow these steps:
GMAT Syllabus
GMAT Focus Edition syllabus includes three main sections:
1. Quantitative Reasoning
2. Verbal Reasoning
3. Data Insights
GMAT Exam Pattern
The GMAT Focus Edition is a computer-adaptive test with three sections. The total testing time is 2 hours 15 minutes.
GMAT Focus Edition Pattern
| Section | Questions | Time | Score Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Reasoning | 21 | 45 minutes | 60-90 |
| Verbal Reasoning | 23 | 45 minutes | 60-90 |
| Data Insights | 20 | 45 minutes | 60-90 |
| Total | 64 | 135 minutes | 205-805 |
Important: GMAT is a computer-adaptive test where the difficulty level adjusts based on your performance. You can choose the order in which you attempt the sections. There are two optional 10-minute breaks during the exam.