What is GMAT ?
The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a globally recognized, standardized exam that evaluates candidates seeking admission to graduate management programs, such as Master of Business Administration (MBA) and other business-related master’s degrees. The GMAT, designed and administered by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), plays a vital role in the application process for many business schools around the globe.
For beginners contemplating taking the GMAT, this guide provides an in-depth overview of the exam, its structure, scoring, preparation strategies, and its significance in shaping your business school journey.
Why you need a GMAT Score For Business School Admissions
Business schools use GMAT scores as part of their holistic admissions process to gauge an applicant’s aptitude, along with their academic history, professional experience, and personal essays. A good GMAT score can make your application stronger, increase the chances of getting into a top school, and even open doors to scholarships and financial aid.It deals with skills which are necessary, such as analytical thinking, in-depth quantitative analysis, data presentation, and comprehensive verbal communication, skills that are basically required to move ahead in quite challenging business course curricula.
GMAT 2025: Key Updates and Changes
Overview of Recent Changes in the GMAT Format
| Change | Previous Format | New Format |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Sections | Four Sections | Three Sections (Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, Data Insights) |
| Test Duration | 3 hours 7 minutes | 2 hours 15 minutes |
| Content Changes | No significant changes | Changes in the Quantitative and Verbal sections |
| Scaled Total Score Range | 200-800 | 205-805 |
| Option to Review and Edit Answers | Not available | Available |
| Official Score Report | Standard report | More detailed and improved report |
New Sections and Their Significance
The GMAT Focus Edition is the newest version of the GMAT exam, designed with several changes compared to the earlier format. It has a shorter duration, making it more time-efficient for test-takers. Unlike the previous version, it includes just one break during the exam, helping maintain focus throughout. The writing section has been completely removed, simplifying the structure further. The updated exam now features only three sections, totaling 64 questions, which streamlines the testing process.
| GMAT FOCUS EDITION | TIME | NO OF QUESTIONS | Question type |
| Quant | 45 min | 21 | Problem Solving- (Algebra and Arithmetic) |
| Verbal | 45 min | 23 | Reading Comprehension; Critical Reasoning |
| Data Insights | 45 min | 20 | Data Sufficiency; Multi-source Reasoning; Table Analysis; Graphics Interpretation; Two-Part Analysis |
GMAT Registration Process
Step-by-Step Guide to Registering for the GMAT
- Create an Account: Visit the official GMAT website (www.mba.com) and set up an account.
- Choose a Test Date and Location: Choose a test date and location that works best for you, or consider taking the GMAT online for added convenience.
- Pay the Fee: The GMAT costs approximately $250, though fees may vary by location.
- Prepare for Test Day: Once registered, start your preparation in earnest.
GMAT Exam Dates and Test Centers in 2025
About GMAT Dates 2025:
- You can take the GMAT up to 5 times within a 365-day period and a total of 8 times.
- It’s advisable for applicants to register for their GMAT exam dates at least 2 to 3 months ahead of time.
- Additionally, there should be a minimum gap of 16 days between two consecutive attempts.
GMAT Exam Dates 2025
The GMAT dates for 2025 are flexible and can be scheduled almost any day of the year. You are allowed to take the exam up to five times within a single year, with a total of eight attempts permitted overall. If you intend to retake the GMAT, you need to wait a minimum of 16 days between attempts. Below is a comprehensive list of GMAT dates and exam centers organized by city.
GMAT Exam Dates 2025 and Test Centre for Ahmedabad
| Month 2025 | GMAT Test Dates | GMAT Test Centers |
|---|---|---|
| January 2025 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31 | Ahmedabad – Pearson Professional Centre’s 3rd Floor Block A-301, Westgate Sarkhej, Makarba, Gujarat, Ahmedabad, 380051, India |
| February 2025 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 | |
| March 2025 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31 | |
| April 2025 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17 |
GMAT Exam Dates 2025 and Test Centre for Amritsar
| Month 2025 | GMAT Test Dates | GMAT Test Centres |
|---|---|---|
| January 2025 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31 | Amritsar – Pearson Professional Centres Unit 303 and 304, 3rd Floor, Mukut House, Mall Road, Amritsar, Punjab, 143001, India |
| February 2025 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 | |
| March 2025 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31 | |
| April 2025 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17 |
GMAT Exam Dates 2025 and Test Centre for Bangalore
| Month 2025 | GMAT Test Dates | GMAT Test Centres |
|---|---|---|
| January 2025 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31 | Bangalore – Pearson Professional Centres Pearson India Education Services Pte Ltd, Pride Hulkul, 004B, Ground Floor, No. 116 Lalbagh Road, Bangalore, Karnataka, 560027, India |
| February 2025 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 | |
| March 2025 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31 | |
| April 2025 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17 |
GMAT Exam Dates 2025 and Test Centre for Bhopal
| Month 2025 | GMAT Test Dates | GMAT Test Centres |
|---|---|---|
| January 2025 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31 | Bhopal – Lakshmi Narain College of Technology Excellence Kalchuri Nagar, Raisen Road, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, 462021, India |
| February 2025 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 | |
| March 2025 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31 | |
| April 2025 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17 |
GMAT Exam Dates 2025 and Test Centre for Chennai
| Month 2025 | GMAT Test Dates | GMAT Test Centres |
|---|---|---|
| January 2025 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31 | Chennai – Pearson Professional Centres 6th Floor, Nelson Chambers, E Block, 115, Nelson Manickam Road, Aminijikarai, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600029, India |
| February 2025 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 | |
| March 2025 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31 | |
| April 2025 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17 |
GMAT Exam Dates 2025 and Test Centre for Cochin
| Month 2025 | GMAT Test Dates | GMAT Test Centres |
|---|---|---|
| January 2025 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31 | Cochin – Rajagiri College Of Social Sciences Rajagiri School of Management, Rajagiri Valley, P O Kakkanad, Cochin, Kerala, 682039, India |
| February 2025 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 | |
| March 2025 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31 | |
| April 2025 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17 |
GMAT Fees and Payment Options
In India, the GMAT exam fee is $275 for tests taken at a test center (approximately ₹22,800) and $300 for online exams. Students are strongly encouraged to prepare thoroughly to reduce the need for multiple attempts
GMAT cancellation fee
| Conditions | GMAT exam costs at the center | GMAT cost online |
| More than 60 days before the appointment | $110 (INR 9033.02) refund | $120 (INR 9854.21) Refund |
| 14 days or less before the appointment | $55 (INR 4516.51) refund | $60 (INR 4927.10) Refund |
| 15-60 days before appointment | $80 (INR 6569.47) refund | $90(INR 7390.66) Refund |
GMAT Rescheduling Fee
| Conditions | GMAT exam costs at the center | GMAT cost online |
| More than 60 days before the appointment | $55(Rs.4516.51) | $60(Rs.4927.10) |
| 14 days or less before the appointment | $165 (Rs.13549.54) | $180(Rs. 14781.31) |
| 15-60 days before appointment | $110(Rs. 9033.02) | $120(Rs. 9854.21) |
Payment Options
Credit and debit cards: VISA, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover Network Cards.
Declined Payments:
- If your credit or debit card is declined, your appointment will be automatically canceled.
- You must schedule another test appointment using a valid payment method.
Fraudulent Payments:
- Using a stolen or fraudulent card will result in:
- Registration cancellation.
- Possible cancellation of previous GMAT scores.
- Notification to schools and law enforcement authorities by the Graduate Management Admission Council.
Fee Disputes:
- Wrongfully disputing the fee with your credit card company may result in:
- Being blocked from taking future exams.
- Restrictions on requesting additional score reports.
Understanding the GMAT Exam Structure
Breakdown of GMAT Sections: Quantitative, Verbal, Integrated Reasoning, and Analytical Writing
| Section | Number of Questions | Time Allocated |
|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Reasoning | 21 | 45 minutes |
| Verbal Reasoning | 23 | 45 minutes |
| Data Insights | 20 | 45 minutes |
Time Allocation and Question Types
Structure of the GMAT Exam
The GMAT is a computer-adaptive test and consists of four sections as listed below:
1.Data Insights
Duration: 45 minutes
Task: Analyze an argument and write a well-structured essay critiquing it.
Skills Tested: Critical thinking, coherence, and written communication.
2. Quantitative Reasoning
Duration: 45 minutes
Question Types: Problem-solving and data sufficiency.
Skills Tested: Mathematical reasoning, data analysis, and quantitative problem-solving.
Key Concepts: Arithmetic reasoning, algebra, and geometry.
3. Verbal Reasoning
Duration: 45 minutes
Question Types: Reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and sentence correction/ spotting errors.
Skills Tested: Reading ability, logical thinking, and command of English grammar.
The total exam time is approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including optional breaks. Test-takers can choose the order in which they take the sections, allowing for flexibility based on their strengths and preferences.
GMAT Syllabus and Preparation Tips
The GMAT Focus Edition syllabus differs from the current exam format. Notably, the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) and Sentence Correction (SC) sections have been removed. A new section, Data Insights (DI), has been introduced, combining elements of Integrated Reasoning (IR) and Data Sufficiency (DS).
The table below provides a detailed overview of the GMAT Focus Edition syllabus:
Detailed Syllabus for Each Section
| GMAT Focus Edition Section | GMAT Focus Edition Syllabus |
|---|---|
| Quantitative Reasoning (21 Questions in 45 Minutes) | Algebra Arithmetic |
| Verbal Reasoning (23 Questions in 45 Minutes) | RC = Main idea + Supporting idea + Inference + Application + Logical structure + Style CR = Strengthen + Weaken + Flawed + Supports + Damages |
| Data Insights (20 Questions in 45 Minutes) | Data Sufficiency Multi-source Reasoning involves examining or analyzing data from different sources, such as text, tables, and graphics, or a combination of these. It includes recognizing discrepancies, making inferences, and determining the relevance of the data. Table Analysis and Graphics Interpretation focus on interpreting information from various graphics, including scatter plots, x/y graphs, bar charts, pie charts, or statistical curve distributions. This process entails finding relationships and making inferences. Two-part Analyses encompass quantitative, verbal, or a mix of both, requiring the evaluation of trade-offs, solving simultaneous equations, and identifying relationships. |
Recommended Study Materials and Resources
To excel in the GMAT, use top resources like GMAT Official Guide (OG), which contains 1,000 past GMAT questions, detailed answers, and organized practice material. Completing this book twice is highly recommended. Pair it with Manhattan Prep Complete GMAT Strategy Guide Set, a 10-book series covering all topics, offering practice tests and web material for holistic preparation.
For advanced practice, turn to the GMAT Official Advanced Questions, focusing on tough questions from past exams, available for $29.99. Kaplan GMAT Prep Plus and Veritas Prep Complete GMAT Course Set are also excellent for refining verbal and quant skills.
Enhance your preparation with free and paid online resources like Beat The GMAT, GMAT Club Forum, Thursday’s with Ron, and Magoosh YouTube channel. Join forums to post queries and access expert advice. A disciplined study plan, rigorous training, and consistency are essential to achieve a high GMAT score.
Preparation Strategies for a High Score
- Attend a GMAT Strategy Session: Understand the exam structure and set your target score.
- Take a Diagnostic Test: Establish your baseline performance.
- Set Target Section Scores: Define your goals for both the Quant and Verbal sections.
- Estimate Preparation Time: Determine how much time you’ll need to achieve your goals.
- Plan Your Study Sequence: Organize your topics and allocate dedicated study hours.
- Monitor Your Progress: Develop a study plan and track your improvements.
- Practice with Mock Tests: Regularly take mock exams to simulate the real test and refine your strategy.
GMAT Scoring System
The GMAT is an adaptive test, meaning that the difficulty of questions adjusts based on your performance. When you answer questions correctly, the test increases in difficulty, and when you answer incorrectly, it presents easier questions.
This adaptive format allows the exam to efficiently assess your skill level with fewer questions, accurately matching the difficulty to your abilities. For example, in a non-adaptive 21-question quant test, a highly skilled student might breeze through easy questions, not fully demonstrating their abilities, while a student struggling with quant might face overly difficult questions that don’t accurately reflect their capabilities.
The GMAT solves this by adjusting the difficulty as you progress, ensuring that a quant expert faces progressively harder questions until the test reaches their limit, while someone struggling with quant sees easier questions until the test identifies their level. This adaptive nature ensures a more precise measurement of each test-taker’s skills.
How the GMAT is Scored | GMAT Score Calculated on the basis of percentile
When you receive your GMAT score report, it will include a percentile ranking next to both your subscores and your overall composite score.
For instance, if you score an 84 in the Verbal section, you might be in the 91st percentile. This means that only 9% of students score at or above 84 in Verbal, while 91% of students score below that mark.
Understanding Your Score Report
Your composite GMAT score is determined by combining your sub scores from the three test sections: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights. Each section is scored on a scale of 60 to 90 and is weighted equally in calculating the composite score.
Average GMAT Scores for Top Business Schools
According to GMAC, the average GMAT score is 546.01, with the total score ranging from 205 to 805. This scoring range reflects the combined performance in all sections of the exam, including Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights. A score above the mean indicates stronger performance compared to the average test-taker, while a score below suggests room for improvement.
Validity: Your GMAT score is valid for five years, providing flexibility if you decide to apply to business schools later.
| MBA Program | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | 2016 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Wharton School | 733 | 733 | 733 | 732 | 732 | 730 | 730 |
| Harvard Business School | 730 | 730 | 730 | 730 | 729 | 729 | 729 |
| Stanford Graduate School of Business | 737 | 738 | 738 | 734 | 732 | 737 | 737 |
| Booth School of Business | 729 | 732 | 732 | 730 | 731 | 730 | 726 |
| Kellogg School of Management | 729 | 729 | 727 | 730 | 732 | 732 | 728 |
| MIT Sloan School of Management | 730 | 730 | 730 | 727 | 728 | 722 | 724 |
| Dartmouth Tuck | 726 | 724 | 724 | 723 | 722 | 722 | 717 |
| Columbia Business School | 729 | 729 | 729 | 727 | 732 | 724 | 720 |
| UC Berkeley (Haas) | 729 | 729 | 726 | 725 | 726 | 725 | 717 |
| Yale School of Management | 725 | 726 | 730 | 720 | 724 | 727 | 725 |
GMAT Test Day: What to Expect
On GMAT test day, arrive at the test center at least 30 minutes early to complete the check-in process. Bring a valid, government-issued photo ID that matches the name on your registration. Expect a secure environment where personal items, including bags, phones, and watches, are stored in a locker. The test includes one optional 10-minute break, so plan your hydration and snacks accordingly. You’ll be monitored during the exam, and any suspicious behavior may result in disqualification. Familiarize yourself with the exam format and rules in advance to minimize stress and focus entirely on performing your best during the test.
GMAT Test Day Tips:
- Choose the Morning Slot: Minimizes pre-test nervousness.
- Factor in Travel Time: Ensure you reach the test center on time.
- Match Your Routine: Avoid scheduling the test during your usual rest periods (e.g., don’t book a 3 PM slot if you rest at 4 PM).
- Identify Peak Productivity Hours: Book a time when you’re most alert and focused.
- Simulate Test Conditions: Practice full-length mocks daily at the same time as your scheduled test for a few days before the exam.
Tips for a Smooth Testing Experience
- Arrive Early: Make sure to get to the test center at least 30 minutes ahead of your scheduled time.
- Bring Required Documents: Carry a valid government-issued ID that matches your registration details.
- Wear Comfortable Clothes: Dress in layers to adjust to varying room temperatures.
- Use the Break Wisely: Take advantage of the 10-minute break to hydrate, stretch, or eat a light snack.
- Stay Calm: Focus on one question at a time without stressing about previous answers.
- Practice Ahead: Familiarize yourself with the test format to reduce surprises on test day.
- Follow Instructions: Listen carefully to proctor directions and adhere to test center policies.
Retaking the GMAT
Policies on Retaking the Exam
Candidates can attempt the GMAT up to 5 times within a 12-month period and a maximum of 8 times in their lifetime. However, retaking the test repeatedly without proper preparation may not yield significant improvement and can result in diminishing returns.
Strategies for GMAT Score Improvement
- Analyze Your Performance: Review previous test results to identify weak areas.
- Create a Study Plan: Develop a focused schedule targeting specific sections like Quant, Verbal, or Data Insights.
- Use Quality Resources: Study with reputable materials like the GMAT Official Guide or trusted prep books.
- Take Mock Tests: Practice full-length mock exams to simulate real test conditions and track progress.
- Focus on Timing: Work on pacing to ensure you can complete each section within the time limit.
- Seek Expert Guidance: Consider seeking expert guidance by enrolling in a GMAT prep course .
- Stay Consistent: Dedicate regular time to study and maintain a disciplined approach.
GMAT vs. GRE: Which Should You Take?
Comparing the Two Exams
While the GMAT is tailored for business school applicants, the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a more general test accepted by many business programs. Here’s how they compare:
- GMAT: Focused on quantitative and analytical skills; preferred by business schools.
- GRE: More versatile; accepted for a wide range of graduate programs.
If you’re solely targeting business schools, the GMAT may be the better choice. However, if you’re exploring diverse graduate programs, the GRE offers more flexibility.
Factors to Consider When Choosing
| Factor | GMAT | GRE |
|---|---|---|
| Program Requirements | Preferred by most MBA programs. | Accepted by a wider range of graduate programs beyond business schools. |
| Career Goals | Ideal for MBA aspirants and careers in business-related fields. | Suitable for diverse fields, including non-business graduate programs. |
| Test Content | Focuses on business-related problem-solving and analytical skills. | Includes vocabulary-intensive verbal sections and general test topics. |
| Test Format | Adaptive test; questions adjust based on performance. | Non-adaptive; allows navigation and revisiting questions. |
| Score Reporting | Reports all scores from the past five years. | Allows selective score submission to schools. |
| Preparation Time | Focused on quant and reasoning; may require more business-specific prep. | More general prep with emphasis on vocabulary and quantitative sections. |
| Test Fees and Policies | Slightly higher fees; reports scores valid for five years. | Generally lower fees; scores also valid for five years. |
| Career Field Trends | Preferred in business and management-related fields. | Accepted across broader industries and academic disciplines. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the GMAT
1. Is GMAT tougher than CAT?
The GMAT is generally considered easier than CAT. The GMAT tests reasoning and logic with a global perspective, while CAT focuses more on speed and advanced quantitative skills.
2. What is the GMAT exam for?
The GMAT exam is for admission to MBA and other graduate management programs. It assesses your skills in reasoning, data analysis, and problem-solving.
3. How much does GMAT cost in India?
In India, the GMAT costs $275 (around ₹22,800) for test-center exams and $300 for online exams.
4. Is GMAT tough for Indians?
The GMAT may seem challenging for Indians due to its verbal section, but consistent practice and preparation make it manageable.
Conclusion
The GMAT is a pivotal step for anyone aspiring to pursue graduate management education. It tests essential skills, showcases your potential to admissions committees, and opens doors to prestigious programs and career opportunities. With the right preparation, strategy, and mindset, you can achieve a score that strengthens your application and sets you on a path to success.
Whether you’re just beginning your journey or refining your skills, understanding the GMAT is the first step toward unlocking your potential in the business world. So, start preparing today and take a confident stride toward your dream business school!
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