GMAT exam stands for Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT). It is conducted by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC). The GMAT score is widely accepted throughout the world for MBA, MiM, and other graduate business programs. Its scores are accepted by more than 2,400 business schools across 110+ countries and are valid for a period of 5 years.
The GMAT exam is held throughout the year. Hence, candidates can appear anytime of the year as per their preference. Those who are planning to appear for the GMAT exam must have a clear understanding of all the details related to it. In this blog, we have covered all the major details related to the exam such as the latest exam pattern, registration process, fees, syllabus, and preparation strategy. This will help the aspirants to be familiar with all the necessary information related to GMAT exam.Â
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GMAT Exam Highlights
Before we begin to discuss about the GMAT exam in detail, let us look at the basic highlights of the exam.
| Particulars | Details |
| Exam Name | Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) |
| Conducting Body | GMAC |
| Mode | Online at test center or online from home (availability may vary) |
| Exam Duration | 2 hours 15 minutes |
| Number of Questions | 64 |
| Sections | Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, Data Insights |
| Score Range | 205–805 |
| Score Validity | 5 Years |
| Exam Frequency | Available throughout the year |
| Official Website | mba.com |
What is GMAT Exam: Full form with Details
GMAT exam is a standardized entrance examination which is held for taking admission to MBA programs. The exam comprises of three sections that showcase the specific skills needed to succeed in a graduate management program. These sections include, Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning and Data Insights. These sections test the skills of the candidate for graduate business education.
The GMAT exam is accepted for the following programs:
- MBA
- Master in Management (MiM)
- Master of Finance
- Business Analytics
- Executive MBA
- PGDM programs
- Specialized Master’s degrees
GMAT Exam Date
Unlike other MBA exams, the GMAT exam does not have a fixed exam date. Instead, the GMAT is held throughout the year. However, it is advised to book their preferred slot 2-3 months before taking the MBA application last dates. The following table has the list of the important events and dates related to GMAT exam.
| GMAT Exam | Timeline |
| Registration Begins | Throughout the Year |
| Slot Booking | Anytime |
| Exam Availability | All Year |
| Result Availability | Usually within a few days |
| Score Validity | 5 Years |
Who Conducts the GMAT Exam?
The GMAT exam is conducted by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), a global, non-profit organization that represents leading graduate business schools worldwide. The responsibilities of GMAC include the following:
- Develop and update the GMAT exam.
- Administer the test through authorized test centers and online testing (where available).
- Maintain a scoring system and score reporting process.
- Ensuring the security and fairness of the examination.
- Support business schools with reliable admissions assessment tools.
The official GMAT exam registration, exam dates, preparation resources, and score reporting are managed through the GMAC official website which is MBA.com.
GMAT Exam Eligibility Criteria
GMAC has not prescribed a certain eligibility criteria for taking the GMAT exam. The basic eligibility criteria that one needs to fulfill to attempt the GMAT is given in the table below.
| Criteria | Requirement |
| Minimum Age | 18 Years |
| Candidates between 13–17 Years | Parent/Guardian Consent Required |
| Educational Qualification | No minimum qualification prescribed by GMAC |
| Nationality | Open to all nationalities |
| Maximum Attempts | Up to 5 attempts in a rolling 12-month period and 8 attempts in a lifetime |
How to Register for GMAT Exam?
Candidates need to register online on the official website for GMAT exam to appear for the exam. The step by step details for registering for GMAT exam is given below.
- Create Account: Candidates need to create an account on mba.com by filing in their basic personal details.
- Click Register Button: On the My Account page which appears on the homepage, click the yellow Register button.
- Complete Profile: Provide all the personal information and other details necessary for registration that are asked.
- Schedule Exam: Upon successful registration, candidates need to pick their test center (if applicable), appointment date, and time.
- Fee Payment: Once the above steps are done, candidates need to pay the required fee.
GMAT Exam Fee
The GMAT exam fee 2027 varies whether the candidate wishes to take the exam online or at a test centre. Candidates may also need to pay extra changes for services such as additional score reports, rescheduling, or cancellation. Candidates must take a note that the exam cannot be rescheduled or cancelled within 24 hours of the exam. An additional US$10 fee may be charged if the service is provided via the call center.
The GMAT exam fee is given below in the table. Candidates must check the fee carefully for rescheduling or cancellation of the exam.
GMAT Exam Fees and Related Services
| Service | Test Center | Online |
| GMAT Exam Registration | US$275 | US$300 |
| Additional Score Report | US$35 per report | US$35 per report |
GMAT Exam Rescheduling Fees
| Time Before Scheduled Exam | Test Center Fee | Online Fee |
| More than 60 days | US$55 | US$60 |
| 15–60 days | US$110 | US$120 |
| 14 days or less | US$165 | US$180 |
GMAT Exam Cancellation Refund Policy
| Time Before Scheduled Exam | Test Center Refund | Online Refund |
| More than 60 days | US$110 Refund | US$120 Refund |
| 15–60 days | US$80 Refund | US$90 Refund |
| 14 days or less | US$55 Refund | US$60 Refund |
GMAT Exam Pattern
The GMAT exam is designed to test the skills that are needed in a graduate business program. The sections that are there in the GMAT exam consist of Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning and Data Insights. The exam has a sectional timing of 45 minutes. They are also allowed one optional 10-minute break after either the first or second section. The table below has the major highlights of the exam.
| Particular | Details |
| GMAT Exam Mode | Computer-based |
| Total Duration | 2 Hours 15 Minutes |
| Optional Break | One 10-minute break |
| Total Questions | 64 |
| Number of Sections | 3 |
| Question Type | Multiple-choice and data analysis-based questions |
| Section Order | Candidate can choose the order of sections |
| Calculator | Allowed only in the Data Insights section (on-screen calculator) |
| Negative Marking | No direct negative marking; the exam uses an adaptive scoring algorithm |
GMAT Section Wise Exam Pattern and Marking Scheme
The GMAT is designed in such a way that it offers a flexible and candidate-friendly testing experience through features that allow greater control over how one takes the exam. Features such as Question Review & Edit, Flexible Section Order is available. The table below has the details of the section wise number of questions present and time allotted to each section.
| Section | Number of Questions | Time Allotted |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 21 | 45 Minutes |
| Verbal Reasoning | 23 | 45 Minutes |
| Data Insights | 20 | 45 Minutes |
| Total | 64 Questions | 2 Hours 15 Minutes |
GMAT Exam Syllabus: Section Wise Breakdown
The GMAT syllabus 2027 is designed to assess the skills that are needed for graduate business programs. The exam aims to test the subject wise business knowledge to solve complex quantitative problems, analyze data, comprehend written material, and think critically. The syllabus of GMAT consists of three sections: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights. The details about the section wise GMAT syllabus is stated below here.
GMAT Exam Quantitative Reasoning Syllabus
The GMAT Quantitative Reasoning syllabus aims to measure the basic understanding of arithmetic and elementary algebra. It focuses on one’s ability to apply mathematical concepts to solve problems logically. An on-screen calculator is not permitted in this section. The topics that are covered in GMAT quantitative reasoning are as follows:
| Topic | Subtopics |
| Arithmetic | Percentages, Ratios, Proportions, Profit & Loss, Averages, Interest, Time & Work, Time-Speed-Distance |
| Number System | Factors, Multiples, Divisibility, Prime Numbers, LCM & HCF, Remainders |
| Algebra | Linear Equations, Inequalities, Algebraic Expressions, Exponents |
| Word Problems | Mixtures, Ages, Partnership, Statistics-based Problems |
| Problem Solving | Logical application of mathematical concepts to real-world scenarios |
GMAT Exam Verbal Reasoning Syllabus
The GMAT Verbal Reasoning section evaluates one’s ability to read, understand, and analyze written material. The section consists of Reading Comprehension and Critical Reasoning questions. The topics that are covered under this section are as follows:
| Reading Comprehension Skills | Critical Reasoning Skills |
| Main Idea of a comprehension | Argument Evaluation |
| Supporting Ideas of a comprehension | Strengthen Arguments |
| Inference drawn | Weaken Arguments |
| Application | Identify Assumptions |
| Logical Structure | Draw Conclusions |
| Style & Tone | Evaluate Plans of Action |
GMAT Exam Scoring System
The GMAT exam uses a 205-805 scoring scale. The total score is calculated based on the candidate’s performance in each of the sections, i.e. Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insight. The score is valid for a period of 5 years. GMAT exam uses a computer adaptive scoring algorithm which considers parameters such as question difficulty and overall performance throughout the test to arrive at the score. The score range used in GMAT is given below in the table.
GMAT Exam Score Range
| Score Type | Score Range | Score Interval |
| Total Score | 205–805 | 10 points |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 60–90 | 1 point |
| Verbal Reasoning | 60–90 | 1 point |
| Data Insights | 60–90 | 1 point |
How is the GMAT Exam Score Calculated?
The final GMAT score is calculated using the following process:
- A scaled score (60–90) for each of the three sections is given:
- Quantitative Reasoning
- Verbal Reasoning
- Data Insights
- Each section contributes equally to the overall performance.
- The scores of these three sections are then combined using GMAC’s scoring algorithm to produce a Total Score between 205 and 805.
What is a Good GMAT Exam Score?
A “good” GMAT depends upon the business school and the program where one wishes to take the admission. Based on the performance of the candidate in the GMAT exam, the score is calculated. The table below displays the score wise performance of the candidate in the GMAT.
| Total Score | Performance Level |
| 705–805 | Exceptional; highly competitive for top global MBA programs |
| 655–695 | Strong score for many leading business schools |
| 605–645 | Competitive for several reputed MBA and master’s programs |
| Below 605 | May be sufficient for institutions with lower score expectations or holistic admissions |
Top MBA Colleges Accepting GMAT Exam Scores in India
Many leading top B Schools accept the GMAT scores in India. Such candidates who have a valid GMAT score do not need to appear for any other MBA exams. We have listed the premier B Schools in India that accept GMAT scores in India.
| S. No. | Business Schools Accepting GMAT Score | Type | Location |
| 1 | Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Ahmedabad | Public | Ahmedabad, Gujarat |
| 2 | Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Bangalore | Public | Bengaluru, Karnataka |
| 3 | Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Calcutta | Public | Kolkata, West Bengal |
| 4 | Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Lucknow | Public | Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh |
| 5 | Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Kozhikode | Public | Kozhikode, Kerala |
| 6 | Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Indore | Public | Indore, Madhya Pradesh |
| 7 | Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Udaipur | Public | Udaipur, Rajasthan |
| 8 | Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Tiruchirappalli | Public | Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu |
| 9 | Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Raipur | Public | Raipur, Chhattisgarh |
| 10 | Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Rohtak | Public | Rohtak, Haryana |
| 11 | Xavier School of Management (XLRI) | Private | Jamshedpur, Jharkhand |
| 12 | Management Development Institute (MDI) | Private | Gurugram, Haryana |
| 13 | SP Jain Institute of Management and Research (SPJIMR) | Private | Mumbai, Maharashtra |
| 14 | Institute of Management Technology (IMT) | Private | Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh |
| 15 | TA Pai Management Institute (TAPMI) | Private | Manipal, Karnataka |
| 16 | MICA | Private | Ahmedabad, Gujarat |
| 17 | Xavier Institute of Management (XIM) | Private | Bhubaneswar, Odisha |
| 18 | Great Lakes Institute of Management | Private | Chennai, Tamil Nadu |
| 19 | International Management Institute (IMI) | Private | New Delhi |
| 20 | FORE School of Management | Private | New Delhi |
International B-Schools Accepting GMAT Exam Scores
The following table displays the top international B Schools that accept GMAT scores. The table also highlights the average GMAT cut off marks required to take admission.
| International MBA College Accepting GMAT scores | Average GMAT Cut off |
| Harvard Business School (United States) | 730-740 |
| Stanford Graduate School of Business (United States) | 730-740 |
| The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania (United States) | 720-730 |
| London Business School (United Kingdom) | 700-710 |
| INSEAD (France/Singapore) | 710-720 |
| Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University (United States) | 720-730 |
| Booth School of Business, University of Chicago (United States) | 720-730 |
| China Europe International Business School (China) | 690-700 |
| Nanyang Business School, Nanyang Technological University (Singapore) | 660-670 |
| Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Business School (Hong Kong) | 660-670 |
Old Edition vs GMAT Focus Edition
| Features | Old GMAT (10th Edition) | GMAT Focus Edition |
| Total Exam Duration | 3 hours 7 minutes | 2 hours 15 minutes |
| Sections | Quant, Verbal, Integrated Reasoning, AWA | Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, Data Insights |
| Total Questions | 80 | 64 |
| Question Type | MCQs + Essay | All MCQs |
| Essay (AWA) | Included | Removed |
| Integrated Reasoning | Separate section | Integrated into Data Insights |
| Data Sufficiency | Part of Quantitative Reasoning | Part of Data Insights |
| Section Order | Fixed options | Any order allowed |
| Answer Review | Not allowed | Limited review permitted |
| Optional Breaks | Two breaks of 8 minutes | One break of 10 minutes |
| Scoring Range | 200–800 | 205–805 |
| Enhanced Score Report | Paid | Free |
| Free Score Sending | Before exam (5 schools) | After score release (5 schools) |
| Flexibility | Limited | High |
Who Should Take GMAT Exam?
GMAT is suitable for those candidates who are willing pursue MBA abroad. With a score validity of 5 years, candidates can pursue it anytime within the given time period. Other than this, the following aspirants can also opt to appear for the GMAT exam.
- Intend to apply to Indian B-schools accepting GMAT scores.
- Seek flexibility in exam scheduling.
- Students who plan to pursue an MBA abroad.
- Have work experience and are targeting Executive MBA or one-year MBA programs.
- Students who want a score that remains valid for five years.
Why iQuanta is the Best Choice for GMAT Exam Preparation?
GMAT exam is not only accepted by the business schools in India but highly accepted by some reputed B-Schools outside the country as well. It is important for the candidates to go for a streamlined strategy to score 770+ marks finally. iQuanta is widely recognized as the top GMAT exam preparation platform among candidates in the market and there are several features which makes the overall preparation journey flexible for candidates.
These are the several features which you can access
Quantitative Reasoning
150 + Videos explaining foundation and GMAT advance Concepts
1200+ Questions For Practice
Data Insights
50+ Videos of Live Interactive Sessions
500+ Questions For Practice
Verbal Reasoning
150 + Videos
30+ Assignments (100+ Sets, 1000+ Questions)
Practice Sessions : 2000+ Practice questions
Mocks & Sectionals
15 Full Mocks Test aligned with GMAT Focus edition with Adaptive Mode.
Get Personal Mentorship & Counselling throughout your Preparation.
Specialty:
24×7 doubt clarification from any material and not just iQuanta’s.
As soon as you enrol, you will get access to Recorded Modules.
If you miss a class, you can go through it at any point in time.
Conclusion
The GMAT exam is a widely accepted entrance exam for MBA. Its scores are accepted in India as well as throughout the world. GMAT is usually regarded as one of the toughest exams. It tends to evaluate a candidate’s skills that matter the most in business, i.e. quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, and data analysis. Candidates aiming to get a good score in GMAT exam must begin early preparation with consistency. They should practice mock tests and have a clear understanding of the concepts. As GMAT score has a validity of 5 years, therefore, this gives advantage to those who plan to pursue an MBA sometime later. However, one must have a strong GMAT score to enhance their chances of selection to a top B school.
