GMAT Exam: Format, Syllabus, Registration, Fees, and Preparation Guide
The GMAT, or Graduate Management Admission Test, is a leading test for students who want to study MBA and management programs at top universities worldwide. If you are still wondering what is GMAT exam, it is a computer-based test designed to assess your problem-solving, verbal, and quantitative skills. Business schools such as Harvard University, Stanford, and INSEAD accept GMAT scores as part of their admission process. GMAT also helps students to pursue management courses from the top countries, like an MBA in USA, an MBA in UK, etc.
For candidates preparing this year, it is important to know the GMAT exam dates 2025. The GMAT exam fee is currently USD 275 (around ₹24,000 in India), with additional costs for rescheduling, cancellations, sending scores to universities, and the updated GMAT exam syllabus.
Having these details in advance helps you plan your preparation more effectively. In this guide, we will explain everything about GMAT exams, including key dates, eligibility, pattern, fees, syllabus, and resources to secure a strong score.
Who Should Take the GMAT Exam?
Individuals looking for higher business education should take the GMAT exam. It is advantageous for those with work experience who want to improve their career growth, switch careers, or raise their rank within the company's hierarchy.
The GMAT can also be helpful to recent graduates aiming to get admission into prestigious business schools as this will give a good start to their career.
Feature | Details |
|---|---|
Conducting Body | Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) |
Exam Mode | Online (at home) or Test Centre |
Exam Duration | 2 hours 15 minutes |
Sections | Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, Data Insights |
Score Scale | 205–805 (GMAT Focus Edition) |
Exam Fee |
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Reschedule Fee | USD 55–165 (depending on timeline) |
Cancellation Fee | USD 110–165 (depending on timeline) |
Score Validity | 5 years |
Number of Attempts | Up to 5 times in a rolling 12 months, 8 times in lifetime |
GMAT Exam Dates | Available year-round, flexible scheduling |
Acceptance | 2,400+ universities, 7,700+ programs in 110+ countries |
Customer Support (India) |
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Contact Page |
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What is GMAT Exam Eligibility for Indian Students?
The GMAT exam eligibility criteria are simple and flexible, making it accessible for students and professionals at different stages of their academic or career journey. Unlike some standardized tests, GMAC has not set strict rules regarding educational qualifications. Instead, the focus is on basic requirements such as age, valid identification and the number of attempts allowed.
For Indian students, these conditions are important to understand before registering, as they ensure smooth participation in the GMAT exam. While there is no official upper age or qualification restriction, most test-takers are either in the final year of their undergraduate program or working professionals aiming for an MBA.
GMAT Eligibility:
Eligibility Criteria | Requirements |
|---|---|
Minimum Age | 18 years (students aged 13–17 can appear with parental/guardian consent) |
Maximum Age | No upper age limit |
Educational Qualification | No minimum qualification required (however, an undergraduate degree is typically needed for MBA admission) |
ID Requirements in India | Valid Passport is mandatory; Aadhaar and other IDs are not accepted |
Number of Attempts | Up to 5 attempts in a rolling 12-month period; maximum 8 attempts in a lifetime |
Gap Between Attempts | Minimum 16 days |
Work Experience | Not mandatory, but 2–5 years of experience is preferred by top MBA programs |
Restrictions | Candidates previously banned by GMAC for misconduct cannot reapply |
How to Register for the GMAT Exam?
Registering for the GMAT exam is a completely online process conducted through the official GMAC website. Students can choose to take the test either at a test centre in India or as an online GMAT exam from home, depending on convenience. The registration window is open throughout the year, which means candidates can book their slot at any time, subject to availability.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to the GMAT registration process:
1. Create a GMAC Account
Visit the official GMAT exam website (mba.com) and sign up with your personal details such as name, date of birth, nationality, and email ID.
Ensure that the details match exactly with your passport, since it is the only valid ID for Indian students.
2. Fill in Personal and Academic Information
Complete your GMAT exam profile by providing academic qualifications, work experience and target schools/programs.
This information also helps GMAC generate personalized prep recommendations.
3. Choose Test Mode (Online or Test Centre)
Decide whether you want to appear for the GMAT exam online from home or at a designated test centre in India.
4. Select GMAT Exam Date and Time
Choose your preferred GMAT exam date from the available slots.
GMAT is offered year-round, so you can pick a date that aligns with your MBA application timeline.
5. Select Test Location (If Choosing Test Centre)
For offline exams, pick your preferred test centre city and venue.
6. Pay the GMAT Exam Fee
The registration fee is USD 275 (approx. ₹24,200 in India).
Payments can be made via debit/credit card, PayPal, or online banking methods available in India.
7. Confirmation and Appointment Letter
Once payment is successful, you’ll receive a confirmation email with all exam details.
Save and print the appointment confirmation for future reference.
GMAT Exam Fees
It is important to know about the GMAT exam fees before filling out the application form for the exam. The GMAT exam fees for both the online exam and the test centre exam are mentioned below:
GMAT General Test Sections | GMAT Test Centre Fees |
|---|---|
USD 300 (INR 25,190) | USD 275 (INR 23,091) |
GMAT Test Centres
If you’re planning to take the GMAT in person, test centres are available in major states across India, including Maharashtra, Delhi, Karnataka, West Bengal, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan.
When selecting a GMAT Test Centre, it’s important to prioritise accessibility. Opt for the centre closest to your residence to minimise travel-related stress on the day of the exam.
To get your preferred test date and location, it’s recommended to book your slot at least four to six weeks in advance. Especially during peak application seasons when demand is high. Early booking not only guarantees your spot but also provides ample time to finalise your preparation schedule. If possible, try visiting the test centre beforehand to familiarise yourself with the route and the facility. This can help you avoid any unexpected delays or confusion on exam day.
GMAT Syllabus & Exam Pattern
Understanding the GMAT syllabus and exam pattern helps you plan your studies effectively and focus on areas that carry the most weight. It also familiarises you with the types of questions you'll encounter during the exam. The latest GMAT syllabus & exam pattern is mentioned below:
GMAT Sections | Total Questions | Time per Section |
|---|---|---|
Quantitative Reasoning | 21 | 45 minutes |
Verbal Reasoning | 23 | 45 minutes |
Data Insights | 20 | 45 minutes |
Suggested: Find the updated GMAT Exam Pattern right here.
GMAT Exam Syllabus: What does GMAT Covers?
The GMAT syllabus under the Focus Edition is concise yet comprehensive, covering the skills most relevant for MBA and business management programs. It tests candidates across three main sections: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights. The emphasis is on logical reasoning, problem-solving and data interpretation, rather than memorization.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of each section in the GMAT exam syllabus:
Quantitative Reasoning Syllabus
Focuses on mathematical and analytical skills required for solving numerical problems.
Arithmetic: Percentages, Ratios, Proportions, Averages
Algebra: Equations, Inequalities, Functions
Word Problems: Mixtures, Work-Time, Speed-Distance
Number Properties: Integers, Primes, Divisibility
Data Sufficiency: Logical decision-making using limited information
Verbal Reasoning Syllabus
Assesses comprehension, grammar, and reasoning through written material.
Reading Comprehension: Summaries, main ideas, inference-based questions
Critical Reasoning: Strengthening/weakening arguments, assumptions, logical flaws
Sentence Correction & Grammar: Tenses, modifiers, subject-verb agreement, idioms
Vocabulary in Context: Understanding meaning through usage
Data Insights Syllabus
Tests data interpretation and analytical reasoning with real-world business scenarios.
Data Interpretation: Charts, Graphs, and Tables
Multi-Source Reasoning: Combining data from multiple inputs
Two-Part Analysis: Dual-condition and scenario-based problem solving
Data Sufficiency: Similar to Quant but focused on decision-making with given info
Statistics Basics: Mean, Median, Standard Deviation, Probability
The GMAT exam syllabus is designed to evaluate how well candidates can analyze, interpret, and apply knowledge in practical situations. Since there is no essay section (AWA) in the Focus Edition, students can concentrate more on quantitative, verbal, and data-driven preparation.
How is GMAT Scored and What is the Validity?
The GMAT exam Focus Edition scoring system is designed to give business schools a clear picture of a candidate’s overall readiness for MBA programs. Unlike the older GMAT exam, the Focus Edition uses a new scoring scale ranging from 205 to 805. Each section is scored separately, and the final score is a combination of all three.
GMAT Scoring Scale
Section | Score Range | Increments |
|---|---|---|
Quantitative Reasoning | 60–90 | Cell 1-3 |
Verbal Reasoning1-point | 60–90 | 1-point |
Data Insights | 60–90 | 1-point |
Total Score | 205-805 | 5-point |
Key Points About GMAT Scoring
Percentiles: Along with raw scores, you also receive a percentile rank that shows how you performed compared to other test takers.
Integrated Evaluation: The overall score is derived by combining performance across all three sections, not just one.
Validity: Valid for 5 years from the date of the test.
Score Sending: Candidates can send scores to up to 5 programs for free within 48 hours of receiving results. Additional reports cost extra.
Score Preview Option: Before sending, candidates can preview unofficial scores and choose whether to keep or cancel them.
The GMAT scoring system ensures that universities can assess candidates fairly based on a mix of quantitative, verbal, and data-analysis abilities which is all crucial for MBA success.
When and How GMAT Results Declared?
The GMAT results are released in two stages: an unofficial score shown immediately after the exam and the official score report available within a few days. This system helps candidates quickly understand their performance and decide whether to keep or cancel their scores.
GMAT Result Timeline
Immediately After the Exam:
You receive an unofficial score report on screen.
It includes Quantitative, Verbal, Data Insights, and overall scores.
You can choose to accept or cancel your score at this stage.
Within 48 Hours:
The official score report is available in your GMAT account.
This report contains section-wise scores, total score and percentile rankings.
You can send your scores to up to 5 programs for free during registration.
Additional Score Reports:
Can be ordered anytime later (extra fee per report).
Delivered electronically to universities within 24 hours of request.
Key Notes on GMAT Results
Validity: GMAT scores remain valid for 5 years.
Comparability: Scores can be compared globally across different testing years.
Flexibility: Candidates can retake the exam after 16 days if not satisfied with their performance.
The GMAT results system ensures transparency and gives candidates full control over when and where to share their scores.
How to Prepare for the GMAT Exam?
Preparing for the GMAT requires a strategic approach that includes understanding the exam structure, practising with high-quality materials, and managing time effectively. Here are some of the GMAT preparation tips to help you ace this exam:
Understand the Exam Format: Familiarise yourself with the structure of the GMAT. Knowing the format helps you manage time and expectations.
Practice with Official Materials: Use official GMAT practice tests and questions to get a feel for the actual exam.
Focus on Weak Areas: Identify your weaknesses by taking practice tests and work on improving them.
Consider Professional Help: If needed, you can consider joining a GMAT prep course or hiring a tutor for extra support. Expert guidance can provide structured learning and personalised tips.
When is the Right Time to Schedule the GMAT Exam?
Ideally, you should take the GMAT at least 3-6 months before your application deadlines to allow time for retakes if needed and to avoid last-minute stress. Consider your preparation progress and aim to take the exam when you feel confident in your readiness. Additionally, plan for any potential delays or disruptions, such as work commitments or personal events, to ensure you can focus fully on the exam.
