Overview
The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is a standardized, computer-adaptive test conducted by GMAC (Graduate Management Admission Council). It is used by top business schools worldwide to assess the analytical, writing, quantitative, verbal, and reading skills of applicants for MBA and other graduate management programs.
Registration Eligibility
GMAT Registration:
- You can register online at the official GMAT website: www.mba.com
- GMAT can be taken year-round and you can choose your exam date and location.
- The exam is available both online and at test centers.
- The registration fee is USD $275 (may vary by country/region).
Eligibility Criteria:
- No official age or educational restrictions, but:
- You must be at least 18 years old.
- Candidates under 18 need parental consent.
- Most business schools require a bachelor’s degree, though GMAC does not mandate it.
- You can take the GMAT up to 5 times in a 12-month period, with at least 16 days between attempts.
Exam Pattern & Syllabus
GMAT Exam Structure:
Section Duration Number of Questions Score Range
| Analytical Writing Assessment | 30 minutes | 1 essay | 0 – 6
| Integrated Reasoning | 30 minutes | 12 questions | 1 – 8
| Quantitative Reasoning | 62 minutes | 31 questions | 6 – 51
| Verbal Reasoning | 65 minutes | 36 questions | 6 – 51
Total duration: Around 3 hours 7 minutes (plus breaks)
Syllabus Overview:
- Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA):
- Analyze an argument
- Writing skills, structure, logical reasoning
- Integrated Reasoning (IR):
- Multi-source reasoning
- Table analysis
- Graphics interpretation
- Two-part analysis
- Quantitative Reasoning:
- Problem solving
- Data sufficiency
- Topics: Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Word Problems
- Verbal Reasoning:
- Reading comprehension
- Critical reasoning
- Sentence correction
- English grammar, logic, vocabulary
How To Prepare
1. Understand the Exam Format
- Review the GMAT structure and timing
- Attempt official sample questions
2. Create a Study Plan
- 2 to 6 months of preparation is ideal
- Focus on weaker areas
3. Use Official Materials
- Use GMAC's Official Guide
- Practice with GMATPrep software and mocks
4. Take Practice Tests
- Simulate real exam conditions
- Analyze mistakes and improve speed
5. Consider Coaching or Online Platforms
- Kaplan, Manhattan Prep, Magoosh, etc. offer great materials
Admit Card
GMAT does not issue a physical admit card.
Once you register, you receive a confirmation email with:
- Your appointment details
- Test center address or online test link
Bring a valid photo ID (passport preferred) on test day.
For online GMAT: Ensure system requirements and quiet environment.