8 July 2024
Taking the GMAT exam can significantly increase your chances of getting into top business schools worldwide.
GMAT scores are accepted by over 7,000 programs, making it a crucial component of MBA admissions for almost 60 years. You can take the exam online or in a testing facility. It consists of four timed sessions.
Everything you need to know about the GMAT is included in this guide, including the syllabus, test structure, costs, dates, and more.
(Also Read: Understanding the Differences between GMAT and GRE)
What Is the GMAT Exam?
Your preparedness for business and management programs is evaluated on the GMAT. It evaluates critical abilities like logical reasoning, problem-solving, and language competency. There are four major sections on the exam:
- Verbal Reasoning
- Quantitative Reasoning
- Integrated Reasoning
- Analytical Writing
What Is the GMAT Focus Edition?
A new, streamlined version of the GMAT exam called the Focus Edition focuses on the competencies required by today’s business schools. Important characteristics consist of:
– Answering questions in any order
– Bookmarking questions for review
– Changing up to 3 answers per section
– Receiving official scores in 3–5 days
– Selecting schools after seeing your results
Why Is the GMAT Required?
The GMAT is essential for admission to top business and management programs. It assesses your capacity for reasoning and critical thinking, two skills essential for success in the corporate world. A strong GMAT score might boost your earning potential and open doors to esteemed universities.
(Also Read: A Guide to Undergraduate Scholarships for Indian Students)
GMAT Full-Form and Basic Details
– Full-Form: Graduate Management Admission Test
– Conducting Body: GMAC
– Type: Computer-Adaptive Test
– Mode: In-person or online
– Age/Eligibility: 18+ years (or 18 with parental consent)
– Registration Fee: $250 in person, $300 online
– Duration: 3 hours, 7 minutes
– Skills Tested: Writing, Quantitative, Analytical, Verbal, and Reading
– Sections: Analytical Writing, Integrated Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning
– Section Order: Choose from three options
– Breaks: Two 8-minute breaks
– Attempts: Up to 8
– Results Announcement: 7–20 days after the test
GMAT Eligibility Criteria
While GMAC doesn’t have specific eligibility criteria, the GMAT is essential for MBA or business school applications. Each university has its admission requirements. Generally, you must be at least 18 years old. If under 18, a parental consent letter is needed.
GMAT Syllabus
Verbal Reasoning
– Tests language understanding and analysis
– 65 minutes, 36 questions
– Key areas: Reading Comprehension, Critical Reasoning, Sentence Correction
Quantitative Reasoning
– Tests mathematical analysis and reasoning
– 65 minutes, 31 questions
– Key areas: Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Modern math
Integrated Reasoning
– Combines verbal and quantitative skills
– 30 minutes, 12 questions
– Key areas: Multi-Source Reasoning, Table Analysis, Graphics Interpretation, Two-Part Analysis
Analytical Writing
– Tests written communication and critical thinking
– 30 minutes, 1 essay
GMAT Scores and Results
– Verbal Reasoning: 6–51 scale
– Quantitative Reasoning: 6–51 scale
– Integrated Reasoning: 1–8 scale
– Analytical Writing: 0–6 scale
A GMAT score between 650 and 690 is good, 700 to 760 is excellent, and 800 is perfect. The exam adjusts difficulty based on your performance, but there’s no negative marking.
How to Register for the GMAT
- Create or sign in to your mba.com account.
- Complete your GMAT profile with personal and academic details.
- Choose your test format (in person or online).
- Schedule your exam (date, time, location).
- Pay the registration fee.
- You’re all set!
GMAT Registration Fee
– In-person: $275 (inclusive of 18% GST in India)
– Online: $300
– Payment Methods: Credit card, debit card, money order, personal check
– Rescheduling and Cancellation: Additional fees apply based on notice period.
GMAT Exam Dates 2024
| GMAT Official Prep Availability | June 6, 2023 |
| GMAT Registration Opening date | August 29, 2023 |
| Registration Opening date For GMAT Focus Edition | November 7, 2023 |
| GMAT Focus Edition Test Start date | February 1, 2024 |
City Wise Date Sheet for GMAT Exam 2024
GMAT Exam Centers
There are 30 GMAT test centres in 23 cities across India. To reduce the stress of travelling, pick a facility that is close to your home and easily accessible.
GMAT Scholarships
Many universities offer scholarships based on GMAT scores, which can cover full or partial tuition fees. Types of scholarships include need-based, merit-based, diversity/gender-based, and external scholarships. A strong GMAT score and a well-rounded profile are crucial for securing scholarships.
How to Prepare for the GMAT Exam
- Self-Assessment: Take a practice test to identify strengths and weaknesses.
- Targeted Planning: Create an action plan to address knowledge gaps.
- Thorough Preparation and Revision: Study diligently and schedule regular revisions.
- Test Day Readiness: Stay calm and approach the GMAT with confidence.
Conclusion
The GMAT is a key step towards top business and management programs, assessing critical skills needed for success. With strategic planning and determination, you can uncover a world of opportunity and reach your ideal score.
