GMAT® Exam
This overview includes information to help you prepare for the GMAT™ exam. You’ll find details about the exam format, registration, testing options, costs, scoring, retakes, and study resources.
Exam TypeGraduate business school admissions test | Main SectionsQuantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights |
Total Questions64 questions | Total Score205 to 805 |
Exam Background and Purpose
The GMAT™ exam is a graduate business school admissions test used by MBA and business master’s programs. The exam measures skills related to problem-solving, critical reasoning, quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, and data analysis.
Exam Format
The GMAT exam is made up of three sections that measure quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, and data analysis skills.
Costs and Payment Options
The GMAT exam costs differ depending on the testing venue you choose, either at the testing center or at home via computer. Since the fee, taxes, rescheduling charges, and cancellation fees can differ from place to place, visit the GMAT registration website for accurate information about pricing.
Registration/Times/Locations
You can register for the GMAT exam through mba.com. During registration, you will create or log in to your account, choose whether to test online or at a test center, select an available appointment, and pay for the exam.
The GMAT is offered year-round, but available dates and times depend on your location and testing format.
Key point: GMAT pricing, available dates, testing locations, online testing options, and rescheduling rules can vary, so always confirm the current details during registration.
Test Scores
The GMAT Total Score ranges from 205 to 805. Each section score ranges from 60 to 90, and all three section scores contribute to your Total Score.
Your unofficial scores are displayed on-screen immediately after the exam. Your official score report is usually available in your mba.com account within 3 to 5 days after testing.
There is no universal passing score for the GMAT. Each business school or graduate management program decides how it evaluates GMAT scores as part of its admissions process.
Retaking the GMAT Exam
While you are allowed to retake the GMAT, there are restrictions on the number of times you can take the exam. Current GMAT policy allows up to five attempts within a 12-month cycle, and you must wait at least 16 days between attempts. Online and test-center attempts count toward the same limit.
How Can I Prepare for the GMAT Exam?
Preparation for the GMAT becomes less complicated if you know the proper ways to study. A GMAT study guide can help you review tested skills, flashcards can reinforce important concepts, and practice tests can help you become familiar with the exam format and timing. Below, you’ll find GMAT prep resources designed to help you study efficiently and build confidence before test day.
GMAT Study Checklist
- Review the Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights sections.
- Learn the timing and question count for each section.
- Use practice questions to get familiar with GMAT-style reasoning.
- Review missed questions carefully.
- Use a study guide and flashcards to organize your prep.
- Check the schools you plan to apply to so you understand how they evaluate GMAT scores.
GMAT Study Resources
Top Study Guides:
Best Flashcards:
GMAT™ is a trademark of the Graduate Management Admission Council. GMAC is not involved with or affiliated with Mometrix Media LLC, nor does GMAC endorse or sponsor any of the products or services offered by Mometrix Media LLC.