- Find out what the GMAT is and why so many MBA and Business Master’s programmes ask for it.
- Discover what’s new in the GMAT Focus Edition and how it’s different from the old test.
- Understand what your score means, how percentiles work, and what a competitive score looks like.
- Learn how to register, prepare, and boost your score with the right study plan and resources.
- Explore MBA and Business Master’s degrees that match your goals on Mastersportal.
Planning to study an MBA or Business Master's? You’ll likely come across the GMAT — a globally recognised admissions test that helps business schools decide if you’re ready for graduate study.
Whether you’re fresh out of university or a working professional switching into business, this guide explains exactly what the GMAT is, how it works, and how to prepare for it. You'll also find tips on test strategy, registration, and what kind of score you’ll need to aim for.
What is the GMAT exam?
GMAT is an abbreviation for Graduate Management Admission Test. It’s a test that many business schools ask for when you apply to an MBA or another Business Master's. Think of it as a way for schools to check if you're ready for the kind of thinking and problem-solving you'll need during your degree.
What is GMAT used for?
The GMAT is mainly used for applying to graduate-level Business degrees, especially MBA programmes and Master’s in Management, Finance, or Marketing. Business schools use the GMAT to see how well you handle complex thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving — key skills you'll need during your studies and career.
It’s not used for bachelor’s or PhD programmes, and it’s not a certification. It’s an admissions test — a way for universities to compare applicants fairly, no matter where they’re from or what they studied before.
Here’s who takes the GMAT and why:
- Bachelor’s graduates who want to apply for a Master’s in Business or an MBA
- Young professionals with 1–5 years of work experience applying for an MBA
- Students switching fields from engineering, law, or other areas into Business
The GMAT is often required or strongly recommended for:
Some top schools may accept GRE testsinstead, or waive the test completely if you have strong academic or professional experience. But in competitive programmes, a strong GMAT score still gives you an edge.
Who can take the GMAT and how to register?
Anyone aged 18 or older can take the GMAT. If you're between 13 and 17, you'll need written permission from a parent or guardian.
There are no specific nationality or academic requirements. You don't need a business degree or any particular background to sit the test.
You can take the GMAT up to five times in a 12-month period, with a 16-day gap between attempts, and a lifetime limit of eight attempts.
You can register for the GMAT up to six months in advance, and no later than 24 hours before your chosen test date. However, popular test centres may fill up quickly, so it's wise to book early.
How to register for GMAT:
- Create an account at mba.com.
- Choose between the online or test centre version.
- Select your preferred test date and location.
- Fill in your personal and academic details.
- Pay the registration fee.
After registering, you'll receive a confirmation email with your test details.
Deadlines to keep in mind:
- Registration cut-off: 24 hours before the test.
- Score availability: Unofficial scores are available immediately; official scores are typically released within 3–5 business days, but it can take up to 20 days.
Exam costs and additional fees
The GMAT registration fee varies by location and test format:
- United States: $275 (test centre), $300 (online)
- United Kingdom: £250 (test centre), £275 (online)
- Germany: €275 (test centre), €300 (online)
- India: $275 (test centre), $300 (online), plus applicable taxes
Additional fees:
- Rescheduling: Fees vary depending on how far in advance you make changes.
- Cancelling: Fees apply; the amount depends on the timing.
- Additional score reports: $35 per report.
Currently, GMAC does not offer fee waivers or financial aid for the GMAT exam.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official mba.com website.
Exam structure and scoring: What’s on the GMAT?
The GMAT Focus Edition, introduced in 2023, is the latest version of the GMAT exam. It comprises three main sections, each designed to assess specific skills essential for success in business school:​
- Quantitative Reasoning: Assesses your ability to reason quantitatively and solve mathematical problems. This section includes:
- Problem Solving: Tests your ability to use logic and analytical reasoning to solve quantitative problems.
- Data Sufficiency: Measures your ability to analyse a quantitative problem and recognise which data is relevant.​
- Verbal Reasoning: Evaluates your ability to read and comprehend written material, reason and evaluate arguments, and correct written material to conform to standard written English. This section includes:
- Reading Comprehension: Tests your ability to understand, analyse, and apply information and concepts presented in written form.
- Critical Reasoning: Assesses your ability to make arguments, evaluate arguments, and formulate or evaluate a plan of action.​
- Data Insights: Measures your ability to analyse and interpret data presented in various formats. This section includes:
- Table Analysis: Tests your ability to sort and analyse a data table like a spreadsheet.
- Graphics Interpretation: Assesses your ability to interpret a graph or graphical image.
- Multi-Source Reasoning: Measures your ability to examine data from multiple sources, such as tables, graphs, and text passages, to answer questions.
- Two-Part Analysis: Tests your ability to solve complex problems that involve two components.
- Data Sufficiency: Similar to the Quantitative section, it assesses your ability to determine whether you have enough data to solve a problem.​
Notably, the GMAT (the latest, Focus Edition) has eliminated the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) section, streamlining the exam to focus more on data analysis and reasoning skills.​
Exam Duration and Format
The GMAT Focus Edition is a computer-based test that adapts to your performance level. The total testing time is 2 hours and 15 minutes, excluding optional breaks. The exam is offered year-round, and you can schedule it at your convenience. The exam is structured as follows:​
| Section | Duration | Number of Questions |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 45 minutes | 21 questions |
| Verbal Reasoning | 45 minutes | 23 questions |
| Data Insights | 45 minutes | 20 questions |
You are allowed one optional 10-minute break, which you can take after the first or second section. Additionally, you have the flexibility to choose the order in which you take the three sections.​
GMAT score ranges
The GMAT Focus Edition scores range from 205 to 805. Your final score combines results from all three sections: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights. Most test takers score between 545 and 605, which is roughly average.
What is a good GMAT score?
A “good” GMAT score depends on where you want to apply. Top MBA programmes often look for scores above 685, with the most competitive ones expecting 700 or more. But that’s not a fixed rule.
The highest possible score is 805, but very few reach that. On the other end, a score of 205 is the lowest you can get — but it’s rare too. What really matters is how your score compares to what your target universities expect.
| Score Range | Percentile Estimate | What It Means |
| 755–805 | Top 10% | Exceptional score – competitive for elite global MBA programmes |
| 705–750 | Top 25% | Excellent – strong for top business schools worldwide |
| 645–700 | Top 50% | Competitive – fits most international MBA/Master’s programmes |
| 605–640 | Below average to average | May be accepted by mid-tier or test-flexible schools |
| 205–600 | Low range | Unlikely to meet admission standards without a strong profile |
How hard is the GMAT?
The GMAT is tough — but it’s tough for a reason. Business schools want to see how you handle pressure, time limits, and complex thinking. It’s not just about academic knowledge. It tests how fast and accurately you can make decisions, spot patterns, and solve problems.
Some sections trip up students more than others. The Data Insights section, for example, is new and combines multiple skills in one. The adaptive nature of the test also means questions get harder if you’re doing well — so it can feel intense even if you’re doing great.
How many times can you take the GMAT?
You’re allowed to take the GMAT:
- Up to five times in one year
- With at least 16 days between attempts
- No more than eight times total in your life
Only the scores you choose to send are seen by schools. If your first try doesn’t go as planned, you can retake it — and only share the score you’re proud of.
How to prepare for GMAT: Study plan and timeline
Most students need between 2 to 4 months to prepare for the GMAT properly. If you’re aiming for a top score (650+), give yourself at least 100–120 hours of focused study time.
Here’s a rough timeline that works for most people:
- Months 1–2: Focus on learning the basics of each section:
- Brush up on algebra, word problems, and grammar rules
- Practise question types for Verbal, Quantitative, and Data Insights
- Identify weak areas using short practice quizzes
- Month 3: Start working with full-length practice tests
- Take one test each week under timed conditions
- Review every mistake and track what’s slowing you down
- Focus more on your weak spots
- Month 4 (if needed): Final review and test strategy
- Practise pacing
- Work on difficult or unfamiliar question types
- Use official mock tests to simulate exam day
If you're short on time, even 4–6 weeks of intense daily study can work — but it takes discipline and a smart plan.
Preparation resources and practice tests
Your best bet is to use official resources from GMAC, the makers of the GMAT. They're the most accurate reflection of the real test.
Official GMAT resources:
- GMAT Official Starter Kit + Practice Exams 1 & 2 – Free
- GMAT Official Guide 2024 – Paid, includes 1,000+ real questions
- GMAT Focus Edition Prep – Includes section-specific practice
Other useful prep tools:
- Target Test Prep – great for Quant
- Manhattan Prep – strong on strategy and pacing
- Magoosh – budget-friendly with video lessons
- GMAT Club – free question banks and forums
- MBA.com YouTube – tips and explainer videos
- Reddit r/GMAT – community advice and shared experiences
Make sure you practise with adaptive practice tests, so you get used to how the real exam changes difficulty as you go.
Additional resources
- What are the world’s best business schools?
- 10 very good reasons to study an MBA degree
- MBA programmes that don’t require a GMAT exam
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
1. Where can I take the GMAT?
You can take the GMAT either at a test centre or online from home. Both formats have the same structure and scoring. Check test centre locations and availability on the official GMAT website.
2. How long does it take to get GMAT results?
You’ll get your unofficial scores immediately after the test. Official scores are released within 3 to 7 days and sent to the schools you selected. There’s no fast-track option — all scores follow the same timeline.
3. How long are GMAT scores valid?
Your GMAT scores are valid for five years from the test date.
4. GMAT vs GRE – Which is better?
Both the GMAT and the GRE are accepted for MBA and Business Master’s programmes, but each test suits different strengths.
- GMAT is designed specifically for business school. It focuses more on logic, problem-solving, and data interpretation.
- GRE is more general and is accepted for a wider range of graduate programmes, including business. It includes more vocabulary and slightly easier maths.
