Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT Exam)
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Graduate Management Admission Tests (GMAT Exam)
Overview
The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a standardized exam used primarily for admission to graduate business programs, such as Master of Business Administration (MBA) and other management-related degrees. Administered by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), the GMAT evaluates a candidate's analytical writing, verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and integrated reasoning skills.
The test is designed to measure abilities that are critical for success in graduate business schools, focusing on problem-solving, critical thinking, and data analysis. The GMAT score is widely recognized by business schools worldwide and is often a key component of the admissions process, along with academic records, work experience, and personal interviews
GMAT Latest Updates 2024
The Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) has announced that the GMAC Focus Edition will officially be renamed to the GMAT Exam, effective from 1st July 2024. Previously, the GMAT Focus Edition was a distinct version of the original GMAT, but now both test formats have been consolidated under the unified name of the GMAT Exam. It is important to note that while the name is changing, the exam structure and scoring system will remain the same.
| Exam Name | GMAT |
| Conducted by | GMAC |
| Exam Duration | 2 hours 15 minutes |
| GMAT full form | Graduate Management Admission Tests |
| Types of Questions | All MCQ-based |
| Mode of Conduction | Online: either at home or at a test centre |
| Sections of Testing | Quantitative Reasoning | Verbal Reasoning | Data Insights |
| Scoring Scale | 205 - 805 |
| Offical Website | www.mba.com |
Steps to Register for GMAT Exam
- Visit mba.com and create an account.
- Log in to your GMAT profile on the official website.
- Choose your preferred test date and test center in India.
- Enter necessary details, including your identification and school preferences.
- Pay the exam fee (approximately ₹22,000), using a credit card or other available payment methods.
- Review all information, including test center and date, before confirming your registration.
- Receive a confirmation email with your test schedule, location, and other relevant details.
GMAT Eligibility
- You must be at least 18 years old to take the GMAT. If you're between 13 and 17 years old, you will need parental consent to register for the exam.
- There is no specific educational qualification required. However, the GMAT is typically taken by individuals who are applying to graduate business programs (e.g., MBA) and generally have a bachelor's degree or are in the final year of their undergraduate studies.
- You can take the GMAT up to five times within a 12-month period, but no more than eight times in total.
- Since the exam is conducted in English, a basic understanding of English is required, especially for the verbal and analytical sections.
- There are no other strict requirements, but some business schools may have their own eligibility criteria for admission, such as work experience or minimum GMAT score. Always check with the specific schools you are applying to for their requirements.
Registration
GMAT Registration Date and Time Period
| Registration Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Registration Start | You can register for the GMAT exam as early as 6 months before your desired test date. |
| Registration Deadline | It is recommended to register at least 3 weeks before your preferred test date. |
| Late Registration | You can register up to 2 days before the test date, but a late fee of around ₹2,000 (approximately $25) will apply. |
| Test Rescheduling | Reschedule your test at least 7 days in advance with a fee of ₹3,500–₹10,500 (depending on timing). |
| Score Report Date | GMAT scores are typically available within 7 business days after the test date. |
Steps for GMAT exam registration
1. Create an MBA.com Account
Visit MBA.com to create an account by providing your basic details like name, email, and contact information. Choose a secure username and password for future access.
2. Select a Test Center and Date
Log in to your account and choose a nearby test center and an available exam date that suits your preparation schedule.
3. Provide Necessary Personal Information
Enter your personal details (name, date of birth, nationality) and ensure your name matches exactly as it appears on your passport or ID.
4. Upload a Valid ID Proof
Upload a government-issued ID (passport is preferred). The name on the ID must match the one you entered during registration.
5. Choose Your GMAT Score Reporting Options
You can select up to 5 business schools to send your scores for free. If undecided, you can choose schools later.
6. Review Your Application
Before submitting, double-check your information, including test center, exam date, and personal details to avoid mistakes.
7. Pay the Registration Fee
Pay the exam fee using a valid credit card or other accepted payment methods. The fee varies by location but is typically around ₹15,000 for the gmat General Test in India.
8. Receive Your Confirmation Email
After payment, you’ll get a confirmation email with your test date, center, and other instructions for exam day.
9. Prepare for the Exam
Use official GMAT study materials and practice tests to get ready. Simulate real test conditions during practice to improve your timing.
10. Reschedule or Cancel (If Needed)
If you need to reschedule or cancel, do so via your MBA.com account. Remember, rescheduling incurs a fee and must be done at least 7 days in advance.
Additional Tips for Indian Candidates:
Register early to secure your preferred test date and center. On exam day, bring your passport and confirmation email. Proper planning and preparation will help ensure a smooth GMAT experience.
Exam Pattern
GMAC has introduced the GMAT Focus Edition, marking a shift from previous versions of the exam. The new GMAT Focus Edition comes with updated changes in both the syllabus and the exam pattern. Compared to earlier versions, the GMAT 11th Edition features a revised format. The table below outlines the details of the GMAT Focus Edition exam pattern for 2024:
| GMAT Focus Edition Section | Number of Questions | Time | GMAT Focus Edition Score Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Reasoning (QR) | 21 Questions | 45 Minutes | 60-90 (1-point Increment) |
| Verbal Reasoning (VR) | 23 Questions | 45 Minutes | 60-90 (1-point Increment) |
| Data Insights (DI) | 20 Questions | 45 Minutes | 60-90 (1-point Increment) |
| Total | 64 Questions | 2 Hours + 15 Minutes | 205-805 (10-point Increment) |
| Breaks | - | 1 Optional Break of 10 Minutes | - |
Quantitative Reasoning :
It assesses a candidate's ability to analyze data and draw conclusions using logical reasoning. Below is an overview of how the Quantitative section of the GMAT is evaluated.
- Applicants will be assessed on their problem-solving abilities using algebraic and arithmetic concepts.
- Applicants benefit from the GMAT Focus Edition as it provides an on-screen calculator for the Quantitative section, eliminating the need to bring a separate one.
- Geometry questions have been removed from the GMAT Focus Edition exam pattern.
Verbal Reasoning :
This section assesses candidates' ability to understand reading comprehension and evaluate critical reasoning in standard English.
- The assessment evaluates an applicant's comprehension skills and ability to make inferences from written texts through two types of multiple-choice questions.
- The first type involves reading passages of up to 350 words, followed by questions that assess your ability to interpret the text, draw inferences, and identify logical connections between different parts of the content.
- The second type, Critical Reasoning questions, measures your ability to draw conclusions from short argumentative passages.
Data Insights :
Data Insights is a new section introduced in the GMAT Focus Edition to assess applicants' ability to analyze and interpret data. Below is the pattern for the Data Insights section in the GMAT Focus Edition:
- The GMAT Focus will assess the applicant's ability to read and interpret data in multiple formats, including tables and graphs.
- The GMAT exam pattern for this section is designed to reflect how today's business world relies on data. It simulates how businesses and managers gather data from various sources, identify patterns, and use that information to make decisions and solve both small and large business problems.
- Hence, the applicant will be tested on 20 questions for 45 minutes in this new section.
Fees
The GMAT registration fee for Indian candidates in 2024 is USD 250, which is approximately INR 20,000. This fee covers the exam and allows you to send your scores to up to five business schools for free.
If you need to reschedule your exam, the rescheduling fee ranges from USD 50 to USD 150, depending on how far in advance you make the change. For candidates who decide to cancel their exam, a partial refund of USD 80 is available. Additionally, if you wish to send your scores to more than five schools, there is a fee of USD 35 per additional score report.
A late registration fee of USD 100 applies if you register within 7 days of your scheduled exam date. Please note that these fees are subject to change, so it’s a good idea to check the official GMAT website for the most up-to-date information.
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| GMAT Registration Fee | USD 250 (approx. INR 20,000) |
| Rescheduling Fee | USD 50 to USD 150 (depending on timing) |
| Cancellation Fee | Partial refund of USD 80 |
| Additional Score Reports | USD 35 per report |
| Late Registration Fee | USD 100 (if within 7 days of the exam) |
Some Important Points to Remember
- Pay via credit or debit card on MBA.com. Ensure your card has sufficient funds for international transactions.
- If you cancel your exam, you’ll receive a partial refund of USD 80. Rescheduling fees depend on how far in advance you make the change.
- Additional score reports cost USD 35 each. Decide how many schools you want to send scores to before completing payment.
- A late registration fee of USD 100 applies if you register within 7 days of your exam date.
- Be aware of foreign transaction fees when paying in USD from India, as your bank may charge additional fees.
- After payment, keep your confirmation email with test details and payment receipt for reference.
- Always check the official GMAT website for any fee updates or changes before proceeding with payment.
FAQ
1. What is the GMAT exam fee for Indian students?
The GMAT registration fee for Indian students is USD 250 (approximately INR 20,000). This fee includes the exam and allows you to send your scores to up to 5 business schools for free. Additional charges may apply for extra score reports, rescheduling, or cancellations.
2. How can I pay the GMAT exam fee?
You can pay the GMAT fee using a credit or debit card on the official MBA.com website. Ensure that your card is authorized for international payments and has sufficient funds.
3. Is there a late registration fee for the GMAT?
Yes, if you register within 7 days of your test date, you will be charged a late registration fee of USD 100.
4. How can I reschedule or cancel my GMAT exam?
You can reschedule or cancel your exam through your MBA.com account. Rescheduling fees range from USD 50 to USD 150 depending on how far in advance you make the change. If you cancel, you will receive a partial refund of USD 80.
5. How do I send my GMAT scores to business schools?
You can send your GMAT scores to up to 5 business schools for free. If you want to send your scores to more than five schools, each additional report costs USD 35.
6. Can I use an on-screen calculator during the GMAT exam?
Yes, the GMAT Focus Edition provides an on-screen calculator for the Quantitative section. You are not required to bring a physical calculator.
7. What ID is required to take the GMAT exam in India?
You will need a valid, government-issued photo ID (preferably your passport) to verify your identity. The name on your ID must match the name you provided during registration.
