General Information
The Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) is a standardized test administered by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC). It is used as an admissions factor or requirement at many graduate level business schools in the United States. The previous edition, the GMAT Exam (10th Edition), launched in 2012; it was replaced by the GMAT Exam (Focus Edition) on February 1, 2024, which consists of three sections: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights.
Format and Content
The GMAT is a computer-based exam with three sections: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights.
| SECTION | CONTENT | QUESTION TYPES | QUESTIONS & LENGTH |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Reasoning | Problem solving questions that rely on logic and analytical skills to measure algebraic and arithmetic foundational knowledge. Calculator use is NOT allowed. | Multiple choice | 21 questions - 45 minutes |
| Verbal Reasoning | This section relies on Reading Comprehension questions that measure one's ability to understand words and statements, understand logical relationships between significant points, draw inferences, and follow the development of quantitative concepts. It tests skills in these areas: main idea, supporting idea, inference, application, logical structure, and style. Critical reasoning questions measure one's ability to make arguments, evaluate arguments, and formulate or evaluate a plan of action. These questions rely on short reading passages which usually have fewer than 100 words.Critical Reasoningquestions | Multiple choice | 23 questions - 45 minutes |
| Data Insights | This section measure's one's ability to analyze and interpret data and apply it to real-world business scenarios. Questions may require math, data analysis, and/or verbal reasoning. Calculator use is allowed. | Multiple choice | 20 questions - 45 minutes |
Total Time
2 hours 15 minutes (with one optional 10-minute break)
Scoring
Your total score is based on all three sections, which are equally weighted. The score range is 205 to 805. Section scores range from 60 to 90. Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning sections each receive a scaled score between 0 and 60. There is a penalty for not completing each section based on the number of unanswered questions. On the current Focus Edition, a score of 645 is equivalent to a score of 700 on the previous 10th Edition version.
Reports
Score reports are only sent to schools that a student selects after receiving the data. Students can access score reports from their MBA.com account.
Testing Schedule
The GMAT is a computer-based test that is administered year round at certified testing centers or online.
A student can take the GMAT up to five times within any rolling 12-month period. A student must wait at least 16 days between testing trials.
Cost
Registration Fee (at a test center): $275
Registration Fee (online testing): $300