What Is the GMAT?

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The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a standardized exam often used for admission to graduate business schools and Master of Business Administration (MBA) programs. The exam, administered by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), measures analytical and critical thinking skills that are commonly necessary for success in graduate business programs.

Admissions committees typically use these exam scores to gauge your preparedness for graduate-level coursework. Although it's just one piece of the MBA admission process (and it's not always required), with a good GMAT score, you may stand out academically and qualify for merit-based scholarships.

Discover what you can expect from the GMAT, and get tips for preparing.

What is in the GMAT test? GMAT sections

The GMAT is divided into three sections: quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, and data insights. The exam takes a total of two hours and 15 minutes, with one optional 10-minute break.

Here's a quick breakdown of each section:

Quantitative Reasoning

In this section, you will have 45 minutes to complete 21 questions that measure your ability to reason mathematically, solve quantitative problems, and understand graphic data. You can expect to see a lot of multiple-choice questions aimed at testing your ability to solve problems and choose the best answer based on your reasoning. 

Verbal Reasoning

In this section, you will have 45 minutes to answer 23 questions that measure your understanding of the English language, analytical skills, and ability to read critically. You can expect two types of questions, including reading comprehension and critical reasoning. While these questions are multiple choice, they will still draw on your ability to think critically, consider the evidence, and draw conclusions. 

• Reading comprehension: Measures your ability to read passages and make inferences based on information, context, and logical relationships

• Critical reasoning: Measures your ability to read short passages containing an argument and then evaluate the argument based on certain parameters

Is GMAT or GRE easier?

When comparing the GMAT and GRE, one test isn’t easier than the other; however, your success on the test may depend on your skills and background. For example, the GRE has a more challenging verbal reasoning section, while the GMAT has a more challenging quantitative reasoning section. Therefore, if you excel in verbal skills, you may score higher on the GRE, and if you excel in math, the GMAT may be best for you. 

How GMAT scores work

The GMAT is a computer-adaptive test, meaning the difficulty level of the questions adjusts to your performance as you answer each question. Correct answers will yield more difficult questions, while incorrect answers will generate easier questions. Ultimately, your score will reflect the difficulty level of your questions.

You will receive a score for each of the three GMAT sections you complete. You will also receive a Total GMAT Score, ranging between 205 and 805. Altogether, you will get four scores pertaining to your GMAT exam. 

Here’s how each section is scored: 

• Verbal Reasoning: 60–90

• Quantitative Reasoning: 60–90

• Data Insights: 60–90

• Total GMAT Score: 205–805

Right after you complete the test, you’ll receive an unofficial score. Your official scores should be ready within three to five days of the test date. GMAT scores are valid for five years and are available for reporting for up to 10 years.

Where to take the Graduate Management Admission Test

With the GMAT, you have the option of scheduling your test at an onsite facility or taking the exam online from home, as long as you have the appropriate software. Deciding where to take your GMAT depends on your preferences. If you like the imposed quiet and structure of a testing facility, then that might be the best option for you. However, if you prefer taking the test from the comfort of your home, then that might be the best option. 

In-person testing is available seven days a week and can be booked up to six months in advance, while at-home testing is available whenever you are. With either method, you are allowed to take the exam up to five times within a 12-month period.

GMAT cost 

The fee to take the GMAT exam at a testing center is $275 and includes the option to send your scores to up to five schools [1]. You may encounter additional fees for enhanced score reports. If you take the test online, the fee is $300 and again includes the option to send your scores to up to five schools [1]. The biggest difference is that you can decide which schools will receive your scores after you learn how you did. 

In both instances, if you need to change the location or reschedule your test, you may need to pay additional fees.

How to prepare for the GMAT

Preparation is essential to your success on the GMAT. Luckily, there are several ways to prepare for the exam:

• Give yourself enough time. It is recommended to begin studying for the GMAT at least six months before you need to begin applying to MBA programs.

• Use GMAT study resources. There are a number of excellent resources when it comes to studying for the GMAT. Whether you borrow books from the library, download study guides, or try online practice exams, you have several options.

• Focus on each section. Although it may be tempting to jump around and learn a little about each section, it’s beneficial to plan your studying in a more focused manner. Tackle one section at a time. 

• Take an online GMAT prep course. There are several online courses that will help you prepare for the GMAT. Emory University's Math for MBA and GMAT Prep course, available on Coursera, can help you brush up on many of the skills you’ll need to do well on the exam. 

Prepare for the Graduate Management Admission Test with Coursera

Earn your MBA online from the University of Illinois Gies College of Business. The iMBA program is competitively ranked and features more flexibility to help you learn on your own time. In the meantime, take an open course from the University of Illinois or Macquarie University to see if an MBA is right for you.