GMAT: syllabus, pattern, fees, scores and preparation
Graduate Management Admission Test, run by GMAC. Used for mba and specialised business master's admission worldwide.
What the GMAT is
Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a business school admission test run by GMAC. It is used for mba and specialised business master's admission worldwide.
| At a glance | |
|---|---|
| Sections | Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, Data Insights |
| Duration | 2 hours 15 minutes |
| Score range | 205 to 805 |
| Fee | US$275 at a centre, US$300 online (India: US$275 plus taxes) |
| Results | Official scores within 3 to 5 days; unofficial immediately |
| Validity | 5 years |
| Formats | Test centre and online |
Types of GMAT
GMAT (Focus Edition format)
The only GMAT format since 2024, with three sections and one optional break.
Who can take it
No minimum qualification. Test takers must be 18 or have written parental consent if 13 to 17. Up to five attempts in a rolling 12 months and eight in a lifetime, with 16 days between attempts.
Not sure which test your course accepts?
Requirements differ by university and by visa route. We check before you book.
Talk to a counsellorSyllabus
| Section | What it tests | Questions | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Reasoning | Problem solving in arithmetic and algebra; no geometry | 21 | 45 minutes |
| Verbal Reasoning | Reading comprehension and critical reasoning; no sentence correction | 23 | 45 minutes |
| Data Insights | Data sufficiency, multi-source reasoning, table analysis, graphics interpretation, two-part analysis | 20 | 45 minutes |
Exam pattern
The current GMAT (the Focus Edition format) is question-adaptive within each section, lets you choose the section order, and allows you to review and change up to three answers per section. Data Insights replaced the old integrated reasoning and data sufficiency content. Scores run from 205 to 805, ending in 5.
How to register
- Create an account at mba.com and complete your profile
- Choose test centre or online and book a date
- Pay the fee; rescheduling costs from US$55
- Use the two free Official Practice Exams and the Official Guide
- Send up to five score reports free within 48 hours of the test
Scores explained
| Score | Level | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| 705 to 805 | Top 1 to 2 percent | M7 and top European schools |
| 655 to 695 | Top 10 percent | Competitive for top 25 programmes |
| 605 to 645 | Above average | Strong for most UK and European MBAs |
| 555 to 595 | Average | Meets typical requirements |
| Below 555 | Below average | Consider retaking or GMAT-optional programmes |
Sit it once, with coaching
Small-group courses with weekly mock tests and one-to-one feedback.
See IELTS classesHow to prepare
- Diagnose with an official practice exam before studying
- Master data sufficiency logic; it is the most learnable section
- Practise critical reasoning by identifying conclusions and assumptions
- Time each section strictly at 45 minutes
- Use the answer review feature wisely: flag, do not dwell
Books and resources
- GMAT Official Guide (Focus Edition): Real retired questions with explanations.
- GMAT Official Practice Exams 1 to 6: The only adaptive tests that mirror the real algorithm.
- Manhattan Prep GMAT Strategy Guides: Concept-by-concept coverage.
Detailed guides
GMAT exam pattern
The three sections, adaptive design and answer review rules.
GMAT syllabus
Topics tested in Quant, Verbal and Data Insights.
GMAT scores explained
The 205 to 805 scale, percentiles and school expectations.
GMAT registration
Booking, fees, rescheduling and score sending.
How to prepare for GMAT
A 10-week study plan with resources.
Questions about the GMAT
Is GMAT required for UK MBAs?
Not at most UK schools, which accept work experience and a bachelor's degree. Top schools such as LBS, Oxford and Cambridge expect GMAT or GRE.
What is a good GMAT score?
645 or above is strong for most programmes; 705 or above for the most selective.
How does the current GMAT differ from the old one?
Shorter, three sections, no essay, no sentence correction, no geometry, a new score scale and the ability to review answers.
How long is GMAT valid?
Five years.
Can I take GMAT online?
Yes, with the same content and scoring as the test centre version.
GMAT or GRE?
Both are accepted at most schools. GMAT Data Insights suits people comfortable with business data; GRE has a heavier vocabulary load.
Fees, formats and dates are as published by GMAC for 2025/26 and change; confirm on the official site before booking.
Preparing for the GMAT?
Tell us your target score and date. We match you with coaching or point you to the free resources that work.