GMAT Info and FAQ
The GMAT is a 3.5-hour computer-adaptive test designed to predict a student’s success in business or management school.
Click the links below for answers to commonly asked questions about the GMAT.
- Who takes the GMAT?
- What subjects does the GMAT cover?
- What is the format of the GMAT?
- How long is the GMAT?
- How many questions are on the GMAT?
- How is the GMAT scored?
- What is a CAT test?
- How long should I prepare for the GMAT?
- How long is a GMAT score valid?
- How much does the GMAT cost?
- Where can I take the GMAT?
- How many times can I take the GMAT?
- When will I receive my GMAT scores?
- What are the test dates for the GMAT?
- Can I cancel my GMAT score?
Who takes the GMAT?
Students planning to apply to graduate programs in business and/or management should take the GMAT.
What does the GMAT cover?
The GMAT consists of three sections: analytical writing, quantitative analysis, and verbal reasoning — math, English, and logic.
The analytical writing section of the GMAT includes two essays — one in which a student analyzes different sides of an issue and one in which a student analyzes the quality of another’s argument.
The GMAT verbal reasoning section includes multiple choice questions to test reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and sentence correction.
The quantitative analysis section includes questions focusing on data sufficiency and problem solving.
What is the format of the GMAT?
The first section is the analytical writing section, consisting of two essays (analysis of an issue and analysis of an argument) at 30 minutes each. The writing section is followed by two multiple-choice sections in math and verbal, each 75-minute sections.
How long is the GMAT?
The GMAT is a 3.5-hour test, but plan for it to take up to 4 hours, including breaks and instruction time. It is divided into the following sections:
| Section | Time | |
| Writing | Analysis of Issue Essay | 30 minutes |
| Writing | Analysis of Argument Essay | 30 minutes |
| Math | 37 Questions | 75 minutes |
| Verbal | 41 Questions | 75 minutes |
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How many questions are on the GMAT?
There are 37 multiple choice questions in the quantitative analysis section, forty-one multiple choice questions in the verbal section, and two essays for a total of 78 multiple choice questions and 2 essays on the GMAT.
How is the GMAT scored?
The two major parts of the GMAT are scored independently. You will receive a GMAT verbal score (0 to 60) and a GMAT math score (0 to 60). You will also receive a total GMAT score (200 to 800), and a GMAT writing score (0 to 6). The average total score is 500.
In addition, you will be assigned a percentile ranking, which gives the percentage of students with scores below yours.
You are scored only on questions that you answer, and your score decreases with every unanswered question. Thus, guessing may be advantageous.
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- Writing Assessment: Learn how to get top scores on your Analysis of Issue and Analysis of Argument essays.
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What is a CAT test?
CAT stands for computer adaptive test. Most standardized paper-&-pencil tests list problems in ascending order of difficulty. However, on a CAT test, the first question will be of medium difficulty. If you answer it correctly, the next question will be a little harder. If you answer it incorrectly, the next question will be a little easier. Because the GMAT “adapts” to your performance, early questions are more important than later ones.
How long should I prepare for the GMAT?
Before developing your GMAT study plan, try taking a practice test to see where you stand. The average student will want to start preparing for the GMAT at least 2 months in advance.
How long is a GMAT score valid?
A GMAT score is valid for 5 years
How much does the GMAT cost?
The fee to take the GMAT is $250 worldwide.
Where can I take the GMAT?
How many times can I take the GMAT?
Most people are better off preparing thoroughly for the GMAT, taking it one time and getting their top score. You can take the GMAT as often as you like, but many business schools will average your scores. You should call the schools to which you are applying to find out their policy. Then plan your strategy accordingly.
When will I receive my GMAT scores?
You will receive your unofficial score for the verbal and quantitative sections as well as an overall score immediately after you take the test and before leaving the testing center. Official scores including the writing score will be available online within 20 days.
What are the test dates for the GMAT?
The GMAT is given year-a-round during normal business hours. There is often one week during each month in which the test is not offered.
Can I cancel my GMAT score?
Yes. When you finish the GMAT test, the computer will offer the option of canceling the test or accepting it. If you cancel the test, neither you nor any school will see your score. If you accept the test, the computer will display your GMAT score and it will be available to all schools.
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Features:
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- Reading Comprehension: Develop the ability to spot places from which questions are likely to be drawn as you read a GMAT passage (pivotal words, counter-premises, etc.).
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