What is the GMAT exam?
The GMAT exam does not measure a person’s knowledge of business administration; rather, it reveals their ability to think strategically and analyze data intelligently. Today, the GMAT stands as a fundamental step toward admission to the world’s leading business schools, representing a true challenge to logic, intelligence, and one’s capacity to make difficult decisions.
Therefore, if you aspire to earn an MBA from one of the world’s leading universities, you will need to book the GMAT exam. In this article, we will explore the complete GMAT journey. Get ready to discover new dimensions of your abilities!
- What is the GMAT exam?
- What are the sections of the GMAT exam?
- How can I register for the GMAT exam?
- Is the GMAT exam free?
- What is the difference between the GRE and the GMAT?
- How can I pass the GMAT exam on the first attempt?
- What GMAT scores are required by top universities?
- Frequently Asked Questions
What is the GMAT exam?
The GMAT is an abbreviation for the Graduate Management Admission Test. It is a standardized global exam used to assess the readiness of applicants for graduate programs in business administration, such as an MBA. Booking the GMAT exam is essential to apply for these programs. The GMAT measures quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, and data analysis skills.
The GMAT is extremely important. Studies have shown that GMAT scores are positively correlated with academic performance in the first year of study, especially when combined with undergraduate GPA. The exam also measures essential skills required for studying business administration, such as critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and data-driven decision-making.
Therefore, before registering for the GMAT, you need to prepare thoroughly. You can seek help from a private tutor through Modarby platform to prepare effectively for the GMAT and achieve the highest possible scores.
What are the sections of the GMAT exam?
To prepare well for the GMAT, it is essential to understand its sections and prepare for each one thoroughly. The GMAT consists of three main sections, each lasting up to 45 minutes. The total test duration is 2 hours and 15 minutes, with an optional 10-minute break.
The first section is Quantitative Reasoning, which consists of 21 questions. It includes problem-solving questions such as algebra problems and data analysis based on graphs and tables. This section measures the test-taker’s ability to apply logical quantitative reasoning to solve problems.
The second section is Verbal Reasoning, which includes 23 questions. It covers reading comprehension and critical reasoning questions. This section evaluates the candidate’s ability to analyze written texts, assess logical arguments, and draw conclusions.
The final section is Data Insights, consisting of up to 20 questions. These questions include multi-source reasoning, table analysis, data sufficiency, graph interpretation, and two-part analysis. This section measures the ability to analyze and interpret data and make decisions based on that data.
There is no fixed order for the three GMAT sections, as candidates can choose any order they prefer, with one optional short break after completing one section. Therefore, it is crucial to study all GMAT sections thoroughly to achieve the best possible results.
How can I register for the GMAT exam?
Preparing well for the GMAT is essential, but first, you need to know how to register for the exam. The registration process includes the following steps:
1. Create an account on mba.com by entering your name, email address, and password.
2. After creating your account, click on “Register” from your account page, then enter your personal information, ensuring it matches your ID or passport.
3. Choose the exam format, either at a test center or online.
4. Select a suitable test date within the next six months or up to 24 hours before the exam date. Early registration is recommended to avoid limited availability.
5. To complete GMAT registration, you must pay the exam fee within 15 minutes of confirming your appointment.
6. After payment, you will receive a confirmation email with your test date and test center details. Keep your registration number and all related information.
7. Registration is also available by phone or mail, but the online method is the fastest.
When registering for the GMAT, it is important to carefully follow all steps. In addition, thorough preparation is essential to achieve the best possible score.
Is the GMAT exam free?
No, the GMAT is not free. It requires a registration fee. The standard fee at test centers is USD 275, while the online GMAT costs USD 300. These fees include sending score reports to five programs for free. Additional services, such as enhanced score reports or score reviews, are available for extra fees.
In some cases, partial or full fee waivers may be available. Certain universities distribute a limited number of fee waivers to students with financial need. Top-performing university students may also receive discounts, reducing the fee to as low as USD 150.
Therefore, GMAT costs can be reduced through early application and student discounts. However, the most important factor remains proper preparation. You can seek help from a private tutor via Modarby platform to achieve the best results.
What is the difference between the GRE and the GMAT?
When considering booking the GMAT, it is important to understand the difference between the GMAT and the GRE. The main differences include:
1. The GMAT is primarily used for business school applications, while the GRE is accepted by a wide range of graduate programs.
2. The GMAT consists of three sections, whereas the GRE consists of five or six sections.
3. The GMAT adapts at the question level and does not allow calculators in the quantitative section, while the GRE adapts at the section level and allows calculators.
4. The GMAT is generally more challenging in quantitative reasoning, while the GRE places greater emphasis on vocabulary.
5. The GRE is typically less expensive, costing around USD 205, with additional fees of approximately USD 35.
Based on the above, the differences between the GMAT and GRE are clear. However, students should not rely solely on these differences; instead, they should consider their personal goals and academic needs.
How can I pass the GMAT exam on the first attempt?
After understanding the differences between the GMAT and GRE, let us explore how to prepare for the GMAT before booking the exam.
Key preparation tips include:
1. Create a structured study plan for three months, studying around two hours per day for ten weeks.
2. Identify your weak areas and focus on improving them.
3. Use practice materials that closely resemble the real exam, solve many questions, and review mistakes.
4. Take full-length practice tests under real exam conditions. This is one of the most important aspects of GMAT preparation. Learn when to skip difficult questions to manage time effectively.
5. Pay close attention to timing for each section and maintain focus throughout the test.
6. Avoid rote memorization; focus on understanding concepts, as most questions rely on comprehension.
7. Before the exam, avoid unnecessary repetition or adding new study materials.
GMAT preparation should be done step by step, without rushing, and sufficient time should be allocated for each section. After booking the GMAT, your study plan should be aligned with the test date.
What GMAT scores are required by top universities?
Top universities typically require GMAT scores above 700 on average. Scores above 700 significantly enhance a candidate’s competitiveness for global business schools, while scores above 730 greatly increase the chances of admission to elite institutions. The global average GMAT score for 2025 is 553.3.
Therefore, before booking the GMAT, it is essential to prepare thoroughly to achieve a high score that allows you to compete internationally for admission to top universities.
In conclusion, the GMAT is a crucial exam for admission to global universities and for studying business administration. Proper preparation is key. You can visit Modarby platform and work with a private tutor to pass the GMAT in the best possible way.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the GMAT exam cost?
The GMAT costs USD 275 at test centers and USD 300 for the online exam, with possible discounts and fee waivers in specific cases.
What is the average GMAT score?
The global average score for 2025 is 553.3, with scores ranging from 205 to 805. Achieving a high score significantly increases the chances of admission to leading universities.