GMAT Exam 2026
Are you dreaming of an MBA from a top global business school? If yes, the GMAT exam is likely the most important step in your journey. Whether you are targeting Harvard, Stanford, or top Indian institutes like ISB, this test is the gold standard for management admissions.
The GMAT exam has recently undergone a major transformation (formerly known as the Focus Edition). It is now shorter, more flexible, and purely focused on business skills. However, with these changes come many questions. How much does it cost? What is the new syllabus?
In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about the GMAT exam in 2025, from the GMAT exam format to the registration steps. Our goal is to make sure you have all the information to start your prep confidently.
What Is the GMAT Exam?
If you are just starting your research, you might be asking, “what is gmat exam exactly?”
The GMAT exam (Graduate Management Admission Test) is a standardized computer-adaptive test designed to measure the skills that matter most in business school and the real world. It is conducted by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC). unlike other tests, the GMAT exam doesn’t just test what you know; it tests how you think.
Who should take it?
Anyone planning to pursue an MBA, Masters in Management (MiM), or Masters in Finance abroad or in top Indian B-schools should take the GMAT exam.
Why is the GMAT exam important?
- Global Acceptance: Over 7,700 programs at 2,400+ universities worldwide trust the GMAT exam.
- Scholarship Opportunities: A high score often leads to merit-based scholarships.
- Flexible Testing: You can take the GMAT exam at a test centre or online from home.
If you are serious about a management career, understanding what is gmat exam logic is your first milestone.
GMAT Exam Dates 2026
GMAT Exam Dates Table
| Month | Available Dates | Mode | Booking Status |
| Jan 2025 | Multiple days (Mon-Sun) | Online / Test Centre | Open |
| Feb 2025 | Multiple days (Mon-Sun) | Online / Test Centre | Open |
| Mar 2025 | Multiple days (Mon-Sun) | Online / Test Centre | Open |
| Apr 2025 | Multiple days (Mon-Sun) | Online / Test Centre | Open |
GMAT Exam Format (GMAT Focus Edition)
The current version of the test is streamlined and efficient. Understanding the GMAT exam format is crucial because it is very different from the older versions (10th Edition) you might find in old textbooks.
The new GMAT exam format has removed the Essay (AWA) and Sentence Correction. It focuses strictly on data, logic, and math.
GMAT Focus Edition Format Table
| Section | Time | Questions | Score Range |
| Data Insights | 45 mins | 20 | 60-90 |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 45 mins | 21 | 60-90 |
| Verbal Reasoning | 45 mins | 23 | 60-90 |
| Total Score | 2 Hr 15 Min | 64 | 205-805 |
Key Highlights of the Format
- Shorter Duration: The GMAT exam is now only 2 hours and 15 minutes.
- Equal Weightage: All three sections contribute equally to your total score (205-805).
- Question Review: A unique feature of the new GMAT exam format is that you can bookmark and edit up to 3 answers per section.
- Choose Your Order: You can attempt the sections in any order you prefer.
GMAT Exam Fees 2026
GMAT Exam Fee Structure
| Service | Fee (USD) | Fee (INR approx.)* |
| GMAT Exam Fee (Test Centre) | $275 | ₹23,100 |
| GMAT Exam Fee (Online) | $300 | ₹25,200 |
| Rescheduling (1-14 days prior) | $165 | ₹13,800 |
| Rescheduling (15-60 days prior) | $110 | ₹9,200 |
| Cancellation (1-14 days prior) | $220 (No Refund) | No Refund |
| Additional Score Report | $35 | ₹2,900 |
GMAT Exam Questions & Difficulty Level
The GMAT exam is Computer Adaptive. This means the difficulty of the GMAT exam questions adjusts in real-time. If you answer correctly, the next question gets harder (and worth more points). If you answer incorrectly, it gets easier.
The GMAT exam questions are designed to test higher-order reasoning. You won’t find pure memorization questions here.
- Total Questions: 64 Questions.
- No Essay: The writing section is gone.
- Reasoning Heavy: The focus is on analyzing information, not just calculating numbers.
Sample GMAT Question Distribution Table
| Section | Question Type |
| Verbal | Reading Comprehension, Critical Reasoning |
| Quant | Problem Solving (Algebra & Arithmetic) |
| Data Insights | Data Sufficiency, Multi-Source Reasoning, Tables, Graphics |
To master these, you need to practice authentic GMAT exam questions regularly.
GMAT Practice Questions (With Topics)
To get a high score, you must familiarize yourself with the specific types of GMAT exam practice questions. The syllabus has changed, so ensure you aren’t practicing outdated topics like Geometry or Sentence Correction.
Verbal Reasoning
The Verbal section tests your ability to read and evaluate arguments.
- Critical Reasoning: These GMAT exam questions ask you to strengthen or weaken an argument, find the assumption, or draw a conclusion.
- Reading Comprehension: You will read a passage (business, science, or history) and answer questions about the main idea or specific details.
- Note: There are no grammar or sentence correction questions in the current GMAT exam.
Quantitative Reasoning
The Quant section tests your ability to reason mathematically.
- Problem Solving: These are standard math MCQs.
- Topics: Arithmetic (fractions, ratios, percents) and Algebra (equations, inequalities).
- Note: Geometry is removed from the Quant section of the GMAT exam.
Data Insights (DI)
This is the newest and perhaps most challenging section. It uses GMAT exam questions that require you to analyze data from multiple sources.
- Data Sufficiency: You are given a question and two statements. You must decide if the statements provide enough data to answer the question.
- Multi-Source Reasoning: You view emails, texts, and tables to answer multiple questions.
- Table Analysis & Graphics Interpretation: You must interpret trends from charts and sortable tables.
We highly recommend downloading the official GMAT exam practice questions to get used to the interface.
GMAT Exam Syllabus Breakdown
Understanding what is GMAT exam syllabus helps you plan your study timeline. The GMAT exam covers three core areas.
Quantitative Reasoning Syllabus
This section tests your “number sense.” It is not about advanced calculus; it is about high school math applied logically.
- Arithmetic: Integers, fractions, powers, roots, statistics, and probability.
- Algebra: Variables, functions, and word problems.
Verbal Reasoning Syllabus
This tests your ability to understand written English and logical arguments.
- Logic: Identifying flaws in arguments.
- Comprehension: Understanding the scope and tone of passages.
Data Insights Syllabus
This tests digital literacy and data analysis.
- Data Literacy: Reading graphs and scatter plots.
- Verbal-Math Mix: Some GMAT exam questions here involve both calculation and reading.
When you register for GMAT exam, make sure you have covered these three pillars thoroughly.
GMAT Exam Registration Process (Step-by-Step)
Ready to book your slot? The process to register for GMAT exam is straightforward, but you must be careful with your details.
- Step 1: Visit mba.com: This is the official website for the GMAT exam. Do not book through third-party agents.
- Step 2: Create a GMAC Account: Sign up using your name exactly as it appears on your Passport. A name mismatch can prevent you from taking the GMAT exam.
- Step 3: Start Registration: Click on “Register.” You will be asked to fill in your profile details (education, work experience).
- Step 4: Select Mode: Choose between “Test Centre” or “Online.” Check for available GMAT exam dates in your city.
- Step 5: Select Date & Time: Pick a slot. Morning slots are popular, so book early.
- Step 6: Pay the Fees: Pay the GMAT exam fees using an international credit or debit card.
- Step 7: Confirmation: You will receive an email. Keep this safe. You have successfully managed to Register for GMAT exam!
GMAT Exam Day Guidelines
On the day of the GMAT exam, strict rules apply.
- ID Proof: In India, a valid Passport is the only acceptable ID at test centres. Aadhar card or Driver’s License is generally not accepted.
- Arrival: Reach the centre at least 30 minutes before your slot.
- No Electronics: Phones, watches, and notes are strictly prohibited.
- Bio-metrics: Your palm vein scan and photo will be taken.
Breaks: You get one optional 10-minute break. Use it wisely.
Conclusion
Still wondering if the GMAT exam is worth it? Absolutely. The GMAT exam is one of the most reliable ways to prove your readiness for top global business schools. With its new, shorter format, flexible GMAT exam dates, and focused syllabus, the test is now more efficient and career-oriented than ever. Whether you aim for ISB, Harvard, or any top B-school, mastering official GMAT exam practice questions and understanding the updated GMAT exam format will give you a strong advantage.
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Have a question?
Anyone 18+ can take the GMAT. Students aged 13-17 need parental consent. There’s no maximum age, no academic restrictions, and no work-experience requirement. A passport and a valid ID are mandatory.
The GMAT Focus Edition costs around $275 (₹23,000-₹25,000) in India. Rescheduling, cancellation, and score-sending services cost extra. Fees may slightly vary depending on location and exchange rates.
GMAT difficulty depends on preparation. It tests analytical thinking, logic, data interpretation, and verbal reasoning. With structured study and mock tests, it becomes manageable. Lack of strategy makes it challenging.
Indian students often find Quant manageable but struggle with Verbal and Data Insights. With consistent practice, concept clarity, and timed mock tests, the exam becomes achievable for most candidates.
GMAT contains Quant but focuses on logical problem-solving, not advanced mathematics. The topics of the GMAT exam include arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis. It tests reasoning ability rather than heavy formulas or complex calculations.
You can attempt GMAT five times in a rolling 12-month period and eight times in your lifetime. A minimum 16-day gap is required between attempts.
Yes, two months can be enough with disciplined planning. Daily study, mock tests, and strong fundamentals are crucial. Perfect for motivated candidates with prior Quant or Verbal familiarity.
The GMAT cannot be taken for free. However, free official practice tools, sample questions, and mock tests are available on GMAC platforms to support preparation.
GMAT scores remain valid for five years. Schools also prefer recent scores, and you can send them anytime within this validity period.
Focus on conceptual clarity, timed mock tests, and data insights practice. Master Verbal reasoning, strengthen Quant basics, analyse errors, and follow a structured study plan with official GMAT materials.
No, 805 is not possible. The GMAT Focus Edition score ranges from 205 to 805, but the highest reported scores typically fall around the 780–805 range depending on test version.
Most students need 3 to 6 months of preparation to master the GMAT exam questions.
You can use an on-screen calculator for the Data Insights section only. It is not allowed for the Quantitative section.
This is a new section that combines data sufficiency, table analysis, and graphics interpretation.
Yes! The new GMAT exam format allows you to review and edit up to 3 answers per section.
You can select 5 programs to send your scores to for free within 48 hours of receiving your official score.
You cannot “fail,” but if you get a low score, you can retake the exam after 16 days.
Many Executive MBA programs accept the GMAT exam, though some may prefer the Executive Assessment (EA).
The GMAT exam is specifically designed for business schools, whereas the GRE is for all graduate programs. GMAT Quant is generally considered trickier than GRE Quant.
You can register for the GMAT exam without one, but you absolutely need a valid Passport to enter the test centre in India.
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