Welcome to your complete guide to the Graduate Management Admission Test*, or GMAT. The following pages include all of the information you need to know about the test, the scores, the registration process and more.
What is the GMAT?
The GMAT is a standardized test used by business school admissions officers to measure academic ability. In fact, data has shown that GMAT scores are consistently good, though imperfect, predictors of academic success in the first year of MBA programs. GMAT scores are also used by admissions committees as a useful guide in comparing the credentials of candidates from widely varying backgrounds.
The exam itself measures general verbal, mathematical, and analytical writing skills. It does not test business competence nor specific subject knowledge.
Taking a high-stakes test like the GMAT will never be stress-free, but it can be less stressful. Our mission at Kaplan is to distill everything about the GMAT down to exactly what you need to know to test confidently and score higher. If you're looking to succeed on the GMAT, you're in the right place. Read on to learn all about the exam and how you can best prepare for it.
GMAT Test Overview
The GMAT is used by many business schools to help assess whether you possess the foundation to build a successful business career, or at least be successful in business school. The test is meant to evaluate analytical skills and features both verbal and math multiple-choice sections, along with two 30-minute essay topics. The GMAT is given as a Computer Adaptive Test (CAT) in most parts of the world.
A high score on the GMAT will increase the likelihood of getting into the business school program of your choice. More than 250,000 people (roughly 90,000 international test takers and 150,000 U.S. test takers) take the GMAT each year, so it is important for you to do well and stand out from the other candidates.
Try some GMAT Sample Questions, and download full answers and explanations.
The GMAT at a Glance
Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA)
Time: 60 minutes
Format: Consists of two 30-minute essays
Topics Tested: Analysis of an Argument, Analysis of an Issue
Quantitative Section
Time: 75 minutes
Format: Maximum of 37 multiple choice questions
Topics Tested: Algebra, Arithmetic, Geometry
Question Types: Problem Solving, Data Sufficiency
Verbal Section
Time: 75 minutes
Format: Maximum of 41 questions
Topics Tested: Reading, Grammar, Analytical Reasoning
Question Types: Reading Comprehension, Sentence Correction, Critical Reasoning
