GMAT Exam 2025: Format, Syllabus, Registration, Fees, Dates, and Preparation Guide

The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a globally recognized entrance exam for MBA and business master’s programs, conducted by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC). Accepted by over 2,400 universities and 7,700 programs worldwide, including top institutions like Harvard, Stanford, INSEAD, London Business School and ISB Hyderabad, the GMAT exam is a critical step for aspiring business leaders. 

In 2025, only the GMAT Focus Edition is available, with a test duration of 2 hours 15 minutes and three key sections: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights. The GMAT exam fee is currently USD 275 (around ₹24,000 in India), with additional costs for rescheduling, cancellations, and sending scores to universities. Candidates can take the exam year-round, making GMAT exam dates highly flexible, whether at a test centre in India or through the online GMAT exam option. 

The GMAT not only measures analytical, problem-solving, and reasoning skills but also serves as a gateway to global opportunities. With a new scoring scale of 205–805 and a score validity of five years, the GMAT exam 2025 continues to be one of the most reliable tools for admission into prestigious MBA and management programs worldwide.

What is GMAT and why is it Important? 

The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a standardized exam designed to assess the skills needed for success in graduate-level business and management studies. Conducted by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), it evaluates quantitative reasoning, verbal ability, and data analysis, the skills highly valued in MBA abroad and master’s programs worldwide. 

The GMAT exam 2025 is crucial because it acts as a gateway to over 2,400 universities and 7,700 programs across 110 countries, including top-ranked schools in the US, UK, Canada, Europe, Australia, and India. For Indian students in particular, it is a trusted pathway to secure admission in globally recognized business schools, scholarships, and better career prospects in management roles. 

Feature	Details
Conducting Body	Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC)
Exam Mode	Online (at home) or Test Centre
Exam Duration	2 hours 15 minutes
Sections	Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, Data Insights
Score Scale	205–805 (GMAT Focus Edition)
Exam Fee	USD 275 or INR 24,200 (Test Centre) USD 300 or INR 26400 (Online)
Reschedule Fee	USD 55–165 (depending on timeline)
Cancellation Fee	USD 110–165 (depending on timeline)
Score Validity	5 years
Number of Attempts	Up to 5 times in a rolling 12 months, 8 times in lifetime
GMAT Exam Dates 2025	Available year-round, flexible scheduling
Acceptance	2,400+ universities, 7,700+ programs in 110+ countries
Customer Support (India)	Phone: +91-120-439-7830 (9 AM–6 PM IST), Fax: +91-120-4001660
Contact Page	Phone: +91 120-439-7830, 9 AM - 6 PM IST  Fax: +91-120-4001660  Contact: https://www.mba.com/service/contact-us.aspx

Why GMAT? 

The purpose of the GMAT exam is to provide business schools with a reliable measure of a candidate’s analytical thinking, critical reasoning and problem-solving ability. It helps universities evaluate whether applicants are prepared for the academic rigor of an MBA or other management programs. For students, a high GMAT score opens doors to top-tier universities, scholarships and competitive job markets, making it a vital part of their global education journey. 

What is GMAT Exam Eligibility for Indian Students? 

The GMAT exam eligibility criteria are simple and flexible, making it accessible for students and professionals at different stages of their academic or career journey. Unlike some standardized tests, GMAC has not set strict rules regarding educational qualifications. Instead, the focus is on basic requirements such as age, valid identification and the number of attempts allowed. 

For Indian students, these conditions are important to understand before registering, as they ensure smooth participation in the exam. While there is no official upper age or qualification restriction, most test-takers are either in the final year of their undergraduate program or working professionals aiming for an MBA. 

GMAT Eligibility: 

Eligibility Criteria	Requirements
Minimum Age	18 years (students aged 13–17 can appear with parental/guardian consent)
Maximum Age	No upper age limit
Educational Qualification	No minimum qualification required (however, an undergraduate degree is typically needed for MBA admission)
ID Requirements in India	Valid Passport is mandatory; Aadhaar and other IDs are not accepted
Number of Attempts	Up to 5 attempts in a rolling 12-month period; maximum 8 attempts in a lifetime
Gap Between Attempts	Minimum 16 days
Work Experience	Not mandatory, but 2–5 years of experience is preferred by top MBA programs
Restrictions	Candidates previously banned by GMAC for misconduct cannot reapply

How to Register for GMAT Exam in 2025? 

Registering for the GMAT exam 2025 is a completely online process conducted through the official GMAC website. Students can choose to take the test either at a test centre in India or as an online GMAT exam from home, depending on convenience. The registration window is open throughout the year, which means candidates can book their slot at any time, subject to availability. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide to the GMAT registration process: 

Create a GMAC Account 

• Visit the official GMAT website (mba.com) and sign up with your personal details such as name, date of birth, nationality, and email ID. 
• Ensure that the details match exactly with your passport, since it is the only valid ID for Indian students. 

Fill in Personal and Academic Information 

• Complete your GMAT profile by providing academic qualifications, work experience and target schools/programs. 
• This information also helps GMAC generate personalized prep recommendations. 

Choose Test Mode (Online or Test Centre) 

• Decide whether you want to appear for the GMAT online from home or at a designated test centre in India. 

Select GMAT Exam Date and Time 

• Choose your preferred GMAT exam date in 2025 from the available slots. 
• GMAT is offered year-round, so you can pick a date that aligns with your MBA application timeline. 

Select Test Location (If Choosing Test Centre) 

• For offline exams, pick your preferred test centre city and venue. 

Pay the GMAT Exam Fee 

• The registration fee is USD 275 (approx. ₹24,200 in India). 
• Payments can be made via debit/credit card, PayPal, or online banking methods available in India. 

Confirmation and Appointment Letter 

• Once payment is successful, you’ll receive a confirmation email with all exam details. 
• Save and print the appointment confirmation for future reference. 

What are GMAT Slot Booking Rules? 

GMAT slot booking is highly flexible, but candidates must be mindful of deadlines and policies: 

• Advance Booking: You can book a slot up to 6 months in advance. 
• Last-Minute Booking: Slots can be booked as late as 24 hours before the exam, subject to availability. 
• Rescheduling: Allowed up to 24 hours before the exam, with rescheduling fees ranging from USD 55–165, depending on the notice period. 
• Cancellations: Possible up to 24 hours before the test, with partial refunds (USD 110–165 deducted). 
• Gap Between Attempts: If you retake GMAT, you must wait at least 16 days before booking the next attempt.

What are GMAT Exam Dates in 2025?

GMAT exam dates are very flexible and can be booked at any point in a year. This means candidate can choose any date and time which suits him best. However, students are advised to book slots in advance (at least 1 months prior applying), since slots in big cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangaluru fill up quickly. 

Here are some details about exam dates: 

• Availability: Year-round; Multiple slots daily 
• Last Minute Booking: Possible up to 24 hours before the exam 
• Gap Between Attempts: Minimum 16 days between any two attempts 
• Peak Season: June–September (for Fall admissions) & November–January (for Spring intakes) 

What is GMAT Exam Fees in 2025?

The GMAT exam fee in 2025 is standard worldwide, though additional costs apply for rescheduling, cancellations, and score reporting. For Indian students, the base fee is converted into rupees and may vary slightly depending on currency exchange rates. 

Here’s a complete breakdown of the GMAT exam fee structure in 2025: 

• Registration Fee: USD 275 (approx. ₹24,200 in India) 
• Rescheduling Fee: 

Condition	At Test Centre	Delivered Online
If changed more than 60 days before the exam	USD 55   (approx. INR 4840)	USD 60  (approx. INR 5280)
If changed 15–60 days before the exam	USD 110  (approx. INR 9681)	USD 120  (approx. INR 10,560)
If changed 1–14 days before the exam	USD 165  (approx. INR 14520)	USD 180  (approx. 16280)

• Cancellation Fee: 

Condition	At Test Centre	Delivered Online
If changed more than 60 days before the exam	USD 110 Refund  (approx. INR 9681)	USD 120 Refund  (approx. INR 10,560)
If changed 15–60 days before the exam	USD 80 Refund  (approx. INR 7040)	USD 90 Refund  (approx. INR 7920)
If changed 1–14 days before the exam	USD 55 Refund  (approx. INR 4840)	USD 60 Refund  (approx. INR 5280)

• Additional Score Report: USD 35 per school (first 5 reports are free) 
• Enhanced Score Report (Optional): USD 30 
• Rescoring AWA (only for older GMAT attempts): USD 45
  Where are GMAT Test Centers Located in India and Abroad? 

The GMAT exam 2025 can be taken at authorized test centres across India and abroad or through the online GMAT exam option from home. While the online mode offers maximum flexibility, many candidates still prefer physical test centres for a distraction-free environment and reliable infrastructure. 

The GMAT Test Centers lie across many cities in India. Some major cities include: 

• Delhi / NCR (including Gurgaon and Noida) 
• Mumbai 
• Pune 
• Bangalore 
• Hyderabad 
• Chennai 
• Kolkata 
• Ahmedabad 
• Kochi 
• Lucknow 

As far as test centers abroad are concerned, the GMAT is conducted in over 110 countries worldwide, covering North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and the Middle East. Students applying to universities abroad can choose a test centre in their country of residence or travel to a nearby location if needed. 

Since 2021, another test taking mode called Online GMAT exam started, which gave test takers flexibility to take exam from home. This mode is fully recognized by business schools globally and follows the same format and scoring as the test-centre exam, provided system and environment requirements are met. 

What is GMAT Exam Pattern in 2025? 

The GMAT exam pattern 2025 follows the structure of the GMAT Focus Edition, introduced by GMAC as the new standard. Unlike the older GMAT format, the Focus Edition is shorter, more focused, and designed to measure analytical, verbal, and data-handling skills that are critical for MBA success. 

The exam is conducted online or at a test centre, with a total duration of 2 hours 15 minutes, excluding optional breaks. It consists of three main sections: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights. 

Section	Number of Questions	Time Allotted	Skills Tested
Quantitative Reasoning	21	45 minutes	Problem-solving, mathematical reasoning, and numerical ability
Verbal Reasoning	23	45 minutes	Reading comprehension, critical reasoning, grammar, and sentence structure
Data Insights	20	45 minutes	Data analysis, interpretation of charts/graphs, and logical reasoning
Total Duration	–	2 hours 15 minutes	–

Key Features of GMAT Exam Pattern 2025 

• No Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA): This section was removed in the Focus Edition. 
• Review & Edit Option: Candidates can bookmark and review answers during the test. 
• Scoring Scale: 205–805, with 5-point increments. 
• Flexibility: Candidates can choose the order of sections before starting the test. 

The GMAT exam pattern 2025 ensures a balance between testing analytical ability and practical decision-making skills, aligning more closely with what business schools expect from applicants.

GMAT Syllabus 2025: What does GMAT Covers? 

The GMAT syllabus 2025 under the Focus Edition is concise yet comprehensive, covering the skills most relevant for MBA and business management programs. It tests candidates across three main sections—Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights. The emphasis is on logical reasoning, problem-solving and data interpretation, rather than memorization. 

Here’s a detailed breakdown of each section in the GMAT exam syllabus 2025: 

Quantitative Reasoning Syllabus 

Focuses on mathematical and analytical skills required for solving numerical problems. 

• Arithmetic: Percentages, Ratios, Proportions, Averages 
• Algebra: Equations, Inequalities, Functions 
• Word Problems: Mixtures, Work-Time, Speed-Distance 
• Number Properties: Integers, Primes, Divisibility 
• Data Sufficiency: Logical decision-making using limited information 

Verbal Reasoning Syllabus 

Assesses comprehension, grammar, and reasoning through written material. 

• Reading Comprehension: Summaries, main ideas, inference-based questions 
• Critical Reasoning: Strengthening/weakening arguments, assumptions, logical flaws 
• Sentence Correction & Grammar: Tenses, modifiers, subject-verb agreement, idioms 
• Vocabulary in Context: Understanding meaning through usage 

Data Insights Syllabus 

Tests data interpretation and analytical reasoning with real-world business scenarios. 

• Data Interpretation: Charts, Graphs, and Tables 
• Multi-Source Reasoning: Combining data from multiple inputs 
• Two-Part Analysis: Dual-condition and scenario-based problem solving 
• Data Sufficiency: Similar to Quant but focused on decision-making with given info 
• Statistics Basics: Mean, Median, Standard Deviation, Probability 

The GMAT syllabus 2025 is designed to evaluate how well candidates can analyze, interpret, and apply knowledge in practical situations. Since there is no essay section (AWA) in the Focus Edition, students can concentrate more on quantitative, verbal, and data-driven preparation. 

How is GMAT Scored and What is the Validity? 

The GMAT Focus Edition scoring system is designed to give business schools a clear picture of a candidate’s overall readiness for MBA programs. Unlike the older GMAT, the Focus Edition uses a new scoring scale ranging from 205 to 805. Each section is scored separately, and the final score is a combination of all three. 

GMAT Scoring Scale (2025) 

Section	Score Range	Increments
Quantitative Reasoning	60–90	1-point
Verbal Reasoning	60–90	1-point
Data Insights	60–90	1-point
Total Score	205–805	5-point

Key Points About GMAT Scoring 

• Percentiles: Along with raw scores, you also receive a percentile rank that shows how you performed compared to other test takers. 
• Integrated Evaluation: The overall score is derived by combining performance across all three sections, not just one. 
• Validity: Valid for 5 years from the date of the test. 
• Score Sending: Candidates can send scores to up to 5 programs for free within 48 hours of receiving results. Additional reports cost extra. 
• Score Preview Option: Before sending, candidates can preview unofficial scores and choose whether to keep or cancel them. 

The GMAT scoring system 2025 ensures that universities can assess candidates fairly based on a mix of quantitative, verbal, and data-analysis abilities which is all crucial for MBA success.

When and How GMAT Results Declared in 2025? 

The GMAT results 2025 are released in two stages: an unofficial score shown immediately after the exam and the official score report available within a few days. This system helps candidates quickly understand their performance and decide whether to keep or cancel their scores. 

GMAT Result Timeline 2025 

• Immediately After the Exam: 
• You receive an unofficial score report on screen. 
• It includes Quantitative, Verbal, Data Insights, and overall scores. 
• You can choose to accept or cancel your score at this stage. 
• Within 48 Hours: 
• The official score report is available in your GMAT account. 
• This report contains section-wise scores, total score and percentile rankings. 
• You can send your scores to up to 5 programs for free during registration. 
• Additional Score Reports: 
• Can be ordered anytime later (extra fee per report). 
• Delivered electronically to universities within 24 hours of request. 

Key Notes on GMAT Results 

• Validity: GMAT scores remain valid for 5 years. 
• Comparability: Scores can be compared globally across different testing years. 
• Flexibility: Candidates can retake the exam after 16 days if not satisfied with their performance. 

The GMAT results system 2025 ensures transparency and gives candidates full control over when and where to share their scores. 

How to Prepare for GMAT in 2025? 

Preparing for the GMAT exam 2025 requires a mix of strategic planning, consistent practice and smart resource usage. Since the test format is now shorter and more focused under the GMAT Focus Edition, aspirants need to balance their preparation across Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights. 

There are generally two approaches: self-study and coaching. Self-study is effective for motivated students with access to the right books, practice questions and mock tests. Coaching, on the other hand, provides structured guidance, personalized study plans and expert mentorship, ideal for those who need discipline and feedback. 

Key Strategies for GMAT Preparation 2025 

• Understand the Exam Pattern & Syllabus: Before starting, get familiar with the structure and topics. 
• Create a Study Schedule: Allocate daily time for Quant, Verbal, and Data Insights, with weekly mock tests. 
• Focus on Weak Areas: Regularly analyze mock tests and practice more on sections where you struggle. 
• Practice with Official Materials: Use GMAC’s official prep guides, as they best reflect actual exam difficulty. 
• Simulate Test Conditions: Take timed tests to build stamina and improve time management. 

With the right balance of strategy, resources and practice, students can confidently aim for a 645+ GMAT score in 2025. 

Note: In the previous GMAT edition, test takers usually aimed for 700. The new focus edition however, puts 645 equivalent to 700 due to the new scale. This means that scoring 645 is same as scoring 700 previously. So now “645 is the New 700”. 

What are the Best GMAT Preparation Books and Resources? 

Selecting the right study materials is crucial for effective GMAT preparation. The best GMAT books and resources 2025 should provide detailed explanations, practice questions, and adaptive mock tests that resemble the real exam format. A mix of official guides and trusted third-party resources works best. 

Recommended GMAT Books 2025: 

• GMAT Official Guide 2025 (by GMAC): The most authentic source with real past questions. 
• GMAT Official Advanced Questions: Ideal for students targeting a 645+ score, with tough practice sets. 
• Manhattan Prep GMAT Guides: Comprehensive coverage of Quant, Verbal, and Integrated reasoning concepts. 

Online GMAT Resources 

• GMAT Official Prep Software (GMAC): Includes adaptive practice tests, just like the real exam. 
• E-GMAT (for Non-Native English Speakers): Strong in Verbal preparation with structured video modules. 
• GMAT Club Forum: Free community-driven platform for discussion, tips, and practice questions. 

How to Prepare for GMAT in 3 Months or Less? 

Preparing for the GMAT exam in 3 months is possible with the right focus and discipline. Since the test format is now shorter under the GMAT Focus Edition, students can design a targeted study plan covering all three sections—Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights—while practicing under timed conditions. 

3 Months GMAT Study Plan
Month	Plan
Month-1: Build Fundamentals	Review Quant basics (algebra, arithmetic, data sufficiency).  Strengthen Verbal skills (grammar, comprehension strategies).  Start practicing Data Insights (tables, graphs, statistics).  Take a diagnostic test to identify weak areas.
Month 2: Practice & Strengthning	Solve sectional practice sets daily (Quant, Verbal, Data).  Focus on weak topics while revising strong areas.  Take 2–3 timed mock tests and analyze mistakes.  Practice time management techniques.
Month 3: Final Preparation & Mocks	Attempt full-length GMAT mock tests every 3–4 days.  Revise error logs and frequently missed questions.  Work on advanced-level questions for a 700+ score.  Simulate exam-day conditions to build confidence.

What are the tips to score 700+ in GMAT? 

Scoring 700+ in the GMAT exam 2025 (equivalent to 645 in focus edition) requires not just knowledge, but also smart preparation and strategy. The key is to first master the basics across Quantitative, Verbal, and Data Insights, and then gradually move towards advanced-level practice questions. Consistent mock testing under timed conditions helps improve speed, accuracy, and endurance. Equally important is maintaining an error log to track recurring mistakes and learning from them. On test day, candidates should manage their time wisely, avoid spending too long on any single question, and stay calm to maximize performance across all sections. 

How upGrad Can Help You in GMAT Preparation? 

Preparing for the GMAT exam 2025 can feel overwhelming without the right guidance. This is where upGrad steps in to make the journey structured and stress-free. Students get access to personalized study plans designed around their strengths and weaknesses, along with regular mentorship sessions from experts who understand the GMAT Focus Edition in depth. 

upGrad also provides extensive practice material, including sectional tests, adaptive mock exams, and analytics-driven performance reports that highlight areas for improvement. For aspirants aiming for 700+ scores, tailored strategies and problem-solving techniques are shared to boost efficiency. In addition, upGrad’s ecosystem ensures that students receive 24/7 doubt support, peer discussions and test-day strategies, making preparation more interactive and less isolating. 

With this comprehensive approach, upGrad not only helps candidates prepare effectively but also builds the confidence they need to perform their best on exam day. 

How Does GMAT Compare with GRE, CAT, and Other Entrance Exams? 

When planning an MBA or management career, students often wonder whether to choose the GMAT, GRE or CAT. Each exam has its own structure, purpose, and acceptance level. While the GMAT exam 2025 is globally recognized and specifically designed for business and management programs, the GRE is more versatile and accepted across a wider range of graduate courses. On the other hand, CAT remains the primary entrance test for MBA programs in India. 

Understanding the differences in exam pattern, difficulty level, and acceptance across universities is crucial before making a choice. Below, we break down how the GMAT compares with the GRE and CAT, and also look at its global acceptance beyond the US. 

Visit the GMAT self study plan for better preparation 

What are the Key Differences Between GMAT and GRE? 

Both the GMAT and the GRE are widely accepted for MBA admissions, but they differ in structure, scoring, and focus. The GMAT is specifically designed for business and management programs, while the GRE has a broader acceptance across graduate fields, including sciences, humanities, and law. 

GMAT vs GRE – Comparison Table 

Feature	GMAT (Focus Edition 2025)	GRE (Revised 2025 Format)
Purpose	Specifically for MBA & business programs	Accepted for MBA + other graduate courses
Sections	Quantitative, Verbal, Data Insights	Quantitative, Verbal, Analytical Writing
Exam Duration	2 hours 15 minutes	1 hour 58 minutes
Scoring Scale	205–805	130–170 (per section) + Total
Global Acceptance	7,000+ business programs	1,200+ business schools + others
Difficulty Focus	Stronger emphasis on data & logic	More vocabulary-heavy in Verbal

In summary, students targeting only MBA programs often prefer the GMAT, while those who want flexibility across disciplines may choose the GRE. 

Which is Better for MBA in India: GMAT or CAT? 

For students aiming to pursue an MBA in India, the choice between GMAT and CAT depends on the type of business school and career aspirations. The CAT (Common Admission Test) is primarily used for admission into the IIMs and top-tier Indian B-schools, making it the standard pathway for domestic candidates. It is conducted once a year and is known for its high competition and rigorous percentile cutoffs. 

On the other hand, the GMAT exam 2025 offers more flexibility. It is accepted by several Indian institutions such as ISB Hyderabad, SPJIMR Mumbai, and IIM executive programs, in addition to being globally recognized. Unlike CAT, GMAT can be taken multiple times a year, giving students more chances to improve their scores. 

In short, CAT is better for students focused exclusively on Indian B-schools, while GMAT is the right choice for those who want both Indian and international MBA opportunities. 

For more detailed comparison, read CAT vs GRE

GMAT Acceptance Worldwide 

The GMAT exam 2025 is accepted by over 7,000 programs at 2,300+ business schools across 110 countries, making it one of the most globally recognized entrance tests for MBA and management studies. Its wide acceptance ensures that students can apply to leading institutions not just in the U.S., but also in the UK, Europe, Canada, Australia, and Asia. 

In the UK, universities like London Business School, Oxford Saïd, and Cambridge Judge rely heavily on GMAT scores for MBA admissions. Across Europe, top schools such as INSEAD, HEC Paris, IE Business School, and ESADE consider GMAT as a key admission criterion. In Australia and New Zealand, business schools including Melbourne Business School, Macquarie Business School and UNSW Sydney widely accept GMAT. 

Beyond these, many leading Asian institutions such as HKU Business School, NUS (Singapore), and ISB Hyderabad (India) also require GMAT scores. This global recognition makes the GMAT one of the most powerful tools for students aiming to build an international management career. 

Conclusion

Preparing for the GMAT test is a crucial step for anyone aiming to pursue an MBA or other graduate business programs at top global universities.  

Whether you're just starting your prep or planning a retake, staying updated on GMAT rules, scoring, and strategies can make a big difference.  

Practice regularly, use official prep materials, and tailor your approach to the new structure for the best possible results. If you want personalized prep strategies, expert guidance, or help with your MBA applications; Book your 1:1 Session with upGrad Experts Today!