The GMAT is the Global Management Entrance Test used by thousands of business schools worldwide. In 2025 the GMAT is delivered year-round (at test centres and online by appointment), uses the newer three-section format, and reports a Total Score that ranges above previous versions — useful when you’re mapping target MBA programs. Read on for the essentials you need to schedule your test, plan preparation and convert your score into interview calls.
Key dates — GMAT 2025
- When to take: Year-round — book an appointment at a test centre or take GMAT Online.
- Current format: Three sections — Quantitative Reasoning (21 Q, 45 min), Verbal Reasoning (23 Q, 45 min) and Data Insights (20 Q, 45 min). Total test time ≈ 2 hours 15 minutes (plus optional break).
- Total score range: GMAT Total Score now reported on a 205–805 scale (section scores contribute equally).
- Retake rules: You must wait at least 16 days between attempts; you can take the GMAT up to five times in a rolling 12-month period (no lifetime limit in normal circumstances). Plan retakes with these limits in mind.
Who should take the GMAT?
- Candidates applying to MBA / Masters in management / business-related master’s programs that accept GMAT scores.
- International applicants and professionals aiming for mid/top-tier programs where a strong quantitative/analytical score helps shortlisting.
- If your target colleges accept the GMAT, treat the test as both a skills assessment and a signalling tool — strong scores plus a good profile increase interview calls.
Exam structure & what’s tested
- Quantitative (21 Q, 45 min): algebra, arithmetic, geometry, problem solving with emphasis on data sufficiency and reasoning.
- Verbal (23 Q, 45 min): reading comprehension, critical reasoning, sentence correction and inference.
- Data Insights (20 Q, 45 min): charts, tables, data interpretation and analysis — tests data literacy directly.
Each section is scored and then combined into your Total Score (205–805). Section scores are reported and useful when schools evaluate candidate strengths.
GMAT 2025 — Eligibility (simple summary)
GMAC doesn’t set strict academic rules for who can register for the GMAT. Still, keep these points in mind:
- If you’re 13–17 years old, you can take the GMAT, but you’ll need a signed parental consent form.
- You can take the test in any language background — there’s no requirement that your school or college must have been in English.
- There is no minimum degree or marks required to register — you don’t need a specific academic qualification to sign up.
- No work experience is required to register. Many test takers do have jobs, but it’s not mandatory.
How to register for the GMAT (easy step-by-step)
Follow these simple steps to register:
- Go to the official GMAT site: mba.com and create an account.
- Log in and start your application — Enter your name, email and phone.
- Fill in your personal details – Address, contact information.
- Add your academic – And (if applicable) professional information.
- Choose a test mode — In-center (test center) or GMAT Online (home test).
- Pick a test center and a date/time slot – If you chose in-center, or pick an online appointment.
- Review all details carefully.
- Pay the exam fee online using card or other available payment methods.
- After payment, you’ll get a confirmation — Save the receipt. Your registration is complete.
Note: Online GMAT has a slightly different booking flow (no physical test center), but the account, form and payment steps are the same.
GMAT exam fees (India)
Fees vary by mode and country. For India (as shown on mba.com):
- GMAT at a test centre: USD 275 + 18% GST.
- GMAT Online (home test): USD 300 + 18% GST.
Always check the final price on mba.com before payment (transaction fees / taxes may be added).
Attempts, gaps & score validity
- Wait time between attempts: 16 days.
- Max attempts: 5 in any rolling 12-month period (further rules and rare exceptions handled by GMAC).
- Score validity: GMAT scores are valid for 5 years from the test date. Plan your test calendar accordingly.
GMAT is often used as a shortlisting filter — a high Total Score + strong section profile increases invite chances at competitive programs. But converting a score into a seat also depends on profile (academics, work experience, essays, recommendations). That’s where counselling helps: we map realistic target schools for your expected score and create an application timeline (test → retake windows → application rounds).
Want a personalised test timeline, score target and a college shortlist matched to your profile? Book a free 20-minute counselling call. We’ll review your background, recommend a target GMAT score, and build a study & retake plan aligned to your application deadlines.
