GMAT FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions about GMAT Answered

In simple words, the GMAT Focus Edition is the better version of the traditional GMAT exam. Lie all things new and updated, it is designed to provide a more efficient assessment of the skills to succeed in graduate business programs. With a simpler format and updated sections, the GMAT exam looks for business skills while making the exam experience more user-friendly.

The test has been shortened to approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, which is way shorter than the previous 3-hour format. You can also enjoy greater flexibility by choosing the order in which you complete the exam sections.

Q1. What is the GMAT Focus Edition?

Answer: The GMAT Focus Edition is the latest iteration of the GMAT exam, introduced to provide a more streamlined and relevant assessment experience. This version focuses on critical business skills, making sure youdemonstrate competencies that directly translate to success in graduate business programs.

Shorter Duration: The test now takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes, compared to the previous 3 hours and 7 minutes.
Enhanced Flexibility: You can choose the order in which you answer the sections.
Updated Sections: The exam now comprises Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Data Insights.

For a more personalised approach to cracking the GMAT Focus Edition, Yocket Prep offers an insightful and customised prep experience.

Q2. What is the Registration fee for GMAT?

Answer: The registration fee for the GMAT Focus Edition is USD 275 for Test Centre and USD 300 for Online. However, additional costs may apply for rescheduling, canceling scores, or sending scores to more than five programs.

Q3. How to Register for the GMAT?

Answer:

Visit the official GMAT website.
Create or log in to your account.
Select your preferred test format (online or in-person) and choose a GMAT exam date and center.
Complete the payment to finalise your registration.

Q4. How many times can you take the GMAT?

Answer: You can take the GMAT up to 5 times in a 12-month period and a maximum of 8 times in your lifetime. There must be at least a 16-day gap between attempts.

Q5. Which skills are tested in the GMAT exam?

Answer: The GMAT assesses the following skills:

Quantitative Reasoning: Focuses on problem-solving.
Verbal Reasoning: Tests critical reasoning and reading comprehension.
Data Insights: Evaluates your ability to interpret and analyse data from various sources.

Q6. How does the GMAT's computer-adaptive format function?

Answer: The GMAT uses a computer-adaptive format (CAT) in the Quantitative and Verbal sections. Here's how it works:

The test begins with a question of medium difficulty.
If you answer correctly, the next question becomes harder; if incorrect, the next question is easier.
Your final score reflects both the difficulty level and the number of correct answers.

Q7. How to reschedule GMAT exam?

Answer: To reschedule your exam:

Log in to your account on the GMAT website.
Navigate to your scheduled exam and select the "Reschedule" option.
Pay the applicable rescheduling fee.

Q8. Should I retake the GMAT?

Answer: Retaking the GMAT can be beneficial if:

Your current score is below the average for your target programs.
You believe you can improve after additional preparation.
A higher score might help secure scholarships or better program placement.

Q9. Which documents are required to carry to the test center?

Answer: To ensure a smooth test-day experience, carry:

A valid, government-issued photo ID (e.g., passport or driver’s license).
Your appointment confirmation email.

Failure to present the required documents may result in test cancellation.

Q10. How to prepare for GMAT?

Answer: Preparing for the GMAT requires a strategic and disciplined approach. Begin by familiarising yourself with the exam format, including its sections, question types, and time limits. Develop a personalised study plan that allocates time based on your strengths and weaknesses, ensuring balanced preparation across Verbal, Quantitative, and Data Insights sections. Utilise official resources such as practice tests, question banks, and study guides from mba.com, PrepScholar, or Magoosh to gain a thorough understanding of the test material.

Regularly take full-length mock exams under timed conditions to build stamina, improve time management, and reduce test-day anxiety. Focus on reviewing your mistakes to identify patterns and refine your strategies. Consistency, practice, and a positive mindset are key to achieving your target score.

Q11. How do I send GMAT scores to Schools/Programs?

Answer: Navigate to the "Send Score Reports" section, choose the schools or programs, and pay a fee for each additional report. Alternatively, you can contact GMAT Customer Service and request to send scores via phone, though this option also involves a service fee. Ensure you check each program's deadlines to avoid delays in your application process.

During the exam registration, you can select up to 5 programs to receive your scores for free. After completing the exam, you can still send your scores to additional programs by logging into your GMAT account on the official website.

Q12. What is the validity of GMAT scorecard?

Answer: The GMAT scorecard is valid for a period of 5 years, offering you ample flexibility in planning your applications. This extended validity means you can take the GMAT well in advance and still use your scores when you’re ready to apply to your desired business schools or management programs. It provides a cushion for those who may need time to strengthen other aspects of their application, such as gaining work experience or completing prerequisite courses.

Q13. Who can access your GMAT scores?

Answer: Only the programs you designate can access your GMAT scores. You have control over which institutions see your results.

Q14. Can business schools see your previous GMAT scores?

Answer: Yes, business schools can view all your GMAT scores from the last 5 years unless you cancel a specific score.

Q15. How to cancel GMAT scores?

Answer: Everyone who has taken the GMAT at test centres have the opportunity to cancel their scores either immediately after finishing the exam or within 72 hours of leaving the test centre. This option offers candidates the flexibility to reflect on their performance and decide if they want their scores to be officially recorded and shared with their chosen programs. If you feel your performance doesn’t meet your expectations, cancelling the score ensures it won’t be included in your official score report. However, it’s crucial to cancel within the 72-hour timeframe, as once this period expires, the score will be finalised and sent to any schools or programs you selected during registration.

Q16. How is GMAT score calculated?

Answer: GMAT scores range from 205 to 805 with 10-point increments, derived from your performance in the Quantitative and Verbal sections. The Data Insights section and AWA are scored separately. Each section is scored on a scale of 60-90 with 1-point increments.

Q17. What are the average GMAT test scores?

Answer: The average GMAT score for test-takers worldwide is around 570. For top business schools, the average ranges from 650 to 730.

Q18. What is a Good GMAT Score?

Answer: A good GMAT score depends on your target schools:

600-650: Competitive for mid-tier schools.
700+: Competitive for top-tier programs.

From the Desk of Yocket

As the GMAT Focus Edition takes centre stage, it’s important to adapt your preparation strategy to align with the updated format. The Focus Edition offers an improved experience, with a shorter test duration and more flexible section order. Now, it’s understandable that preparing for such a significant exam can be a little intimidating. This why Yocket Prep offers access to expert resources, practice tests, and strategic insights to ensure that you're fully prepared for the GMAT Focus Edition.