Invest 30 seconds...
...for what may lead to a life altering association!
Help Line
- +91.8800.2828.00 (IND)
- 1030-1830 Hrs IST, Mon-Sat
- support@expertsglobal.com
...for what may lead to a life altering association!
Anyone 18 or older, of any nationality, with a valid government-issued ID is eligible for the GMAT. There is no minimum academic requirement. Candidates aged 13–17 need parental or guardian consent. The test can be taken up to five times a year, with at least 16 days between attempts and no lifetime limit.
Measure your current GMAT level with a free full-length GMAT practice test.
The GMAT is a globally recognized entrance test for graduate management programs. Administered by GMAC, the GMAT is accepted by over 2,400 business schools and conducted in hundreds of countries. While eligibility is broad, scheduling and identification requirements must be followed carefully. This article walks through what you need to know before registering for the GMAT, how to schedule it, and how to plan your GMAT preparation timeline effectively.
You must be at least 18 years old. If you are between 13 and 17, you must provide written consent from a parent or legal guardian before booking your test.
There are no restrictions related to academic qualifications. You do not need to have completed a degree to take the GMAT. Final-year undergraduate students, postgraduates, and working professionals from any discipline are eligible.
The GMAT is open to all nationalities. You must present a valid, government-issued ID when registering and on test day. In most countries, a current passport is required, especially when testing outside your country of citizenship. The ID must include your name, date of birth, signature, and a recognizable photograph.
The exam is conducted in English, and strong English comprehension is required. There is no language proficiency certificate needed to register, but candidates should be comfortable reading and solving questions in English.
You do not need work experience to take the GMAT. However, most MBA programs prefer applicants with at least two years of professional experience.
If you have a documented disability, GMAC provides accommodations such as extended time or extra breaks. You must apply and receive approval before scheduling the test.
Wait for confirmation of scheduling.
You may take the GMAT up to five times in a rolling 12-month period, with a minimum gap of 16 days between attempts. There is no lifetime limit on the number of attempts. Plan any retakes wisely to align with application deadlines and ensure meaningful score improvement.
The GMAT includes three sections: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights. The total score ranges from 205 to 805, in 10-point increments. Section scores range between 60 and 90. The test lasts 2 hours and 15 minutes and includes one optional 10-minute break. It assesses problem-solving, data interpretation, logical reasoning, and verbal comprehension skills.
Preparing for the GMAT requires a structured and focused plan. Here is a five-part approach to help you get started:
Consistent effort and reflection across these five areas can help you perform your best on the GMAT.
Testing slots, especially on weekends or in large cities, fill up quickly. Schedule your test at least six to eight weeks before your business school deadlines. If you might need to retake the exam, allow even more time.
Choose a time when you are alert and focused. Many test-takers prefer morning appointments, but the ideal time varies from person to person.
Print or save all emails, payment confirmations, and system check results. These may be needed if something goes wrong during scheduling or on test day.
Familiarize yourself with ID requirements, retake policies, and technical setup rules before test day. Mistakes in these areas can result in disqualification or forfeiture of your fee.
Most leading business schools consider both GMAT and GRE scores for admission. While the two exams share some similarities, their formats and emphases vary. To make an informed decision, take a GMAT full mock test and a GRE full mock test. This will help you see which exam plays more to your strengths and offers the best chance of securing a higher score.
When you begin your journey early, an experienced MBA Admission Consulting firm can guide you not only through your applications but also your GMAT preparation. The firm can connect you with the most effective resources, proven strategies, and mindset techniques, while helping you avoid common mistakes. The firm can plan and time your GMAT to meet deadlines without stress, and importantly, mentor you in building your profile alongside test preparation. Because the GMAT is only half the battle, the firm’s ongoing mentorship ensures that every achievement supports a stronger application. This integrated approach maximizes your chances for top admits and substantial scholarships, giving you the advantage of a truly well-rounded, compelling candidacy.
The GMAT is accessible to candidates around the world who meet a few basic requirements. You must be at least 18 years old, use valid identification, and have adequate English skills. There are no educational or work experience prerequisites, and you may take the test online or in person. With no lifetime limit on attempts and flexible scheduling, the process is straightforward if planned well. To avoid complications, register early, choose the format that suits you, understand your region’s ID rules, and allow time to retake if needed. With these basics in place, you will be ready to take on the GMAT with confidence.
For seamless, start to end guidance, explore our GMAT prep online course + MBA admission consulting bundle
