What is the GMAT Format in 2025-26?

Quantitative Section

The GMAT Quantitative Reasoning section tests your ability to solve mathematical problems across arithmetic, algebra, number properties, word problems, graphs and tables, and combinatorics and probability. The GMAT’s Quant section consists of 21 multiple-choice problem-solving questions to be completed in 45 minutes. The section focuses on analytical thinking rather than complex calculations, with no geometry included. Candidates receive a scaled score on a range of 60-90. Certainly. The Quantitative Reasoning section is a vital part of GMAT preparation, not only because it contributes one-third to your score, but also because it builds strong problem-solving ability, mathematical thinking, and logical clarity.

Example of a GMAT’s Quant (Problem Solving) Question

Correct Answer: D

Verbal Section

The GMAT Verbal Reasoning section evaluates your ability to understand and analyze written material and to reason and evaluate arguments. It includes 23 multiple-choice questions to be completed in 45 minutes, covering Reading Comprehension and Critical Reasoning. Candidates receive a scaled score on a range of 60-90.

Reading Comprehension

GMAT Reading Comprehension questions check how well you understand and think through written passages. You will read short texts, often on business or academic topics, and answer questions about the main idea, details, or what the author is trying to say. It’s all about reading carefully and thinking critically about what you’ve read.

Example of a GMAT’s Reading Comprehension Question

Correct Answer: D

Critical Reasoning

GMAT Critical Reasoning questions test how well you can understand and evaluate arguments. You will read a short paragraph and then answer a question about it: like what strengthens, weakens, or explains the argument. It’s all about thinking logically, spotting assumptions, and choosing the most reasonable response based on the info given.

Example of a GMAT’s Critical Reasoning Question

Correct Answer: C

Data Insights Section

The GMAT Data Insights section tests how well you analyze and interpret data from different sources. You will get 20 questions in 45 minutes, covering data sufficiency, table analysis, multi-source reasoning, graphics interpretation, and two-part analysis. It’s about using logic and data to answer questions based on charts, graphs, and written information.

Data Sufficiency

GMAT Data Sufficiency questions are a unique type of math problem. Instead of solving for an exact answer, you will be asked whether the information provided is enough to answer the question. You will see a question followed by two separate statements. Your task is to decide if one, both, or neither of the statements provides enough data to solve the problem. It is less about calculation and more about logical thinking, understanding conditions, and knowing when you have sufficient information to move forward.

Example of a GMAT’s Data Sufficiency Question

Correct Answer: D

Table Analysis

GMAT Table Analysis questions show you a spreadsheet-style table with sortable columns. You will answer true/false or yes/no questions based on the data. It’s all about quickly spotting patterns, comparing values, and filtering information. You don’t need complex math; rather, you just need clear thinking and attention to detail to draw the right conclusions. An on-screen calculator is anyway available.

Example of a GMAT’s Table Analysis Question

Correct Answer: False-False-True

Multi-Source Reasoning

GMAT Multi-Source Reasoning questions present information in multiple tabs, such as text, tables, or charts. You will switch between them to answer questions that test your ability to compare data, find relationships, and draw conclusions. It’s about analyzing different types of info together to make well-reasoned decisions. Caution: this question type can be very time consuming. Please ensure due practice.

Example of a GMAT’s Multi-Source Reasoning Question

Correct Answer: C

Graphics Interpretation

GMAT Graphics Interpretation questions show you visual data, like bar charts, line graphs, or scatter plots. You will answer fill-in-the-blank style questions based on the graph. It’s all about understanding what the visuals show, spotting trends or patterns, and using that info to make logical, data-driven decisions quickly and accurately.

Example of a GMAT’s Graphics Interpretation Question

Correct Answer: 20% and 5%

Two Part Analysis

GMAT Two-Part Analysis questions present a short problem with two related questions. You will choose one answer for each part from the same set of options. The topics can be math, logic, or verbal.

Example of a GMAT’s Two Part Analysis Question

Correct Answer: E and B

GMAT Sectional Scores

Each GMAT section – Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights, is scored individually on a scale of 60 to 90. These section scores are equally weighted and combined to calculate your total score. The scores reflect both the number of correct answers and the difficulty level of the questions you answered.

GMAT Total Score

The GMAT provides a total score ranging from 205 to 805, based on your performance in Quant, Verbal, and Data Insights sections. Each section is equally weighted. The test is computer-adaptive, and scores reflect both accuracy and question difficulty. Section scores are also reported separately on a 60 to 90 scale.

Adaptive Nature of GMAT Scoring

The GMAT uses adaptive scoring, which means the questions change in difficulty based on how you are doing. If you answer correctly, the next question gets harder. If you miss one, it gets a bit easier. That is why the first few questions matter more. They help set the tone for the rest of the test and influence your scoring range. Getting off to a strong start can make a big difference in your final score. Even if you do well later, an uncertain start might limit your scoring potential. So it is important to focus early and stay sharp. However, please understand that EVERY QUESTION IS IMPORTANT! Please visit the following page to know more about the GMAT scoring: How is the GMAT Scored?

How to register for GMAT?

You can register for the computer adaptive test on mba.com.

GMAT: Finer Details

• You can neither skip any questions nor can you get back to previous questions.
• Different candidates taking the GMAT get tests of different difficulty. GMAT is a computer adaptive test; thus, the level of difficulty of questions increases if you are doing well and decreases if you are not doing well.
• First few questions are very important as your raw scores fluctuate a lot in the beginning. Towards the end, the scoring system is relatively less sensitive. Hence, while all questions are important, the first 5 to 7 questions in each section are relatively more important.
• On GMAT, you are penalized more heavily for not attempting questions than wrongly attempting a few questions. Hence, please make sure to attempt all questions and if you are running short of time, make sure to randomly mark all the questions.
• Before you start with the test, you will be asked to name five schools to which your GMAT scores are supposed to be forwarded. For every additional school, you need to pay $28. Hence, please be prepared with the names of five schools to which you would like to forward your score.
• Avoid multiple attempts at GMAT. It’s not only wastage of the fee every time but also harmful to your profile as GMAC would be sending scores, to designated schools, of your all the GMAT attempts in last five years. Take the GMAT only after scoring your target score on multiple GMAT mock tests.
• After you finish your test, the system would ask you whether you would like to see your score. If you are sure that you have not done well, you can opt not to see the results. In such a case, your test would be deleted and no score would be sent to any schools.
• A few of the questions that you see on GMAT would be experimental questions and you would not be scored on them. However, there is no way to identify such questions and you should attempt all questions with equal seriousness.
• To reschedule your appointment, you need a gap of at least seven days. We advise that you take an official GMAT mock test (freely available) 8-9 days before your GMAT and if you don’t score your target score+10-20 points, get your test rescheduled.
• You can cancel the score within up to 72 hours of completing the test.
• You can send your GMAT score to 5 schools for free, within 48 hours of completing the GMAT. Post this window, you need to incur charges for forwarding your score.

How an Experienced MBA Admission Consultant Can Support Your GMAT Journey

An experienced MBA admission consultant adds value well before the application process begins. By starting early, you benefit from expert advice on structuring your GMAT preparation, selecting effective resources, and identifying the ideal time to take the test. The consultant also helps you balance your study schedule with profile-building efforts, ensuring a steady and focused path. Beyond planning, the consultant offers clarity, motivation, and long-term perspective. With a firm grasp of how GMAT performance impacts your overall admissions strategy, a skilled consultant becomes a trusted mentor through every stage of your MBA pursuit.

Parting Thought

The GMAT is more than just an entrance exam; its format reflects the core skills that drive success in business and beyond. Time management, critical thinking, precision under pressure, and decision-making with limited information are all traits the test nurtures. Preparing for the GMAT is not simply about solving questions or mastering sections. It is about developing a disciplined, structured way of thinking that applies far beyond the test center. The format may be standardized, but the journey it demands is deeply personal. In understanding the GMAT, you also begin to understand the mindset required for true leadership.

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