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byYatin Kumar Study Abroad Content Specialist
The GMAT exam pattern has been significantly updated with the launch of the new GMAT exam pattern. This updated format reduces the exam duration from 3 hours and 7 minutes to just 2 hours and 15 minutes. The GMAT now consists of 3 sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and the newly introduced Data Insights section. The Integrated Reasoning and Analytical Writing Assessment sections have been removed.
In total, the exam consists of 64 questions: 23 in Verbal Reasoning, 21 in Quantitative Reasoning, and 20 in Data Insights. Each section is scored on a scale of 60 to 90, providing a more refined measure of your abilities across these key areas.
| Table of Contents |
GMAT Vs CAT (Computer Adaptive Testing)
Both the GMAT and CAT Exam use Computer Adaptive Testing (CAT), which adapts the difficulty of the test based on the answers given by the test-taker. The adaptive nature of the exam ensures that each question presented is tailored to assess your abilities more accurately.
In the GMAT exam, the difficulty of the questions changes according to your previous responses. If you answer a question correctly, the next question will likely be more difficult; if you answer incorrectly, the next question will be easier. This approach is designed to provide a more accurate assessment of your skill level.
Percentile Ability
The percentile system is used to compare your performance with other test-takers. For example, suppose there are 10 questions in a section, and 60% of test-takers answer 8 of these questions correctly. In this case, answering 8 questions correctly would correspond to a 50th percentile. However, if only 3% of test-takers answer 8 questions correctly, your 80% accuracy would place you at the 97th percentile, indicating a higher level of performance relative to others.
In this above-mentioned infographic, it is explained clearly that if the first answer is given correctly then the difficulty level will be higher on the very next question whereas if the first answer is given incorrectly then the very next question will be comparatively easier. Questions will be asked from the Quantitative and Verbal Reasoning sections.
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| In summary, while both exams use a similar adaptive testing model, the key difference lies in the emphasis placed on the various skills being tested. The CAT exam tends to focus more on quantitative abilities, while the GMAT emphasizes logical reasoning, making the two exams different in their approach despite their shared testing method. |
What is the GMAT exam pattern?
The GMAT exam consists of 64 questions to be completed in 2 hours and 15 minutes. The test assesses your abilities across quantitative, logical reasoning, and verbal reasoning sections. The GMAT score ranges from 205 to 805, with the average score typically falling between 400 and 600.
Before you begin your GMAT registration, it's essential to have a clear understanding of the exam pattern and section-wise breakdown.
Key Features of the GMAT Exam Pattern:
- Sectional Time Limits: Each section has its own time limit, which varies depending on the section.
- Choice of Section Order: Test takers can choose the order in which they attempt the four sections of the exam. You have three options to select from.
- Changes in the Updated GMAT Pattern: The Integrated Reasoning (IR) and Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) sections have been removed, and a new Data Insights section has been introduced.
- Scoring Distribution: Approximately two-thirds of GMAT test-takers score between 400 and 600.
- Top Scores: A GMAT score of 760+ places a candidate in the 99th percentile, which is considered an exceptional score.
Also Check: GMAT Score Trends
GMAT Syllabus
The GMAT lasts for 2 hours and 15 minutes (with an optional 10-minute break) and consists of 64 questions in total. The exam is designed to assess the skills needed to succeed in graduate management programs, and it is divided into three main sections:
- Quantitative Reasoning
- Verbal Reasoning
- Data Insights
GMAT: Exam Format:
| Section | No. Of questions | Time limits |
|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Reasoning | 21 | 45 minutes |
| Verbal Reasoning | 23 | 45 minutes |
| Data Insights | 20 | 45 minutes |
| Total | 64 | 135 minutes |
Key Highlights of the New Exam Pattern:
- Question Review and Editing: You can review any question during the exam and make edits to up to three answers per section.
- Flexible Section Order: You have the flexibility to customize the order in which you attempt the sections, allowing you to adopt a strategy that suits your strengths and preferences.
- Enhanced Score Report: Your results will include a detailed performance analysis, giving you insights into your strengths and areas for improvement, which can help you prepare for future exams.
- Simplified Score Delivery: After the exam, you can select the programs to send your scores to. The official score report will show only your most recent exam score, streamlining the score delivery process.
GMAT Quantitative Reasoning
The GMAT Quantitative Reasoning section is designed to test your proficiency in algebraic and arithmetic foundational knowledge, as well as your ability to apply these concepts to solve real-world problems. Unlike the Data Sufficiency questions, this section focuses on Problem Solving, where you’ll need to use logical reasoning and analytical skills alongside your mathematical knowledge.
You will be presented with 21 Problem Solving questions, which require you to approach problems methodically and arrive at a solution. The questions are designed to assess how effectively you can solve complex problems using core mathematical principles.
Important Points to Keep in Mind:
- Real-World Application: You will need to apply your knowledge of math principles and concepts to solve practical, real-world problems.
- No Calculator: The use of a calculator is not allowed in this section. You will need to perform calculations mentally or use scratch paper for any calculations.
- Core Math Knowledge: A solid grasp of basic math concepts, including algebra, arithmetic, and number properties, is essential for success.
- Logical Approach: To answer the questions correctly, you must approach each problem methodically, analyze the data, and reason logically.
- Accurate Interpretation: Understanding what the question is asking is key to solving it accurately. Pay close attention to details and ensure that you comprehend the problem before attempting a solution.
GMAT Verbal Reasoning
The GMAT Verbal Reasoning section no longer includes Sentence Correction questions. Instead, it focuses on evaluating your ability to understand written material, reason logically, and assess arguments. You will encounter 23 questions, divided into Reading Comprehension and Critical Reasoning categories.
Reading Comprehension:
These questions test your ability to:
- Grasp word meaning and statements
- Comprehend the logical relationships between key points
- Make inferences based on the text
- Follow the development of quantitative concepts within the passages
| You will be asked to identify the main ideas and supporting details, assess the logical structure, and analyze the writing style used in the passage. |
Critical Reasoning:
These questions evaluate your ability to:
- Make and evaluate arguments
- Devise or assess a plan of action
Typically, GMAT Critical Reasoning questions come in the form of short passages (usually under 100 words). Each passage is followed by a question asking you to:
- Identify which of the answer options strengthens or weakens an argument
- Recognize any flaws in the argument
- Determine what supports or damages the argument
| Key Point: No specialized knowledge of the subject matter is required. These questions focus purely on your ability to reason logically and assess arguments critically. |
GMAT Data Insights
The Data Insights section in the GMAT incorporates concepts from the Integrated Reasoning and Data Sufficiency topics of the previous syllabus. This new section is designed to assess your ability to analyze and interpret data in ways that reflect real-world business challenges.
You will face a total of 20 questions in this section, testing your proficiency in handling various types of data, drawing inferences, and making decisions based on data analysis.
Key Points:
- Evaluates your ability to analyze and interpret data, a critical skill for success in the business world.
- Draws from Integrated Reasoning and Data Sufficiency topics in the previous GMAT syllabus.
- Aligned with skills and competencies valued by top business schools.
- The Data Insights section replaces the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) starting in the fourth quarter of this year, and the current version of the syllabus will be completely phased out in the first quarter of 2024.
Question Types in the Data Insights Section:
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Measures your ability to analyze a quantitative problem, determine relevant data, and recognize when there is enough data to solve the problem.
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Multi-Source Reasoning:
- Assesses your ability to analyze data from multiple sources, including text, tables, and graphics.
- Some questions will require you to identify discrepancies between data sources, make inferences, or determine the relevance of data.
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Table Analysis:
- Tests your ability to sort and analyze a table of data (similar to a spreadsheet) and determine what information is relevant or meets certain conditions.
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Graphics Interpretation:
- Measures your ability to interpret graphical data (scatter plots, bar charts, pie charts, etc.) to discern relationships and make inferences.
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- Assesses your ability to solve complex problems that could be quantitative, verbal, or a combination of both.
- This versatile question type covers a wide range of topics and measures your ability to evaluate trade-offs, solve simultaneous equations, and understand relationships between two entities.
GMAT Score Pattern
The scoring pattern for the GMAT has been updated. Each of the three sections now has a raw score range from 60 to 90, and the GMAT total score is calculated on a scale from 205 to 805. Previously, the total score range was 200 to 800. Achieving a score of 725+ can significantly improve your chances of admission to some of the top business schools worldwide.
| Sections | Score Range | Scoring Patten |
|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Reasoning | 60-90 | Uses intervals of 1 and the standard error of measurement is 3 points. |
| Verbal Reasoning | 60-90 | Uses intervals of 1 and the standard error of measurement is 3 points. |
| Data Insights | 60-90 | Uses intervals of 1 and the standard error of measurement is 3 points. |
| Total Score | 205-805 | Uses intervals of 10 and the standard error of measurement is 30-40 points. |
GMAT Preparation Tips
Interested test takers always believe that proper preparation for GMAT is required to score the highest. Few preparation tips for GMAT are as follows
- Start practising for GMAT at least 6-7 months before the scheduled date and get hold of the GMAT syllabus pdf
- Always study one section of the exam daily and find necessary weaknesses out of it
- Go for the best GMAT Preparation Books for practice papers, latest questions and further guidance.
- In the beginning, find out the basic strengths and weaknesses of subjects
- Improve quantitative skills and try practising calculations mentally to save time
- Focus on time management for a better result in GMAT
- Get a proper idea about the exam pattern of the GMAT
- Practice one mock test a week to pace up with the preparation
- Practice is the main key to scoring the best score on GMAT
Each of the sections of GMAT examination pattern examines your abilities and skills in real-world business situations. Having a better understanding of the updated GMAT test pattern is important to begin your preparation. Top business schools in India or worldwide require and 720+ GMAT score for their admission process.
FAQs
Ques: What is the GMAT exam pattern?
Ans: GMAT exam pattern is designed to evaluate your skills and abilities in real-world business scenarios. Your verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and data insight skills will be examined on GMAT exam pattern.
Ques: Is GMAT tougher than CAT?
Ans: GMAT and CAT both are designed for admission into the top MBA colleges. The difficulty level of the exam varies by individual, but most candidates consider GMAT easier than CAT.
Ques: What is the new format for the GMAT 2024?
Ans: GMAT new format made some major changes to its exam format, time, and scoring pattern. The new format of GMAT consists of 3 sections, and you will be allocated 2 hours and 15 minutes to complete the exam. The total score of GMAT updated exam pattern ranges from 205 to 805 scale.
Ques: What is the new version of the GMAT?
Ans: The new GMAT version removed the integrated reasoning and analytical writing assessment section. The newly added data insights section is designed to evaluate the candidate’s skills based on real-world business scenarios.
Ques: Is it easy to score 750 in GMAT?
Ans: GMAT total score ranges on a scale of 205 to 805 level. Achieving a score of 750 is not that easy, but candidates with good academic skills and good preparation can easily achieve a higher score.
Ques: Is GMAT is tough?
Ans: The hardness of GMAT syllabus varies by individual. On average, candidates need 2 or 3 months of proper preparation to achieve a good score.
Ques: Is GMAT online or offline?
Ans: You can take GMAT at a test center, or you can also opt for GMAT online test. You need to pay USD 275 for GMAT offline, and USD 300 for GMAT online test.
Ques: Can I give GMAT from home?
Ans: If you are opting for GMAT online test, you can easily take the exam by sitting at your home. You need to meet the environment and equipment requirements to take GMAT at home.
Ques: Is getting 720 in GMAT easy?
Ans: To get admission to some of the top business schools, you need to achieve a 720 score on GMAT. Candidates with good academic skills and proper preparation can easily achieve 720 in GMAT.
Ques: Is GMAT score accepted in IIM?
Ans: GMAT is now accepted in IIM’s for the admission process. Top IIM in India like IIM Bangalore and IIM Ahmedabad requires 720+ GMAT scores.
*The article might have information for the previous academic years, which will be updated soon subject to the notification issued by the University/College.
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If you cancel anytime up to 14 days before your test date, you will receive a USD 50 refund from your registration fee. If you cancel between 15 days and 60 days before your test date, you will receive a refund of USD 75. If you cancel more than 60 days before the appointment, you will receive a USD 100 refund. If you do not show up for the test, you will be responsible for the full exam fee.
The GMAT Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA), frequently called the GMAT essay, consists of a single question. The AWA prompt will ask you to read a brief passage that presents an argument. In your essay, you will explain and critique the argument and the reasoning behind it. The GMAT AWA measures your ability to communicate clearly and effectively in written English, to think critically, and to analyze an argument.