GMAT Exam Pattern 2021

GMAT Exam Structure

The GMAT exam is a computer adaptive exam of 3.5 hours duration.

The marks a candidate may score on GMAT range from 200 to 800. 

What does “Computer-Adaptive” mean?

The Quantitative and Verbal Reasoning sections of the GMAT are computer-adaptive. This means that the difficulty of the test adjusts itself in real-time as the candidate answers questions.

The 1st question that candidate receives in either the Verbal or Quantitative sections will be of medium level difficulty. As he/she answers each question, the computer scores this answer and uses it as well as the responses to all following questions to select the next questions.

Thus, usually if you answer the first question correctly, the system will usually give you a question that is more difficult. If you answer the first question wrong, your next question will be of an easier level.

Note: Some questions are experimental in nature and may appear at random so do not get unnerved if an easy question appears in the middle of a section.

GMAT now gives candidates the option of selecting the order in which they wish to attempt the sections. There are 3 such arrangements as follows:

1. Analytical Writing Assessment, Integrated Reasoning, Quantitative, Verbal
2. Verbal, Quantitative, Integrated Reasoning, Analytical Writing Assessment
3. Quantitative, Verbal, Integrated Reasoning, Analytical Writing Assessment

GMAT Test Pattern

The GMAT has 4 sections each with individual cut-off timing. You cannot flip back and forth between questions as questions appear on the basis of computer-adaptive testing.