Get ready to take the GMAT exam!

Preparing for business school? Taking the GMAT exam is a key milestone in your application journey, so we've broken the process into simple, clear steps to help you succeed.

Here is everything you need to know in 5 simple steps.

1. Know your target score

Research the programs you're interested in and understand the score range for admitted students.

Keep in mind: the average score is not a minimum requirement, but it is a useful benchmark. Each GMAT score is associated with a percentile ranking, which schools use in their holistic admissions process.

What are percentile rankings?

Percentile rankings indicate what percentage of test takers you performed better than. For example, a percentile ranking of 75% means that you performed better than 75% of other test takers, and 25% of test takers performed better than you.

Score Ranges	Percentile*
655 - 805	91% - 100%
625 - 645	81% - 88%
605 - 615	72% - 78%
565 - 595	52% - 69%
515 - 555	32% - 49%
435 - 505	11% - 28%
205 - 425	0% - 9%

*Percentile values presented in this table are subject to be updated annually in the third quarter of every year

2. Make a study plan

Here are our steps to starting your prep journey with your best foot forward:

1. Study the structure. Become familiar with the exam format and structure. Also learn each question type and try sample questions. This will boost your confidence come test day when you know what to expect.

2. Understand the question types. Beyond knowing how to answer questions correctly, learn what each type of question is asking of you. GMAT questions rely on logic and analytical skills, not underlying subject matter mastery.

3. Establish your baseline. Take a FREE Official GMAT Practice Exam to establish your baseline. It uses the same format and scoring algorithm as the real test, so you can use the score report to accurately assess your strengths and growth areas.

4. Study answer explanations. Take advantage of each question you get wrong by studying correct answers, so you know how to get it right next time. This will help you understand why you got a question right or wrong.

5. Simulate the test-taking experience. Continue taking practice exams, which use the same algorithm, scoring, and timing as the real exam. so take them with test-day like conditions (e.g., quiet space, use the tools allowed on test day) for the truest prep experience.

3. Go further with Official Prep

While free tools are a great way to get started, many candidates choose to invest in additional prep to strengthen their skills, boost their confidence, and aim for their best possible score.

From official practice exams and question packs, to section-specific review books, there’s a wide range of paid options to match your learning style and goals.

Explore the resources that work best for you — and take your preparation to the next level.

4. Register for the GMAT

Once you’re confident in your preparation timeline, book your GMAT exam date. Earlier bookings often give you the best choice of dates and locations (plus you can always reschedule if you're not quite ready).

5. Send your scores

With the GMAT, you have the flexibility and control to review your score before sending it to schools.

Once you've decided you want to submit your score, you can send up to 5 free score reports within 48 hours of receiving your score.

Score Sending FAQs

Do I have to pick my recipient schools before starting the exam?

No! You select your schools after you receive your Official Score Report

How can I cancel my score?

It is no longer possible – or necessary- to cancel scores. Instead of canceling scores, you have the flexibility to pick and choose which scores to send/not send.

If I've taken the GMAT more than once, will all my scores be visible to schools?

The only exam attempts that will be included on your school-facing score report are the scores you opt to share.

Can I download a copy of my score report?

You cannot download a copy of your Official Score Report. There is no formal print out. You can print the pages on your My Account profile, but it is not considered an official score that can be sent to or received by schools.

Should I send my score if I am not happy with it?

Yes! Roughly 30% of test takers don’t send their score for various reasons. Let schools review your entire application. Don’t self-select out of the running.