GMAT or GRE: Which Test Is Easier for MBA Admissions?
The GMAT Exam is a vital step for Indian students aiming to secure admission to leading business schools in the US, UK, Canada, Europe, and Asia for 2025. With a globally recognized score, the GMAT opens doors to top MBA and management programs, scholarships, and exciting international career paths.
GMAT Exam 2025: Pattern, Dates & Opportunities
The GMAT 2025 is redesigned to focus on analytical, verbal, quantitative, and data literacy skills demanded by leading business schools. Scores are accepted by over 2,400 universities and 7,700+ programs across 110+ countries. The exam pattern, deadlines, and registration process for Indian students have all been updated for this cycle.
Exam Highlights – 2025
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Exam Name | Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) |
| Conducting Body | Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) |
| Exam Level | International |
| Score Range | 205–805 |
| Accepted In | USA, UK, Canada, Singapore, Europe, Asia, Australia |
| Exam Duration | 2 hours 15 minutes (+ optional 10-minute break) |
| Exam Fee (India, 2025) | USD 300 (online) / USD 275 (test centre) |
| Eligibility | 18+ years (min.); valid government ID |
| Attempts | Up to 5 times/year (no lifetime cap) |
| Score Validity | 5 years |
The GMAT exam is available year-round and can be attempted either online or at an authorized test center across major Indian cities. Ensure timely registration to meet university deadlines for Fall 2025 intake.
Top Universities Accepting GMAT in 2025
Below are some of the world’s best universities that accept GMAT scores for 2025 MBA and business program admissions:
- Harvard Business School, USA
- INSEAD, France
- London Business School, UK
- National University of Singapore (NUS)
- University of Toronto, Rotman School, Canada
- Indian School of Business (ISB)
Many top-ranked universities—especially in the USA, UK, Canada, and Europe—list GMAT as the preferred test for competitive MBA admissions.
GMAT 2025 Eligibility, Structure & Syllabus
Eligibility criteria for the GMAT are straightforward: candidates must be at least 18 years old (or 13-17 with parental consent) and possess a valid government-issued ID, such as a passport. A bachelor’s degree is required by most target universities, but not for taking the exam itself.
Exam Structure (GMAT 2025):
- Quantitative Reasoning: 21 questions, 45 min
- Verbal Reasoning: 23 questions, 45 min
- Data Insights: 20 questions, 45 min
The test is adaptive and allows you to attempt sections in any order. The new Data Insights section replaces Integrated Reasoning, focusing on graph, table, and chart analysis. Essays are no longer part of the GMAT 2025.
Want more details on standardized test patterns? Explore the full GMAT Exam Pattern and compare with alternatives like the GRE and SAT.
GMAT Exam Dates in India 2025
You can book your GMAT slot almost any day of the year. However, it’s strategic to pick a date 6-12 months ahead of your university’s application deadlines. Key Indian cities with GMAT centers include Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Hyderabad, and Chennai.
GMAT Fees & Scholarships 2025
The GMAT exam fee in India for 2025 is USD 300 for the online format and USD 275 for test-centre-based exams. There may be an additional tax or rescheduling/cancellation fee. This is a significant investment, but many top B-schools provide scholarships based on high GMAT scores.
| Expense | Cost (2025) |
|---|---|
| GMAT Online Fees (India) | USD 300 (~₹25,000) |
| GMAT Test Centre Fees (India) | USD 275 (+tax) (~₹22,900+) |
| Additional Score Report | USD 35 per university |
| Scholarships (2025) | Partial/Full tuition waivers by top B-schools for high scores (≥700+) |
Some global scholarships are available for top GMAT scorers. Research thoroughly; not all scholarships cover entire tuition, but many significantly reduce the cost of an MBA abroad. For more, see: Scholarships for Studying Abroad.
How to Register for GMAT 2025
Register at mba.com by creating an account, completing your profile, uploading your ID, and selecting your test format and slot. Pay your fee securely online and confirm your center or remote proctoring details for test day.
- Log in to your official mba.com account
- Choose preferred test format and location
- Fill in personal and academic details
- Select payment method and complete transaction
- Keep your confirmation email for future reference
Most Indian students take the GMAT by September–December of the year before their desired intake, allowing for preparation, retakes, and university application deadlines.
Visa, Work Opportunities & Career Outcomes
A strong GMAT score boosts your chances of gaining admission and securing a student visa in high-demand countries such as the US, UK, or Canada. Many countries also offer post-study work visas for MBA graduates.
- USA: OPT (1-3 years for STEM MBAs)
- UK: Graduate Route (2 years post-study)
- Canada: PGWP (up to 3 years)
- Australia: Temporary Graduate visa options
During studies, international students can usually work part-time (10–20 hours/week) on campus or off campus, depending on visa type.
Graduates from prestigious B-schools often start with global salaries ranging from ₹40–70 lakhs per annum, with opportunities in consulting, finance, tech, and entrepreneurship. Top GMAT scorers stand out in competitive job markets and global leadership roles.
GMAT Preparation Tips & Resources for 2025
Preparation is key for a high GMAT score. Begin by identifying strengths and weaknesses with a diagnostic test. Use official GMAT study plans, sample questions, and tailored prep resources. Time management and regular mock testing are critical.
- Take official GMAT mock tests for real exam simulation
- Use practice books, eBooks, and sample questions from trusted sources
- Plan 3–6 months of study depending on your familiarity
- Review your daily progress and adapt strategy if needed
Check out official GMAC resources and join student communities for peer support and up-to-date insights. For subject-wise tips, read about standardized test patterns and IELTS exam strategies.
In summary, the GMAT exam is not just a test—it’s your passport to premier business education, international exposure, and global careers. Plan diligently, leverage scholarships, and aim for your best performance to unlock top opportunities worldwide.
FAQs on How Difficult Is the GMAT Exam in 2025?
1. How hard is the GMAT exam?
The GMAT exam is considered moderately to highly challenging, especially for students unfamiliar with its adaptive test format. It assesses analytical, quantitative, and verbal reasoning skills, and demands strong time management. Preparation typically involves understanding GMAT-specific question types and practicing under timed conditions.
2. What does the GMAT test for?
The GMAT evaluates critical thinking, quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, and data analysis skills required for business school. The test includes sections on Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, Data Insights, and Integrated Reasoning.
3. Is GMAT or GRE easier?
The GMAT and GRE both have unique challenges and differ in structure. GMAT generally favors those strong in quantitative and analytical reasoning, while GRE may be simpler for those with a stronger background in vocabulary and general verbal skills. The perceived difficulty depends on individual strengths and preparation.
4. Is 700 a bad GMAT score?
A GMAT score of 700 is considered excellent and is above the average score for most MBA programs worldwide. It places you around the 88th percentile, making you competitive for top business schools.
5. What is the structure of the GMAT exam?
The GMAT Focus Edition comprises the following sections: Quantitative Reasoning (21 questions, 45 minutes), Verbal Reasoning (23 questions, 45 minutes), and Data Insights (20 questions, 45 minutes). The total test time is approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, excluding optional breaks.
6. What are some example questions for the GMAT exam?
Example GMAT questions include:
• Quantitative: Solving algebraic equations, data sufficiency, arithmetic, geometry.
• Verbal: Reading comprehension, critical reasoning, sentence correction.
• Data Insights: Analyzing data sets, charts, and multi-source reasoning.
Sample question: 'If x > 0 and y > 0, is x/y > 1? (1) x > y (2) x – y = 1'
7. What is the syllabus for the GMAT exam?
The GMAT syllabus includes: Quantitative Reasoning (arithmetic, algebra, geometry, word problems), Verbal Reasoning (reading comprehension, critical reasoning, sentence correction), and Data Insights (data interpretation, logical analysis, multi-source reasoning).
8. How do I register for the GMAT exam?
You can register online at the official GMAT website: mba.com. Create an account, select your preferred test center or online GMAT Focus Edition, choose an exam date, and pay the registration fee. Follow all instructions for document uploads and test-day requirements.
9. What is the GMAT exam fee in India?
The GMAT Focus Edition exam fee in India is approximately USD 275 (about INR 22,800), though currency conversion rates may affect the final amount. Additional charges may apply for rescheduling, score reports, or cancellations.
10. What are the upcoming GMAT exam dates for 2024 and 2025?
The GMAT exam is available year-round, with multiple test dates every month at authorized centers and for the online version. You can book any available slot via the official website as per your preparation schedule. For 2025 dates, booking typically opens 6–12 months in advance.
11. What is the length of the GMAT exam?
The total duration of the GMAT Focus Edition is 2 hours and 15 minutes, plus optional breaks. Ensure you arrive ahead of time and plan for check-in procedures, which may add additional time at the test center.
12. How are GMAT scores calculated and what score is considered good?
GMAT Focus Edition scores range from 205 to 805. A score around 650–700 is considered strong for most MBA programs. Top business schools may have higher average scores, so research your target programs for specific requirements.
