GMAT Exam Pattern and Syllabus
The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a computer-adaptive examination designed to evaluate a candidate’s analytical, quantitative, and language proficiency skills. GMAT scores hold significant importance as a primary requirement for gaining admission to graduate management and business programs, including the revered MBA.
Notably, GMAT scores enjoy widespread acceptance, surpassing many other aptitude tests, with recognition in more than 2,400 colleges and across over 7,700 distinct programs
What is the Syllabus of GMAT?
The GMAT exam syllabus 2025 comprises three sections: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights. This syllabus assesses a candidate’s critical thinking, quantitative reasoning, and verbal reasoning, which are fundamental for success in higher education. Administered by GMAC, the GMAT provides a detailed outline of the syllabus content within these three sections, enabling a comprehensive understanding of the skills and knowledge required for the GMAT examination.
Structure of GMAT Syllabus for MBA or other Masters Courses
| Subject sections | Questions | Duration | Marks | GMAT subjects description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Reasoning | 21 | 45 | 60-90 | The GMAT Quant Section Evaluates the Test Taker’s Ability to Draw Conclusions Using Analytical Skills and Reasoning |
| Verbal Reasoning | 23 | 45 | 60-90 | GMAT Verbal assesses a candidate’s proficiency in reading, comprehending written material, and evaluating arguments derived from it |
| Data Insights | 20 | 45 | 60-90 | GMAT Data Insights evaluates a candidate’s ability to analyze and interpret data, and apply it to real-world |
| Total | 64 | 2 hr 15 mins | 205-805 |
GMAT Course Syllabus in Detail
GMAT Quant Syllabus
The quantitative reasoning section is structured into two subcomponents:
Problem Solving: You encounter questions with five answer choices, necessitating the calculation of numeric values or algebraic expressions to select your answer
Data Sufficiency These questions present two data statements, and your objective is not to compute a numeric answer but to determine which choice provides enough information to solve the problem effectively.
GMAT maths syllabus comprises 21 questions to be completed within 45 minutes, the GMAT quant section evaluates your understanding and application of fundamental mathematical principles. The GMAT mathematics syllabus encompasses the following areas.
- Arithmetic: Covering topics like numbers and their properties, fractions, decimals, percentages, ratios, sets, counting methods, and discrete probability
- Algebra: Encompassing equations, inequalities, absolute values, functions, and exponents
- Geometry: Involving concepts related to lines, angles, polygons, circles, solids, and coordinate geometry
- Problems: Encompassing various real-world scenarios, including rate, time, work, mixtures, interest, discounts, profit and loss, geometry, measurement, and data interpretation
GMAT Verbal Syllabus
As per the GMAT syllabus, the verbal section comprises two question types:
- Reading Comprehension
- Critical Reasoning
The GMAT verbal section includes 23 multiple-choice questions to be solved within 45 minutes. The topics you can anticipate in the GMAT verbal section are as follows: The GMAT Verbal section assesses your aptitude for comprehending written content and discerning logical connections
- Critical Reasoning involves the analysis and evaluation of provided arguments, culminating in the formulation or appraisal of a course of action, all in the format of multiple-choice questions.
- Reading Comprehension: consists of short or extended passages, typically spanning 200-400 words. Your challenge is to infer from the text and address three or four multiple-choice questions based on the content
GMAT Data Syllabus
Data Insights consists of 20 questions to be answered in 45 minutes. The types of questions that you will find in this section are:
- Data Sufficiency: Measures ability to analyze a quantitative problem, recognize relevant data, and determine if there is enough data to solve the problem
- Multi-Source Reasoning: Measures your ability to examine text passages, tables, graphics, and to analyze each source carefully to answer multiple questions
- Table Analysis: Measures your ability to sort and analyze a table of data in order to determine what information is relevant
- Graphics Interpretation: Measures your ability to interpret information presented in a graph or any graphical image
- Two-Part Analysis: Measures your ability to solve complex problems of quantitative, verbal, or a combination of both.
GMAT Score Validity and Retake Policy
- GMAT scores remain valid for a duration of up to 5 years
- These scores hold the potential to support both your pursuit of an MBA program and your job-seeking endeavors, as many recruitment firms consider GMAT scores in their hiring processes
- Should a candidate find their GMAT results unsatisfactory, they have the option to retake the GMAT exam. However, it’s essential to note that a candidate can attempt the GMAT a maximum of 5 times within a one-year period, equivalent to 12 months.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the GMAT and CAT syllabus the same?
No, the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) and CAT (Common Admission Test) have different syllabi. GMAT is primarily used for admission to graduate management programs, especially for MBA, and includes sections like Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Data Insights. CAT, on the other hand, is an entrance exam for admission to Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and assesses Quantitative Ability, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning, and Verbal Ability.
Is there a negative marking in the GMAT?
No, there is no negative marking in the GMAT. You do not lose points for answering questions incorrectly. Your score is determined by the number of correct answers and the difficulty of those questions.
Are there specific topics covered in the GMAT syllabus?
The GMAT syllabus includes arithmetic, algebra, geometry, reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and sentence correction.
How can I prepare for the GMAT exam?
You can prepare for the GMAT through self-study, GMAT prep courses, or using GMAT study materials. Practice tests and official GMAT guides are also valuable resources.
