GMAT Format
Although the GMAT was originally a paper-and-pencil test, it is now a computer-adaptive test (CAT). Examinees sit at a computer in a private booth in a testing center. The computer-adaptive test format means that the difficulty of the questions you face adapt based upon your test-performance. For example, if you successfully solve two questions on basic linear equations, you will face a more difficult question--perhaps one involving simultaneous linear equations.
GMAT Format Chart
| Questions | Timing | |
|---|---|---|
| Analytical Writing Assessment Analysis of an Argument Analysis of an Issue |
1 1 |
30 min 30 min |
| Optional Break | 10 min | |
| Quantitative1 Problem Solving Data Sufficiency |
37 | 75 |
| Optional Break | 10 min | |
| Verbal Sentence Correction Critical Reasoning Reading Comprehension |
41 | 75 |
| Total Time | 3.5 hours | |
The GMAT consists of three major sections with a break between each section. The first section is analytical writing, where examinees write an essay analyzing an issue and another essay analyzing an argument. After this writing section, which lasts a total of 60 minutes, an optional 10 minute break ensues. The quantitative section follows the optional break and is made up of 37 questions and lasts 75 minutes. Another optional 10 minute break follows the quantitative section. The exam concludes with a 41 question 75 minute verbal section. In your GMAT prep, it is important to memorize the format of the GMAT.
Footnotes
- The quantitative section typically consists of approximately 22 problem solving questions and 15 data sufficiency problems. [Back]