What to Expect on GMAT Test Day

Test day can be nerve-wracking, especially if you’re not sure what to expect. By understanding the GMAT test-day process in advance, you’ll feel more confident and better prepared. This guide walks you through everything—what to bring, how check-in works, what the test center is like, and tips to stay calm and focused.

Before Test Day: Final Preparation

  • Get plenty of rest the night before
  • Avoid last-minute cramming—review notes or error logs only
  • Set multiple alarms to avoid oversleeping
  • Know your route and plan to arrive 30 minutes early
  • Prepare your required ID and confirmation email

What to Bring to the GMAT Test Center

You don’t need much on test day, but you must bring a few key items:

  • Valid government-issued ID (must match your registration exactly)
  • Confirmation email from Pearson VUE or GMAC
  • Prescription glasses or medication if needed
  • Snacks and water for your locker (to use during breaks)
  • Layers of clothing (test centers can vary in temperature)

Do NOT bring: Phones, watches, bags, notes, calculators, or any electronic devices. These must be stored in your assigned locker.

GMAT Test Center Check-In Process

  1. Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment
  2. Present your ID to the test administrator
  3. Sign a digital test agreement and consent form
  4. Have your digital photo and palm vein scan taken
  5. Secure personal items in a locker
  6. You may be asked to turn your pockets inside out and roll up sleeves
  7. You’ll be escorted into the testing room

Inside the Testing Room

  • You’ll be assigned a desk with a computer and noise-canceling headphones
  • You’ll receive a notepad and marker (or scratchpad)
  • A digital timer will appear on-screen during each section
  • Video surveillance and proctors monitor the room constantly

Structure of the GMAT Exam

The exam is about 3 hours long and consists of the following sections (order may vary based on your selection):

  • Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA): 30 minutes
  • Integrated Reasoning: 30 minutes
  • Quantitative Reasoning: 62 minutes
  • Verbal Reasoning: 65 minutes

You’ll be given two optional 8-minute breaks: one after IR and one after Quant.

Section Order Options

Before the exam begins, you’ll choose your preferred section order. Options include:

  • AWA → IR → Quant → Verbal
  • Verbal → Quant → IR → AWA
  • Quant → Verbal → IR → AWA

Choose the sequence that aligns with your mental strengths and test-taking style.

During the Exam: What to Expect

  • You cannot go back to previous questions once you submit
  • There’s no pause—if you leave early, your test ends
  • If you finish a section early, remaining time does not carry forward
  • Use every second wisely—even guessing strategically is better than leaving blanks
  • Flagging is not allowed—you must decide on each question in sequence

Taking the Breaks

You’re allowed two 8-minute breaks. Use them wisely:

  • Eat a light snack (banana, nuts, energy bar)
  • Drink water to stay hydrated
  • Stretch or breathe deeply to recharge
  • Be back at your station on time—late return may result in a deduction of test time

Finishing the GMAT

  • After Verbal, you’ll be prompted to decide whether to cancel or keep your score
  • Choose “Report Score” to see your unofficial score report on-screen
  • AWA score is not included—it’s sent later along with the official report
  • Your official score report is available within 7 business days via your mba.com account

Test Day Tips for Success

  • Arrive early: Avoid stress from last-minute travel or check-in issues
  • Stay calm: Nerves are normal, but controlled breathing can help
  • Trust your training: Stick to your timing plan and strategies
  • Use the process of elimination: Don’t fixate on perfection—move forward
  • Don’t panic if a question feels hard: The GMAT is adaptive—it might mean you’re doing well

Online GMAT vs. Test Center GMAT

You also have the option to take the GMAT online. The online version includes:

  • Same structure and scoring as the test center version
  • Remote proctoring via webcam and screen monitoring
  • One optional break (8 minutes) after the second section
  • Whiteboard: Online (digital) or physical erasable board (if allowed)

Choose the format that fits your environment and comfort level.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Arriving late or forgetting your ID
  • Not using the break to refuel
  • Spending too long on one question
  • Panicking if a question seems difficult
  • Failing to report your score at the end (if you want to see it)

Conclusion

The more you know about GMAT test day, the more confident and in control you’ll feel. From check-in to breaks to the final screen, each step is predictable if you’ve prepared. Arrive early, bring the right materials, stay focused, and follow your game plan. Success on test day isn’t just about knowledge—it’s also about mindset and execution.