Prepare for the GMAT Exam

Preparing for the GMAT exam has never been easier. Start with a plan, execute it, and you’ll be ready for test day.

Earn the score you want by starting early. Begin with our step-by-step guide on preparing for the GMAT exam. Then download our free GMATPrep software, which includes 90 exam questions, answers and explanations, and test your skills by taking two full-length practice exams.

Before you start preparing, be sure to download GMATPrep®Software, free to registered users of mba.com, a great diagnostic tool to help you discover which areas of the exam to focus on. Our GMAT Prep Timeline provides a step-by-step approach to your personal study plan, and includes links to tips, products, and advice for improving your weak areas and enhancing your strengths. Other helpful links include:

Test Prep Materials
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Preparing for and doing well on the GMAT exam lets you show schools that you have what it takes to succeed in the business school classroom. You can do it, but you’ll need to prepare by creating a solid study plan, selecting the right prep materials, and knowing what to expect before, during, and after your test day.

  • GMAT Handbook

    The GMAT Handbook helps you put your best foot forward. Read it before you schedule your exam so that you know exactly what to expect before, during, and after the exam.
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  • OG bundle

    NEW! Official Guide for GMAT® Review Series 2017

    Now featuring 1,500+ real GMAT questions and 15% new content.


    Buy Now

  • Download Free GMATPrep® Software

    Prepare for your best GMAT with a firsthand look at what the exam is really like. 
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  • IR Prep Tool

    IR Prep Tool

    A new official study tool featuring 48 never-before-seen Integrated Reasoning items, unlimited practice sessions, customizable question sets, and tools to practice pacing.
    Buy Now

  • The GMAT Prep Timeline

    When it comes to studying for and doing well on the GMAT exam, there are no magic formulas, secrets or tricks—just planning and preparation.
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  • Understand the GMAT Test-Taking Rules

    Watch these videos to make sure you don’t violate test-taking rules and policies. Get on the path toward your best GMAT.
    Watch the Videos

  • The Official Guide to Your Best GMAT

    Any goal worth achieving starts with a plan, and doing well on the GMAT exam is no exception. This graphic will help you take the steps you need to succeed.
    Download the graphic

  • Five Tips from GMAC on Using GMATPrep® v2.2 to Study More Effectively

    The GMATPrep® software, free to those who register on mba.com, is key to any study strategy.
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  • GMAT Write®

    Gain confidence in your writing abilities with this web-based essay writing practice tool.
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Test Prep Advice
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You have questions about the GMAT exam? We have answers. From tried-and-true test-taking strategies to advice from students who have successfully taken the exam, we have you covered.

  • OG bundle

    NEW! Official Guide for GMAT® Review Series 2017

    Now featuring 1,500+ real GMAT questions and 15% new content.


    Buy Now

  • Study Smart for Your Best GMAT

    When it comes to studying for the GMAT exam, there are no magic formulas, no secrets, no tricks—just planning and preparation. Understanding the test will help you bring out the best of your abilities.
    Learn More

  • video image

    Get GMAT Prep Advice from Students and Alumni

    Who better to offer GMAT preparation advice than current students who took the exam and are now well on their way to success—in the classroom and in their careers.
    Watch the Videos

  • GMAT Preparation Tips & Strategies

    Start early, manage your time, and practice. These are just some of the keys to your best GMAT. Hear how this advice paid off for these current MBA students.
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  • Nicole Lindsay

    Out of the GMAT Fray: 8 Steps to a Winning GMAT Prep Plan

    You can succeed on the GMAT exam. Read this checklist to build your confidence and develop a winning approach.
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  • Rajat Mathur

    Meet Students: GMAT Test-Taking Advice

    Get tips and advice from recent GMAT test takers. Discover why students value the GMAT exam in the admissions process and what you can expect when taking it. 
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  • Test Taking Mistakes You Can Avoid

    To do your best on the GMAT exam, understand the question types and format, and develop a study plan that works for you. These tips will put you on the right path.
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  • Shailesh Kumar

    Hear from Students: Prep Tips for Success

    Succeeding on the GMAT exam is all about putting in the time and dedication to do well. If you commit to your study plan, you will get the score you want.
    Watch the Video

  • Bakul Kampani

    Hear from Students: Test-Day Tips for Success

    Keep these five test-taking tips in mind so that you're fully prepared on the day of your exam.
    Watch the Video

Plan for Test Day
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Now that you've prepared and practiced for your best GMAT, you're ready to go in and give it your all. Being fully confident and relaxed on the day of your exam means knowing what to expect at the test center and understanding what's expected of you.

  • Test Center Tour

    Take a Tour of the Test Center

    Knowing what to expect at the test center will you ease any nervousness and arrive fully confident on the day of your exam.
    Watch the Video

  • The Interactive GMAT Prep Timeline

    Use this interactive tool to manage your GMAT preparation and make your study efforts effective and efficient.
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  • View Country Specific Test Center Regulations

    Understand the ID requirements, test center rules and agreement, and whether a VAT applies in the country in which you plan to take the GMAT exam.
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  • Planning for Your Test Day

    Before the day of your GMAT exam, you will want to review these regulations so that you arrive confident, focused, and ready to do you best.
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  • Colette

    Exam Day Advice from Test Takers

    Find out what these former GMAT test takers did to ease their jitters on the day of their exam.
    Watch the Video

  • Test Center Checklist_thumb

    GMAT Test Center Checklist

    Download our GMAT Test Center infographic for a quick snapshot of the items you must bring with you and the ones you'll need to leave behind on the day of your exam.
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  • Presenting Proper Identification

    To take the GMAT exam, you must bring acceptable and valid identification (ID). Watch this video to ensure a smooth test-taking experience.
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  • Palm Vein Reader Biometric Identification

    The palm vein reader is part of an ongoing effort to maintain test integrity and ensure that the exam is fair for everyone.
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  • GMAT Exam Administration Rules

    The GMAT exam is governed by administration rules that help ensure its validity and reliability. Understand these rules to help ensure a smooth test-taking experience.
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  • Rights and Responsibilites of GMAT Test Takers

    Prior to taking the GMAT exam, you will want to understand what to expect and what is expected of you.
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  • Test Complaints and Concerns

    Send any written complaint or concern to GMAT Customer Service immediately following the test administration.
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  • GMAT Non-Disclosure Agreement and General Terms of Use

    This example of the GMAT exam Non-Disclosure Agreement and General Terms of Use will be provided to you on the day of your exam.
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  • Paying for the GMAT Exam

    In addition to the cost of taking the GMAT exam, fees may also apply for rescheduling your exam and ordering additional score reports.
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