5 Study Tips For The NMAT by GMAC Exam
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NMAT by GMAC Exam Study Tips
1. Understanding the syllabus
The first step towards NMAT prep is to thoroughly understand the syllabus and the nature of the questions in each section.
Language Skills (LS)
This section evaluates a candidate’s proficiency in Reading Comprehension (RC), Vocabulary, and Grammar. Effective preparation involves regular practice of RC exercises, building a vocabulary beyond school-level standards, and strengthening grammar fundamentals. Of the various question types, candidates typically find parajumbles, cloze tests, and most fill-in-the-blanks relatively easier.
RC questions often come with long passages and multiple sub-questions. Personally, I have found that working through comprehensive wordlists significantly enhances vocabulary and improves overall performance.
Logical Reasoning (LR)
This section features a mix of numerical and verbal reasoning questions. Numerical reasoning problems tend to be longer, comprising questions such as Input/Output, Analytical Reasoning, and Number Sequences.
Here, pattern recognition and the ability to analyze visual data are critical. On the verbal side, expect questions on Critical Reasoning, Syllogisms, and Blood Relations among others. These can be attempted quickly and accurately, making them ideal for saving time and improving scores. Familiarity with the structure and approach of logical reasoning questions is vital, and practicing them extensively is non-negotiable.
Referring to the NMAT by GMAC Exam Official Guide is highly recommended for targeted practice. Going through critical reasoning questions of GMAT from official sources have also proved useful to aspirants in the past.
Quantitative Skills (QS)
This section focuses on high school-level math concepts. Arithmetic dominates, with Permutations & Combinations and Probability also featuring prominently. Questions from Algebra and Number Theory complete the section.
The absence of Geometry suggests the test emphasizes conceptual clarity over rote theory. Data Interpretation (DI) questions are also important, often appearing in sets tied to graphical data. These are generally calculation-heavy and time-consuming.
The absence of an on-screen calculator means success in QS hinges heavily on the ability to perform rapid and accurate mental and by-hand calculations.
2. Devise your strategy that aligns with the NMAT’s unique format
The NMAT by GMAC Exam is a Computer Adaptive Test. It means that the difficulty of each subsequent question changes based on your response to the current one. Correct answers prompt harder questions, while incorrect ones reduce the difficulty level. Candidates cannot revisit previous questions, making time management and decision-making critical.
Additionally, there is no fixed positive or negative marking per question. Your final score reflects the highest difficulty level you were able to consistently handle.
It is important to note that failing to answer questions in a section due to poor time management can drastically reduce your score, as the system interprets these as failures at that difficulty level. Therefore, it’s essential to attempt all questions within the allotted time.
An overall score of 235+ is considered excellent, with benchmarks of 71 in QS, 75 in LR, and 80 in LS typically indicating top-tier performance.
3. Section attempt strategy: elevate, consolidate, accelerate
I recommend dividing the way you attempt each section into three phases:
- Elevate: Begin by focusing on accuracy in the initial one-third of the section. This will raise the difficulty level of subsequent questions which correspond to a respectable score.
- Consolidate: In the middle third, aim to maintain the paper at that higher level of difficulty. Take occasional calculated guesses to preserve time while preventing a dip in question standard.
- Accelerate: In the final stretch, increase speed, even if it marginally compromises accuracy, to ensure every question is attempted before time runs out.
4. Choosing the right section order
The NMAT by GMAC Exam allows candidates to choose the order in which they attempt sections. Choosing the optimum sequence is not a ‘one size fits all’ endeavour. This decision should be tailored to individual strengths. Pick an order that helps you build momentum and sustain concentration throughout the test.
For instance, LS is my strong suite and LR is my weakness. I perform better at the beginning of the paper and I understand that I tend to calculate better when I am less stressed. So, my preferred sequence is LR => LS => QS. I pick LR when I am at my peak, take LS to destress and get ready for QS with a fresh mind.
5.The role of mock tests
While preparation is crucial, it is not sufficient on its own. Taking full-length mock tests under real exam conditions is essential for acclimating to NMAT’s adaptive format and refining your strategy. The official NMAT mock tests by GMAC remain the most reliable and accurate resources available for this purpose.
My final piece of advice is to take the exam in a happy mood and enjoy the process!
Quick summary for NMAT by GMAC Exam 2025 Preparation
| Phase | Timeline | Focus |
| Foundation | April - June |
Basics, vocabulary, mental math |
| Practice | July - September | Sectional tests, time drills, error tracking |
| Refinement | October - Exam | Mocks, strategy, revision, confidence |
Ready to get started? Take the first step by creating your NMAT account and scheduling your exam.
Varun Krishnan is the Co-founder and Director of GradSquare - an education services and test prep organisation, with over 8 years of experience in the education sector, having mentored 3000+ students into top universities globally.
