GMAT Test Day Checklist

The GMAT has strict rules and guidelines for test-takers, that’s why it is important for you to be prepared beforehand to avoid unnecessary fees such as rescheduling one for your test appointment. In this article, you will find some advice for the time leading up to your test day and the key items that you should bring with you to the testing center.

The Day Before

  1. Relax: Engage in stress-reducing activities to ease anxiety. Rest, eat well, meditate, and avoid cramming.
  2. Visit the Center: Familiarize yourself with the test center’s location and route, ideally at your scheduled appointment time.
  3. Review Checklist: Ensure you have all required items per GMAC guidelines. Prepare in advance to prevent last-minute panic.
  4. Confirmation Letter: Have your appointment confirmation ready and printed to ease entry on test day.
  5. Glance at Notes: Lightly review key study points for reassurance, avoiding exhaustive study sessions.

The Day of the Test

  1. Valid ID: Carry an approved photo ID for test entry.
  2. MBA Programs List: Plan the five MBA programs to send scores to post-exam. Decide beforehand to avoid hasty choices.
  3. Prescription Glasses: Bring your prescription for quicker check-in.
  4. Layer Clothing: Be prepared for varied room temperatures. Carry a sweater in case the test room is cold.
  5. Snacks and Water: Have snacks and water for breaks, but note they’re not allowed in the test room.
  6. Do Your Best: Remember your hard work and do your utmost. Seek guidance if considering retaking the exam.

Tip: It is usual for candidates to take the test more than once, so do not be discouraged if you need to as well.

FAQs about the GMAT Test Day

Should I Arrive Early at the Test Center on Test Day?

Yes, you should arrive early at the test center as there is a check-in procedure that you have to go through before taking the exam. Make sure to be there at least 30 minutes early. If you are 15 minutes late on test day, the administrators may not allow you to take the exam.

What is the Check-in Procedure?

Once you show up at the test center, you have to present a valid GMAT approved photo ID to the administrators. Then, they will take your picture, signature, and fingerprints and they will ask you to sign the GMAT Examination Testing Rules & Agreement

What documents should I bring to the test center?

There are 2 things you’ll definitely need with you on exam day. Firstly, make sure to bring your GMAT-approved photo ID which contains your name, your date of birth, a recent photograph, and your signature (a passport, a national ID card, or a driving’s license). You will not be allowed to take the GMAT if you don’t present that document. Another thing to definitely bring with you on test day would be your appointment confirmation letter or email. It is not necessary that you bring that with you; however, it is good to have it on you in case of a misunderstanding or mistake in the system.

Pro tip:It is also a good idea to bring a list of up to 5 MBA programs that you want your scores sent to. You don’t want to have to decide that on exam day.

What am I Allowed to Bring Into the Exam Room?

You are not allowed to bring anything with you into the exam room, as everything will be provided for you. Electronic devices like phones, tablets, smartwatches, etc., are also not allowed. Even though you can bring snacks and water to the test center, you will not be allowed to take them to the exam room, as you’ll be asked to put them in a storage room or locker. However, you will be able to access those during your breaks.

What Do I Do if My Computer Stops Working While Taking the GMAT?

If that is the case, one thing that you should not do is try to fix the computer by yourself. The best way to handle that situation is to raise your hand and ask for the administrator’s help.

What is the Best Way to Handle Disruptions While Taking the GMAT?

According to the policies, any disruptive situation that deviates from normal testing procedures will be thoroughly examined and the decision will be made on a case-to-case basis. In that case, you might be allowed to retake the exam with no additional charge or you can ask for a refund of the initial test fee. Nevertheless, there will be noises such as coughing, shifting and other small sounds that can distract you during the exam. In order to avoid this affecting your concentration drastically, spend some time practicing for the exam in an uncontrolled environment, such as a coffee shop to get yourself used to movement and sounds of others while practice focusing on your prep.

Will I be Given Something to Write on During the Exam?

The test administrators will provide you with pens and scratch paper once you are seated. If you are taking the online GMAT there is a on screen scratch pad and recently introduced a pre approved scratch paper option.

Do I Get to Choose the Order in Which I Take the GMAT Sections?

It is now an option for the test-takers to choose the order in which they take each section of the GMAT exam. Our instructors advise clients to take their best performing section first as they can really give it their all. You do not want to get to the section that you know you can do well at tired, after enduring the other 3 sections.

Do We Get Breaks During the Exam?

As the GMAT exam takes a lot of time to complete, you will be allowed to go on a 5-minute break twice at scheduled intervals during that 4-hour time period. Our instructors advise you to take advantage of this time for what it is meant for, a break. Clear your mind from exam activities and try to focus on relaxing. Eating a snack is always encouraged as this will give you an energy boost, just make sure that it is the right type of snack.

What Do I Do If I Am Not Feeling Well on Test Day?

Generally, taking the GMAT exam is not a good idea if you’re not feeling too well on test day, as the GMAT is long and your health can potentially affect your progress and final score. If you decide to reschedule the exam 7 calendar days before your test date, you’ll only have to pay an extra $50 USD rescheduling fee and if you do so on test day, you will lose the entire test fee.

How Many Times Can I Take the GMAT Exam?

There is no limit on the number of times you can take the GMAT exam (you can take the GMAT exam up to 5 times in a 12-month period). However, it is not advised that you take it more than 3 times as it may give the wrong impression to b-schools, and it’s unlikely that your scores will improve that drastically in between exams.

How Do I Send My GMAT Scores to The Schools I am Applying to?

You will get a few options regarding when to send the GMAT scores to the schools of your choice. Firstly, you can bring a list of up to 5 MBA programs on test day and your scores will be sent to those programs free of charge. Another option would be waiting to get your official score and then sending them to the schools of your choice. In this case, you’ll have to pay $28 USD for each school that your scores are sent to.

Let us know if you have any additional questions regarding your GMAT test day; one of our 770+ scoring instructors will happily answer them.