The Practicalities of Taking the GMAT Exam 

Preparing for the GMAT is a significant endeavor, and understanding the logistics of test day is crucial to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. In this article, we’ll walk you through the essential steps and considerations for taking the GMAT, from signing up to what happens after the exam. 

The Procedure 

1. Signing Up: 
If you’re planning to take the GMAT at a physical test center, it’s advisable to sign up at least a month in advance. This ensures you have a slot on your preferred date. While the online GMAT offers more flexibility in scheduling, this article focuses on the physical test day experience. For more information about the differences between physical and online tests, check out this article [link]. 
You can sign up for the GMAT here. We recommend checking the availability of test dates early in your study process to know when you need to register. However, to be safe, aim to register at least one month before your desired test date. 

2. Receive Emails, Confirmations, and Potential Changes: 
Once you’ve signed up, you’ll receive a confirmation email with crucial information, including your full name, GMAT ID, registration ID, test location, and appointment time. It’s vital to ensure that all details exactly match your official ID, as discrepancies can lead to issues on test day. 
The email will also remind you to bring a valid form of identification. While various IDs may be acceptable, bringing a passport is the safest option. Additionally, the email will include options to reschedule or cancel your appointment, though these actions do incur extra fees. 

3. Arriving at the Test Center: 
On test day, arrive at the test center at least 30 minutes early. Upon arrival, inform the staff of your appointment. They will verify your name, check your identification, and perform a hand scan as part of the security measures. 

4. Entering the Test Room: 
Once it’s time for your exam, you’ll be guided into the test room. You’ll receive instructions and have access to earplugs or noise-canceling headphones. The test room may contain other test-takers, but disturbances are generally minimal. Be prepared for some movement in and out of the room, as others may finish or begin their tests during your session. 

5. Taking a Break: 
You will have the opportunity to take a break after your first or second section. This break is essential for maintaining focus and managing stress: 

• Reduce Stress: The GMAT is a marathon, and a brief pause can help reset your mind, even if you don’t feel overwhelmed. 

• Refuel: Use the break to eat healthy snacks like fruits or nuts and hydrate with water, coffee, or tea. Chewing food can help increase blood flow to the brain. 

• Adhere to Rules: Don’t study during the break, as this can result in your score being canceled. Instead, take a walk or wash your face to clear your mind. 

We recommend treating every mock test as if it were the actual GMAT, including taking your breaks seriously. 

What to Prepare For 

Follow Your Routine:  
On test day, stick to your usual routine. If you enjoy a morning run or a hearty breakfast, make sure to do so. This helps keep your mind and body in a familiar state. 

Pack Ahead of Time:  
Prepare what you’ll bring to the test center the night before. This should include: 

• Food: High-energy snacks like an orange or banana. 

• Identification: Ensure you have the correct ID, preferably a passport. 

• Layers: Dress in layers in case the test room is too cold or warm. 

Arrive Early:  
Get to the test center at least 30 minutes before your appointment. If possible, visit the center in advance to familiarize yourself with the location and check for any potential road obstructions on test day. 

Select Five Universities:  
As part of your GMAT test day, you can select up to five programs to send your scores to. This service is included in your exam fee. You’ll make this selection immediately before your exam. If you choose to send your scores later, it will cost $28 per school. 

After the Exam 

1. Receiving Your Score: 
Immediately after finishing your last section, you’ll see your calculated score. At this point, you can decide whether to send your scores to the universities you selected and whether you want to buy an additional score report. 

2. Sending Your Score: 
As mentioned earlier, sending your score later will cost $28 per school. Schools generally don’t mind if you take the test multiple times, so if you’re unsure whether you’ll take the GMAT again, it’s a good idea to send your score immediately. 

3. Score Report: 
You’ll have access to a free score report, but you can also choose to buy an additional score report for $35. The latter is especially valuable if you’re not satisfied with your score and plan to retake the test. This report provides detailed insights into your performance, helping you identify areas for improvement. More information about the score report can be found here. 

4. Signing Off and Retaking the Exam: 
After completing your GMAT, it’s time to relax and focus on the rest of your application process. If you didn’t achieve your target score, don’t be discouraged. Everyone has off days, and there’s no shame in taking the test again. Use the experience and insights from your score report to improve and aim for better results next time. 

Conclusion 

From signing up to receiving your score report, each step is crucial in ensuring a smooth experience. Prepare well, stick to your routine, and remember that persistence pays off. Good luck!