Graduate Management Admission Test Registration Details

Getting ready to take the GMAT Focus Edition exam?

Registering is simple when you know what to expect, whether you’re a first-time test-taker or planning a GMAT retake.

This step-by-step guide walks you through everything you need, from creating your MBA.com account to all the Graduate Management Admission Test registration details.

You’ll also learn why it’s smart to register early, what documents to have ready, how to schedule a retake, and how to choose between the online and test center options.

Why It’s Important to Register for the GMAT Early

Let’s be real: the GMAT isn’t something you want to leave to the last minute, especially when it comes to booking your test date.

So, here’s why you must register early for GMAT:

Test centers fill up fast

Sure, the GMAT is offered year-round, but if you’re planning to test between August and November (prime MBA application season), slots can disappear quickly.

Some test centers have limited seating, and it’s a terrible feeling to finish your GMAT prep, only to find no test dates available for weeks.

Thus, booking 4–8 weeks in advance, or even earlier, is your best bet for getting the date, time, and location that works for you.

You need to Work Backward from your Deadlines

Most business programs have strict timelines, so plan your GMAT date with those in mind.

You’ll want to give yourself time to get your official score (which takes about 3–5 days) and still have breathing room for a possible retake.

That only happens if you register early. You don’t want to be rushing against an application deadline with no score in hand.

Last-minute changes = Expensive mistakes

Picked a date you can’t make?

Rescheduling a test-center GMAT can cost you, especially if it’s close to your test date. That’s why registering early gives you more flexibility and lowers the risk of costly changes.

Plan ahead, lock it in, and focus on what really matters: hitting your target score.

GMAT Registration Steps: A Detailed Walkthrough

Ready to lock in your GMAT date?

The entire GMAT registration process takes place on MBA.com, the official website run by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC).

Here are the GMAT registration steps you must follow:

Step 1: Create or Log In to Your MBA.com Account

First things first: you’ll need an MBA.com account to register for the GMAT Focus Edition.

If you’re new, head to MBA.com and click “Create Account.”

You’ll enter some basic personal info: name, email, date of birth, etc., to set up your profile.

Important: Use your full legal name, exactly as it appears on the ID you’ll bring on test day. If your passport says “John A. Doe,” don’t register as “Johnny Doe.”

Even small mismatches can result in being turned away at the test center.

And if you’ve taken the GMAT before or used MBA.com for anything else, you probably already have an account.

Just log in with your existing details. Then, go to your dashboard and look for the option to “Register for the GMAT.”

Click it to begin the process.

Remember, typos or missing info can cause avoidable delays later, so double-check everything before moving on.

Step 2 – Choose Test Format: Online vs. Test Center

Before you lock in a date, you’ll need to decide how you want to take the GMAT Focus Edition: at a test center or online from home.

The test itself is exactly the same in both formats, with the same content, structure, and scoring.

However, the experience can feel quite different, so it’s worth considering what works best for you.

1. Test Center GMAT

This is the traditional option. You’ll go to an official testing location on your scheduled date and take the exam in a controlled, quiet environment.

Choose this option if you prefer a structured environment and don’t want to worry about Wi-Fi or home distractions.

2. Online GMAT

You take the exam at home, on your computer, with a live proctor watching via webcam.

Choose this if your home setup is solid, and you want more control over when and where you test.

When you click “Register for the GMAT” on MBA.com, you’ll be asked to choose Online or Test Center.

Given the pros and cons of each, pick the one that matches your comfort level; either way, your score is equally valid and accepted by business schools for up to 5 years.

Step 3 – Fill Out Personal Details

Once you’ve chosen your test format (online or test center), it’s time to fill in your personal info and complete your GMAT profile.

This part is easy, but it’s essential to get every detail right, especially since it directly ties to your ID and test day access.

Here’s what you’ll need to provide:

• Full Name: Must match your ID exactly, no nicknames. If your ID reads “Arjun M. Rao,” register in the same manner.
• Date of Birth, Gender, Citizenship: Used for ID verification. Triple-check for accuracy.
• Contact Information: Your email (pre-filled from your account), phone number, and mailing address.
• Identification Type: In some cases, you may need to specify the type of ID you’ll present (e.g., Passport, Driver’s License, National ID), depending on your country.

Check GMAC’s ID requirements for your region if applicable.

• Background Information (Optional): You might be asked a few questions about your educational history, work experience, language skills, and target business schools or programs.

In addition to this, you’ll also see an option to join GradSelect, a GMAC service that lets schools send you info or connect with you directly.

You can opt in or out, no pressure either way.

Take your time here. Mistakes in this section can be a pain to fix later and could even delay your test.

Even though the system will flag any obvious issues, it’s still a good idea to double-check everything yourself.

Once everything looks good, hit Next and you’re almost there.

Step 4 – Select Test Date and Location

Now it’s time to schedule your GMAT.

If You’re Taking the Test at a Center:

• Enter your city or location to see nearby official GMAT test centers.
• You can browse one center at a time or compare multiple ones to find the best fit.
• A calendar will display available dates, and once you click on a date, you’ll see the available time slots (such as 9:00 AM or 1:30 PM).
• Check all nearby centers, some might have openings on your preferred day when others don’t.

Importantly, it is surprisingly easy to book a location in the wrong place (such as a test center with the same name in another state or province), so be sure to double-check everything.

If You’re Taking the Test Online:

• You’ll simply select your preferred date and start time.
• Online slots are available 24/7, offering more flexible options.
• The system will show all times in your local time zone.

Choose a time when your space will be quiet, private, and your internet will be reliable.

Once you’ve picked your ideal slot, the system will hold it for a few minutes (usually around 15) so you can review everything and move to the next step: payment.

Before clicking “Confirm,” double-check:

• Date
• Time
• Format (Test Center or Online)
• Test Center Address (if applicable)

Then you’re ready to lock it in and move forward.

Step 5 – Review Policies and Preferences

Before you can officially register for the GMAT, you’ll need to review and agree to a few important policies and terms.

Since the GMAT is a high-stakes exam, GMAC has strict rules to ensure fairness, security, and privacy for all test-takers.

You’ll be asked to accept the GMAT Test Taker Rules, which cover:

• Exam conduct (no cheating or unauthorized materials)
• Break policies
• Test-day procedures
• Consequences of rule violations

You’ll confirm your agreement by checking a box or providing an electronic signature.

Also, GMAC will ask you to:

• Accept their privacy policy
• Opt in or out of being contacted by business schools or GMAC partners.

Next, you’ll be reminded that your name must match exactly on your registration and ID.

Moreover, you won’t sign the NDA (Non-Disclosure Agreement) during registration; instead, you will sign it on test day, just before your exam begins.

You have 2 minutes to read and accept the Non-Disclosure Agreement (“NDA”). If you do not accept within this time, your exam will be terminated, and your exam fee will not be refunded.

Take a moment to read it in advance.

All these policies explain what to expect on exam day, including:

• What you can and can’t bring into the test room
• How the check-in process works
• What happens if you miss or cancel your appointment
• The differences in rules for the test center vs. the online GMAT

Before you continue to payment, review your appointment details carefully:

• Test date and time
• Format (Test Center or Online)
• Location (if applicable)

Also, jot down your confirmation number and add the test date to your calendar.

Once you’ve agreed to everything, you’re ready for the final step: payment and confirmation.

Step 6 – Pay the Registration Fee

The final step to complete your GMAT online registration is submitting your payment.

The GMAT Focus Edition exam fee varies depending on your country and test format.

The GMAT exam fees for the United States are:

Format	Fee (USD)	What’s Included
Test Center	$275	Score reports to 5 schools
Online (Remote)	$300	Score reports to 5 schools

Regional pricing examples (based on exchange rates and VAT):

• India: ₹22,000–₹25,000
• UK: £250 (test center), £275 (online)
• Canada: ~$275–USD 300 equivalent in CAD
• Europe: €275–€310

Always check your region’s currency-adjusted pricing before registering. Fees are set in USD but collected locally.

You can pay using major credit or debit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and more. Make sure:

• Your card has sufficient balance.
• International transactions are enabled (if you’re outside the U.S.).
• The billing information you enter matches the details of your card.

GMAC’s payment system is secure and widely used for global transactions.

However, if you have a GMAT fee voucher or waiver:

• Enter the code in the designated field during checkout.
• Remember, most vouchers only cover registration fees, not rescheduling fees or additional services.
• Vouchers are format-specific, meaning a test center voucher typically won’t work for the online exam, and vice versa.

Now, what if my payment fails?

Payment issues are rare, but they can still occur. Here’s what to do:

• Check your card details for errors or expiration.
• Contact your bank if the transaction is declined; it might be flagged as international or high-value.
• Avoid retrying too many times in a short period, as the system may lock you out for 24 hours.
• If issues persist, try a different card or contact GMAT Customer Service for help.

Your test slot will usually stay reserved for a short time while you resolve payment issues, so don’t panic.

Once your payment goes through, you’ll see a confirmation screen, and your GMAT appointment will be officially booked.

Congratulations, you’re registered!

Step 7 – Receive Confirmation Email

Once you finish your GMAT registration and payment, you’ll receive a confirmation email from GMAC (mba.com).

This usually arrives within a few minutes, though it may take up to a few hours.

Be sure to check your inbox and spam/junk folders for emails from “GMAT” or “mba.com.”

Your confirmation email will include:

• Test Date and Time: The exact day and local time of your exam.
• Test Format Info
  • For test center exams: Name, complete address, and sometimes directions to the center.
  • For online exams: A note confirming it’s online, often with a link and instructions for launching the test on exam day.
• Appointment Number/Registration ID: Your unique booking code. Keep this handy for check-in or support.
• Test Day Rules and Reminders: Summary of exam policies, ID requirements, system checks (for online exams), arrival time, and more.

Helpful Tip: If you don’t get a confirmation email within 24 hours, log in to your MBA.com account and check the “My Appointments” section. You can resend the email or contact GMAT Customer Service if needed.

With all these steps done, you’re registered to take the GMAT exam.

Now, it’s time to gear up for test day.

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What You Need to Register for the GMAT

Before and during the process, having the right GMAT registration documents and information handy will help things proceed smoothly.

Here’s what you’ll need when registering for the GMAT:

1. Valid Government ID

You’ll need a non-expired, government-issued photo ID. A passport is the safest option and is accepted worldwide.

If you’re testing in your home country, a driver’s license or national ID may be accepted; check MBA.com for your country’s rules.

2. Personal Information

Please have your full legal name, birth date, email address, phone number, and home address ready.

Enter the details exactly as they appear on your ID to avoid mismatches that could delay registration or the delivery of your score.

3. MBA.com Account

Create an MBA.com account or log in if you already have one.

This account is where you’ll register for the test, view your scores, and manage everything GMAT-related.

4. Access to Your Email

Make sure you can access the email address linked to your MBA.com account.

All important confirmations, updates, and your official score report will be sent to this address.

5. Credit or Debit Card

Have a valid payment method ready to pay the registration fee. Most people use credit or debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express).

6. Test Format: Online or Test Center

Decide whether you want to take the GMAT online or at a test center.

Once registered, switching formats may incur additional fees, so check what’s available in your area before making a choice.

7. Preferred Test Date or Time Frame

You don’t need an exact date, but have a general time frame in mind (e.g., “late October”).

You can register up to 6 months in advance or as late as 24 hours before the exam, provided a slot is available.

8. (Optional) List of Target MBA Programs

You can send your GMAT scores to up to 5 schools for free.

For test center exams, you select these options after the test; for online exams, you select them before or immediately after the test.

However, if you’re unsure, you can send scores later for $35 per school (subject to change), but having a shortlist ready saves time and money.

GMAT Retake Registration: Rules & Process

Many test-takers sit for the GMAT more than once, to improve their score or recover from a bad day.

Here’s what you need to know about the GMAT retake rules and how to register again:

1. Mandatory 16-Day Wait

You must wait at least 16 calendar days before retaking the GMAT (online or in person).

For example, if you took the test on January 1, the earliest you can retake it is January 17. The system won’t allow you to register earlier than allowed; use this time to review and study.

2. Limit: 5 Attempts in 12 Months

You can take the GMAT up to 5 times in any 12-month period.

This includes both test centers and online exams; they count together toward your yearly limit.

3. Unlimited Potential – Literally

The GMAT’s previous lifetime limit of 8 attempts has been officially removed, giving candidates more flexibility and opportunities to reach their target score.

4. Exception for Perfect Scores

If you’ve previously earned a perfect total score of 800 on the old GMAT (10th Edition, retired January 31, 2024) or 805 on the current version, you must wait at least five years before retaking the GMAT.

Considering these rules and policies, the GMAT retake registration process is the same as your first:

• Log in to your MBA.com account
• Choose your test format (online or in-person)
• Select a date (the system will only show eligible dates, 16+ days out)
• Pay the test fee

You don’t have to wait for your score report to schedule your next attempt; you can register as soon as you’re ready.

Choosing Between Online and Test Center Registration

One of the first big choices when registering for the GMAT Focus Edition is deciding where to take the test: GMAT test center vs online.

Both options result in the same official score and are equally accepted by business schools; however, the experience may differ.

However, the right format depends on your personal preferences, tech setup, and environment.

Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:

Factor	Online GMAT	Test Center GMAT
Convenience	Give the test from home	Limited dates/times, travel required
Environment	Private, familiar space, but needs to be distraction-free	Structured, quiet, professional setting
Tech & Equipment	Use your own computer + webcam (must meet requirements)	All equipment is provided and maintained
Note-Taking Tools	Online whiteboard + optional physical whiteboard	Physical erasable boards and markers provided
Security Checks	ID check + webcam + room scan	ID check, palm vein scan, physical proctoring
Interruptions	Tech glitches may cause issues or test termination	On-site staff help with disruptions
Comfort	Use your own chair/desk; control lighting, temperature	Standard setup; no customization
Score Acceptance	Treated equally by all MBA programs	Same official score, no difference in reporting

Troubleshooting GMAT Registration Problems

Most GMAT sign-ups go smoothly, but if something goes wrong, here’s how to fix common problems:

1. Website Glitches and Freezing

The MBA.com registration portal can sometimes be slow or glitchy, especially if there’s heavy traffic or maintenance.

If a page isn’t loading or the site freezes, try the following:

• Try refreshing the page or logging out and back in.
• Switch browsers (Chrome/Firefox work better than Safari for some).
• Use incognito mode or clear your cache/cookies.
• If the site still doesn’t work, wait and try again later; it’s often a temporary issue.

2. MBA.com Account Login Issues

If you can’t log in to your account (password not working, etc.), use the “Forgot Password” link to reset it. You’ll get an email with reset instructions.

If you don’t receive a reset email, check your spam and ensure you’re using the correct email address associated with your account.

In case you no longer have access to the email you used to sign up, you’ll need to contact GMAT support to help recover your account.

3. Payment Failures

One of the most common hiccups is the payment step.

If your credit/debit card is declined or you get a payment error:

• Double-check card info and billing address.
• Ensure your card is enabled for online/international use.
• Try a different card (some users succeed in switching from debit to credit).
• After several failed attempts, you may be locked out for 24 hours.
• If your card is charged but there’s no confirmation, check:
  • My Appointments section in your account
  • Your email and bank statements

Still unclear? Contact GMAT Customer Service.

When contacting them, provide your name, GMAT ID (if known), and a clear description of the issue.

GMAT Registration FAQs

Can I reschedule after registering?

Yes. If your plans change, you can reschedule your GMAT through your MBA.com account, under the ‘Appointment Details’ section. Rescheduling always comes with a fee, which varies based on how early you make the change.

If you reschedule more than 60 days before the test, the fee is lower (around $55 for test centers, $60 for online). Between 15 and 60 days, it increases to about $110–$120, and within 14 days of your test, it rises to $165–$180. There’s no longer a free rescheduling window, so it’s best to make changes as early as possible.

What ID do I need?

To register and sit for the GMAT exam, you’ll typically need a valid, unexpired, government-issued passport, especially if you’re testing outside your country of citizenship. In some locations, alternative IDs, such as national identity cards or military IDs, may be accepted if you’re testing within your own country.

Your ID must include your photo, signature, and full name, exactly as it appears on the name used during GMAT registration. Always check the ID requirements for your specific location on MBA.com to avoid issues on test day.

Can I book multiple test dates?

You cannot hold more than one active GMAT appointment at a time. Once you’ve booked a test (online or on-site), that remains your only valid appointment until you either complete it or cancel it. You’re also required to maintain a minimum 16-day gap between test dates, meaning the system won’t let you schedule another exam closer than 16 days out.

Can I send scores after the test?

Yes. With your GMAT registration, you’re entitled to send your Official Score Report to up to five schools/programs for free. For test center exams, you select these schools right after finishing the test. For the online GMAT, you choose them through your mba.com account, either before the exam or within 48 hours after viewing your score. These five score reports are included in your exam fee.

How to register for a GMAT test?

You can register for the GMAT Focus Edition through your official mba.com account by following these steps:

1. Create or log in to your MBA.com account.
2. Click “Register for the GMAT” to begin.
3. Enter your personal details, ensuring they match the information on your ID.
4. Choose your exam format: online or test center.
5. Select your preferred date, time, and (if applicable) location.
6. Review all details, agree to the policies, and pay the fee.
7. You will receive a confirmation email with your appointment details.

What is the average score on the Graduate Management Admission Test?

The current average total GMAT score in 2025 is 553.35. This score is based on the current GMAT scoring scale, which ranges from 205 to 805.