What Should I Bring to an In-Person GMAT Test?

You'll need a valid government-issued ID (passport or driver's license) that exactly matches your GMAT registration, your confirmation letter (digital copies are usually acceptable), and any personal items like keys, wallets, phones or watches that must be stored in the center locker. Snacks and drinks can be stored in your locker for scheduled breaks.

How Should I Prepare My Workspace for the Online GMAT?

Declutter your workspace by removing all notes, books, and restricted items. Position your chair and desk facing the camera with proper lighting for clear visibility. Test your computer, webcam, and internet connection ahead of time, and install required software per GMAT's online proctoring instructions. Ensure your room is quiet and free from interruptions during the exam.

What Are the ID Requirements for the GMAT Focus Exam?

Your ID must include your name in Roman alphabet (exactly matching registration), date of birth, recent photo, and signature. You must present valid, current identification on exam day. Expired IDs, photocopies, student IDs, and passport cards are NOT acceptable. ID requirements vary by location, so check specific requirements for your testing location on GMAC's official website.

How Many Times Can I Take the GMAT Focus Exam?

You can take the GMAT Focus exam up to 5 times in any rolling 12-month period, but you need to wait 16 days between two exams. The maximum is 8 times in your lifetime. Schools do not see the scores you don't send them, giving you control over which attempts to share.

How Do I Send My Scores to Schools, and What Will They See?

You can select schools to receive scores for free within 48 hours of receiving your Official Score. Additional schools require a fee per school. You can manage all your scores through your GMAT account. Schools only see scores you choose to send, giving you complete control over which results they receive.

How Can I Cancel My GMAT Scores?

In the GMAT Focus, there is no need to cancel a score. If you don't like your score, you can choose not to send it to any school. This gives you complete control over which scores schools see without the need for formal cancellation.

GMAT Focus Exam Guide

GMAT Focus Exam FAQ

We've been teaching GMAT for decades, and we know the days before the exam can be stressful. Below is a list of all you need to know from logistics to what you can do on breaks, so you can focus on the studying ;)

Important Takeaways

Key Points

You control which scores schools see, and they view online and in-person scores equally
For the in-person exam, book it in advance!
For the online exam, give yourself plenty of time to prepare your workspace and setup your computer
Don't forget your ID!

Retake Limits

Up to 5 times in any 12-month period
You need at least 16 days between two exams
Maximum 8 times in your lifetime
GMAT scores valid for 5 years

Online vs In-Person Comparison

In our experience most people prefer the online format, but the in-person does have some advantages, especially for the first time takers.

Feature	Online Exam	In-Person Exam
Booking	• Can be booked up until 24h before the exam • Usually plenty of slots available, including weekends	• Availability depends on the test center • Some centers get booked up months in advance! • Typically only available on working days!
Security process	• The proctor will check your ID and ask you to scan (with the camera) your work area before the exam and get you to close down all applications other than the exam software • During the exam the proctor will monitor you via webcam and microphone, and ask you to erase and show both sides of your whiteboard 2-3x times	• Before entering the exam room they will check your ID, take your photo, get you to sign a document and (in some countries) scan your palm • A physical proctor will be present during the exam
Note taking	• Digital whiteboard or physical whiteboard no larger than 30 cm x 50 cm • Most people prefer having a physical whiteboard	• They will provide a booklet of 5 laminated pages and 2 markers
Things not everyone knows!	• You need a transparent bottle for your water • Make sure there is no background noise. People have had their scores canceled because of their flatmates talking!	• If you arrive early at the exam center, you are often asked to start the exam early! • You can't take snacks into the exam room (but can leave them in your locker and take them out during the break)
What to worry about before the exam	• Make sure you have a stable internet connection and a functional webcam and microphone • Download the software and test your setup • Clear your workspace and get your ID ready	• Plan transport and get your ID ready • Leave well in advance to avoid a stressful start!
Pros & Cons	Can be booked last minute Familiar home environment No travel required No score diagnostic available Technical issues are your responsibility Strict anti-cheating monitoring can be stressful Home distractions possible	Can get a score diagnostic Technical issues are not your responsibility, and proctors are less distracting once the exam starts! Requires booking in advance Must travel to official test center May feel daunting if not used to formal exams

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to Ace Your GMAT Focus Exam?

Whether you're taking the GMAT Focus exam online or in-person, preparation is the key to success. Understand the process, plan your strategy, and give yourself ample time to meet your goals.