The GMAT is just over 2 hours. To be exact, the current version of the GMAT takes 2 hours and 15 minutes from start to finish.
But that’s only the exam itself. Your full exam experience includes everything from test-day check-in and score reporting to the weeks—or even months—you’ll spend studying. Whether you’re taking the test online or at a test center, it’s smart to know what to expect.
Let’s walk through the complete GMAT timeline—from planning to prep to your final score report.
Table of Contents
- How Long is the GMAT by Section?
- Disability Accommodations
- What Is the GMAT (and What Happened to the Classic Version)?
- How Long is GMAT Test Day?
- After the Exam: Score Preview
- GMAT Timeline Beyond Test Day
- How Much Time Should You Study for the GMAT?
- Final Thoughts
How Long is the GMAT by Section?
The exam consists of three equally timed sections:
| Section | Time |
|---|---|
| Quantitative Reasoning | 45 minutes |
| Verbal Reasoning | 45 minutes |
| Data Insights | 45 minutes |
| Total | 2 hrs 15 min |
There’s one optional 10-minute break, which you can take after the first or second section. The section order is customizable. You choose the order — ideally, after much consideration as to which order will best suit you. The exam moves efficiently from one portion to the next.
Disability Accommodations
If you have a documented disability, GMAC offers several accommodations, including:
- 25%, 50%, or 100% extra time
- Additional breaks
- Assistive tech or human reader/scribe
Request approval at least 4 to 6 weeks in advance. The process may take longer if more documentation is needed. Learn more on the GMAC accommodations page.
What Happened to the Classic GMAT?
If you hear someone mention the “Classic GMAT,” they’re referring to the older, longer format:
- Included Analytical Writing and Integrated Reasoning
- Lasted over 3 hours
- Scored on a 200–800 scale
The current version of the test is:
- Shorter (2 hours 15 minutes)
- More focused (only three core sections)
- Scored on a 205–805 scale
For more information about the changes that happened, see our article on the GMAT Focus Changes.
How Long is GMAT Test Day?
Even though the exam duration is just over 2 hours, test day logistics can stretch your commitment.
💻 Taking the Test Online
- 30–45 minutes: Equipment check, ID verification, room scan
- Up to 15 minutes: Connecting to a live proctor
- 5 minutes: Optional tutorial
🏢 Taking the Exam at a Test Center
- Arrive 30 minutes early
- Prepare for ID check, palm vein scan, locker use
- Account for additional waiting time, especially on busy days
After the Exam: Score Preview
Immediately after your test concludes, you’ll see unofficial scores for:
- Quant
- Verbal
- Data Insights
You’ll also see your Total Score (205–805 scale). You have 48 hours to send your score to up to five schools (free). Additional reports cost $35 each.
GMAT Timeline Beyond Test Day
It’s important to keep in mind that there are many stages to taking the test, including prepping and registering and even potential retakes.
Scheduling Your Exam Appointment
- Book 2–3 months in advance
- Register up to 6 months early—or 24 hours in advance if slots are available
- Plan ahead for weekends and popular locations
Sending Official Score Reports
- Available 3–5 business days post-exam
- Send scores to 5 schools for free
- Additional reports cost $35 and take about 1 week
Retaking the Test
- Retake after 16 days
- Max 5 attempts in 12 months
- Max 8 attempts in a lifetime
Score Validity
Your GMAT scores are valid for 5 years.
How Much Time Should You Study for the GMAT?
| Study Timeline | Best For |
|---|---|
| 1–2 months | Strong academic background, limited time |
| 3 months | Working professionals with moderate availability |
| 4–6 months | Beginners or those aiming for top 10 B-schools |
Use Magoosh’s GMAT Study Schedules for daily structure, lessons, and full-length practice.
Final Thoughts
While the GMAT exam length is just 2 hours and 15 minutes, the full timeline includes preparation, logistics, score delivery, and possibly a retake.
By understanding the complete exam experience from start to finish, you can make a more confident study plan and avoid surprises.
Ready to begin? Check out Magoosh’s free full-length GMAT exam, which includes a free score report to help you get a sense of where you’re starting from. Also, check out the Magoosh GMAT Premium Plan for everything you need to succeed!
