Aishwarya BhatnagarStudy Abroad Expert
Who is eligible for the GMAT exam? Any candidate, who wants to apply for management programmes and whose age is between 13-18 years, can apply for the Graduate Management Admission Test 2024. There are some specific GMAT Focus eligibility criteria set by the GMAC related to age, and the number of attempts taken to date by the applicants. There are certain rules which apply when considering the eligibility for taking the GMAT exam. So, we have cited all major rules that apply to assess an applicant's eligibility to take the GMAT exam. Check out in detail about GMAT's eligibility criteria in this article.
Q: Who is eligible for GMAT exam?
Irrespective of the educational background, completion of high school or not, applicants are eligible to appear for the GMAT exam. However, those applicants will be eligible for GMAT, those who:
- Are 18 years or above
- Or, those who are 13 - 17 years old, can appear for GMAT after parent/guardian's consent at a test centre.
- Have not exceeded five attempts in a year or exhausted eight overall attempts.
- Also had scored 805 on GMAT and have completed five years of taking the exam.
If these criteria are fulfilled, applicants are eligible to take the GMAT exam.
Q: What is the academic eligibility criteria to take GMAT exam?
In terms of academic requirements for taking the GMAT, we find that GMAC, the organisation responsible for administering the test, has not formally established any standards. As a result, candidates are not required to have a specific educational background or degree to take the GMAT. However, the bulk of GMAT exam takers are working professionals or undergraduate students in their last year who want to continue in a management school. Candidates who do not fit under this category are nonetheless permitted to take the exam.
Q: What is the age limit eligibility for GMAT exam?
There is no maximum age limit to appear for the GMAT exam as anybody 18 years and above can appear for the GMAT. However, there is definitely a lower ceiling. In the case of students who are between 13 years and 17 years of age, they are required to provide a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their parents or legal guardians to appear for the GMAT exam 2023. Students, who are more than 18 years of age, need not provide any such NOC and can directly register and appear for the GMAT 2023 exam. However, it is advised that the candidates check the eligibility requirements of the MBA Colleges before applying since the GMAT eligibility criteria can be significantly different for the MBA admissions criteria.
Q: Can I take the GMAT test after completing 12th?
Yes, a candidate can appear for the GMAT exam after completing the 12th class. However, the GMAT exam is accepted for postgraduate (graduate) degrees and not for undergraduate degrees. In addition to this, students must note that in order to appear for the GMAT exam, they need to be at least 18 years of age. Students, who are in the age group of 13 years to 17 years, are also eligible to appear for the GMAT exam if they are able to provide a written approval or consent (No Object Certificate or NOC) by their parents or legal guardians.
GMAT Eligibility Criteria 2024
Whether it is the age limit for GMAT Focus or language requirements, we have discussed the GMAT eligibility criteria for 2024 in detail below:
1. Age Limit for GMAT
There is no upper age limit for the GMAT exam. For the minimum age limit, GMAC has defined that the candidates need to be at least 18 years old. However, it has been reported that aspirants who fall in the age group of 13 to 17 are also allowed to attempt the exam given that they have written approval or consent provided by their legal guardians or parents (also called an NOC).
2. Language Requirements for GMAT
All GMAT exam editions and versions (online or offline) are tested in English. Thus, students can appear for the GMAT exam 2024 even if they do not belong to an English-medium school or college/university. Applicants must have a basic understanding and fluency in the language to appear for the exam.
Note: Since the exam is tough and complicated; henceforth, aspirants must have an excellent command of the English language to crack it one go with good scores.
3. GMAT Eligibility Criteria 2024: Academic Qualification
When it comes to the GMAT eligibility to academic qualifications, we find that GMAC, the organizing body of the GMAT has officially not set any academic eligibility requirements for taking the GMAT exam. As such candidates need not have any minimum qualification or degree for taking the GMAT. However, the majority of the test-takers are final-year undergraduate students or working professionals willing to take up a management course further.
Even if the candidates don't fall under this category they can still appear for the exam. However, students must note that GMAT eligibility criteria 2024 are different from those of MBA college admissions. Most MBA colleges abroad require an undergraduate degree as the minimum academic qualification.
4. GMAT Score Eligibility
There are no set GMAT eligibility criteria in terms of the academic scores and grades for taking the GMAT 2024 exam. As such, there are no minimum cut-off marks required for taking the GMAT. However, GMAT eligibility criteria are different from those of B-Schools. Test-takers need to check the minimum score eligibility while applying to the B-schools abroad.
5. Work Experience for GMAT
The eligibility for the GMAT concerning work experience is different from that of B-School admissions. Many working professionals attempt the GMAT exam; however, one need not have any work experience to take the GMAT. Having relevant work experience will always give you an added advantage while applying to a B-school, however, there are no work experience eligibility criteria to take the GMAT.
Inclusivity for GMAT Exam Takers
According to the GMAC, any individual irrespective of gender, age, nationality, religion, academic background, etc. is eligible to appear for the GMAT exam without any discrimination. This includes differently-abled candidates as well, who are provided with special exam accommodation upon request. For such aspirants, the medical documents that define a candidate’s disability are kept confidential, which has been thoroughly described in the privacy statement declared by the GMAC.
Q: I scored 40% in graduation. Am I eligible for GMAT exam?
Yes, you are eligible to appear for the GMAT 2023 exam. When it comes to the GMAT eligibility criteria 2023, there are no specific criteria set by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), the body that conducts the GMAT 2023 exam. However, there are a few general guidelines to keep in mind:
- Educational Qualification: For taking the GMAT 2023 exam, GMAC has not laid any specific eligibility criteria whether it is related to academic background or percentage in your undergraduate course. However, most business schools require a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution. It is essential to check the specific requirements of the schools you plan to apply to.
- Age Limit: There is no specific age limit for taking the GMAT exam. Individuals of any age can take the exam as long as they meet the educational qualifications mentioned above. GMAC requires the candidates need to be at least 18 years to take the GMAT 2023 exam. However, students that fall in the age group of 13 to 17 can attempt the exam given that they have written approval or consent provided by their legal guardians or parents (NOC).
- Prior Experience: The GMAT does not have any work experience requirements. It is primarily a test of academic abilities and skills relevant to graduate management education. However, MBA colleges might require certain years of work experience.
It is important to note that while GMAC does not have strict eligibility criteria for the GMAT 2023, individual business schools may have their own requirements for admission. It is vital to research the admission requirements of the MBA colleges you are interested in to ensure you meet their criteria.
Q: Are the students, who have done their graduation via distance learning mode, eligible for the GMAT exam?
Yes, students who have completed their undergraduate degree via distance learning mode are eligible to appear for the GMAT examination. The GMAT exam 2023 does not have any such restrictions that prevent the students with a distance learning undergraduate degree from taking the exam. Moreover, there is no cut off when it comes to percentage or CGPA in the undergraduate degree. However, it is important to note that the eligibility criteria for MBA abroad could be different from the GMAT eligibility criteria 2023. Hence, it is advised that the students check the exact eligibility criteria for MBA and MIM programmes on their official webpage.
Q: Do I need to be a commerce graduate to take the GMAT exam?
Candidates with bachelor's degree in any stream are allowed to take the GMAT exam. There are no such restrictions when it comes to the undergraduate background of the candidates. It is not compulsory that the students need to complete their graduation in the commerce field to be eligible for the GMAT. However, it is important for the students to note the eligibility requirement for different MBA or MIM programmes. GMAT eligibility criteria differs from that of B-school admission criteria. It is advised that the candidates research thoroughly about admission requirements, GMAT exam cut offs, GPA requirements, English language requirements, etc. to avoid any hassles later on.
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Navigating GMAT Eligibility for MBA Admissions in 2024
Students need to remember that the GMAT eligibility criteria are different from the MBA admissions criteria. Most MBA admissions require a student to complete his/her undergraduate degree. Some of them might even specify a cut-off GPA. Moreover, certain MBA colleges might ask for compulsory work experience as well. However, when it comes to the GMAT eligibility criteria, there are no such requirements concerning an undergraduate degree, work experience, etc.
Importance of GMAT in MBA Admission Abroad
- The GMAT exam evaluates applicants' analytical, quantitative, and verbal reasoning skills, which are essential for MBA admissions.
- GMAT score allows admission committees to compare applications with those of other applicants.
- A strong GMAT score shows the applicant's dedication and preparation for an MBA.
- Not to miss, there are some B-schools which may offer scholarships based on GMAT scores. Check out the Top GMAT Scholarships for Indian Students
- Though it is recommended to attempt the GMAT exam to get enrolled in a reputed business school because many B-schools prefer GMAT scores, it is not mandatory to have appeared for this exam to study abroad.
Note: Also, a huge list of management colleges worldwide does not require a GMAT score to evaluate an applicant's profile for MBA admissions. All they need is the previous academic record which justifies the capabilities or some work experience that defines your candidature.
Before choosing your college and making your application to the dream college, it is suggested that you take some expert advice from Shiksha Abroad Counsellors to ensure your enrolment and save yourself from rejection. All the best!
Still, have more regarding the GMAT? Check out the most frequently asked questions about the GMAT Eligibility.
Q: What is the eligibility for GMAT?
Since GMAT is accepted for Masters courses widely, it is preferred that applicants have a bachelor's degree. Students are eligible for GMAT while they are in their undergrad programs or even after they have graduated. There is no specific GMAT eligibility criteria set or required while registering for GMAT exam as well.
Q: Can I give GMAT after completing graduation?
Yes, applicants are eligible to give GMAT after their graduation. Applicants who wish to save time and get done with their GMAT exam can also apply when they are in the last year of their graduation. It solely depends on applicants how and when they wish to schedule their applications. Irrespective of timing or pursuing a undergraduation or being done with it will not affect the GMAT's eligibility.
GMAT Eligibility Criteria for Re-attempts
Students are eligible for retaking the GMAT 2024 exam. However, there are certain riders that come along with it. When it comes to the GMAT eligibility for retaking the exam, students must note the following points:
- A student is allowed a maximum of 8 attempts in his/her lifetime.
- A student is allowed a maximum of 5 attempts in one registration (annual).
- A student is allowed only 1 attempt with respect to one slot booking.
- There must be a gap of at least 16 calendar days between two consecutive GMAT exam attempts.
Q: How many attempts for GMAT?
Applicants who wish to attempt GMAT once more, can go for it. However, applicants must remeber that GMAT if taken online or at a test center, cannot exceed attempts in a year. Plus, in a lifetime, only eight attempts are allowed per applicant. This is applicable across all versions and editions of the GMAT exam.
So if the applicants have taken three attempts on GMAT Xth edition can go for five more attempts on GMAT XIth edition (or the latest GMAT Focus Edition). Get more details at GMAT Retake Strategy Steps
Q: Are there any restrictions on the number of attempts for the GMAT exam?
There are certain conditions laid down by the GMAC for giving the GMAT:
- Candidates can take the GMAT test only once in 16 days
- Candidates are allowed to take up to 5 attempts in a period of 12 months
- Candidates can take 8 attempts in a lifetime
In case if a student wants to reschedule or cancel his/her GMAT exam, he/she needs to pay a fee for the same. The fee for rescheduling the GMAT exam 2023 in the case of a test centre GMAT and the online GMAT are different. Similarly, the refund in the case of GMAT exam cancellation are different in the case of a test centre GMAT and the online GMAT. It is advised that the students prepare well for their GMAT exam 2023 in one go to avoid rescheduling, cancellation, or running out of attempts.
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GMAT Eligibility Score
GMAT eligibility score is a score that will allow an applicant to successfully clear the cut-off for his/her desired MBA or MIM College. These scores vary based on the institution, class profile, number of applicants, etc. It is advised that once the candidates are aware of the GMAT eligibility scores and GMAT cut offs, they must aim to score on the higher side of the spectrum to strengthen their application.
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GMAT Eligibility 2024 FAQs
To know more about the GMAT Eligibility Criteria, please visit the FAQs section.
Q: Are Indian students eligible for the GMAT 2023 exam and what is the fee for the same?
Indian students are eligible for the GMAT 2023 exam. There are no restrictions for taking the GMAT exam when it comes to a candidate’s nationality. The cost of GMAT registration in India is $275 (Rs. 22,800 approximately) in the case of a test centre GMAT exam. In the case of the online GMAT exam, the exam fees is $300 (Rs. 24,600 approximately). Students must note that there is a fee for rescheduling or cancelling the GMAT exam. The fee varies on the basis of how many days prior to the GMAT exam you reschedule or cancel it, and whether you have opted for a test centre GMAT or the online GMAT exam.
Q: Are candidates with any specific area of study allowed to appear for the GMAT exam?
This is a myth that candidates with a certain field of study can take the GMAT test. Candidates from any field of study are eligible to take the GMAT exam. However, it is important to meet the eligibility criteria for the MBA College you are applying to. There is another myth that only those candidates, who are from mathematics and engineering background, can perform well on the GMAT. This is not true. GMAT tests only basic mathematics and verbal reasoning skills. With a planned strategy and meticulous hard word, any candidate can perform well on the GMAT.
Q: What is the age limit eligibility for GMAT exam?
There is no maximum age limit to appear for the GMAT exam as anybody 18 years and above can appear for the GMAT. However, there is definitely a lower ceiling. In the case of students who are between 13 years and 17 years of age, they are required to provide a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their parents or legal guardians to appear for the GMAT exam 2023. Students, who are more than 18 years of age, need not provide any such NOC and can directly register and appear for the GMAT 2023 exam. However, it is advised that the candidates check the eligibility requirements of the MBA Colleges before applying since the GMAT eligibility criteria can be significantly different for the MBA admissions criteria.
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Comments
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Aishwarya BhatnagarStudy Abroad Expert
2 months ago
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Aishwarya BhatnagarStudy Abroad Expert
5 months ago
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a year ago
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a year ago
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a year ago
The current version of the GMAT exam "will continue to be available until early next year". There is no specific date for the same. After MCom, you may opt for an MBA as it will enhance your profile. You might as well venture into a new field (e.g. supply chain management) if you find it interestin
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a year ago
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a year ago
Hello. Now that you have completed your graduation, you can very well appear for the GMAT exam. Please make sure to check the eligibility criteria for MBA abroad as certain B-schools demand prior work experience. You may also apply for MIM programmes as they are also rewarding. You may check the to