Why Take GMAT Exam?: Top 10 Reasons

Applicants applying for business schools in 2025 have two options - either submit the GMAT or the GRE scores. While both are standardised tests, GMAT is still a preferred test across top B-schools. Submitting GMAT scores also has its advantages, check out why to take GMAT exam in this article, and understand the top reasons as well.  

For Indian students aspiring to pursue an MBA abroad, the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) conducted by GMAC is a significant part of the admission process. While some universities may also accept GRE scores, the GMAT remains the most widely recognised and popular test for business school admissions globally. This article throws light on the importance of taking the GMAT for Indian students applying for an MBA abroad or other PG business courses abroad and highlights key benefits.

GMAT Exam Advantages: Key Highlights

The following are GMAT exam advantages in the section below: 

• GMAT is the #1 exam to apply to any of the top B-schools in the world.
• GMAT exam is accepted across 2,400 business schools for over 7,700+ programs.
• Around 70% of the test takers choose GMAT and consider it a crucial part of their application to get through B-school admissions, as compared to GRE test takers.
• Upon completing the GMAT exam, an unofficial score will reflect on the screen. This is the only exam which has this unique feature. The official score comes in 13-14 days.
• GMAT scores can also get applicants a scholarship. The scholarship can cover 10-25% of the overall tuition fees. 
• The GMAT scores can be sent to 5 institutions. Each additional GMAT score report has a fee.
• Finally, GMAT tests all those skills that a B-school looks for in its applicants like -  problem-solving, communication, and decision-making skills including strategic thinking skills along with many others like time management skills and others.

These are some of the key GMAT exam advantages that Indian students can consider before making up their minds to prepare and submit GMAT scores for admissions. 

Top 10 Reasons to Give GMAT Exam in 2025

There are several reasons why Indian applicants can choose to take GMAT exam in 2025 if they are applying for an MBA abroad or even an MIM abroad. Check out the top reasons to take GMAT exam: 

1. Top-B Schools Globally Accept the GMAT

The GMAT is accepted by over 2,000+ business schools across 100+ countries, making it the preferred exam for admissions into MBA programs worldwide. Leading universities in the US, European countries, Canada, Australia, and countries in Asia strongly recommend or require GMAT scores for admission. This global recognition is crucial for Indian students seeking to enhance their academic and professional careers on the international stage which will further help them hone their business acumen and skills for a fruitful career.

2. GMAT Scores Help in Securing Scholarships and Fellowships

Apart from the GPA scores, SOP, essays and LORs prestigious business schools offer scholarships based on GMAT scores. A high GMAT score increases the chances of obtaining financial aid. This in turn, significantly reduces the burden of studying abroad financially. Schools often use GMAT scores as a major criterion for awarding merit-based scholarships, making the exam essential for students aiming to secure financial support.

3. GMAT Helps B-Schools Evaluate Key Skills for MBA Admissions

The GMAT assesses a candidate’s critical thinking, problem-solving, quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, and analytical writing skills, through its three sections of testing that is,

• Quantitative Reasoning (QR)
• Verbal Reasoning (VR)
• Data Insights (DI)

These are essential skills for success in an MBA program, where students need to analyse complex data, communicate effectively, and make strategic decisions. A high GMAT score also serves as a testament to your academic readiness for the rigorous MBA curriculum. Check out the MBA Abroad Eligibility & Exams

4. Taking GMAT is a Commitment to Business Education

Giving the GMAT demonstrates your commitment to pursuing an MBA and your willingness to invest time and effort into preparing for the test. Business schools view the GMAT as an indicator of your dedication to success in the program. A well-prepared GMAT score reflects a candidate's seriousness about their academic and professional goals. This is because GMAT Focus (the latest edition) has been purposely built and designed for B-schools. Thus, the GMAT and GMAT Focus differences are reflected in the time-changing business environment where these key skills are significantly assessed taking GMAT. Thus, this is why taking the GMAT is essential. 

5. GMAT Sets the Competition for Admission

The GMAT is one of the key factors in distinguishing applicants in the competitive world of MBA admissions. Business schools often receive thousands of applications, and having a strong or a good GMAT score helps you stand out. Indian students, in particular, may benefit from performing well on the GMAT since there is often a large pool of candidates with similar academic backgrounds. A high score can give you an edge in securing an admission offer, applicants can also check GMAT cutoffs before they apply to B-schools abroad.

6. GMAT Opens Doors to Top-Tier MBA Programs

Many top MBA programs, have rigorous admission requirements and select candidates with high GMAT scores. By taking the GMAT, Indian students can increase their chances of admission to these prestigious institutions, which offer outstanding global exposure, alumni networks, and career opportunities. Some of the top-tier MBA programs are offered at:

• Harvard University
• Stanford University
• UPenn’s Wharton
• INSEAD
• The University of Melbourne
• The Australian National University

Thus, MBA is offered across various universities, applicants can choose them and prepare for GMAT accordingly based on the previous year's cutoffs. Applicants can refer to GMAT question papers to prepare for GMAT exam.

7. GMAT Preparation Develops Core Business Skills for B-Schools

The GMAT preparation process helps students develop valuable skills such as time management, analytical and critical thinking plus effective problem-solving skills. These skills are essential for succeeding in an MBA program, where students must tackle complex business challenges. The GMAT syllabus closely mirrors the skills required in business school, making the preparation experience an excellent primer for future studies.

8. GMAT Prep Helps Students Understand International Educational Standards

Studying for the GMAT exam introduces Indian students to global academic standards for business courses at the postgraduate level. The GMAT exam pattern is designed in such a manner that it assesses the same level of competencies that is expected from students admitted to top business schools abroad. By preparing for the GMAT and taking the exam, Indian students become familiar with the rigour and expectations of international MBA programs, which can ease the transition of studying abroad from India. 

9. GMAT Online or GMAT at Test Centre: Take Your Pick!

One of the advantages of the GMAT is its flexibility. Indian students can choose from various GMAT test dates throughout the year. The applicants can freely select a date and time that aligns with their academic and professional schedules. The GMAT is also offered in multiple cities across India, making it accessible to students from all regions. 

Plus, GMAT is available in two modes - one is at home and is referred to as GMAT Online, and the other option is appearing for the GMAT test at a test centre which is the traditional testing method. The fee for GMAT will vary based on the mode of exam chosen. To appear for GMAT Online, applicants will have to pay USD 300 + taxes, whereas, those appearing for GMAT test centre mode will have to pay USD 275 + taxes.

10. GMAT Retake Policy

In case you are not satisfied with your initial score, the GMAT retake policy is available for the applicants which is an opportunity to retake the exam and improve on the GMAT scores. This feature allows Indian students to aim for a better score and improve their chances of securing admission to their desired business school. The GMAT Retake Policy is outlined this way:

• Applicants can take GMAT 5 times in 12 months.
• Also, applicants can appear for the GMAT 8 times in their lifetime.
• In case applicants wish to re-appear for GMAT, they will have to wait for 16 days before appearing for GMAT on the next date.

Many students retake the test after refining their preparation strategy, which increases their odds of achieving a higher score. Thus, this is why applicants should consider taking the GMAT exam. 

For Indian students aspiring to pursue an MBA/MIM/MS in Business Analytics abroad, the GMAT is not just an exam but a gateway to a world of opportunities. It opens doors to top business schools and enhances career prospects furnishing a comprehensive evaluation of the skills necessary for succeeding in a global business setting. 

Taking the GMAT allows students to demonstrate their academic capabilities, stand out in a competitive admissions process, and prepare for the rigorous demands of an MBA program. By prioritising the GMAT, Indian students can position themselves for success in their MBA journey and ensure they are well-prepared to make the most of their international education.