GMAT Syllabus for MBA 2024: Section-wise Format and Pattern

Vaishali Pandey
July 18, 2024

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GMAT Exam Pattern and Syllabus 2024

If you're aiming for an MBA, especially abroad, GMAT is your big step. The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is not just any test — it's a globally recognised benchmark for aspiring business leaders. 

More than 7,000 MBA and Masters programs at 2,400 universities worldwide, including prestigious institutions in India like the Indian School of Business (ISB) and the Indian Institutes of Management (IIM), accept GMAT scores as a crucial part of their admissions process. 

This article will guide you through each section of the GMAT, offering detailed insights and targeted preparation tips. Ready to learn more? Continue reading.

GMAT Exam Pattern 2024

GMAT is designed to evaluate your skills in key areas that are essential for success in business school and beyond. This comprehensive exam consists of multiple sections, each focusing on different aspects of your analytical and reasoning abilities. 

Here's a detailed look at the GMAT exam structure, which will help you prepare strategically and efficiently.

  1. Total Duration: 2 hours and 15 minutes, including an optional 10-minute break.
  2. Scoring System: Score range from 205 to 805.
  3. Sections: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights.
  4. Flexibility in Section Order: You can choose the order of the sections thus gaining a strategic advantage.

Here’s a table highlighting the GMAT exam structure and Focus Edition sections included in the exam. Have a look.

GMAT Sections Details
Quantitative Reasoning (QR) This section evaluates your ability to analyse data and solve quantitative problems.
Number of Questions: 21 Questions
Duration: 45 Minutes
Verbal Reasoning (VR) In this section, your reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and sentence correction skills are tested.
Number of Questions: 23 Questions
Duration: 45 Minutes
Data Insights (DI) This section is designed to assess your ability to interpret and analyse data.
Number of Questions: 20 Questions
Duration: 45 Minutes
Total Number of Questions: 64 Questions
Duration: 2 hours and 15 minutes, including an optional 10-minute break

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GMAT Syllabus for MBA 2024

Previously, the GMAT exam pattern included four sections. However, the updated structure includes three sections. The 2024 edition of the GMAT focuses on assessing your skills in quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, and data insights — core competencies essential for success in today's competitive business environment.

The table below highlights the updated GMAT syllabus for MBA. (Focus Edition)

GMAT Focus Edition Sections GMAT Focus Edition 2024 Syllabus
Quantitative Reasoning Algebra, Arithmetic
Verbal Reasoning Reading Comprehension, Critical Reasoning
Data Insight Multi-source Reasoning, Data Sufficiency, Graphics Interpretation, Table Analysis, Two-part Analyses

Quantitative Reasoning Section in GMAT Syllabus

The Quantitative Reasoning section of the GMAT consists of 21 multiple-choice questions to be completed within 45 minutes. These questions are designed to assess your proficiency in various mathematical areas essential for business and management studies. 

You'll encounter questions that require you to apply mathematical concepts to solve real-world problems. These may include arithmetic operations, algebraic equations, geometric principles, and data interpretation.

Here’s a table highlighting the essential topics covered in the Quantitative Reasoning Section of the GMAT syllabus for MBA.

Core Topic GMAT Syllabus for MBA: Quantitative Reasoning Section
Arithmetic Basic operations involving numbers, fractions, decimals, percentages, ratios, and proportions. These concepts form the foundation for more complex calculations and problem-solving strategies.
Algebra Equations, inequalities, functions, and quadratic equations. Understanding algebraic principles helps in solving problems involving unknown variables and relationships between quantities.

Preparation Tips for Quantitative Reasoning Section in GMAT Syllabus

Consider the following tips and strategies to prepare effectively for the Quantitative Reasoning section.

1. Review Fundamental Concepts

Strengthen your understanding of arithmetic and algebra through practice and study.

2. Practice Regularly

Solve practice questions and mock tests to improve your problem-solving abilities and familiarise yourself with the exam format.

3. Utilise Official GMAT Materials

Use official GMAT preparation resources, which provide authentic questions and simulate the test-taking experience.

4. Time Efficiency

Pacing is crucial to completing all questions within the allocated time. Therefore, take practice tests and make sure to finish the section within the specified duration. 

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Verbal Reasoning Section in GMAT Syllabus

The Verbal Reasoning section of the GMAT syllabus is crucial for demonstrating your language proficiency and critical thinking skills, which are essential for success in MBA and other graduate management programs. Let's explore what this section entails and how you can prepare effectively.

What Does the Verbal Reasoning Section of the GMAT Include?

The Verbal Reasoning section comprises 23 multiple-choice questions to be completed within 45 minutes. These questions are designed to assess your proficiency in the following key areas.

Key Areas Topics
Reading Comprehension You'll encounter passages that vary in length and complexity. Questions associated with these passages test your ability to understand the main idea, draw inferences, identify supporting details, and evaluate the author’s tone and style.
Critical Reasoning This question type evaluates your ability to analyse and evaluate arguments presented in the passages. You'll need to identify assumptions, evaluate the reasoning structure, and draw conclusions based on the provided information.

Preparation Tips for Verbal Reasoning Section: GMAT Syllabus for MBA 

To prepare effectively for the Verbal Reasoning section, consider the following tips and strategies.

1. Read Widely:

Increase your exposure to diverse reading materials, including academic articles, editorials, and essays. This will help you improve your reading speed, comprehension, and critical analysis skills.

2. Practice Analytical Skills:

Work on identifying the main ideas, supporting evidence, and underlying assumptions in written passages. Practice summarising passages and outlining key points.

3. Brush Up on Grammar:

Review grammar rules and conventions of standard written English. Practice identifying and correcting errors in sentence structure, syntax, and usage.

4. Take Practice Tests:

Use official GMAT practice materials to simulate the test-taking experience. Practice under timed conditions to improve your pacing and time management skills.

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Data Insight Section in GMAT Syllabus

The Data Insights section of the GMAT is designed to evaluate your ability to interpret and analyse data presented in various formats. This section is critical for assessing your skills in data interpretation, critical thinking, and problem-solving.

What Does the Data Insight Section of the GMAT Include?

The Data Insights section consists of 20 multiple-choice questions to be completed within 45 minutes. These questions are structured to test your proficiency in analysing data presented in formats such as tables, graphs, charts, and other data representations. 

Here’s a table highlighting the core topics covered in the Data Insights section of the GMAT syllabus for MBA.

Core Topic GMAT Syllabus for MBA: Data Insights Section
Data Sufficiency Assesses your ability to determine whether the information provided is sufficient to answer a specific problem. You'll be presented with data statements and need to evaluate their sufficiency individually and together.
Multi-Source Reasoning You'll encounter questions that require you to synthesise information from multiple sources (e.g., text passages, tables, graphs) to solve complex problems or draw conclusions.
Table Analysis Questions in this category involve interpreting data presented in tables, understanding relationships between variables, and deriving conclusions based on statistical data.
Graphics Interpretation This question type requires you to analyse and interpret data presented in graphical formats (e.g., bar charts, line graphs) and fill in missing information or answer questions based on the data provided.
Two-Part Analysis These questions combine quantitative and verbal reasoning skills. You'll need to solve related quantitative and verbal problems based on the information provided.

Preparation Tips for Data Insight Section in GMAT Syllabus

Here are some tips and strategies to help you prepare effectively for the Data Insights section.

Practice Data Interpretation

Familiarise yourself with interpreting data presented in different formats. Practice identifying trends, making comparisons, and drawing conclusions based on the data provided.

Enhance Critical Analysis Skills

Work on analysing the accuracy and relevance of the data presented. Practice synthesising information from multiple sources and evaluating the credibility of data sources.

Refer to Official GMAT Resources

Familiarise yourself with the types of questions and the structure of the section.

Time Management

Develop strategies to manage your time effectively during the exam.

Download gmat syllabus 2024 pdf by clicking below:

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GMAT Syllabus for MBA 2024: Preparation Tips

According to recent data from GMAC (Graduate Management Admission Council), the average GMAT score for top MBA programmes is around 660. However, top business institutions often have higher average scores, with many applicants scoring above 700.

Listed below are some useful tips and strategies that you can use to prepare for your GMAT syllabus for MBA.

Understand the Exam Format

Familiarise yourself with the updated structure and format of the GMAT. Know the number of questions, time limits for each section, and scoring mechanism. This understanding helps you plan your exam strategy effectively.

Create a Study Plan

Develop a structured study plan tailored to your strengths and weaknesses. Allocate time for each section of the exam, focusing on areas where you need the most improvement. Consistent practice is key to mastering the content and pacing yourself during the exam.

Utilise Official GMAT Materials

Use official GMAT preparation resources, including practice tests, study guides, and question banks. 

Practice Time Management

Time management is crucial on the GMAT. Practice under timed conditions to improve your pacing and ensure you can complete each section within the allotted time. This includes practising with official GMAT practice tests to simulate real exam conditions.

Focus on Weak Areas

Identify your weaker areas — whether it's quantitative skills, verbal reasoning, or data interpretation and focus on improving them through targeted practice and study. Review fundamental concepts and strategies to build confidence in tackling challenging questions.

Review and Analyse Mistakes

After each practice session or mock exam, review your answers and analyse mistakes. Understand why you made errors and learn from them to avoid repeating them in the actual exam.

Mastering the GMAT syllabus for MBA is not just about preparing for a test — it's about equipping yourself with essential skills for success in business management education and beyond.

Whether aiming for top MBA programs globally or in India, a strategic approach to GMAT preparation sets the foundation for achieving your academic and career goals in business management.

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GMAT syllabus for MBA: Important FAQs 

What is the GMAT syllabus 2024 for MBA exams? 

The GMAT syllabus 2024 for MBA exams consists of three main sections: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights. These sections are designed to assess your skills in quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, and data analysis, which are essential for success in business management education. 

The GMAT exam pattern and syllabus 2024 have been updated to reflect the evolving demands of today's business environment.

What is the GMAT exam pattern and syllabus 2024 for Quantitative Reasoning? 

The GMAT exam pattern and syllabus 2024 for Quantitative Reasoning includes 21 multiple-choice questions that need to be completed within 45 minutes. This section evaluates your ability to interpret and analyse quantitative data, apply mathematical concepts, and solve problems efficiently. 

To prepare for this section, you should focus on topics like algebra, arithmetic, and geometry, which are covered in the GMAT syllabus 2024.

How can I prepare for the Verbal Reasoning section of the GMAT syllabus 2024? 

To prepare for the Verbal Reasoning section of the GMAT syllabus 2024, you should focus on improving your reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and sentence correction skills. Practice reading passages, answering questions, and reviewing grammar rules and conventions of standard written English. 

The GMAT exam pattern and syllabus 2024 for Verbal Reasoning includes 23 multiple-choice questions that need to be completed within 45 minutes.

What is the Data Insights section of the GMAT syllabus 2024? 

The Data Insights section of the GMAT syllabus 2024 is designed to evaluate your ability to interpret and analyse data presented in various formats, including tables, graphs, and charts. 

This section includes 20 multiple-choice questions that need to be completed within 45 minutes. To prepare for this section, you should practise data interpretation, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

How many questions are there in the GMAT syllabus 2024? 

The GMAT syllabus 2024 includes a total of 64 questions, divided into three sections: Quantitative Reasoning (21 questions), Verbal Reasoning (23 questions), and Data Insights (20 questions).

What is the duration of the GMAT exam? 

The GMAT exam has a total duration of 2 hours and 15 minutes, including an optional 10-minute break. The GMAT exam pattern and syllabus 2024 have been designed to assess your skills in quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, and data analysis.

Can I choose the order of the sections in the GMAT exam? 

Yes, you can choose the order of the sections in the GMAT exam, which gives you a strategic advantage. You can start with the section you feel most confident about, helping to build momentum and reduce test anxiety. 

The GMAT syllabus 2024 allows you to choose the order of the sections, but you should practise all sections to achieve a high score.

How can I improve my GMAT score? 

To improve your GMAT score, you should focus on weak areas, practice regularly, utilise official GMAT materials, and review and analyse mistakes. Consistent practice and a strategic approach to preparation can help you achieve a high score. The GMAT exam pattern and syllabus 2024 have been designed to assess your skills in quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, and data analysis.

What is the scoring system of the GMAT exam? 

The GMAT exam has a scoring range of 205 to 805, with a scoring system that reflects your proficiency in quantitative, verbal, and data analysis skills. The GMAT syllabus 2024 has been designed to assess your skills in these areas, and a high score can help you get admission to top MBA programs.

How many business schools accept GMAT scores? 

More than 7,000 MBA and Masters programs at 2,400 universities worldwide, including prestigious institutions in India like the Indian School of Business (ISB) and the Indian Institutes of Management (IIM), accept GMAT scores as a crucial part of their admissions process. 

The GMAT exam pattern and syllabus 2024 assess your skills in quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, and data analysis.

Is GMAT tougher than CAT?

Both exams assess different skills. GMAT focuses on critical thinking and reasoning, while CAT emphasises speed and accuracy in problem-solving. Difficulty perception varies based on individual strengths.

Can I crack GMAT in 3 months?

Yes, with focused study and a structured plan, cracking GMAT syllabus for MBA in 3 months is achievable. Practice regularly, focus on weak areas, and use resources like mock tests to track progress and improve performance.

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