What is a GMAT Certificate? Structure, conditions & learning path

In the journey to conquer prestigious MBA and Master of Business Administration programs in the world, the GMAT certificate is an indispensable passport. This is not only an exam to assess academic ability, but also a measure of logical thinking, analysis and core problem solving ability in the global business environment.

I. What is a GMAT certificate?

GMAT Certificate (Graduate Management Admission Test) is an international standardized test designed to assess the ability of learners before studying postgraduate programs such as MBA, master of finance, marketing, etc.

GMAT is administered by GMAC and recognized by more than 2,300 universities and training institutes worldwide. This is one of the most important certificates that helps you affirm your thinking, analytical and English skills in international academic and business environments.

II. Why do I need a GMAT certificate?

• MBA Entry Requirements

Prestigious universities always make GMAT a prerequisite for admission to MBA and master's programs. They consider the GMAT certificate as a tool to evaluate the ability to absorb in-depth knowledge and the ability to work in a high-intensity academic environment.

• Increase scholarship opportunities

Many full or partial graduate scholarships use GMAT scores as one of the most important factors in their consideration. Some schools even publish a minimum GMAT score to be considered for scholarships. Therefore, having a high GMAT certificate not only helps you get into the school but also opens up opportunities to save on study abroad costs.

• Practice thinking skills

The GMAT preparation process helps you develop comprehensive analytical skills, critical thinking, logical reasoning and quick decision making under time pressure. These are extremely necessary skills in both academic and workplace environments.

• Long-term career advantages

In the eyes of employers, especially multinational corporations and consulting firms, the GMAT certificate is a clear indicator of the candidate's intellectual capacity, discipline and clear development orientation. The GMAT is also considered a competitive advantage when applying for management positions or looking for work opportunities in an international environment.

III. GMAT exam structure & requirements

1. Exam sections & timing

• Analytical Writing (AWA)

The AWA section lasts 30 minutes and requires candidates to write an essay analyzing a given argument. This is a way to test critical thinking skills, logical evaluation, and the ability to present opinions in an academic style. Although it does not affect the overall GMAT score much, this section is still considered by schools as a factor reflecting the candidate's argumentative thinking when considering GMAT certification.

• Integrated Reasoning (IR)

The IR section assesses your ability to process information from a variety of sources such as charts, tables, text, etc. This is a key skill in the global business environment where decision-making must be based on data analysis. This section lasts 30 minutes with 12 questions, requiring you to read quickly, filter information accurately, and make logical inferences, which are important measures of the GMAT certificate.

• Quantitative Mathematics

In 62 minutes, you will have to solve math questions that are not too complicated but require high logical thinking and the ability to calculate quickly. No calculator is allowed in this section, so many people have to practice carefully. Quant is considered a part with a large weight in the total score, and is often a big challenge for those who do not have a good math background when studying for the GMAT certificate.

• Verbal

The Verbal section lasts 65 minutes and assesses reading comprehension, argument analysis, and grammar correction. For Vietnamese people, this is often a difficult section due to the use of academic English at high speed. Proficiency in Verbal not only helps increase GMAT score, but also improves the ability to handle English documents in academic and international work environments.

2. Scoring & Fees

• Total score 200-800

The overall GMAT score ranges from 200 to 800, with 600-700 being the most common score among competitive applicants. A score of 700 or higher is considered the "gateway" to top universities. Setting a specific score target from the beginning will help you have an effective study strategy and optimize your GMAT preparation time.

• Score each section separately

Each section has its own scoring system: Quant and Verbal are scored on a scale of 6-51, IR is 1-8, and AWA is 0-6. Although only Quant and Verbal affect the overall score (200-800), all sections are recorded on the official score sheet when submitting the application. Therefore, to optimize your application, you should achieve good scores on all sections when taking the GMAT certification exam.

• Standard exam fee

The current GMAT certification exam fee is about 250 USD (~5.8 million VND). This fee includes taking the exam at the center or taking the online exam. This is not a small fee, so you need to prepare carefully to get a high score on the first try, avoiding having to retake the exam, which is expensive and time-consuming.

• Other additional costs

In addition to the initial test fee, you may incur additional costs for sending scores to schools (~$35 per school), changing test dates (~$50-150), or canceling your test. Understanding these costs will help you manage your finances and plan your GMAT exam more effectively.

3. Retest Requirements & Limitations

• Maximum 5 times/year

According to GMAC regulations, each candidate is only allowed to take the exam a maximum of 5 times within 12 months. The limit on the number of times per year is to ensure that candidates have serious preparation and do not abuse the right to retake the exam when they are not really ready for the GMAT certificate.

• Every 16 days

After each test, you must wait at least 16 days before registering for the next test. This forces candidates to plan their test preparation carefully and learn from their previous experience. If you take the test too often, your study efficiency will be low and it will be difficult to improve your GMAT score.

• Limited to 8 times lifetime

You can only take the test a maximum of 8 times in your lifetime. This makes each GMAT test very important, requiring you to invest your effort, time and money properly. If you have achieved your desired score, you should stop and use the GMAT certificate effectively in applying for applications or scholarships.

• GMAT scores are valid for 5 years

Once you take the test, your GMAT score is valid for five years. This is plenty of time to plan your studies abroad or change your career path. However, if you submit your application after five years, you will need to retake the test to meet the school’s requirements.

IV. Benefits of GMAT certificate

1. Gateway to prestigious MBA and master's programs

GMAT certificate is an important entrance requirement at many of the world's top universities such as Harvard, Stanford, INSEAD, Wharton... Possessing a high GMAT score proves that you have enough logical thinking, analytical skills and academic qualifications to study international quality graduate programs.

Not only does the GMAT open up opportunities for study abroad, it also makes it easier for you to apply to widely recognized global MBA programs. This is an ideal stepping stone to start a solid international academic or career path.

2. Increase the chance of getting a scholarship

One of the most practical benefits of taking the GMAT certification exam is that it increases the rate of receiving full or partial scholarships at top schools. Many scholarship programs use GMAT scores as a direct or preferential factor, especially in management, finance and business.

Having a GMAT score above 700 not only makes you stand out from thousands of applicants, but also significantly reduces the cost of studying. This is especially important for self-funded international students. The GMAT is not only an "entrance ticket", but also a strategic financial tool.

3. Practice analytical thinking and problem solving

Studying for and taking the GMAT exam will help you develop strong critical thinking skills, logical reasoning, and problem-solving skills within a time limit. Sections such as Quantitative and Integrated Reasoning require candidates to process data, find connections, and make quick decisions.

These are skills that are essential in the modern business environment, where data, strategy, and speed of decision-making are key. The GMAT not only assesses knowledge, but also trains you to think effectively.

4. Increase competitive advantage in career

In the eyes of employers, especially multinational corporations and leading consulting firms such as McKinsey, BCG, Deloitte, etc., the GMAT certificate is a testament to the candidate's academic ability, discipline and problem-solving ability. Although not required, a good GMAT score helps you stand out when applying for positions that require high analytical thinking.

V. GMAT exam preparation & study roadmap

1. Phase 1: Start-up

The warm-up phase is an important step to determine your score target, understand the test structure, and familiarize yourself with each section of the test. GMAT certificateYou need to take a diagnostic test (entrance test) to know your current level, from which you can choose a suitable study path. At the same time, you should carefully research the entry requirements of your target schools to set a realistic GMAT score target.

2. Phase 2: Review the exam sections

At this stage, you start studying each section of the GMAT, including Verbal, Quant, Integrated Reasoning, and AWA. Each section should be reviewed in a separate path with in-depth material, such as learning academic vocabulary, practicing reading comprehension, solving problems by topic, and analyzing charts.

3. Phase 3: Practice questions & analysis

Once you have a solid grasp of the basics, you need to move on to the practice phase with real test questions from GMAT Prep, GMAT Club or other reputable sources. Each time you take a test, you should analyze it carefully: identify your mistakes, the reason for losing points, the time you have to do it and how to fix it. This is the phase that helps you move from "studying" to "testing", increasing your chances of achieving your desired GMAT score.

4. Phase 4: Mental preparation & mock test

Before the official test day, maintaining a stable mentality is the key to maximizing your ability. You should take 2-3 full GMAT tests (timed) under real conditions to get used to the pressure of time and physical strength. In addition, carefully prepare related procedures such as GMAC accounts, schedule the test, prepare documents, and understand the test room regulations.

VI. How to register & schedule for GMAT certification exam in Vietnam

To take the GMAT certification exam in Vietnam, you can choose from two registration methods: taking the exam directly at the center (test center) or taking the exam online at home (GMAT Online). Both methods are organized by GMAC, the organization that owns the global GMAT exam.

1. How to register for the GMAT exam at a test center

Registering for the examGMAT certificate at the testing center is a popular and safe form for candidates who want a professional testing environment, limiting technical risks. This process is done through the official website of GMAC - the global organization of the GMAT exam.

Step 1: Create a GMAC account

First, you need to visit the official website www.mba.com, select “Sign Up” to register a personal account. Creating an account requires you to accurately enter information such as: full name, date of birth, nationality, email and study goals. Note that this information must match the identification documents you will bring to the exam, otherwise you may be refused the exam.

Step 2: Choose the test format at the center and test location

After logging in, continue to select “Register for GMAT Exam”, select “In a Test Center”. The system will ask you to enter your address or country - type “Vietnam” so that the system displays test centers in Vietnam, for example:

• IIG Vietnam - Hanoi
• IIG Vietnam - Ho Chi Minh City

Once you have selected a center, you will see a list of available test dates. Choose a time that fits your study schedule.

Step 3: Check information and pay exam fee

After confirming your test date, you will be redirected to the payment page. The GMAT test center fee is 250 USD. You need to pay by international credit or debit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express...). After successful payment, you will receive a confirmation email with the exam schedule code.

Step 4: Prepare for exam day

3-5 days before the exam date, GMAC will send an email with a reminder and detailed instructions. You need to prepare:

• Valid identification (Valid ID card/passport)
• Exam confirmation email
• Arrive at the center at least 30 minutes early to do the procedure

Also, check out the security check regulations and prohibited items in the exam room in advance to avoid last-minute trouble.

2. How to register for the GMAT Online test at home

In recent years, the exam format GMAT certificate Online at home is becoming more and more popular due to its flexibility and convenience. This is the optimal choice for those who cannot travel to the center or want to be proactive about exam time.

Step 1: Log in to your account and choose the online exam format

Similar to the above method, you need to log in www.mba.com with your GMAC account. Then, go to “Register for GMAT Exam” → select “At Home” or “GMAT Online Exam”. Here, the system will take you to the detailed information page about the at-home exam and the next steps.

Step 2: Check equipment requirements and test environment conditions

The online test requires you to have a personal computer (no phones or tablets), a webcam, a microphone, and a stable internet connection. The test room must also be quiet, with no one coming in or out, and the test table must be free of any prohibited items. You can download GMAC’s system checker to make sure your computer meets the standards.

Step 3: Choose a flexible exam schedule and register

GMAT Online allows you to schedule your test any day of the week, including weekends and evenings. After selecting a suitable test time, you continue to review your personal information and confirm your registration.

Step 4: Pay the fee and receive instructions

GMAT Online test fee is equivalent to test at the center 250 USD, pay by international card. After successful payment, you will receive an email with instructions for downloading the exam software (OnVUE by Pearson VUE) and instructions for the final technical test.

Step 5: Take the exam on time and strictly follow the regulations

You need to log in to the exam software 15-30 minutes before the selected exam time. Then, you will take a photo of your ID, take a photo of the exam room space and wait for the virtual invigilator to check. During the exam, the camera and microphone will record continuously. Any unusual behavior (looking out of the screen, other people entering the room...) can cause the exam to be canceled.

VII. Note about GMAT exam schedule in Vietnam

1. GMAT test schedules at the center are often limited.

Currently, in Vietnam there are a number of official testing centers authorized to organize the GMAT exam such as:

• IIG Vietnam - Hanoi
• IIG Vietnam - Ho Chi Minh City

These centers open exam schedules on average 4-8 sessions/month, focusing on dates from Monday to Saturday, usually divided into 2 shifts/day (morning and afternoon shifts). However, the number of candidates accepted per shift is limited, so you need to register at least 4-6 weeks in advance to ensure there are exam seats available at the desired time.

Note:Exam schedules are typically updated quarterly. During peak seasons like April–June and September–November (before fall MBA admissions), schedules tend to fill up quickly.

2. GMAT Online test schedule is more flexible, open year-round

Different from the exam at the center, the GMAT online certification test at home allows you to choose any day of the week, including weekends and evening hours. This is extremely convenient for working people or students with unstable schedules.

However, you still need to schedule your exam at least 5-7 days in advance, especially if you want to take the exam during the "golden" time frame (7-9pm) which is chosen by many candidates.

3. You should choose an exam schedule that suits your ability and learning path.

Whether you take the test at a center or online, you should not choose a test date that is too close or too far away. The ideal time is after 3-6 months of serious study, when you have:

• Complete practice tests and get familiar with the real exam schedule.
• Have a GMAT score close to your target
• Mental and physical stability

If you choose to take the test when you are not ready, you may experience unnecessary pressure, affecting your score and having to retake the test.

4. Track exam schedule & register via official website

All GMAT exam schedules are published and updated directly on the website www.mba.com you can go to “Find a Test Center” to see the test schedule at centers in Vietnam, or “Schedule GMAT Online Exam” to choose to take the test at home.This is also where you can register for the exam, cancel your exam, change your exam date, or track your score after the exam.

VIII. Comparison of GMAT and GRE certificates

IX. FAQ - Frequently asked questions about the GMAT certification exam

1. How long is the GMAT certificate valid?

GMAT certificate is valid for 5 years from the date of the test. During this time, you can use your results to apply to MBA, MBA programs, and universities around the world. However, some schools may require GMAT scores that are no more than 2-3 years old at the time of admission, so you should double-check the admissions information from the school you plan to apply to.

2. How many times a year can I take the GMAT?

You can retake the test up to 5 times in 12 months, with the interval between two exams being at least 16 days. The total number of GMAT tests taken in a lifetime is limited to 8 times retaking the test can help you improve your score if you didn't achieve your goal the first time, but you need to have a clear study strategy to avoid wasting unnecessary time and money.

3. How much does the GMAT exam cost?

The current GMAT certification exam fee is 250 USD and applies to both test formats: at the test center and online at home. In addition to the main fee, you may incur additional costs if you need to change your test schedule, send additional scores to schools, or re-register for the test at short notice.

4. Is the GMAT exam difficult?

The GMAT is considered an exam quite difficult, especially for candidates who are not majoring in economics or are not familiar with logical thinking and data analysis. However, with a 3-6 month review schedule and appropriate materials, you can absolutely achieve a score of 600-700+, qualifying for many high-quality MBA programs.

Conclusion

Obtaining a GMAT certification not only opens doors to top business schools, but also enhances your critical thinking skills and gives you a huge advantage in the international job market. Although the GMAT preparation and testing process can be challenging, with a proper study plan, the right materials, and perseverance, you can absolutely achieve your desired score.