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GMAT 2025 Exam Day Guidelines: Things to Know Before Test Day

On GMAT exam day whether opting for a test centre or giving the exam at home online all test takers are required to adhere to a strict set of instructions. These procedures exist in order to provide a secure, fair and smooth testing environment for all.

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The procedures on the exam day can differ slightly based on the format selected but both demand keen preparation from ID verification and check-in routines through workspace arrangements and knowing what can be brought. The content below covers all the information that test takers should know in order to be well-prepared for the exam, eliminate delays or infractions and perform well in the GMAT exam.

GMAT 2025 Exam at Test Centres

Preparation To Be Done on the GMAT Test Day

Criteria For Bringing Things to the GMAT Exam Centre

Things You Can Bring:

Note: If you need something not listed you'll have to request special prior permission.

Things You Need to Keep in a Locker:

GMAT Break Time Policies

You will receive one 10-minute break during the exam. It can be taken either after the first or second section but not both. Breaks are as follows-

Important: In case you vacate your desk at any moment other than the one scheduled for break your test will be terminated instantly.

Security at the GMAT Test Centre

Security is tight in order to make the GMAT test a fair one for everyone.  Here's how it works at check-in:

What's a Palm Vein Scan?

A palm scan is a secure way of determining your identity. It makes sure one person does not take the test on behalf of someone else. It's GMAC's method of making sure that the test is fair and accurate to everybody.

GMAT 2025 Online Exam

Things to do Prior to the GMAT Exam Online

Make sure to do the following prior to test day to ensure your online exam experience runs smoothly-

System Requirements for GMAT 

In order to take the GMAT online the candidate is required to use a computer that will be tested with the necessary checks:

Particulars

Details

Device

Personal laptop or desktop (no tablets, touchscreen, dual monitors, stylus etc.)

Operating System

Windows 8, 8.1, 10, or 11 and macOS 10.13 to 15.3

Webcam

Internal or external, minimum 15 fps, 320x240 resolution. Full HD is preferred.

Internet

2 Mbps stable (upload/download). Wired internet is preferred. No hotspots or VPNs.

Processor

Minimum dual-core.

Microphone & Speakers

Built-in or external (no Bluetooth) which is not muted. Must be present on exam day.

RAM & Shortage

Windows - minimum 4 GB, recommended 6 GB, 15 GB available space and Mac - minimum 4 GB, 15 GB available space

Display

A minimum of 1280x1024. Don't use ultra-wide (21:9) monitors.

Browser

Current versions of Chrome, Edge, Firefox or Safari. Cookies enabled, pop-ups blocked.

Firewall & Antivirus

No corporate firewalls and no scheduled scans during the test.

Power

Needs to be connected to a stable power source during the test.

Whiteboard Alternatives for Note-taking During GMAT 

You may use a physical whiteboard or a digital whiteboard or both.

If using a physical whiteboard

Size must not exceed 12x20 inches (30x50 cm)

You can use up to 2 dry-erase markers and 1 eraser

You'll be asked to show the front and back of the whiteboard - before the exam, before the break (if you take it) and after the exam

Not permitted: Paper, pens, tissues, tablets, boogie boards, permanent markers etc.

If using the digital whiteboard

Access it via the icon during the test

Works only with mouse/trackpad (not stylus or touchscreens)

Setting Up Your Workspace for the GMAT Exam 

GMAT Exam Security

Important Things to Know:

Criteria For Items on the GMAT Exam Online

Allowed Items for the GMAT Exam (Online)

A valid Photo ID 

Prescription glasses (non-smart)

Water in a clear container 

Medical devices or comfort items (after visual inspection)

Examples: EpiPens, eye drops, inhalers, insulin pumps, wheelchairs, etc. If you need to bring any additional items, request special accommodation in advance.

Prohibited Items for the GMAT Exam (Online)

Cell Phones 

Smartwatches 

Tablets 

Headphones or Earbuds

Books, Writing tools (except the approved whiteboard) and notes 

Gum, Smoking material and Food 

Hats, wallets, bags 

Any electric device that is not approved

Note: All personal items must be out of sight and reach during the exam and break.

GMAT Break Policy

It is the same as mentioned in the GMAT exam at the test centre guidelines.

FAQs

One must arrive at least 30 minutes before the planned time for the GMAT test. This is for both test centres and online tests to enable one to have enough time for the check-in.

At the time of check-in GMAT test takers are asked to present a full 360° of the room through webcam. The proctor will ask for items to be removed or shifted. The room must be quiet, private and not include any prohibited material.

No. Headphones, headsets and earplugs (including Bluetooth) are not allowed for either type of GMAT exam.

In case of a temporary loss of connection the test can be resumed once the connection is re-established. An inferior internet setup however may lead to test termination. It is better to use a wired connection and ensure a stable network before the start of the exam.

No. Only a mobile phone is to be switched off and hidden out of sight at all times even during the break. If during the examination a call is received one is immediately disqualified and their scores are nullified.

Any breach of rules such as using unapproved materials, failure to obey the proctor's instructions or suspicious activity can lead to the test being marked the result being invalidated and in extreme cases banned from future GMAT exams.