On 10 February 2021 GMAC announced an upgraded GMAT Online exam. The online test had been launched during the pandemic without some features of the test centre version, and this update closed most of the gap.
Key facts
- Announced 10 February 2021
- Registration From 17 February 2021
- New version from 8 April 2021
- Added AWA essay, score preview, section order, longer breaks
What was added
- Analytical Writing Assessment: the essay section, left out of the first online launch, was included.
- Unofficial scores: candidates could see their unofficial scores straight after the exam.
- Breaks: more, and longer, breaks.
- Section order: candidates could choose the order in which they took the sections.
Physical and online whiteboards, introduced earlier, remained available.
Dates
Registration for the enhanced exam opened on 17 February 2021, and appointments for it began on 8 April 2021. The earlier online version stayed bookable for appointments up to 7 April 2021. GMAC said more than 45,000 online exams had been delivered in over 150 countries and territories by then.
What this means
This update belongs to the older GMAT. The current exam, introduced in November 2023, has no essay, three sections and one optional 10-minute break, and costs $300 online worldwide according to GMAC’s October 2024 figures. If you plan to test online, read GMAC’s current online rules, including the whiteboard limits, and run the system check on your computer well before test day. GMAC’s current guidance allows the built-in online whiteboard, a physical dry-erase board no larger than 12 by 20 inches, or both, and the proctor checks that a physical board is clean at set points. Test your room, camera and connection in advance.