The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is a critical step for aspirants targeting top business schools globally. The GMAT is offered in both online and at test centre. However, the GMAT is a computer-based exam, for both online and test centre. And if you are wondering if anything has changed in this with the introduction of the GMAT Focus edition, so no. The GMAT Focus edition also offers two modes for the test takers- GMAT online and GMAT Test Centre. While both assess the same skills and follow similar structures, the experience, flexibility, and logistics differ significantly.
In this article, we break down all the key aspects to help you make an informed decision between GMAT Online and GMAT at a Test Centre.
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What is the difference between GMAT Online and Test Centre?
Both GMAT online and GMAT Test centre are computer based tests. The only difference that lies here is the comfort and environment of test. GMAT Online can be taken at home while GMAT Test centre, as the name suggest, should be taken at the alloted test centre. In both cases, you will be monitored throughout the exam. Read ahead to have all the difference clarified on by one.
Dive deeper into the GMAT Focus edition vs Regular GMAT.
Is it better to give GMAT Online or at a Test Centre?
Let’s discuss if you should be taking the GMAT Online or at a Test Centre. We will classify based on 10 most important factors, the rest will definitely be a no brainer:
1. Exam Format and Structure
| GMAT Online | GMAT Test Centre | Verdict |
| 3 sections- Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, Data Insights | Same 3 sections- Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, Data Insights | No difference — both are GMAT Focus Edition, same scoring, same sections. |
| Duration- 2 hours 15 mins | 2 hours 15 mins | |
| Exam Format- MCQs | MCQ questions | |
| 205- 805 scale scoring | 205- 805 scale scoring |
2. Tools and Resources During the Exam
| GMAT Online | GMAT Test Centre | Verdict |
| Online whiteboard or physical whiteboard (approved only) | Physical laminated notepad and marker | This is entirely your calling. However, if you’re a pen-and-paper thinker, Test Centre wins this round. |
| Switching between boards allowed | Quicker for scrubbing, easier |
3. Exam and Other Fees
| GMAT Online | GMAT Test Centre | Verdict |
| GMAT online exam fee is $300 USD | Fee for GMAT test centre is $275 USD | This could be tricky. There is only a $25 USD difference in the test but logically, with the test centre, your travel and other little expenses could add up. |
3. Flexibility and Scheduling
| GMAT Online | GMAT Test Centre | Verdict |
| Available 24/7 | Limited slots, fixed timings | GMAT Online is the winner here. You get more flexibility and comfort. |
| Can schedule 24 hours in advance | Need early booking, especially in peak seasons |
4. Security and Proctoring
| GMAT Online | GMAT Test Centre | Verdict |
| Live webcam monitoring + AI | In-person invigilation + biometric ID scan | Both Online and Test Centre are strict. There is no escaping from the security protocols. |
| Room scan and no external items | Fingerprint, ID checks, lockers |
5. Score Reporting
| GMAT Online | GMAT Test Centre | Verdict |
| You get 5 free reports | Test Centre also gives you 5 free reports | No difference here — your scores are equally valid, equally accepted. |
| Unofficial score visible post-exam (usually) | Unofficial score visible post-exam (usually) |
6. Rescheduling and Cancellation
| GMAT Online | GMAT Test Centre | Verdict |
| Flexible rescheduling (24 hours in advance) | Requires more notice for changes | GMAT Online is more forgiving in rescheduling your test as well as in the fees associated with it. |
| Typically lower cancellation/ rescheduling fees | Typically higher cancellation/ rescheduling fees |
7. Retake policy
| GMAT Online | GMAT Test Centre | Verdict |
| Can take up to 5 times | Up to 8 times total (across all formats) | The Test Centre allows more retakes. But remember! You can’t take Online + Test Centre within the same 16-day window. |
| Must wait 16 days between attempts | Same rule applies |
8. Acceptance and Validity
| GMAT Online | GMAT Test Centre | Verdict |
| GMAT Online is accepted by all B-schools | Accepted by all B-schools | Both GMAT Online and GMAT Test Centre are accepted by top B- Schools with equal validity. |
| The score reports are valid for 5 years | Score reports have an equal validity of 5 years |
9. Environment Control
| GMAT Online | GMAT Test Centre | Verdict |
| Personalized setup, but must follow strict tech rules | Structured setup, all tools and systems pre-managed | Choose based on your self-awareness. Whether you are calm in your own space, you thrive in a test-like atmosphere. |
| More comfortable for some, distracting for others | More controlled, easier to stay focused for most candidates |
10. Test- Taking Experience
| GMAT Online | GMAT Test Centre | Verdict |
| Personalized setup, but must follow strict tech rules | Structured setup, all tools and systems pre-managed | Choose based on your self-awareness. Whether you are calm in your own space, you thrive in a test-like atmosphere. |
| More comfortable for some, distracting for others | More controlled, easier to stay focused for most candidates |
Which One Should You Choose? Test Centre or Online?
Both GMAT Online and Test centre have similar test strcture, scoring and eligibility. There’s a minor difference in fees and rescheduling processed. Besides that, the major difference lies in the comfort and flexibility. You can consider Online if cost is not much of an issue, otherwise, Test Centre also works.
But, if you still can’t figure it out, let us help you. Go through this fun checklist and get the answer for yourself. We’ll see you at the end of it. You can also download this and share with your friends to check their test compatibility.
GMAT Format Quiz
“Did you figure out the best test format for yourself? You can also try one of the mock tests from free resources we have curated for you.”
Conclusion
The GMAT doesn’t care where you take it — just how you take it. Both GMAT formats are equally valid, equally tough, and equally respected. The difference lies in how you want to experience the exam.
So choose the format that makes you feel focused, prepared, and in control. Whether it’s your desk at 9 PM or a test centre at 10 AM, the goal is the same: beat the exam, not just survive it.
FAQs
Yes, the Online GMAT is definitely accepted by all of the top B- Schools. In fact, students also prefer it because of the convenience and comfort.
If there’s a technical issue after you started the exam, do reach out to the proctor by starting a chat session from the exam window. If there’s a power cut, follow the same and reach out to the authorities as soon as you get the chance. Explain the issue clearly you may be allowed to register for and take the exam again at no additional cost after 16 days. You can also try submitting a request on the official website after the power cut.
Yes, just like the test centre, you get 1 optional break in between the test. However, you must return on time (they dock your test otherwise). Plus the break is also proctored/ investigated.