GMAT Registration — Step-by-step (2026 checklist)

GMAT EXAMS

9/15/20253 min read

Why Registration Matters?

The GMAT isn’t just about test prep—it starts with how well you manage your registration. Since slots are available year-round (both at test centers and online), you can pick a date that matches your prep timeline. The key? Don’t leave it for the last minute. Book your slot at least 3 months before your target exam date to avoid stress.

Step-by-Step: How to Register for GMAT

Create an mba.com account and set up your profile.
Pick your test format — choose between a test center or an online exam.
Select a date and time based on availability in your location.
Provide accurate personal details that exactly match your government-issued ID.
Upload ID proofs and review test-day rules.
Pay the exam fee using a valid method (details below).
Get a confirmation email with exam details.
Prepare using study material and mock tests.
Show up on time with your ID and confirmation email on exam day.
Stay calm — you’ve already handled the logistics.

GMAT Registration: Modes of Payment

Paying for the GMAT is simple but strict.

Accepted cards: VISA, Mastercard, American Express, Discover Network.
Ensure your card has enough funds; declined payments = cancelled appointments.
Fraudulent payments (like stolen cards) can lead to cancellation of previous scores and even notifications to schools or law enforcement.
Repeated errors or misuse can get you banned from retaking the GMAT.

👉 Pro tip: Use your own, valid card and double-check funds before you hit pay.

GMAT Registration for Differently Abled Test Takers

GMAC provides fair access to all candidates. Here’s how accommodations work:

Request accommodations during registration (extra time, assistive tech, screen readers, etc.).
Submit documentation — medical records, professional letters, or relevant proofs.
GMAC reviews your case and confirms what adjustments can be made.
Support team guidance is available to make the process smooth.
Privacy is protected — your information stays confidential.

The goal: ensure every candidate has an equal opportunity to perform at their best.

Choosing GMAT Exam Centers: What to Consider

When selecting your test center, keep these factors in mind:

Location: Pick somewhere close and easy to reach.
Availability: Slots fill fast in peak season—plan ahead.
Facilities: Quiet rooms, good seating, and proper lighting.
Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly and equipped for special needs if required.
Reviews: Learn from other test takers’ experiences.
Proximity to prep resources: Helpful if you want last-minute practice.
Policies: Know the rules about what you can/can’t bring.
Personal comfort: Choose where you’ll feel the most at ease.

GMAT Exam Cancellation

Life happens. If you need to cancel:

Policy varies by location — check mba.com for details.
Refunds are partial and depend on how early you cancel.
Cancellation deadlines matter; miss them, and you may lose the entire fee.
Alternative: Instead of cancelling, reschedule your test.

GMAT Exam Rescheduling

Rescheduling is always an option — but it comes at a price.

Log in to your mba.com account.
Click on Manage Your Exam > Reschedule.
Pick a new date, time, and location.
Confirm details and pay the fee.

⚠️ Note: The closer you are to your original test date, the higher the rescheduling cost. Dates may also be limited.

Important Documents for GMAT

Don’t land up unprepared on exam day. Carry:

Valid ID: Passport, driver’s license, national ID, or military ID (must match registration details and not be expired).
Confirmation email: Print and carry your appointment details.
Test center regulations: Review them in advance to avoid surprises.
Additional documents (if applicable): For example, paperwork for accommodations.

The GMAT is as much about planning as it is about performance. Registration, payment, accommodations, cancellations, rescheduling — these may seem like boring admin tasks, but doing them right sets you up for success.

Think of it this way: if you can handle these details calmly, you’ve already mastered one part of the GMAT journey. The rest is just focused prep.

So don’t procrastinate. Block your slot early, double-check your ID, plan for contingencies — and then put all your energy into scoring high.

Your MBA dream deserves that level of preparation.