Giving the GMAT exam is stressful. Due to this stress, the candidates often forget important things they need to consider on the day of the exam. Keeping a checklist of the important things, you need on this day will be a good way of giving the exam without stress.
What to bring on GMAT Test Day?
The exam has a strict set of rules and regulations for the candidates taking the test. Hence, it is vital that you come prepared for the exam so that you do not need to reschedule it or pay to send the scores of the test later.
GMAT approved photo ID
For sitting in the GMAT exam, one must carry a valid, GMAT approved photo ID for admitting to the exam. If you forget to bring the photo ID or if does not fit the criteria, you will not be allowed to take the GMAT.
The valid photo ID includes:
- Your recent photograph
- Your signature
- Date of birth which matches with the registered date of birth
- Your name by using the Roman alphabet
If the photo ID does not match with the above criteria, you will not be allowed to take the GMAT test. Even if the photo ID has all the above criteria but is expired, you will not be allowed to take the GMAT test.
Some of the most acceptable photo identification forms of ID include- international passport, government issued driver’s license, military ID card and government issued national/state/province identity card. If you are planning to take the GMAT exam in a country outside your country, you must carry the passport with you.
Names of Five MBA programs where you want to send the scores
When you want to take the GMAT test, you need to select up to five programs to send the GMAT scores to. You must know that the GMAT exam fee also includes the cost of sending these scores to the five schools you have mentioned. You can send the free scores once just before the exam. But if you send the scores later, it will cost a certain amount.
Before sitting for the exam, making a list of the MBA programs you want to send your scores to will help to save money.
Appointment confirmation letter or email
Carry the appointment confirmation letter or email to the testing center as that will help to address any discrepancies about test date or address.
Directions to the Test Center
It is better to carry the printed directions to the test center so that you will save time and not stress when you are going to the address. Another way can be to load the address in your phone. This will be helpful as you will have a back up if you ever lose the address.
Items to make you feel comfortable during the test
The items mentioned below may not be of direct use for the GMAT candidates but having them will enable you to refresh yourself. The GMAT exam is a long test and taking two breaks is a good way to refresh yourself during the exam.
Water and snacks
Keeping yourself hydrated during the long test is a good way to keep yourself refreshed. Though you cannot carry the water in the exam hall, you can retrieve and drink it during the breaks. It is better to avoid sugary drinks or soda, as you will not experience a sugar rush then.
You cannot carry food or water in the exam hall. But carrying some healthy and light snacks is a good way to keep your hunger at bay. You can eat them during the break. Some energy boosting food options include pieces of fruit, protein bars and so on.
Things not to bring to the GMAT exam hall
GMAT is strict about the things that you can carry to the exam hall. Having an idea about these things will help you as you will save time by not taking them inside the hall.
Electronics
Electronics are strictly not allowed inside the GMAT test center. Be it your smart phone, calculator, tablet, laptop, pager- you will not be allowed to take anything inside the hall. Hence, it is better to keep them locked inside the locker or in your car or at your home.
Books and other print aids
Books, print aids, math formula sheets, dictionaries and other similar print aids are not allowed inside the GMAT exam hall. Your test will be voided if a piece of paper is even found.
Sharp objects
Pocket knives, razors, nail clippers or any other sharp object is not allowed inside the GMAT exam hall. Any other object that can be considered as a potential weapon must also be kept outside the GMAT exam hall.
Keeping in mind these few things will enable you to give the GMAT exam with a free mind and excel in it.
