GMAT Sample Paper: Section-Wise, Exam Format, and Preparation Tips

Downloading sample papers and practising is the best way to test your knowledge. Using GMAT sample papers can help you to boost your confidence and improve your time management skills. In this blog, we have provided you with section-wise sample papers. You can download them and then practise whenever you want. By solving these questions, you get a clear idea of the types of questions asked during the exam. Apart from the GMAT sample paper, we have also explained the exam format and provided you with some tips that you can use to ace your examination.

GMAT Syllabus & Exam Pattern 2026

Under the GMAT Focus Edition, the exam pattern and syllabus have been redesigned to assess problem-solving, reasoning, and data analysis skills more efficiently. The GMAT exam now has 3 main sections (Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights). There is no Analytical Writing section, as the exam is now purely skill-focused. The exam is held for a duration of 2 hours and 15 minutes. The exam pattern is provided below:

S.No	Section	Number of Questions	Time Allowed	Skills Tested
1.	Quantitative Reasoning	21	45 minutes	Arithmetic, Algebra, Number Properties, Data Interpretation, Word Problems
2.	Verbal Reasoning	23	45 minutes	Reading Comprehension, Critical Reasoning
3.	Data Insights	20	45 minutes	Data Analysis (tables, graphs, charts), Multi-Source Reasoning, Two-Part Analysis, Data Sufficiency
4.	Total Examination	64	2 hours 15 minutes + optional 10-minute break	Computer-adaptive test format; overall score range revised; no Analytical Writing section

Also Read: Prepare for Success: GMAT Focus Edition Pattern, Syllabus & Scores

GMAT Exam Sample Papers (Section-Wise)

The GMAT exam consists of 3 main sections. These sections are clearly explained below. Moreover, you will find the sample papers for each section free to download! You can then start solving questions and reach one step closer to obtaining the required score.

Quantitative Reasoning

The quantitative reasoning section would test your ability to solve mathematical problems, interpret data, and apply logical reasoning to different situations. There are about 21 questions in this section that you need to solve in 45 minutes. Questions are asked from core topics such as arithmetic, algebra, and number properties. The key here is to apply fundamental concepts efficiently within the given time. It is not about advanced mathematics.

Verbal Reasoning

The verbal reasoning section assesses how well you can read, understand, and evaluate the written material. This section consists of a total of 23 questions that you need to answer within 45 minutes. It mainly focuses on critical reasoning and reading comprehension. The section evaluates your ability to understand complex passages and analyse arguments. You need a strong command of grammar, logical reasoning skills, and vocabulary to excel in this section.

Data Insights

The data insights section is a part of the GMAT Focus Edition and requires you to work with complex data from multiple sources. There are about 20 questions in this section that you need to answer within 45 minutes. The exam would test your data interpretation, multi-source reasoning, and data sufficiency skills. Basically, the section merges quantitative and verbal skills questions to check how effectively you can make decisions using charts, graphs, and tables. The key here is to learn to synthesize information quickly and accurately and develop your analytical skills.

Best Books to Find GMAT Sample Papers

Obviously, the sample papers above won’t be sufficient for the GMAT exam. You need to solve as many questions as you can, and practise more. Therefore, we have provided you with a list of the best books for the GMAT exam. These books consist of numerous practice questions. You can purchase a book if you think it fits your needs (after reading the online reviews). The books are available in all major e-commerce stores.

S.No	Book Title	Author(s)
1	The Official Guide for GMAT Review 2025	Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC)
2	GMAT Official Advanced Questions	Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC)
3	Manhattan Prep Complete GMAT Strategy Guide Set	Manhattan Prep
4	Kaplan GMAT Prep Plus 2025	Kaplan Test Prep
5	GMAT for Dummies	Lisa Zimmer Hatch & Scott A. Hatch
6	Veritas Prep Complete GMAT Course Set	Veritas Prep
7	PowerScore GMAT Critical Reasoning Bible	David M. Killoran
8	GMAT Official Quantitative Review	Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC)
9	Ace the GMAT: Master the GMAT in 40 Days	Brandon Royal
10	Princeton Review GMAT Premium Prep	The Princeton Review

Top 5 GMAT Preparation Tips 

Are you preparing for the GMAT exam for the first time? Here are some useful tips. Using these preparation tips will increase your chances of scoring high in the examination. 

1. Select the correct time slot: To fetch a high GMAT score, you must plan the entire preparation process well, and the first step is to select the right examination date.
2. Understand the exam format: Understand the GMAT Focus Edition structure. Knowing the question types, and format helps you avoid surprises on test day.
3. Practice, practice, practice: As the common saying suggests, “Practice makes perfect”, One must continuously work on the questions, previous year papers, sample papers, and mock tests to increase their question-solving speed. 
4. Identify your weakness: Identify the areas that are holding you back from attaining a high GMAT score, and work upon them. Dedicate time to work on your weak areas.
5. Online learning: Opt for online learning platforms over traditional coaching classes, as they would help you save some extra time for yourself.
6. Time yourself: It is important to complete the exam on time. Thus, while solving questions or sample papers, time yourself to check if you have gained the correct speed or not. 

Watch this YouTube short to learn how you can ace the GMAT verbal (strategies to ace sentence correction)

Preparing with GMAT sample papers is one of the smartest ways to ace the exam. You will be able to gain accuracy, speed, and develop confidence across all sections. Use the same papers, and the right study material and you are well prepared to score well in the exam.

FAQs

Related Articles:

Is GMAT Tough?	GMAT Preparation Time: What is the Ideal Preparation Time, GMAT Study Plan and Tips
GMAT Verbal Reasoning Cheatsheet: Sample Questions, Best Tips and One-Month Study Guide	GMAT Vocabulary: Words, List, Strategy
Is GMAT Compulsory for Masters in the USA?	Average GMAT Scores at Top MBA Programmes: GMAT Cutoff 2023 and Average GMAT score for top business schools

Hopefully, this insightful blog has cleared all your doubts related to the GMAT sample paper. If you are gearing up for your GMAT and need guidance, reach out to our study abroad experts at  Leverage Edu, and we will help you prepare for every section with online sessions, study materials, and essential exam tips to ace the exam!