Official Policies

GMAT Test Security & Policies

Understand the strict GMAT security guidelines. Learn about whiteboard limits, identification rules, and score validation procedures.

Compliance is Mandatory

By registering for the GMAT exam, you enter into a legally binding contract to comply with the GMAT Exam Policies and Procedures. Violating these rules can result in immediate score cancellation and a permanent testing ban.

GMAT Test Center Security

If you take the GMAT at a physical Pearson VUE test center, you will encounter high-security check-in processes designed to ensure a fair testing environment.

Strict Identification

You must present a valid, unexpired, government-issued passport (original document only, no photocopies). The name, date of birth, and country on your registration must match your ID exactly.

Palm-Vein Authentication

To prevent proxy test-taking, centers scan the biometric vein patterns of your palm. You will be scanned when entering the testing room, exiting for breaks, and returning.

Locker Storage

All personal items—phones, watches, wallets, calculators, and even food/water—must be placed in secure lockers. You are not allowed to access your locker during the exam.

Online GMAT Security & Whiteboards

Taking the exam from home requires you to set up a secure room. The proctor will inspect your workspace via your webcam before launching the test.

360-Degree Workspace Scan

You must show your entire room, under your desk, and your desktop surfaces. No other screens, books, paper, or writing instruments are allowed in the room.

Physical Whiteboard Specs

You are allowed a single erasable physical whiteboard (max 12 x 17 inches) with up to 3 dry-erase markers and an eraser. You must erase it completely in front of the camera at the end of the exam.

System Lock

You must run the secure GMAT exam browser. It will block notifications, screenshots, second displays, and recording software.

Prohibited Behaviors

Online proctors are trained to look for suspicious movements. The following behaviors will trigger an immediate review or exam termination:

Looking away from the screen repeatedly or reading questions aloud.
Anyone entering your room or making background noise.
Leaving the view of your webcam outside of the scheduled break.
Touching or covering your mouth, face, or ears during the sections.

Post-Exam Forensic Review & Score Validity

GMAC conducts rigorous statistical analyses on all GMAT scores. High score jumps or unusual pacing choices can prompt a security review.

Score Withholding

If GMAC detects irregularities (such as a system glitch, proctor flag, or a suspicious score jump), they may place your scores on hold. The review process typically takes 10 to 20 business days. You will be notified via email once the review is resolved.

Appealing a Cancellation

If your score is officially canceled due to security concerns, you will receive information regarding the appeal process. Appeals must be submitted within the specified timeframe. If cheating is confirmed, scores are removed permanently, and schools may be notified.

To report test security concerns or suspected violations confidentially, contact GMAC at testsecurity@gmac.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

A valid, unexpired government-issued passport containing your name, photograph, and signature is the globally accepted standard (and is mandatory in many countries like India). Local government IDs are accepted in some regions, but they must meet strict GMAC requirements. Always verify specific ID requirements on mba.com before test day.

You are allowed one double-sided, erasable physical whiteboard (maximum size 12 x 17 inches or 30 x 43 cm), up to three dry-erase markers, and one eraser. Alternatively, you can use the built-in digital whiteboard tool. Notebooks, paper, pencils, and pens are strictly prohibited.

The online exam is proctored live via your computer's webcam and microphone. Additionally, GMAC uses AI monitoring software to track eye movements, background noise, and browser activities. Your testing room must be quiet, well-lit, and completely private.

Scores can be withheld or canceled if there are technical anomalies, signs of outside assistance, irregular testing patterns, or if post-exam forensic analysis detects statistical anomalies. Violations of test taker agreements (like recording questions) also lead to permanent bans.

Yes. In physical test centers, a palm-vein scan uses infrared light to map the unique vein patterns under your skin. It is used to verify your identity when checking in and returning from breaks, ensuring that the registered candidate is the one taking the test.

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