Taking your Break on the Official GMAT

The break on the old GMAT used to be 10 minutes but then, without any explanation, got shrunken to 8 minutes. 10 minutes was already a scramble; you’d raise your hand and be ignored for a minute or two and the palm vein reader was always acting up while signing in and out of the exam room… Fortunately with the new GMAT we are back to a full 10 minutes. The new break is also flexible (you can take it after the first or second section).

To  Break or not to Break

But, when should you take it? My general recommendation is to take it after the second section to have a little break/refocus before the last section. That said, if you need to use the restroom after section 1, absolutely use the break there.

Ultimately, it’s not make or break (oh no…) when you take your ten minutes but most certainly: use it!

Avoid just Powering Through

It really helps to get up and get the blood moving. Have a drink of water. Have a little snack to get the blood sugar up. Remind yourself that you are in it to win it and get back in there and finish strong!