Issue at Test Center: Denied Entry Due to ID Requirement (Passport)

Question

Hi everyone,

I wanted to share my experience from my GMAT test today to get insights and possibly help others avoid a similar issue.

I had my exam scheduled at a test center in my own country. However, when I arrived for verification, the test center executive denied me entry, stating that I needed a passport to take the test. I presented my valid national ID, which, according to the official GMAT website, should be accepted for test-takers in their home country. The rule states that a passport is mandatory only when taking the exam outside one’s country of citizenship.

Despite this, I wasn’t allowed to proceed with my test. This was extremely frustrating and demotivating. I have already reached out to GMAT support for clarification and resolution.

Has anyone else faced a similar issue? If so, how was it resolved? Any advice on the best course of action would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

RJ3001274402 · Answer

Hi

Did you present Adhaar or driving license ?

SSPatil · Answer

I showed him my PAN card but told him verbally that I had both Adhaar and a licence.

Rish94S · Answer

In India, Passport is a must ! clearly stated once you register can you cross check?

bb · Answer

I am sorry about this issue. You are not the only one who gets hit by it and as much as I would like to fault the test center, the requirements have always been to use the passport for a test center.

P.S. The passport language is confusing - I totally agree. The reason for that confusing language (you would not know it) is that if you worked in the US or Germany for example and went to take a test there, a US Citizen could use their California Driver's license but as an Indian Citizen, you could not use the California Driver's license even if you had it (which makes little sense in my mind; if one ID works for one person why can't it work for another but I digress).

Unfortunately despite the confusing language, the requirement has always been - must use passport when taking the test at a test center.

AjiteshArun · Answer

Hi SSPatil,

Thank you for sharing your experience. As bb's screenshot shows, GMAC is very particular about ID requirements in India (and Asia in general). Unfortunately, the only resolution here is to book another appointment or not take the test.

PAN card forgery is (or used to be?) rampant. Aadhaar is far more secure, which is why it's accepted for online appointments. Test-centre appointments, however, require a valid passport.

SarfrazAP · Answer

Yup, can't blame the GMAC for this. This one's on you. It has always been the passport for India and some other countries as well.

I'm guessing you were self prepping, else someone would have told you to carry the passport. I've had similar experiences with students in the past, so I never fail to remind them multiple times to carry the passport/make sure the passport hasn't expired.

Just go ahead and book another date. I'm sure the GMAT won't charge you again.

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Issue at Test Center: Denied Entry Due to ID Requirement (Passport)

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