The GMAT Focus Edition – Everything You Need to Know

The GMAT Focus Edition is the latest version of the standardised GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) test. This test measures the ability of candidates to undertake graduate study in business schools. It’s most commonly associated with entry to Masters of Business Administration (MBA) and Masters in Management (MIM). GMAT exams are delivered in English and involve a combination of numerical, reading and reasoning aptitude tasks. Not all business schools will ask for a GMAT score, although it’s a common part of the application process in countries such as the USA, Canada, Australia and India.

If you’re thinking about studying a Business-related Masters, it’s always worth checking whether you need to take the GMAT exam. Preparing can take time and you’ll also need to register for a place in a GMAT assessment centre, so make sure you factor this into your plans.

The GMAT Focus Edition is a computer-based test that consists of three sections, taking 45 minutes to complete each, so two hours and 15 minutes in total:

• Quantitative Reasoning (21 questions, 45 minutes) – This is the most mathematical part of the exam, and requires good general knowledge of arithmetic, algebra and geometry. This section no longer covers questions on data sufficiency.
• Verbal Reasoning (23 questions, 45 minutes) – This section is designed to test your reading comprehension and critical reasoning. It no longer covers questions on sentence correction.
• Data Insights (20 questions, 45 minutes) – This section is new for the GMAT Focus Edition and tests your ability to analyse data and apply it to real-world situations. You’ll look at data sufficiency, multi-source reasoning, analysing tables, interpreting graphs and you’ll be tested on your ability to solve complex problems.

One of the main differences between the GMAT Focus Edition and the previous GMAT exam is that there is no longer an essay section.

Your GMAT Focus Edition score is determined by the number of questions you’ve completed, the number of correct and incorrect answers, and the difficulty level of each question. All three sections are weighted equally towards your overall score.

The maximum GMAT Focus Edition score is 805. Your scores are valid for five years and you can view an unofficial score immediately following the exam. You’ll then receive an Official Score Report typically within 3-5 working days (but this can take longer during busy periods so be patient). Once you’ve received the official report, you can send five free reports to universities within the first 48 hours. Additional score reports will be available for a fee.

With the GMAT Focus Edition being more streamlined than it’s predecessor, you can prepare for the exam within six weeks. A great place to start is by using the free six-week planner in the starter kit.

You can take a free practice exam to work out where you’re at and what you need to work on. You might need to develop your knowledge of what the question is actually asking you so use the guide and online questions bank to help!

There are accredited test centres around the world where you can take the GMAT throughout the year. From 1 February 2024, you will only be able to take the GMAT Focus Edition. The current GMAT will stop after 31 January 2024. You’ll first need to register an account with MBA.com (a website run by the Graduate Management Admissions Council), before choosing a convenient date and location.

Fees differ across countries but institutions can apply for fee waivers to help out financially disadvantaged students. Find out what it will cost in your country using the drop down menu on the GMAT website.

Preparing for the GMAT Focus Edition might seem overwhelming at first, but with the right strategy, it’s entirely manageable—even in just six weeks. Here are my top tips to help you succeed:

• Start early and stay consistent: Even a few hours a week can make a big difference if you begin preparing early enough.
• Understand the format: Each section is timed and structured differently—knowing what to expect will give you confidence on test day.
• Practice under exam conditions Simulating the test environment helps improve your time management and reduces anxiety.
• Focus on weak areas: Use your practice test results to identify sections that need more work and revisit those topics regularly.
• Use official materials: GMAC’s own resources (like the free six-week planner and question banks) are closest to the real thing.
• Don’t skip the review: Learning why you got an answer wrong is just as important as getting it right next time.