GMAT Syllabus 2024: Section-wise GMAT Focus Exam Syllabus & Pattern

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Aishwarya Bhatnagar

Aishwarya BhatnagarStudy Abroad Expert

Updated on Nov 13, 2024 13:25 IST

The GMAT exam is a 2-hour 15-minute long test with a maximum score of 805 points. The GMAT syllabus has witnessed multiple changes over the past years. So What is the GMAT exam syllabus? GMAT Exam Syllabus for Focus Edition or 11th Edition includes questions in three sections, namely - Quantitative Reasoning (QR); Verbal Reasoning (VR) and Data Insights (DI). The GMAT exam has a dynamic syllabus that has a mix of quant topics like Arithmetic and Algebra. The other section has topics on data and analysis, and the third one includes topics on critical reasoning.

The GMAT syllabus was revised recently and in place of four sections tested on GMAT 10th Edition, the 11th Edition has reduced it to three. Apart from this, the GMAT syllabus does not include Geometry questions, the AWA section and the Integrated Reasoning section which was previously a part of the GMAT 10th Edition. Let us discuss the GMAT Syllabus including the topics that should not be missed while preparing for the GMAT 11th Edition.

gmat syllabus

Q:   What is the syllabus and exam pattern of GMAT?

A:

GMAT exam pattern 2024 and the GMAT syllabus for the current version of the GMAT Focus Edition exam can be understood from the table given below:

GMAT Exam Section

No. of Questions/ Time Limit

GMAT Question Type

GMAT Score Range

Quantitative Reasoning

21 questions (45 minutes)

  • Algebra
  • Arithmetic 

60-90

Verbal Reasoning

23 questions (45 minutes)

  • Reading Comprehension,
  • Critical Reasoning

60-90

Data Insights

20 questions (45 minutes)

  • Data Sufficiency
  • Multi Source Reasoning
  • Table Analysis
  • Graphics Interpretation
  • Two-Part Analyses

60-90

Total 

64 questions (2 hours 14 minutes + 10 minutes optional break)

-

205 - 805

Moreover, this is the latest GMAT Focus Edition syllabus that is being followed across.

Q:   How do I cover the GMAT 2024 syllabus in 3 months?

A:

To cover the GMAT 2023 syllabus in 3 months, you can follow a structured study plan and make efficient use of your time. Here's a suggested approach:

  • Understand the GMAT syllabus: Learn the topics covered by the GMAT's syllabus, including Analytical Writing, Integrated Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Verbal Reasoning. You can prioritise your study topics with this assistance.
  • Create a study schedule: Divide your 3-month study period into weekly and daily goals. Allocate specific time slots for each section of the GMAT syllabus. Ensure that your schedule is realistic and allows for regular practice and revision.
  • Gather study materials: Gather pertinent study materials that span the whole GMAT course, both online and off. Textbooks, question banks, GMAT prep books, and online materials may all be included in this.
  • Focus on weak areas: Identify your weak areas and allocate more time to study and practice those topics.
  • Practice regularly: Set aside dedicated time for GMAT practice questions and mock tests.
  • Seek guidance and support: Consider enrolling in a GMAT prep course or working with a tutor who can guide you through the syllabus and provide feedback on your progress.
  • Review and revise: Regularly review the topics you have covered and revise key concepts. Make use of flashcards, summaries, and mnemonic techniques to reinforce your learning.
  • Take mock exams: As you approach the end of your 3-month study period, take full-length mock exams to simulate the actual GMAT test conditions. Analyze your performance, identify areas for improvement, and adjust your study plan accordingly.

Keep in mind that perseverance and commitment are essential for success. Stick to your study schedule, stay inspired, and keep a good outlook throughout the GMAT prep process. Good fortune!

Q:   Are GMAT Focus books same for current and previous versions?

A:

Yes, more or less the GMAT books are same for preparing for Focus edition with older versions. Applicants can just selectively choose the topics that are relevant for the current GMAT edition and can easily prepare for the exam. However, there are options to buy official guides or prep material from MBA.com website for GMAT Focus Edition. 

GMAT Exam Pattern 2024

Based on the latest changes, here is what is GMAT Focus Edition exam pattern looks like for applicants to understand the structure and then begin preparing for the GMAT exam:

GMAT Focus Edition Sections Number of Questions Time Allocated
Quantitative Reasoning (QR) 21 Questions 45 Minutes
Verbal Reasoning (VR) 23 Questions 45 Minutes
Data Insights (DI) 20 Questions 45 Minutes
Total 64 Questions 2 Hours + 15 Minutes (Plus an optional 10 minute break in between)

This is how the GMAT exam pattern would look like for those appearing for the exam soon. The applicants can now understand about the GMAT Focus syllabus from the following sections. 

Q:   What is the format of GMAT exam?

A:

The GMAT exam format is developed to test applicant's business aptitude. The exam is divided into three sections, which are tested over 2 hours and 15 minutes along with an optional 10-minute break. Overall, there are 64 questions, each section has a different set of questions, but all are timed equally. More details on GMAT exam format are given below: 

  • Quantitative Reasoning: 21 questions, 45 minutes
  • Verbal Reasoning: 23 questions, 45 minutes
  • Data Insights: 20 questions, 45 minutes.

Q:   What is the difference between GMAT exam (old) and GMAT Focus Edition patterns?

A:

The table given below provides a comparison between the current version of the GMAT exam and the GMAT Focus Edition:

HeadGMAT Old EditionGMAT Focus Edition (Current)
Duration3 hours and 7 minutes2 hours and 15 minutes
Questions
  • Quant = 31 Questions (62 Minutes)
  • Verbal = 36 Questions (65 minutes)
  • IR = 12 Questions (30 Minutes)
  • AWA = 1 Question (30 Minutes)
  • Total = 80 Questions (3 Hours and 7 Minutes)
  • Quant = 21 Questions (45 Minutes)
  • Verbal = 23 Questions (45 Minutes)
  • Data Insights = 20 Questions (45 Minutes)
  • Total = 64 Questions (2 Hours and 15 Minutes)
Breaks2 optional breaks of 8-minutes each1 optional break of 10 minutes

Check out: GMAT Focus Edition vs GMAT: Key Differences

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GMAT Syllabus 2024

What is GMAT syllabus?: In the GMAT Syllabus Update section of this article, we will inform you of the new syllabus of the GMAT (i.e. GMAT Focus Edition Syllabus).

The GMAT syllabus for the GMAT Focus Edition is different from the GMAT syllabus of the current exam. AWA (Analytical Writing Assessment) and SC (Sentence Correction) have been removed. In addition, a new section called Data Insights (DI) has been launched which is based on IR (Integrated Reasoning) and will also contain DS (Data Sufficiency). The table given below provides the GMAT Focus Edition syllabus:

GMAT Focus Edition Section GMAT Focus Edition Syllabus
Quantitative Reasoning (21 Questions in 45 Minutes)
  • Algebra
  • Arithmetic
Verbal Reasoning (23 Questions in 45 Minutes)
  • RC = Main idea + Supporting idea + Inference + Application + Logical structure + Style
  • CR = Strengthen + Weaken + Flawed + Supports + Damages
Data Insights (20 Questions in 45 Minutes)
  • Data Sufficiency
  • Multi-source Reasoning = Examination or analyses of data from various sources (text, tables, graphics, or combination of these) + recognition of discrepancy + inference + determination of the relevance of data
  • Table Analysis
  • Graphics Interpretation = Interpretation of information from graphics (scatter plot, x/y graph, bar chart, pie chart, or statistical curve distribution) + finding relationship + inference
  • Two-part Analyses = Quant, Verbal, or a combination of both + evaluating trade-offs + solving simultaneous equations + finding relationships

Important: For a complete analysis of the GMAT Focus Edition, students must visit our GMAT Focus Edition article.

Q:   What are the topics in the GMAT Focus Edition syllabus?

A:

GMAT Focus Edition syllabus includes three sections each of the same time limit. Check out the sections on the new GMAT along with the number of questions and topics tested on the exam:

  • Quantitative Reasoning (21 Questions in 45 Minutes) = Algebra + Arithmetic
  • Verbal Reasoning (23 Questions in 45 Minutes) = Reading Comprehension + Critical Reasoning
  • Data Insights (20 Questions in 45 Minutes) = Data Sufficiency + Multi-source Reasoning + Table Analysis + Graphics Interpretation + Two-part Analysis

Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) and Sentence Correction (SC) do not form a part of the GMAT Focus Edition.

Q:   What is GMAT Focus Edition syllabus?

A:

GMAC has introduced the GMAT Focus Edition. The GMAT Focus Edition syllabus and pattern are different from the current GMAT 2023 exam. Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) and Sentence Correction (SC) are not a part of the GMAT Focus Edition syllabus. A new section, called Data Insights (DI), has been introduced. Data Sufficiency (DS), which used to form a part of the GMAT Quants section, will now be a part of the Data Insights (DI) section. Moreover, the GMAT Focus Edition is shorter than the current version of the GMAT 2023 exam by about an hour.








GMAT Exam Syllabus 2024 Sections

GMAT Focus Edition syllabus is categorised into three sections that are overall 2 hours and 15 minutes long. GMAT Focus syllabus consists of various topics spread across the following sections:

  • Quantitative Aptitude Section
  • Verbal Reasoning Section
  • Data Insights Section

Previously, there were four sections and now the sections on the GMAT exam are three. Plus, the time frame for the exam has also reduced significantly. 







Q:   What is the difference between GMAT exam (old) and GMAT Focus Edition patterns?

A:

The table given below provides a comparison between the current version of the GMAT exam and the GMAT Focus Edition:

HeadGMAT Old EditionGMAT Focus Edition (Current)
Duration3 hours and 7 minutes2 hours and 15 minutes
Questions
  • Quant = 31 Questions (62 Minutes)
  • Verbal = 36 Questions (65 minutes)
  • IR = 12 Questions (30 Minutes)
  • AWA = 1 Question (30 Minutes)
  • Total = 80 Questions (3 Hours and 7 Minutes)
  • Quant = 21 Questions (45 Minutes)
  • Verbal = 23 Questions (45 Minutes)
  • Data Insights = 20 Questions (45 Minutes)
  • Total = 64 Questions (2 Hours and 15 Minutes)
Breaks2 optional breaks of 8-minutes each1 optional break of 10 minutes

Check out: GMAT Focus Edition vs GMAT: Key Differences

GMAT Quantitative Reasoning Syllabus

The Quantitative Section comprises a total of 21 questions which are to be answered in 45 minute time frame. The questions will be objective type and will have multiple-choice answers. In the GMAT Quantitative section of Focus Edition, there are Problem-Solving questions which measure the candidates’ skills in using logic and analytical reasoning to solve quantitative problems.

In this section, the questions can be expected from the following math syllabus:

GMAT Quant Section Topics

The topics are further divided into the following categories to test GMAT Focus Edition's Quantitative Reasoning section:

Arithmetic

Algebra

Number System

Elements of Algebra

Averages

Linear Equations

Ratio and Proportion

Quadratic Equations

Mixtures and Allegations

Inequalities

Percentages

Logarithm

Profit, Loss, and Discounts

Functions

Time, Speed, Distance, and Work

-

Check: GMAT Focus Sample Questions: Quantitative Section

Tips for GMAT 2024 Exam Quants

The following GMAT Quantitative Reasoning tips will help you score well on the Quants Section. To know the details GMAT 2024 Quants syllabus read on.

  • Starting Point: Start with the basics. You may begin with Manhattan guides if you feel that your math is weak. If you have a good base, you may directly start by solving the GMAT .
  • Note Making: As you prepare, make sure to write the math formulae, concepts, and tricks on A4 sheets. Revise them from time to time. To utilize your time, you may revise them while you are travelling. Please understand that scoring well on any exam requires sacrifice and dedication.
  • Practice: This point needs to elaboration.
  • Memorize: Yes! You must memorize squares up to 30, cubes up to 20, and tricks to quickly solve square roots and cube roots. The best way to do this is to visit the Banking Exam prep websites that have excellent tricks for speed math.

Q:   What are some of the GMAT Quant topics that can be expected in the GMAT test?

A:

Below are some of the topics that need to be covered to prepare for the GMAT Quants:

  • Arithmetic: Number system (unit digit, powers, roots, fractions, decimals, etc.), average, ratio and proportion, mixtures and allegations, percentages, profit and loss, interest, speed, time and distance, sets, probability, statistics, etc.
  • Algebra: Equations, quadratic equations, polynomials, functions, exponents, inequalities, permutation and combination, etc.
  • Geometry: Triangle, lines and angles, quadrilaterals, circles, coordinate geometry, etc.

Students must note that the GMAT Focus Edition syllabus and pattern for Quantitative Reasoning section is different from the current version of the GMAT 2023 exam. In the GMAT Focus Edition Quants, there will be two topics, viz. Algebra and Arithmetic. Data Sufficiency will form a part of the Data Insights (DI) section.

GMAT Verbal Reasoning Syllabus

This Verbal Skills section will have 23 multiple-choice questions. This section of GMAT Focus is divided into Critical Reasoning and Reading Comprehension. This section tests the candidates’ ability to comprehend the written material and read and understand the logical relationship between the points mentioned in the passage and concepts.

Critical Reasoning

GMAT Critical Reasoning syllabus consists of different types of arguments that measure candidates’ skills to analyse argument structure, evaluate arguments, and assumptions, formulate or evaluate a plan of action, strengthen/weaken an argument, complete an argument, etc.

Reading Comprehension

It measures the candidates’ skill to draw inferences, understand logical relationships between significant points, understand words and statements, and follow the development of quantitative concepts. GMAT Reading Comprehension (RC) syllabus includes short and long passages wherein candidates are tested on the following reading skills: inference, application, main idea, supporting the idea, logical structure, and style.

Tips for GMAT 2024 Exam Verbal Reasoning

The following tips for the GMAT verbal section will help you score well:

  • GMAT RC: Understand the different types of questions that are asked in the GMAT RC section. During your preparation, make sure to develop a habit of writing the main point of any paragraph. It will help you immensely during the exam.
  • GMAT CR: Understand the different question types asked in the GMAT CR section. Make sure that you practice all of those. Learn to identify the gaps, assumptions, strengths, weaknesses, etc. in a given argument.

GMAT Data Insights Section Syllabus

For the third section of the GMAT exam, the syllabus is as follows for testing the Data Insights section of the Focus Edition:

  • Data Sufficiency: It measures the candidates’ ability to examine a quantitative problem, identify which data is important, and determine at what point there is enough data to solve the problem.
  • Multi-source Reasoning: Analysis of data from different sources (text, tables, graphics, or combination of these) + recognition of discrepancy + inference + determination of the relevance of data
  • Table Analysis
  • Graphics Interpretation = Interpretation of information from graphics (scatter plot, x/y graph, bar chart, pie chart, or statistical curve distribution) + finding relationship + inference
  • Two-part Analyses = Quant, Verbal, or a combination of both + evaluating trade-offs + solving simultaneous equations + finding relationships

This is a new section on the GMAT Focus Edition syllabus, but more or less a concise version of the Integrated Reasoning and a part of the Quantitative Section of the previous GMAT exam. The applicants can prepare for Data Insights Section based on the syllabus given above for reference. 

GMAT Syllabus 2024 Preparation Tips

To be able to study on your own effectively, you need a few good GMAT books and resources, along with study material, motivation, and self-discipline. On the other hand, if time is a constraint and you feel the need for professional guidance to ensure a competitive edge in GMAT Focus Edition preparation, then joining a coaching centre for GMAT in your location is the better option.

Covering the GMAT Focus Edition syllabus in 3-6 months is not a difficult task. Here are a few tips that will help you plan your GMAT syllabus preparation:

  • Understand the GMAT exam syllabus and pattern thoroughly.
  • Make sure to start your preparation with the official GMAT study material, which includes the GMAT OG. Official study material must be the base and the starting point of your preparation.
  • Once you complete the official study material, you can move on to Manhattan Prep GMAT guides. They are an authentic source of GMAT preparation. In addition, you may consult other sources such as Veritas, Magoosh, etc.
  • Make sure that you visit the GMAT Club and Beat the GMAT forums regularly. You can find practice questions, B-school reviews, toppers’ experiences, etc.
  • Appear for multiple GMAT mock tests. It will help you gauge your preparation levels and progress.

Check out Preparation Tips for GMAT Syllabus in detail.

Q:   When to start preparing for the GMAT test?

A:

In order to understand about the GMAT exam prep timeline and MBA admissions, you need to take into account multiple factors. These factors include the study abroad intakes. MBA or MIM admission deadlines, your current GMAT prep level, and the time required for preparing the admission documents (statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, an updated resume, admission essays, etc.). You must begin your MBA abroad process 10-12 months before the application date. Research the institutes and arrange your finances. Typically, it will take 3-6 months to prepare for the GMAT. During this time, you must prepare your admission documents as well. Hence, your GMAT preparation must begin at least 10-12 months before the MBA application date. Once you are done with the GMAT exam, you can then focus on other aspects of your MBA application.

How to Prepare GMAT Syllabus for MBA?

Most top MBA Colleges require a good GMAT score and candidates must score well on the GMAT exam to meet the GMAT cut-off for their desired B-School. Besides a GMAT score, students also need to submit their updated documents, to receive admission from an MBA college. These documents are as follows:

To prepare the GMAT Focus syllabus for an MBA, students typically require 3-6 months (average 4 months). The table given below provides a 4-month plan to cover the GMAT exam syllabus:

Month GMAT Syllabus Preparation Strategy GMAT Books
Month 1
  • Start with a GMAT diagnostic test (irrespective of your level of preparation) and understand where you lack
  • If you are starting with Verbal Reasoning, you need to start with Sentence Correction grammar
  • In the Quantitative Reasoning Section, you need to start with Problem-Solving.
  • Make short notes for GMAT Quants formulae and concepts
  • Keep revising these notes continuously
  • Appear for a GMAT practice test every weekend. It is a must!
  • GMAT Official Study Material (Compulsory)
  • Manhattan GMAT Guides (Compulsory)
  • Veritas Study Material (Selective)
  • Thursdays with Ron Videos (Compulsory)
  • GMAT Club Website Questions (Compulsory)
  • Beat the GMAT Website Questions (Selective)
Month 2
  • In the verbal section, you can move on to the Critical Reasoning section as it will also form the base of the Reading Comprehension section
  • Make short notes of all the argument types
  • In the Data Insights section, you need to solve Data Sufficiency questions as these are only an extension of the Problem-Solving questions
  • Continue with the weekly mock tests!
Month 3
  • Move on to the Reading Comprehension section and solve as many passages as possible
  • Keep solving GMAT math questions
  • Continue with the weekly mock tests!
  • You should be done with the entire GMAT Focus syllabus by the end of this month
Month 4
  • This month is only for revision and revision of notes
  • Give as many mock tests as possible and keep evaluating your mock test results

It is advised that students take their GMAT exam syllabus completion very seriously. GMAT score is something that you can control with your efforts. For more details on the GMAT exam syllabus, check our FAQs.

Q:   What is the difference between the syllabus of CAT and the syllabus of GMAT?

A:

CAT syllabus comprises topics like Quantitative, Logical and Verbal Reasoning, under the sections - Quantitative Aptitude (QA), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC).

Whereas, GMAT Focus Edition syllabus comprises sections on Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning and Data Insights. Irrespective of the exam, it is important for the students to understand the pattern and the syllabus of the exam they are appearing for.

Q:   How to get a perfect GMAT score?

A:

One needs to have a strategy to prepare for the GMAT to get a perfect score on the GMAT. Step 1: Make sure to understand the GMAT syllabus and GMAT pattern. Step 2: Candidates need to study regularly Step 3: Practice study material consistently Step 4: Learn the fundamentals Step 5: Focus on increasing your speed Step 6: Practice mock tests and learn where you are stuck. Here are some additional points:

  • Do not leave the official GMAT study material. It is non-negotiable if you wish to score well on the GMAT. You must complete the official GMAT study material at least twice.
  • Prepare short notes during the course of your GMAT preparation 2023. They will aid in your revision.
  • Appear for GMAT mocks every week. Do not leave them at any cost.

GMAT Syllabus 2024 FAQs

Students may refer to the FAQs section below for more information on the GMAT syllabus.

Q:   Is it hard to score 700 on the GMAT?

A:

Usually, anything above 700 is considered a good GMAT score. With consistency, one can score 700+ on the GMAT. With a proper study plan, one should also practice mock tests and have a grip on the fundamentals. You should start by understanding the GMAT exam syllabus and pattern. Then, you must select the correct GMAT books and resources. Do not buy too many books else, you will be confused. Once you have completed the GMAT official guide and other official material, you can refer to Manhattan guides. You must give full-length mock tests every week to gauge your performance.

Q:   Is 650 a good GMAT score?

A:

650 - 690 is a good score, however, if you score above 700 then it is great and it also enhances your chances of securing admission to a top B-school. However, a good GMAT score is not the only criterion for securing admission to a top MBA college. Students need to build a holistic profile that should have a decent balance of work experience, academic excellence, extracurricular activities, etc. Nonetheless, a good GMAT score will definitely help you in improving your candidature. Make sure to cover every aspect of the GMAT syllabus with the correct resources.

Q:   Is the GMAT exam 2024 tough?

A:

GMAT exam tests different skill sets like the ability to think critically, the ability to analyse data, and draw conclusions using reasoning skills. According to an estimate, only 5-6% of candidates are able to score more than 720+. So, one needs to develop these skills to get a decent score in order to get admission to their dream B-school. Students must look at the GMAT from the perspective of B-schools. GMAT is only testing those quantitative and verbal reasoning skills that are required by a student to survive a B-school curriculum. It is not a test of management, but of general reasoning skills.

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Comments

(294)

O

Om Thumar

3 months ago

hi, I am currently completing my Bachelors from Symbiosis distance learning BBA. can I get admission in USA universities for MBA. is online degree worth? and can I give GMAT

Reply to Om Thumar

A

Aishwarya BhatnagarStudy Abroad Expert

2 months ago

Hello Om! You can assess your chances of admission to the USA for an MBA by checking the official websites of the shortlisted universities if they accept distance learning degrees. You can get help from our counsellors by signing up at Shiksha Abroad Counsellors they will help you choose the right c

...more

V

Vish d

6 months ago

I'm 29, have done BMS and have 4+ years of work exp. but I have a gap of 2 years as I was preparing for IELTS and GMAT old edition, also I have no math background since after 10th std, Am I eligible to apply for Masters in HR programme in USA?

Reply to Vish d

A

Aishwarya BhatnagarStudy Abroad Expert

5 months ago

Hello! Your eligibility will be decided based on the university you are applying to - one if the gap is acceptable for the course you are applying to and second based on the courses you have studied if you can apply for admissions. If there is confusion, you can get in touch with our counsellors by

...more

S

Shashank Desai

a year ago

How many days prior to the application deadline date can I answer the test? Considering round 1 window closes on 4th September, can I take the GMAT on 28th August?

Reply to Shashank Desai

A

Aprant Agarwal

a year ago

You will receive your official GMAT scores within 7-20 days of your GMAT exam. Considering this, you might not be able to provide your official score to B-schools. Moreover, an MBA application requires SOP, LOR, Admission Essays, etc. You'll need time to prepare these vital documents as well. Make s

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v

vaibhav pandey

a year ago

Classic edition GMAT exam will be conducted till March,2024 or not. After m com a Candidate could prepare for MBA abroad

Reply to vaibhav pandey

A

Aprant Agarwal

a year ago

The current version of the GMAT exam "will continue to be available until early next year". There is no specific date for the same. After MCom, you may opt for an MBA as it will enhance your profile. You might as well venture into a new field (e.g. supply chain management) if you find it interestin

...more

s

saikiran soma

a year ago

I am CA dropoutIwant to pursue my career My MBA abroad Education. I completed my graduation in 2022. I didn't complete my GMAT. Can I apply now.

Reply to saikiran soma

A

Aprant Agarwal

a year ago

Hello. Now that you have completed your graduation, you can very well appear for the GMAT exam. Please make sure to check the eligibility criteria for MBA abroad as certain B-schools demand prior work experience. You may also apply for MIM programmes as they are also rewarding. You may check the to

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