GMAT Focus Edition: A Complete Guide
GMAT
With changes in the economic structures, businesses and their operations are also changing. To meet the demands of these changes, B-Schools are also changing and so has the GMAT exam. GMAC came up with a new version of the GMAT exam or the GMAT Focus Edition in 2024. The GMAT Focus Edition is shorter (by about an hour), efficient (only three sections with no AWA), flexible, and more detailed (in terms of performance reports). All aspects of the GMAT Focus Edition have been covered in this article, so check them out now.
This article will be dynamic as the new GMAT Focus Edition is being conducted across 600 centres in 114 countries. This new version of the GMAT exam is being accepted by over 2,400+ B-schools in the world after it was introduced. In this article, we will discuss the following points:
- What is GMAT Focus Edition?
- GMAT Focus Edition Features
- GMAT Focus Edition vs GMAT Old Edition Pattern
- GMAT Focus Edition Syllabus
- GMAT Focus Edition Implications of the Reduced Syllabus
Students must note the previous GMAT exam (10th Edition) is no longer being tested. Hence, the current and the only GMAT version is Focus Edition. Please note that GMAT Focus was released on November 7, 2023, and the registrations opened on August 29, 2023, and testing was first scheduled to begin on November 7, 2023. From January 31, 2024, the applicants could take the old GMAT exam and from February 1, 2024, GMAT Focus Edition is being conducted solely.
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Also to avoid confusion in referring to the exam as GMAT Focus Edition, GMAC is now referring it to as GMAT 11th Edition. So if applicants see GMAT 11th Edition, it is GMAT Focus Edition.
What is GMAT Focus Edition?
GMAT Focus Edition is the latest version of the GMAT exam and is also referred to as GMAT 11th Edition to differentiate it from the previous versions. GMAT Focus Edition is conducted by GMAC and has brought with it numerous changes since it has evolved from the 10the Edition of testing. GMAT 11th Edition has brought with it shorter testing, fewer sections and a new score range. The exam is tested in two modes, the registeration for GMAT is similar and the GMAT Exam Dates 2025 for the Focus Edition version are available all year round. The GMAT Focus Edition syllabus and pattern have witnessed changes and the details are discussed in the sections below for reference.
GMAT Focus Edition Features
Some of the key features of GMAT Focus Edition are as follows:
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Over 60 years of testing experience and decades of peer-reviewed research; developed with inputs from graduate management program faculty.
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Assesses critical reasoning, problem-solving, data sufficiency, logic, and analysis skills essential for business and management success.
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Uniform testing worldwide with minimal score variation upon retaking; multicultural questions to reduce bias.
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Computer-adaptive format tailored questions to the test taker's ability, providing an accurate measure of individual skills.
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High-level security measures, including advanced identification protocols and a question format that limits memorization and sharing.
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Accepted by over 7,700 programs in 114 countries; available in more than 600 test centres and online, enhancing accessibility for candidates.
GMAT Focus Edition Pattern
The GMAT Focus Edition pattern significantly differs from the old GMAT exam pattern. GMAT Focus Edition will last for 2 hours and 15 minutes as compared to the older GMAT exam which lasted for 3 hours and 7 minutes. GMAT Focus Edition will contain 64 questions spread over three sections (QR, VR, and DI). Each section will be of 45 minutes. The following table will provide a comparison between the current GMAT Focus Edition pattern and the old GMAT exam pattern.
| Header | GMAT Previous Edition | GMAT Focus Edition |
|---|---|---|
| Total Time | 3 hours and 7 minutes | 2 hours and 15 minutes |
| Total Questions |
|
|
| Breaks | 2 optional breaks of 8 minutes each | 1 optional break of 10 minutes |
To have an in-depth understanding of what was on GMAT previously and what now is on GMAT Focus Edition, applicants must check out GMAT Focus Edition vs GMAT.
GMAT Focus Edition Syllabus
The GMAT Focus Edition syllabus is lesser and different as compared to the previous GMAT syllabus. The removal of AWA (Analytical Writing Assessment) and SC (Sentence Correction), and the introduction of Data Insights has changed the dynamics to prepare for the GMAT exam. The following table will provide the syllabus for the GMAT Focus Edition:
| GMAT Focus Edition Sections | GMAT Focus Edition Syllabus |
|---|---|
| Quantitative Reasoning | Algebra, Arithmetic |
| Verbal Reasoning | Reading Comprehension and Critical Reasoning |
| Data Insights | Data Sufficiency, Multi-source Reasoning, Table Analysis, Graphics Interpretation, Two-part Analyses |
(Source: GMAT Official Website)
GMAT Focus Edition syllabus is designed keeping B-schools in mind. Preparing for GMAT Focus Edition syllabus has become easier in comparison to the previous edition. For a detailed GMAT Focus syllabus, check out the GMAT Focus Edition Syllabus and begin your preparation accordingly.
GMAT Focus Edition Scoring
As the students are aware the GMAT scores for the Focus Edition have changed in comparison to the previous version of the GMAT which ranged from 200 to 800. The following points and table will make it clear how the GMAT scores for the GMAT Focus Edition will be calculated:
- GMAT Focus Edition Score Range: 205 – 805 (GMAT score values for the GMAT Focus Edition will end in 5)
- GMAT Focus Edition Score Interval: 10 points
- GMAT Focus Edition Section-wise Score Range: 60 – 90
- GMAT Focus Edition Section-wise Score Interval: 1 point
- If a student is unable to complete any section of the GMAT Focus Edition exam, he/she will be penalized for the same. Hence, the students need to complete the entire exam and not leave any questions.
- Your unofficial Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights results as well as your Total Score will be presented right away when you finish the test.
GMAT Focus Scoring Pointers
Here are a few additional points that the students must be aware of:
- GMAT Focus Edition Percentile: Students will receive their total score and their section-wise scores along with their GMAT percentile. If your GMAT percentile is 80%, it means that you scored above 80% of other test takers.
- Enhanced Score Report: Candidates will receive an Enhanced Score Report (ESR), which will include details of a candidate’s performance in each section of the GMAT exam vis-à-vis question type, skill, content domain, and time management (response time and review time).
- GMAT Focus Edition Score Sending: Students can send their official GMAT Focus Edition score to up to 5 B-Schools (for no additional cost) within 48 hours of receiving their score on mba.com.
GMAT Focus Edition Advantages
There are numerous advantages attached to GMAT's latest Focus Edition. From changed duration, to focus on certain sections and scoring on a different scale altogether. Some of the most advantageous key takeaways for GMAT's 11th Edition include -
- Shorter exam time - 2 hours 15 minutes from 3 hours 7 minutes
- Removal of one entire section that is, the Analytical Writing Assessment section
- Adaptive test format for more accurate scoring
- Faster score reporting that is, within 7 days
- Online and in-person testing options for applicants
- Permission to take up GMAT Focus up to 5 times a year
- Finally, an increased emphasis on data analysis and modern business skills
GMAT Focus Edition Syllabus Implications
Change in the GMAT Focus Edition syllabus from the old GMAT syllabus might translate to a relatively easier preparation as there are fewer topics to cover.
Removal of AWA will not make much difference as far as admissions to MBA colleges are concerned. Removal of Sentence Correction (SC) from Verbal Reasoning might be good news for those who did not enjoy grammar rules. On the flip side, those who did not find mathematics enjoyable might have to put extra effort into the Data Insights section. In addition to this, the GMAT Focus Edition will still be Computer Adaptive. Hence, test-taking strategies might not differ much.
Now that you are aware of the new GMAT Focus Edition, it is advised to go for GMAT preparation based on the latest pattern and syllabus. After you appear for the GMAT Focus you will then be able to also prepare for your SOP, admission essays and LORs.
For help with university applications, students seeking to study abroad can contact our Shiksha Study Abroad Counsellors. The comments section below allows candidates to contact us as well.
GMAT Focus Edition FAQs
Q. What is the GMAT Focus Edition?
A. The GMAT Focus Edition is a shorter, more efficient, flexible, and more detailed (with respect to score report) GMAT exam format that has been introduced in 2023, keeping in mind the changing nature of the business world and B-school admissions. The GMAT Focus Edition will be about an hour shorter than the current version of the GMAT exam. Moreover, the GMAT Focus Edition will have a new section called Data Insights (DI); however, it will not have AWA (Analytical Writing Assessment) and SC (Sentence Correction).
Q. What is the GMAT Focus Edition pattern?
A. The GMAT Focus Edition pattern can be noted from the points mentioned below:
- Quantitative Reasoning: 21 Questions in 45 Minutes
- Verbal Reasoning: 23 Questions in 45 Minutes
- Data Insights: 20 Questions in 45 Minutes
- Total: 64 Questions in 2 Hours and 15 Minutes
- Break: 1 Option Break of 10 Minutes
Q. How many sections does the GMAT Focus Edition have?
A. GMAT EFocus Edition consists of Quantitative Reasoning (QR), Verbal Reasoning (VR), and Data Insights (DI) sections. It does not contain Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) and Sentence Correction (SC). Moreover, Data Sufficiency will be a part of the Data Insights section. The score range for each section will be from 60 to 90 (with a score interval of 1 point) and the overall score will range from 205 to 805 (with a score interval of 10 points).
Q. What are some details of the score validity, score reporting, and the number of attempts with respect to the GMAT Focus Edition?
A. The following points will provide clarity about various aspects of the GMAT Focus Edition:
- Score Validity: 5 years
- Score Reporting: Report 5 GMAT Focus Edition scores for no additional cost within 48 hours of receiving the Official Score Report
- Number of Attempts: 8 attempts in a lifetime and 5 attempts in a 12-month period.
Q. What is edit an review on GMAT 11th Edition?
A. GMAT Focus Edition has provided the flexibility for Review and edit. The following points will describe the Review & Edit feature of the GMAT Focus Edition:
- Students will be allowed to Bookmark and review as many questions as they want to during the GMAT Focus Edition test.
- Students will be allowed to Edit a maximum of 3 answers in each section of the GMAT Focus Edition test.
Q. How does the review and edit feature work on GMAT Focus?
A. While appearing for the GMAT Focus Edition, students can bookmark and review their questions. Once they have answered all the questions of a section, they will be taken to a Question Review & Edit Screen for that section. From this screen, they can visit the questions they have marked by clicking on particular question numbers. However, students must note that they will be taken to this “Question Review & Edit Screen” only if there is some time left in the completion of that section. This means that you need to complete the section in less than 45 minutes if you wish to visit the Question Review & Edit Screen. If a student is not able to complete his/her section in less than 45 minutes, he/she will be taken either to the optional break screen or the next section.
Q. Have B-schools started accepting GMAT Focus for admissions lately?
A. Yes, it has been a year and above since GMAT Focus has come into force and is now being widely accepted at universities abroad. Up till January 31, 2024 the old GMAT or GMAT 10th Edition was last administered and after that GMAT Focus or GMAT 11th Edition is being conducted full-flegedly. Universities were accepting both versions, because GMAT scores are valid till 5 years. Thus, yes, B-schools have started accepting GMAT Focus for recent admission cycles.
Q. Is the GMAT Focus Edition accepted?
A. Yes, the GMAT Focus Edition is being accepted widely across 110 countries and 2,400+ business schools. As GMAT Focus Edition has come into force full fledgedly, universities have started accepting the same within no time.
Q: Is the GMAT test hard?
Q: What is the best GMAT Focus book?
Some of the best books to prepare for GMAT Focus Edition are as follows:
- The GMAT Focus Official Guide
- The Critical Reasoning Bible
- All the GMAT guides (Manhattan Prep)
- Total GMAT Math (Jeff Sackmann)
- GMAT Prep Plus (Kaplan)
Ideally these are some of the most important GMAT Focus books to prepare for the exam.
Q: What is the highest GMAT score?
The highest possible GMAT score is 800. It seems impossible to get a perfect score of 800 on the GMAT, but it can be achieved with sheer hard work, dedication, and the right study plan. Even the top B-schools require candidates to score 720 or more than 720, so, candidates need not score a perfect 800 to get into a top Business program. If you get a decent score then also you are eligible to apply to a top business program.
Q: Which month is best for GMAT exam?
As such there is no particular preference for choosing the best month to appear for GMAT exam. It is up to the applicants to choose a relevant GMAT exam date based on their admission intakes abroad and regster accordingly. Those who wish to submit GMAT scores for Fall intake should register for July-August months. While those applying for Spring intakes can appear for the exam in September-December months. It is completely up to the students because they need time to prepare and select an apt GMAT exam date.
Q: How much does GMAT cost in India?
Applicants looking at applying for GMAT in India should first know that there are two types of GMAT exam - one is taken at the GMAT exam centre and the other can be taken from home. Both of them have different fee per se. As per GMAC, it costs the following fee to take GMAT in India:
- Taking GMAT at a test centre costs USD 275 which is INR 23,429 + taxes.
- Taking GMAT from home costs USD 300 which is INR 25,559 + taxes.
Applicants can check the current exchange rate and then apply for the preferred mode of attempting GMAT exam.
Q: How long does it take to prepare for the GMAT?
Preparing for the GMAT test takes time and sincere efforts. You can prepare for the exam in six to eight months or it can be 3-4 months depending on your practice and ability. You need to give consistent efforts to get a good GMAT score. Make sure that you understand the GMAT pattern and syllabus before you purchase any study material. You must start with the GMAT official study material and then move on the other standard resources such as the Manhattan Prep guides. You must also appear for GMAT mock tests every week to gauge your progress.
Q: Is university of West of Scotland good for international students?
The University of the West of Scotland has five modern and diverse campuses in United Kingdom. The University has welcomed more than 3,000 international students which are representing 1/3 of the globe. They also have 130 European partners who are actively in global study and exchange options through the Commonwealth universities programmes. The University also offers study abroad opportunities for UWS who are eligible for the same and also have more than 20 transnational education partners worldwide which helps them deliver UWS Bachelors and Masters Degrees around the world.
Q: Is it hard to score 700 on the GMAT?
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.
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GMAT exam is actually very tough, as only a handful number of students crack the exam. Out of 200,000 students, only 6% of the students qualified the exam. SIne the competition is very high, these tests are a hard nut to crack. Students preparing for GMAT exam will have to prepare rigorously and solve question papers in order to crack the exam. GMAT is hard to crack but not impossible. With the right strategies, students can aim to crack the exam.
Check out: Is GMAT exam tough?