GMAT Structure
The GMAT Focus Edition, introduced on November 7, 2023, represents a significant evolution in the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT). This updated format aims to better assess the skills most pertinent to modern business education.
1. Exam Structure and Sections
- Quantitative Reasoning: Focuses solely on problem-solving skills.
- Verbal Reasoning: Concentrates on reading comprehension and critical reasoning.
- Data Insights: A new section that combines elements of the previous Integrated Reasoning and Data Sufficiency questions, evaluating your ability to analyze and interpret data.
2. Section Order Selection
Unlike the previous GMAT format, the Focus Edition allows you to choose the order in which you tackle the sections. This flexibility enables you to start with the section you feel most confident in.
3. Timing and Number of Questions
- Duration: The total exam time is reduced to 2 hours and 15 minutes, down from the previous 3 hours and 7 minutes.
- Number of Questions:
- Quantitative Reasoning: 21 questions
- Verbal Reasoning: 23 questions
- Data Insights: 20 questions
4. Computer-Adaptive Testing
The GMAT Focus Edition maintains the computer-adaptive testing (CAT) format. This means that the difficulty of questions adapts to your performance as you progress through the exam. Additionally, you can bookmark questions for review and change up to three answers per section, providing greater control over your test-taking experience.
5. Scoring and Reporting
- Scoring Scale: The total score range is now 205 to 805, with individual section scores on a scale of 60 to 90.
- Score Reporting: You can choose to send your scores to up to five schools after viewing your scores, allowing you to make informed decisions about your applications.