What is the GMAT Focus Edition?

Everything you need to know about the new GMAT Focus – updated, shorter, and more relevant for business school admissions.

Overview

The GMAT Focus Edition is a standardized exam required by many business schools for admission into their MBA and other graduate management programs. This edition is more streamlined than previous versions, lasting only 2 hours and 15 minutes. It is designed to test critical thinking, quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, and data interpretation skills, all essential for success in graduate business education.

Structure of the GMAT Focus

  • Quantitative Reasoning (QR) – 45 minutes
  • Verbal Reasoning (VR) – 45 minutes
  • Data Insights (DI) – 45 minutes

Each section contains 20 questions. There is one optional 10-minute break between sections.

Key Features of the GMAT Focus

  • Shorter overall test time (2 hours 15 minutes)
  • Ability to review and change up to 3 answers per section
  • Section order selection available
  • No Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA)

How to Register

Visit the official GMAT website at mba.com. Create an account, select a test center or choose to take the GMAT online, and pay the registration fee (around $275).

You’ll need a valid ID, a quiet environment if taking the online version, and a reliable internet connection.

Scoring

GMAT Focus Edition scores range from 205 to 805, with 10-point intervals. You receive a total score and individual section scores. Business schools typically look for scores above 600, but competitive programs may expect higher.

Why Take the GMAT?

  • Accepted by over 7,000 programs at 2,300+ universities worldwide
  • Demonstrates readiness for graduate-level business studies
  • Improves chances of scholarship and admission
  • Especially valued for quantitative and analytical credibility

Tips for Preparation

  • Understand the format and question types of each section
  • Practice with official GMAT Focus Edition materials
  • Take timed practice exams to build stamina
  • Review mistakes and build conceptual understanding