STUDY GUIDE
GMAT Focus Edition — Info & Overview
Everything you need to know about the GMAT Focus Edition — format, scoring, school requirements, and how to prepare.
THE NEW GMAT
Understanding the GMAT Focus Edition
The GMAT Focus Edition replaced the classic GMAT in early 2024. It is a shorter, more streamlined exam designed to better measure the skills business schools value most.
The GMAT Focus Edition is the graduate business school admissions test administered by GMAC. Compared to the classic GMAT, the Focus Edition is shorter, removes Sentence Correction from Verbal, eliminates the separate Analytical Writing section, and introduces the new Data Insights section. The exam is adaptive at the section level, and test-takers can choose the order in which they complete each section.
2 hr 15 min
Shorter Exam
Down from 3 hours and 7 minutes on the classic GMAT. The Focus Edition is more efficient and less fatiguing for test-takers.
3 Sections
Streamlined Format
Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights. The Analytical Writing and Integrated Reasoning sections have been removed.
205–805
New Score Range
Scored in 10-point increments on a new scale. Each section is scored 60–90. Percentile rankings are recalibrated for the new format.
EXAM BREAKDOWN
Test Structure
The GMAT Focus Edition has three sections, each 45 minutes long. You choose the order you take them.
Quantitative Reasoning
Topics Covered:
- Arithmetic & Number Properties
- Algebra & Linear Equations
- Geometry & Coordinate Geometry
- Word Problems & Data Analysis
- Rates, Ratios & Percentages
Verbal Reasoning
Topics Covered:
- Reading Comprehension
- Critical Reasoning
- Inference & Argument Analysis
- Passage-Based Logic
Data Insights
Topics Covered:
- Data Sufficiency
- Multi-Source Reasoning
- Graphics Interpretation
- Two-Part Analysis
- Table Analysis
SCORING
GMAT Score Breakdown
Understanding how the GMAT Focus Edition is scored helps you set realistic goals and plan your preparation.
Total Score Range
205 – 805
Reported in 10-point increments
Section Score Range
60 – 90
Each of the three sections scored individually
~580
Average
50th Percentile
650+
Good
Top 30%
700+
Competitive
Top 15%
730+
Elite
Top 7%
TARGET SCORES
Top Business School GMAT Requirements
Average GMAT scores for admitted students at leading MBA programs. Texas schools highlighted.
| Business School | University | Avg. GMAT |
|---|---|---|
| Stanford GSB | Stanford University | 738 |
| Wharton | University of Pennsylvania | 733 |
| Harvard Business School | Harvard University | 730 |
| Booth | University of Chicago | 730 |
| MIT Sloan | Massachusetts Institute of Technology | 730 |
| Columbia Business School | Columbia University | 729 |
| Kellogg | Northwestern University | 727 |
| Haas | University of California, Berkeley | 726 |
| Tuck | Dartmouth College | 724 |
| Yale SOM | Yale University | 720 |
| Ross | University of Michigan | 720 |
| Fuqua | Duke University | 715 |
| Darden | University of Virginia | 713 |
| Jones TX | Rice University | 706 |
| McCombs TX | University of Texas at Austin | 704 |
| Cox TX | Southern Methodist University | 660 |
| Neeley TX | Texas Christian University | 640 |
| Hankamer TX | Baylor University | 620 |
PREPARATION
How to Prepare for the GMAT
A proven five-step approach to maximizing your GMAT score.
1
Take a Diagnostic
Start with a full-length practice exam to establish your baseline score and identify strengths and weaknesses.
2
Build a Study Plan
Create a structured timeline based on your target score, test date, and available study hours per week.
3
Focus on Weak Areas
Allocate the majority of your study time to the sections and question types where you have the most room to improve.
4
Use Official Materials
Practice with GMAC’s official prep resources and full-length practice exams to simulate real test conditions.
5
Work with a Tutor
An expert tutor provides personalized strategies, accountability, and targeted coaching that self-study alone cannot match.
COMMON QUESTIONS
GMAT FAQ
The GMAT Focus Edition takes 2 hours and 15 minutes of testing time. It consists of three 45-minute sections. There are two optional 10-minute breaks between sections, so total appointment time is approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes including breaks and check-in.
The total score ranges from 205 to 805, reported in 10-point increments. Each of the three sections — Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights — is scored on a scale of 60 to 90. The total score is a composite of all three section scores. You receive an unofficial score preview immediately after completing the exam.
You can take the GMAT Focus Edition up to 5 times in a rolling 12-month period, with a lifetime limit of 8 attempts. There must be at least 16 calendar days between each attempt. Most students find that focused preparation between attempts yields better results than frequent retakes.
A “good” score depends on your target schools. Generally, 650+ is competitive for many well-regarded programs. A score of 700+ places you in the top 15% and is competitive for top-25 business schools. For elite programs like Harvard, Stanford, and Wharton, aim for 730+ which puts you in the top 7% of test-takers.
Most top business schools accept both. If you are applying exclusively to MBA programs, the GMAT is generally the stronger choice because it is purpose-built for business school admissions and may carry more weight with admissions committees. If you are also considering non-business graduate programs, the GRE offers broader flexibility. Take a diagnostic of both to see which format plays to your strengths.
Most students benefit from 8 to 16 weeks of focused preparation. Start by taking a diagnostic exam to establish your baseline. If you need to improve by 50 to 80 points, plan for roughly 2 to 3 months. For larger improvements of 100+ points, consider 4 to 6 months. Begin studying well before your application deadlines so you have time for a retake if needed.
Yes. You can reschedule or cancel through mba.com. Rescheduling more than 60 days before your appointment is free. Within 60 days, fees range from $50 to $150 depending on how close to test day you make the change. You can also cancel your score after seeing your unofficial results, though fees apply.
The GMAT Focus Edition registration fee is $300 USD. Additional costs may include rescheduling fees ($50–$150), Enhanced Score Report ($30), and additional score report sends ($35 each). Some international test centers may charge a local supplement. Budget approximately $300–$400 for the exam itself.
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