GMAT & GMAT Focus Edition Info & Overview
GMAT vs GMAT Focus Edition: What's Changed?
| Feature | GMAT Focus Edition (Current) | Classic GMAT (Retired) |
|---|---|---|
| Sections | Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, Data Insights | Quantitative, Verbal, Integrated Reasoning, Analytical Writing |
| Total Questions | 64 | 80 |
| Test Duration | 2 hours 15 minutes | 3 hours 7 minutes |
| Essay Section | Removed | Included (AWA) |
| Data Insights | Yes (Replaces Integrated Reasoning) | Integrated Reasoning only |
| Flexibility | Review, skip, and edit up to 3 answers per section; choose section order | No review or edit; fixed order |
| Scoring Range | 205–805 (increments of 10) | 200–800 |
| Section Scores | 60–90 per section | 60–90 (Quant/Verbal), 1–8 (IR), 0–6 (AWA) |
| Question Types | All multiple-choice | MCQ + Essay |
| Score Validity | 5 years | 5 years |
| Attempts Allowed | 5 per year, no lifetime cap | 5 per year, 8 lifetime |
| Enhanced Score Report | Free | Paid |
Summary: The GMAT Focus Edition is shorter, more flexible, and emphasizes data analysis and higher-order reasoning. It removes the essay and allows more control over your test-taking experience. Most business schools now require the Focus Edition.
Always check your target school's requirements before registering.
Always check your target school's requirements before registering.
GMAT Focus Edition: Test Structure
1
Quantitative Reasoning
21 questions
45 minutes
Problem Solving & Data Sufficiency
21 questions
45 minutes
Problem Solving & Data Sufficiency
2
Verbal Reasoning
23 questions
45 minutes
Reading Comprehension & Critical Reasoning
23 questions
45 minutes
Reading Comprehension & Critical Reasoning
3
Data Insights
20 questions
45 minutes
Data Analysis, Multi-Source Reasoning, Table/Graphics Interpretation
20 questions
45 minutes
Data Analysis, Multi-Source Reasoning, Table/Graphics Interpretation
Total Test Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Format: Computer-adaptive (by question)
Scoring: 205–805 (Total); 60–90 per section
Calculator: On-screen for Data Insights only
Flexibility: Skip, review, and edit up to 3 answers per section; choose section order
Format: Computer-adaptive (by question)
Scoring: 205–805 (Total); 60–90 per section
Calculator: On-screen for Data Insights only
Flexibility: Skip, review, and edit up to 3 answers per section; choose section order
2025 GMAT Test Dates (US)
GMAT Focus Edition: Offered year-round at test centers and online. Choose any available date that fits your schedule.
Retake Policy: Up to 5 attempts per rolling 12 months, with a 16-day gap between attempts. No lifetime cap.
Score Validity: 5 years.
Retake Policy: Up to 5 attempts per rolling 12 months, with a 16-day gap between attempts. No lifetime cap.
Score Validity: 5 years.
| Month | Sample Available Dates* |
|---|---|
| June | 1–30 (daily, online & centers) |
| July | 1–31 (daily, online & centers) |
| August | 1–31 (daily, online & centers) |
*Dates are samples; check mba.com for real-time availability in your area.
Registration & Fees
How to Register:
- Create an account at mba.com
- Select GMAT Focus Edition
- Choose test center or online option
- Pick date & time
- Pay the fee (typically $275–$300 in the US)
- Receive confirmation email with test details
- GMAT Focus Edition (center): $275
- GMAT Focus Edition (online): $300
- Rescheduling: $50
- Additional score reports: $35 each
- Enhanced Score Report: Free
GMAT Focus Edition Scoring
- Total Score: 205–805 (increments of 10)
- Section Scores: 60–90 (increments of 1)
- Percentile Ranks: Provided for each score
- Score Validity: 5 years
How is it scored?
Computer-adaptive by question; your performance on each question determines the next question's difficulty.
No penalty for wrong answers; always answer every question.
Unofficial scores are shown immediately; official scores are posted in 3–5 days.
Free score sending to 5 schools within 48 hours.
Computer-adaptive by question; your performance on each question determines the next question's difficulty.
No penalty for wrong answers; always answer every question.
Unofficial scores are shown immediately; official scores are posted in 3–5 days.
Free score sending to 5 schools within 48 hours.
| Section | Questions | Time | Score Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Reasoning | 21 | 45 min | 60–90 |
| Verbal Reasoning | 23 | 45 min | 60–90 |
| Data Insights | 20 | 45 min | 60–90 |
Percentile Example: A 90th percentile means you scored higher than 90% of test-takers.
Note: GMAT Focus Edition scores are not directly comparable to classic GMAT scores due to changes in format and scaling.
Note: GMAT Focus Edition scores are not directly comparable to classic GMAT scores due to changes in format and scaling.
How to Prepare for the GMAT Focus Edition
Most students need 2–3 months of prep, 2–3 hours per day. Start with a diagnostic test to identify strengths and weaknesses. Schedule regular practice tests and review errors.
Data Insights is new and tests data analysis, multi-source reasoning, and table/graph interpretation. Use official GMAT Focus practice questions and review business case studies.
The GMAT Focus is adaptive by question. Practice pacing and decision-making under time pressure. Remember, you can review and edit up to 3 answers per section.
Use the GMAT Official Guide, mba.com practice tests, and GMAT Focus Edition sample questions. Take full-length practice tests in realistic conditions.
After every practice test, review incorrect answers and note patterns. Adjust your study plan to target weak areas.
Consider tutoring, group classes, or online prep platforms for structured guidance and accountability.
GMAT Focus Edition Frequently Asked Questions
Up to 5 times in a rolling 12-month period, with no lifetime cap. A 16-day gap is required between attempts.
Register at mba.com by creating an account, selecting your test type and date, and paying the fee. You can choose test center or online at-home testing.
Yes, but only for the Data Insights section. No calculator is allowed for Quantitative Reasoning.
Unofficial scores are shown immediately after finishing the test. Official scores are available in your mba.com account within 3–5 days.
5 years.
No. There is no penalty for incorrect answers, so always answer every question.
Nearly all business schools now accept (and require) the Focus Edition, but always check your target school's website to confirm.