A 12 min read

What is the GMAT Focus Edition?

As the business landscape evolves, so must the tools we use to navigate it. Recognizing this need for continual adaptation, the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) has introduced a significant change to the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT). On November 7, 2023, GMAC launched the GMAT Focus Edition 2024, a revamped version of the GMAT designed to better assess the skills required in today’s dynamic business environment.

The best way to understand the GMAT Focus Exam is by trying the test out for yourself. Try Free GFE Mock now.

What is on the GMAT Focus?

The GMAT focus edition has a total of 64 questions. The test comprises three sections, including 21 questions in the Quantitative Reasoning section, 23 questions in the Verbal Reasoning section, and 20 questions in the newly introduced Data Insights section.

GMAT FOCUS TEST SECTION	TIME	# OF PROBLEMS	Question type
Quant	45 min	21	Problem Solving- (Algebra and Arithmetic)
Verbal	45 min	23	Reading Comprehension; Critical Reasoning
Data Insights	45 min	20	Data Sufficiency; Multi-source Reasoning; Table Analysis; Graphics Interpretation; Two-Part Analysis

This article aims to acquaint students with the new GMAT Focus Edition. We discuss:

1. What the GMAT Focus Edition is and how it differs from the old GMAT,
2. The new test pattern,
3. Tips on how to prepare for this new format,
4. The reasons behind GMAC’s creation of the Focus Edition, and
5. What do these changes mean for e-GMATers and how they can best navigate this shift.

Watch this video to learn everything about the GMAT Focus Edition 2024, how it differs from the old version of the GMAT, and how you can prepare for it.

Want to start GMAT Focus Preparation? Begin with our free mock test to see where you stand. Then, we’ll help you create a study plan tailored to your strengths and weaknesses. Click here to begin.

What has Changed on the GMAT?

The GMAT Focus Edition 2024 brings several significant changes designed to better evaluate the skills needed in the modern business environment. Here are some of the major changes in the GMAT format:

1. The test now comprises three sections (Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights) instead of four.
2. The test duration has been reduced from 3 hours and 7 minutes to 2 hours and 15 minutes.
3. There are content changes in the Quantitative and Verbal sections.
4. The scaled total score range has changed from 200-800 to 205-805.
5. You now have the option to review and edit your answers.
6. The official score report has been detailed and improved.

Now, let’s discuss all the changes in detail.

Change 1: Three Sections instead of Four

The most significant change introduced in the GMAT Focus edition 2024 relates to the content of the exam. The old GMAT featured four sections, which include Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA), and Integrated Reasoning.

However, the GMAT Focus edition 2024 brings a notable change in the exam structure by removing the AWA section altogether and by converting the heretofore independent Integrated Reasoning (IR) section into the Data Insights sections, the third section that now contributes to your 805 score. The Integrated Reasoning section was scored separately earlier on a scale of 1 to 8 and did not contribute to your 800 score.

The new exam will continue to assess the Quantitative and Verbal Reasoning abilities of the candidates, but with a more significant emphasis on higher-order reasoning skills, particularly in the Verbal Reasoning section. This adjustment reflects the evolving needs of business schools and employers, who are looking for candidates with a high level of critical reasoning and data literacy skills.

New Data Insights Section | GMAT Focus Edition 2024

The new GMAT focus edition introduces a cutting-edge Data Insights section. This new segment is specifically designed to evaluate candidates’ competence in data analysis and interpretation, which is crucial in today’s rapidly changing business environment. By integrating both Integrated Reasoning and Data Sufficiency question types, this section measures a newly calibrated digital and data literacy dimension, which is one of the most relevant and in-demand skills in business today.

Consisting of 20 questions, this section prompts you to evaluate the relationship between various sources and types of information, such as graphics, numbers, and language, in order to arrive at informed decisions. Some of these questions may involve mathematical computations, data analysis, verbal reasoning, or a combination of all three. To assist you in your task, an on-screen calculator is available only in this section.

Here are the different question types in the Data Insights section:

• Data Sufficiency: Assesses your ability to analyze a quantitative problem and determine when you have enough data to solve it.
• Multi-Source Reasoning: Evaluates your ability to analyze data from different sources and recognize discrepancies or draw inferences about which data is relevant.
• Table Analysis: Measures your ability to analyze and sort data from a table.
• Graphics Interpretation: Evaluates your ability to interpret graphical data to make inferences and discern relationships.
• Two-Part Analysis: Measures your ability to solve complex problems using quantitative or verbal reasoning.

 By including this new section, the GMAT Focus edition aims to provide business schools and employers with a more comprehensive assessment of candidates’ skills in areas that are particularly relevant and applicable in the business environment of tomorrow.

Data insights in the GMAT Focus is more discerning than IR in the old GMAT

The Data Insights section of the GMAT Focus Edition is more discerning than the old IR section for two reasons. First, it is 45 minutes long, 50% longer than the 30-minute IR section, allowing for a deeper evaluation of candidates’ data literacy skills. Second, the Data Insights section is now on par with the Quantitative and Verbal sections, all scored on a scale of 60 to 90, emphasizing the importance of data literacy in the modern business world.

Start your GMAT Focus journey with our free GMAT Focus mock test to gauge your baseline score, and then create a personalized study plan. Dive into our free trial for targeted prep. Trusted by thousands with 2700+ reviews on GMAT Club, e-GMAT is your partner in mastering the GMAT. Contact us at support@e-gmat.com for expert guidance.

Change 2: Shorter test duration | GMAT Focus Edition 2024

The GMAT Focus edition is significantly shorter than the old GMAT, with a total test time of 2 hours and 15 minutes compared to 3 hours and 7 minutes in the old version. This is because the new exam consists of three 45-minute sections, including Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights. With the removal of the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) section and the shortening of the Quant and Verbal sections, the total test time has been reduced by almost an hour, making it more efficient and less time-consuming for candidates.

The shorter test duration also helps reduce test-taking fatigue, allowing candidates to perform at their best throughout the exam.

Change 3: The New GMAT Scoring Pattern

The updated GMAT Focus Edition scoring range is 205 to 805. The total score is now derived from three sections: Quantitative (Q), Verbal (V), and Data Insights (DI), each scored on a scale from 60 to 90 in 1-point increments. This new format places a greater emphasis on data analysis skills, reflecting their importance in the modern business world. Previously, the overall GMAT score was based only on the Quantitative and Verbal sections. With the GMAT Focus, you will receive individual section scores for each part, providing a more detailed evaluation of your abilities.

Read our article GMAT Focus Edition- Score Chart and Percentiles to know more about updated scoring system.

Change 4 – The option to review the questions and edit the answers is now available

Earlier, the GMAT didn’t allow candidates to go back and review or change the answers to questions once attempted. However, the new GMAT focus edition allows you to bookmark and review as many questions as you want. You can also change up to a maximum of three answers per section within the section time remaining. According to the GMAC, this feature allows candidates to optimize their test strategy.

Change 5 – Detailed and improved official score report that is included with the registration

Previously, candidates had to purchase an ESR for $30 extra to get detailed performance insights. The new GMAT now includes an enhanced Official Score Report, providing detailed insights into your strengths, focus areas, performance in each section, question types, and time management skills. This report functions like an ESR, helping you better assess your abilities.

Moreover, you can now select programs to send your scores to after the exam, whether you test online or at a test center. You can send up to five score reports for free within 48 hours of receiving your Official Score. Additional score reports are available for a fee.

Change 6 – Content changes in the Quantitative and Verbal reasoning

Here are the major changes in the quant and verbal sections of the new GMAT:

Changes in the GMAT Verbal section:

Sentence Correction questions have been entirely removed, and only Reading Comprehension and Critical Reasoning questions are featured. This new structure aims to test students’ comprehension, analysis, and reasoning abilities more effectively. The Verbal section consists of 23 questions.

Changes in the quantitative section:

The Quantitative section only features Problem-Solving questions, and Data Sufficiency questions have been moved to the newly introduced Data Insights section. Also, this section no longer tests Geometry. Instead, it focuses on Arithmetic and Algebra. Further, it now consists of 21 questions, completely based on problem-solving.

GMAT Focus Edition vs. the Classic GMAT exam- A comparison

Here is a comparison of the features of the GMAT focus edition and the old version, The GMAT exam:

Feature	The GMAT Focus edition 2024	The GMAT exam
Exam duration	2 hours 15 minutes	3 hours 7 minutes
Sections	Quantitative reasoning, Verbal reasoning, Data insights	Quantitative reasoning, Verbal reasoning, Integrated Reasoning, Analytical writing assessment
Question type	All multiple-choice questions	Multiple choice questions + One essay
No. of Questions	Verbal – 23 Quant – 21 Data Insights – 20	Verbal – 36 Quant – 31 IR – 12 AWA – 1
Exam Cost	$275	$275
Individual section duration	3 sections of 45 minutes each	Quantitative reasoning- 62 minutes; Verbal reasoning- 65 minutes; IR- 30 minutes; AWA- 30 minutes
Section order	Any order possible	Order 1- AWA and IR> Quant> Verbal; Order 2- Verbal> Quant> IR and AWA; Order 3- Quant> Verbal> IR and AWA
Flexibility	Bookmark and review as many questions as possible; Change up to 3 answers per section	No option to bookmark, edit or review questions
Score sending	Send scores to 5 schools for free after knowing your score in both the online and test center exam	Select five schools to send the score for free before starting the exam
Performance insights	Improved official score report with detailed insights into your performance	You can get insights into your performance by purchasing the ESR at an additional cost of $30
Attempts	Five (5) GMAT exam attempts during a rolling 12-month period and eight (8) total lifetime attempts	Five (5) GMAT exam attempts during a rolling 12-month period and eight (8) total lifetime attempts

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How to Prepare for the GMAT Focus Edition

According to the GMAC, the new GMAT Focus Edition enables students to prepare faster due to its leaner format. With the removal of the Analytical Writing Assessment, Sentence Correction in Verbal, and Geometry in Quant, the exam has less content to cover. However, the primary goal of the GMAT remains unchanged: to assess a candidate’s readiness for business school. Despite the reduced content, the GMAT Focus Edition is still a rigorous exam requiring candidates to demonstrate mastery of the material.

Preparation Steps:

1. Start with a Diagnostic Mock: Measure your starting ability by taking a diagnostic mock exam. You can write the first free Sigma-X mock on the e-GMAT platform or a free Official Mock on mba.com.
2. Create a Study Plan: Create a study plan to map out your GMAT preparation journey in detail. A reliable tool, such as e-GMAT’s Personalized Study Planner, will help you set a clear path to achieving your target score.
3. Execute Your Plan: Follow a structured approach to learning. Master one section at a time, by applying these three stages of learning to each sub-section, one by one.
   • Stage 1 – Learn Concepts and Process Skills: Focus on understanding the foundational concepts and skills for each section.
   • Stage 2 – Master the Application of Skills: Cement your knowledge by practicing application through targeted Cementing Quizzes in a timed environment.
   • Stage 3 – Get Test Ready: Build your mental agility, testing stamina, and temperament by solving mixed and lengthy quizzes, preparing you for full-length exams.
4. Write Mocks to Gauge Test Readiness: Take a handful of full-length mock exams to fine-tune your performance and assess your readiness for the actual test.
5. Write the GMAT: Once you feel prepared, schedule and take the GMAT Focus Edition with confidence.

Read this article to understand How to create a Study plan for the GMAT Focus Edition.

Why the GMAT changed?

The GMAC created the GMAT Focus Edition to keep the exam relevant and aligned with the evolving needs of business schools and employers. The new format emphasizes critical thinking, data analysis, and problem-solving skills, which are essential for success in both business education and professional environments. Extensive research and feedback from industry stakeholders and business schools guided these changes, ensuring the exam assesses the most crucial skills for future business leaders.

In the following video, Seema Parakkat, Associate Manager Outreach, for South Asia, at the GMAC explains why this shift to the GMAT Focus Edition happened.

GMAT Focus edition- Exam structure and number of questions | Syllabus

The GMAT focus edition has a total of 64 questions. The test comprises three sections, including 21 questions in the Quantitative Reasoning section, 23 questions in the Verbal Reasoning section, and 20 questions in the newly introduced Data Insights section.

Read Our Comprehensive Article on GMAT Focus Edition Syllabus 2024.

e-GMAT’s Comprehensive Offering for GMAT Focus Prep

e-GMAT is committed to helping you achieve your target GMAT Focus Score. Here’s a brief overview of some of our offerings:

1. Study Plan
   • Over 50,000 personalized study plans have been created using our Personalized Study Planner tool, ensuring a tailored approach to GMAT preparation.
2. Comprehensive and Scientific Course Architecture
   • Our course is structured around foundation concepts, core concepts, and application files to transform concepts into skills. Learning concepts is only half the battle; successfully applying them to full-length questions is key to acing the GMAT.
3. Custom Quiz Engine
   • Scholaranium, our custom quiz engine, allows you to create cementing and test readiness quizzes, target your weaknesses, decide which questions to practice and revise, and simulate various performance scenarios. If you can think of a quiz type, you can create it with Scholaranium.
4. Sigma-X Mock Tests
   • With a scoring engine similar to the real GMAT and ESR+ analysis, Sigma-X mocks will super-charge your journey towards a 735 score, providing direction for that next 50-point improvement. These mocks are designed to be fully adaptive, mirroring the actual exam’s structure, to offer a realistic practice experience. 
5. World-Class Support
   • Our team of GMAT Success Strategy and Subject Matter Experts are just an email (support@e-gmat.com) away. They can help you craft a personalized study plan, explain solutions, push past score plateaus, analyze mock performances, and create hyper-specific improvement plans to achieve your target score.
6. Live Sessions
   • Attend 15 high-value live sessions conducted by our experts. Master high-value topics, participate in workshops, build Last Mile plans, and address common issues such as timing struggles and inconsistent performance. With unlimited access and new batches starting every two weeks, attend sessions when you’re ready, not when you’re forced to.

If you have started preparing for the GMAT Focus or are planning to, we can help you with a personalized study plan and give you access to quality online content to prepare. Write to us at acethegmat@e-gmat.com. We are the most reviewed GMAT prep company on gmatclub with 2700+ reviews. Why don’t you take a free trial and judge for yourself?

GMAT Focus Edition – FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions on GMAT Focus Edition 2024.