A 18 min read

What is the GMAT Focus Edition?

Introducing the new GMAT Focus Edition 2024 – As the business environment continues to evolve rapidly, so do the skills required to succeed in it. To ensure that the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) remains a reliable and accurate assessment of these skills, the GMAC has announced a major test change and launched a brand-new GMAT test called GMAT Focus.

The GMAT Focus Edition began on November 7, 2023, and is currently the only version available. The classic version has been unavailable since February 1, 2024.

This new GMAT test will focus on higher-order critical reasoning skills and data literacy that are especially relevant and applicable in the business environment of tomorrow. You can read this detailed article on Which business schools will accept the New GMAT Focus Edition?

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

These mocks are designed to be fully adaptive, mirroring the actual exam’s structure, to offer a realistic practice experience. 

In this blog post, we will answer the following questions:

1. What is the GMAT Focus Edition 2024 & how is it different ?
2. What does this new GMAT test mean for MBA admissions?
3. What does it mean for e-GMATers and how to prepare for the exam?
4. When will the new GMAT focus edition will be available & what is the pattern?.
5. What do we not know about the new GMAT Focus exam 2024?

Watch this video to know – What GMAT Focus Edition 2024? And how it differs from the classic/old version of the GMAT:

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 changes with the New GMAT Focus Edition 2024?

Here are some of the major change in GMAT Format, the GMAT Focus Edition 2024:

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 current GMAT features four sections, which include Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA), and Integrated Reasoning. The first three sections have been a part of the GMAT for over two decades, whereas the Integrated Reasoning section was added in 2012.

However, the GMAT Focus edition 2024 brings a notable change in the exam structure by removing the AWA section altogether. 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.

Change 2: New Data Insights Section | GMAT Focus Edition 2024

In addition to eliminating the AWA section and enhancing the Verbal Reasoning section, 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.

Read this article to know – Which business schools will accept the GMAT Focus Edition?

Did you know 9 out of 10 MBA Admissions decisions are made using a GMAT score? We can give you access to quality online content to prepare for GMAT Focus. We have delivered 10x 700+ scores than the average GMATClub partner. Why don’t you take a free trial and judge it for yourself? 

Some predictions for the GMAT Focus 2024 based on the above

With this information, there are some predictions that we can make:

Data insights will be more discerning than IR in the New GMAT

We expect the data insights section to be much more discerning than the current IR section. There are two reasons for the same.

Firstly, the data insights section will now be 45 minutes long, which is 50% longer than the 30-minute IR section in the current GMAT. This extra time will allow the GMAC to evaluate candidates’ data literacy skills in greater depth, making the section more discerning.

Secondly, the GMAC is putting the data insights section on par with the Quantitative and Verbal sections, which are the most discerning sections of the current GMAT. The Quantitative and Verbal sections are scored from 6 to 51, allowing for the test to evaluate candidates on 46 different levels (51-6+1). This (parity) indicates that the data insights section will be nearly as discerning as these sections on the new GMAT, further emphasizing the importance of data literacy skills 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 2600+ reviews on GMAT Club, e-GMAT is your partner in mastering the GMAT. Contact us at support@e-gmat.com for expert guidance.

Change 3: Shorter test duration | GMAT Focus Edition 2024

The GMAT Focus edition is significantly shorter than the current GMAT, with a total test time of 2 hours and 15 minutes compared to 3 hours and 7 minutes in the current 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, 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 may also help reduce test-taking fatigue, allowing candidates to perform at their best throughout the exam. Overall, the new test format in the GMAT Focus edition provides a streamlined, more focused assessment of the critical reasoning and data literacy skills necessary for success in the business world while also reducing the overall testing time.

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

Change 4: Simplified/Shorter and more application-focused preparation.

This is more of a claim by the GMAC rather than a hard change. According to the GMAC, the new GMAT Focus edition will enable students to prepare faster for the exam. This claim is primarily based on the fact that the AWA section has been removed, which means that candidates no longer have to spend time preparing for this section. Additionally, the GMAC states that the new exam will have reduced content for preparation, which may help students to focus on mastering the most critical concepts and skills required to succeed in the exam.

Our assessment of this claim

However, it is important to note that the primary goal of the GMAT remains the same – to assess a candidate’s readiness to take on the B school curriculum. The exam must still accurately evaluate candidates’ abilities and put them into decisive ability buckets. Therefore, although the new GMAT may have reduced content for preparation, it will still be a rigorous and challenging exam that requires candidates to demonstrate their mastery of the material.

Moreover, the GMAC’s statement on higher-order critical reasoning and data literacy skills indicates that the new GMAT will be more application-focused. This means that candidates will need to demonstrate their ability to apply critical thinking and data analysis skills to real-world business scenarios. As a result, candidates may have fewer concepts to learn, especially in the Sentence Correction section.  (Prediction 4)

However, we still expect Reading Comprehension to be a critical part of the Verbal section, as it tests candidates’ ability to understand complex written material, which is essential for success in graduate business programs.

In summary, while the removal of the AWA section and reduced content for preparation may help candidates prepare faster for the new GMAT Focus edition, the exam’s primary goal remains the same – to evaluate candidates’ readiness for the rigors of graduate business education. Candidates should still expect a challenging and rigorous exam that requires mastery of the material, critical thinking skills, and data literacy.

Change 5- The option to review the questions and edit the answers is now available | GMAT Focus 2024

Currently, GMAT doesn’t allow candidates to change the answers to the questions. However, the new GMAT focus edition will allow you to bookmark and review as many questions as you want. You can also change up to three answers per section. According to the GMAC, these changes will allow the candidates to optimize their test strategy. How this change will impact the computer adaptability of the test remains to be seen.

Change 6- Detailed and improved official score report that is included with the registration

So far, the candidates had to purchase an ESR at an additional cost of $30 to get detailed insights into their performance. The new version of the GMAT now includes an improved official score report that will presumably function like an ESR. This report will help you assess your strengths and focus areas.

Change 7- Content changes in the Quantitative and Verbal reasoning

The GMAC has now announced the content changes in the exam to help the students plan their preparation strategy. Here are the major changes in the quant and verbal sections of the new GMAT:

Changes in the GMAT Verbal section:

Sentence Correction questions will be entirely removed, and only Reading Comprehension and Critical Reasoning questions will be featured. This new structure aims to test students’ comprehension, analysis, and reasoning abilities more effectively. Additionally, the Verbal section will now have 23 questions instead of the previous 36

Changes in the quantitative section:

The Quantitative section will only feature Problem-Solving questions, and Data Sufficiency questions will be moved to the newly introduced Data Insights section. Also, this section will no longer test Geometry. Instead, it will focus on arithmetic and algebra. Further, it will now have 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
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

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GMAT Focus Edition vs Classic GMAT Exam- Which exam should you take?

Are you curious to know which exam should you take- the current GMAT exam or the GMAT Focus edition?

The GMAT™ Focus Edition is set to become the new standard, taking the place of the current GMAT™ Exam after January 31, 2024. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• You won’t be able to take the GMAT Exam—either online or at test centers—after January 31, 2024.
• From February 1, 2024, onwards, only the GMAT Focus Edition will be available for testing.

Remember, the opportunity to take the current GMAT Exam is nearing its end! To maximize your score, start your preparation today.

Undecided on which GMAT version to opt for? Consider these key points:

1. Application Deadlines: Globally-renowned business schools are accepting scores from both the GMAT Focus Edition and the GMAT Exam for Round 2 and 3 applications. Business School acceptance policy can help navigate your decision based on your application timeline.
2. Test-Taking Experience: While all GMAT scores are valuable, choosing the test version where you feel most at ease will likely boost your performance. Explore the variances between the exam versions below:

Take the GMAT Exam if you:

• Prefer more opportunities to take breaks.
• Need to highlight your analytical writing skills.
• Have already prepped considerably for the current GMAT Exam.
• Prefer your Total Score reflect your quantitative and verbal skills only.
• Would like to attempt the current version before you try the GMAT Focus Edition

Opt for GMAT Focus Edition if you:

• Prefer a much shorter exam.
• Want to highlight your data analysis skills.
• Don’t want an analytical writing assessment.
• Want the flexibility to change up to 3 responses per section.
• Would like your official score delivered within 3—5 days.

When will the new GMAT Focus edition be available?

The current version of the GMAT Exam will continue to be available till January 31, 2024. Starting from February 1, 2024 the only version of GMAT available will be GMAT Focus Edition. Additionally, the timeframe for GMAT Focus Official Prep, registration, and appointment availability is now available:

Official Prep for GMAT Focus Available – June 6, 2023

Registration Opens – August 29, 2023

Testing Starts – November 7, 2023

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

The upcoming GMAT focus edition will have 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.

Here is a brief overview of the three sections:

Feature	Verbal Reasoning	Quantitative Reasoning	Data Insights
No of questions	23	21	20
Question types	Reading Comprehension; Critical Reasoning	Problem Solving- Algebra and Arithmetic	Data Sufficiency; Multi-source Reasoning; Table Analysis; Graphics Interpretation; Two-Part Analysis
Section duration	45 minutes	45 minutes	45 minutes

GMAT Focus Edition- Score Chart and Percentiles

Is GMAT Focus Edition Adaptive? will my performance on one section affect the difficulty of questions on the next section

Yes, the GMAT Focus is an adaptive exam, meaning it adjusts its difficulty based on your answers – similar to the original GMAT. Your answer to each question determines the next question you’ll face, aiming to pinpoint your exact score, though this can be quite nerve-wracking since traditionally, you can’t change your answers.

Interestingly, GMAC introduces a twist with the GMAT Focus: you can alter up to 3 answers per section, despite it being adaptive. This novel approach seems aimed at reducing test-taker stress, and kudos to GMAC for this innovative step!

Initially, I thought allowing only 3 changes per section might add stress. However, knowing you can change all answers can also be tense. So, this constraint nudges us to sharpen our decision-making: often, our initial, thought-out choice is optimal. Only alter it if you realize an error or recall new information. Otherwise, stick with your first pick, especially if you’re merely doubting due to internal anxieties. If you’re torn between two answers, an additional 30 seconds likely won’t help. Maintain your original answer and proceed.

The GMAT Focus Edition and your current preparation

In this section, we have tried to answer some of your questions related to how the new GMAT exam affects your preparation strategies:

Read This article to know everything about GMAT Official Guide 2023-2024 and boost your preparation.

Q1: Should I stop preparing for the GMAT and wait for GMAT Focus Edition to launch?

Based on the information provided, we do not recommend that you stop preparing for the GMAT and wait for the GMAT Focus Edition to launch. Firstly, the announcement of the GMAT Focus Edition does not make the current GMAT irrelevant. The current GMAT will still be available till January 31, 2024, which gives you enough time to take the exam. Therefore, if you have already started preparing for the current GMAT, you should continue with your preparation.

Secondly, the Quantitative and Verbal preparation for the current GMAT will still be relevant for the GMAT Focus Edition. Therefore, any preparation that you do for the current GMAT will also help you to prepare for the GMAT Focus Edition.

By preparing for the current GMAT now, you will give yourself the best chance of getting admitted to the B-school of your choice and, hopefully, with some scholarship.

Q2: Would it be easier to get a high score on GMAT Focus Edition than on the current GMAT?

Based on the information provided, it is unlikely that it will be easier to get a high score on the GMAT Focus Edition than on the current GMAT. The reason for this is that the GMAT evaluates ability, and the GMAT Focus Edition will have to place the same set of candidates that take the current GMAT into ability groups. Therefore, for most candidates, we expect the new GMAT to be just as competitive as the current GMAT, and it will be equally difficult to score a high percentile on the new GMAT as it is on the current GMAT.

The only exception may be for students who find it challenging to prepare for the AWA section or to some extent, the Sentence Correction section. However, with the GMAT Focus Edition, candidates will be required to put more emphasis on the new Data Insights Section than they currently do on the Integrated Reasoning Section. Therefore, students who find the IR section more challenging may also find the new GMAT more difficult.

We have written a detailed article to answer this question – “ Is GMAT Focus Edition Hard?”. We recommend you to read it.

Overall, it is unlikely that the GMAT Focus Edition will be easier to score highly on than the current GMAT. Therefore, candidates should continue to prepare thoroughly and diligently for the exam, regardless of which version they plan to take.

Q3: Will e-GMAT support the new GMAT? Will I have to purchase a new course?

For the last 10 years, e-GMAT has delivered more 700+ scores than any other test prep provider. Since 2021, e-GMAT has accounted for 60% of all success reported on GMAT Club. With every change – be it the introduction of IR in 2012 or the introduction of a shorter format in 2018 – we have improved our offerings and have delivered more success. We will continue to do the same in 2024.

We will enhance the current e-GMAT course to incorporate the proposed changes. Students who have already subscribed to e-GMAT’s current course will be able to access the updated course without having to purchase a new course. Therefore, they will have access to the same level of quality content and support that e-GMAT is known for and be fully prepared for the GMAT Focus Edition.

Read this article to understand – How will e-GMAT support the GMAT Focus Edition?

In conclusion, the GMAT Focus edition, which has been designed in partnership with leading business schools and prospective business school candidates, reflects how the GMAT has evolved in accordance with the rapidly changing business landscape. However, a few questions related to the specific content changes in the GMAT, the scoring metrics, and the exact date of the launch of the new exam remain yet to be answered. Stay tuned for more updates on the GMAT focus edition: the brand new exam of the GMAC.

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.