What is the GMAT?

The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a standardized exam used by business schools worldwide to evaluate candidates for MBA and other graduate management programs.

In 2023, the GMAT Focus Edition was introduced to make the test more efficient and business-relevant. This new version removes the Analytical Writing and Integrated Reasoning sections and introduces the Data Insights section to assess modern data interpretation skills.

GMAT Focus Edition Structure

The GMAT Focus Edition consists of three sections, each lasting 45 minutes, making the total exam duration 2 hours and 15 minutes—a significant reduction from the previous 3.5-hour format.

The three sections are:

Quantitative Reasoning
Verbal Reasoning
Data Insights

Test-takers can now select the order in which they complete the sections, allowing greater flexibility during the exam.

GMAT Section Breakdown

The table below outlines the structure of the GMAT Focus Edition, including time limits, question types, and scoring:

Section	Time Limit	Number of Questions	Question Types	Calculator
Quantitative Reasoning	45 minutes	21	Problem Solving	Not allowed
Verbal Reasoning	45 minutes	23	Reading Comprehension, Critical Reasoning	Not allowed
Data Insights	45 minutes	20	Data Sufficiency, Multi-Source Reasoning, Graphics Interpretation, Table Analysis, Two-Part Analysis	Provided

Note: The Data Insights section is the biggest change in the GMAT Focus Edition, emphasizing data literacy and business decision-making.

GMAT Total Score Breakdown

Your Total GMAT Score is calculated based on all three sections, unlike the previous version, which only used Quantitative and Verbal.

Score Component	Score Range	Average Score	Impact on Total Score
Total GMAT Score	205 – 805	~550 – 600	Based on all three sections
Quantitative Reasoning	60 – 90	~75	Contributes 1/3 of total
Verbal Reasoning	60 – 90	~75	Contributes 1/3 of total
Data Insights	60 – 90	~75	Contributes 1/3 of total

Highest GMAT Score

The highest possible GMAT score is 805. Competitive MBA programs typically look for scores in the 675+ range, with top-tier schools expecting 725+.

Key Changes in the GMAT Focus Edition

Exam Time Reduced: The test now takes 2 hours, 15 minutes instead of 3.5 hours.
AWA and Integrated Reasoning Removed: No more essay writing; instead, Data Insights measures practical business skills.
Scoring Adjustments: All three sections contribute equally to your Total Score (previously, IR & AWA did not count).
Customizable Section Order: You can choose the order of the test sections.

How to Register for the GMAT

To register for the GMAT Focus Edition, visit the official GMAT registration page.

The GMAT is available year-round at approved test centers and can also be taken online from home.

For a deeper dive into test-taking strategies and study plans, check out our complete GMAT guide.

Prepare for the GMAT with Practice Questions

Scoring well on the GMAT Focus Edition requires effective preparation and familiarity with the new section formats. Start practicing today with our comprehensive GMAT question bank.