GMAT Focus Exam GuideEvery exam's format, scoring, and task types were checked against each exam board's own official documentation in July 2026.

GMAT Focus Edition (2023 onwards)

Score range

205–805 total

Duration

2h 15m (3 sections × 45m)

Format

Computer Adaptive Test (CAT) · GMAT Focus Edition

Sections

3

Format

Test format & sections

Verbal Reasoning

45m · 23 questions

Critical Reasoning — StrengthenCritical Reasoning — WeakenCritical Reasoning — AssumptionCritical Reasoning — InferenceCritical Reasoning — Flaw / EvaluateCritical Reasoning — Bold-FaceReading Comprehension — main idea, inference, structure, tone

CR passages are ~100 words — short arguments. Identify the premise, conclusion, and assumption before answering. RC: 4–9 questions per passage on main idea, inference, author's purpose, and vocabulary in context. Vocabulary not directly tested but sophisticated language is used throughout.

Quantitative Reasoning

45m · 21 questions

Problem Solving only (Data Sufficiency moved to Data Insights in Focus Edition)

Tests arithmetic, algebra, number properties, and word problems. No geometry, no calculus. Multi-step reasoning required — questions often embed multiple concepts. Difficult questions involve work/rate problems, permutations, or probability. On-screen calculator NOT provided.

Data Insights

45m · 20 questions

Data Sufficiency — is the given data sufficient to answer? (never fully solve)Multi-Source Reasoning — synthesise 2–3 tabbed sourcesTable Analysis — sort a data table to answer questionsGraphics Interpretation — complete sentences about a graph or chartTwo-Part Analysis — 2 interrelated answers from the same scenario

The most complex and novel section. Data Sufficiency: choose from 5 fixed answer choices (A–E) about whether Statement 1, 2, both, or neither is sufficient. Two-Part Analysis often combines verbal and quant reasoning in one question. Calculator provided for Data Insights.

Scoring

How GMAT Focus is scored

3 sections each scored 60–90. Total = algorithmic combination of all 3 on a 205–805 scale. Full CAT: each question adapts based on previous responses. Sections can be taken in any order.

Score levels

705+
90th+ percentile
655–704
75th+ percentile
555–654
50th percentile
505–554
25th percentile
205–504
Below average

Typical requirements

730–760Harvard GSB, Stanford, Wharton median admits
700+Top 10 MBA programmes globally
650–700Top 25 MBA programmes
550–650Solid mid-tier MBA programmes
FAQ

GMAT Focus frequently asked questions

What is the GMAT Focus Edition?

The GMAT Focus Edition launched in November 2023, replacing the classic GMAT. Key changes: Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) was removed entirely; Integrated Reasoning was replaced by a new Data Insights section; the score scale changed from 200–800 to 205–805. Duration: approximately 2 hours 15 minutes.

How is the GMAT Focus Edition structured?

Three sections, each 45 minutes: Verbal Reasoning (23 questions — critical reasoning, reading comprehension; sentence correction removed), Quantitative Reasoning (21 questions — problem solving only; data sufficiency moved to Data Insights), Data Insights (20 questions — data sufficiency, multi-source reasoning, table analysis, graphics interpretation, two-part analysis).

How is the GMAT Focus scored?

Each section is scored 60–90. The total score (205–805, in 10-point increments) is a combination of all three section scores. Unlike the classic GMAT, all three sections contribute equally to the total. AWA is no longer part of the test.

How long are GMAT scores valid?

5 years from the test date. GMAC will report scores up to 5 years old to programmes.

How many times can I take the GMAT?

Up to 5 times in a rolling 12-month period, and a maximum of 8 times total (lifetime). There must be at least 16 days between attempts.

Can I choose the order of sections?

Yes — the GMAT Focus Edition allows you to choose the order in which you take the three sections at the start of the test.