Key Takeaways
- The GMAT Focus Edition is a shorter, more focused version of the traditional GMAT exam.
- Test duration is reduced to 2 hours and 15 minutes, featuring three sections instead of four.
- Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) has been removed from the new format.
- Integrated Reasoning now plays a more significant role in the overall score.
- Scoring scale changes from 200-800 to 205-805, with section scores ranging from 60-90.
Launched on November 7, 2023, the GMAT Focus Edition marks a significant upgrade to the traditional GMAT exam, tailored to align with the changing needs of business education and digital skills. As the classic GMAT is scheduled to be phased out by January 31, 2024, it's crucial to grasp the differences in scoring between these two versions.
In this blog, we’ll delve into the Detailed Score Charts for both the GMAT Focus Edition and the classic GMAT. Whether you're deciding which version to take or simply interested in understanding how the scoring stacks up, this guide has you covered.
What is GMAT Focus Edition?
The GMAT Focus Edition is a specialised version of the GMAT exam online test, often taken by those considering graduate business school. It's designed to be more focused and efficient than the regular GMAT. This version aims to help you perform your best and includes some changes to make the preparation process more accessible.
One of the standout features of the GMAT Focus Edition is its ability to let you review and change your answers before you submit them, giving you more control during the exam. After you finish the test, you’ll get a detailed performance report that helps you identify your strengths and areas that need improvement. If you’re preparing for the exam, this Focus Edition could be a great tool to help boost your performance and increase your chances of success.
These changes reflect the unique features and advantages of the GMAT Focus Edition, providing test-takers with a tailored and efficient experience for GMAT preparation and assessment.
1. Streamlined Test Format
The Focus Edition of the GMAT has revamped its format, consolidating it into three main sections: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Integrated Reasoning. Notably, the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) section from the traditional GMAT is excluded.
2. Introduction of Data Insights Section
The Focus Edition's Data Insights section is a novel addition. It presents questions aimed at evaluating analytical skills and data interpretation abilities.
3. Reduced Test Duration
Test duration in the Focus Edition has been reduced to 2 hours and 15 minutes, enhancing efficiency while ensuring thorough assessment.
4. Emphasis on Application-Oriented Preparation
The Focus Edition prioritizes a more streamlined and application-oriented preparation strategy, providing targeted resources and guidance tailored to its specific sections.
5. Enhanced Control with Answer Review Option
An added feature allows candidates in the Focus Edition to review and amend their answers before final submission, offering greater control and accuracy in responding to questions.
6. Improved Official Score Reporting
Test-takers opting for the GMAT Focus Edition receive an upgraded official score report alongside their registration, offering comprehensive insights into their performance for better self-assessment and preparation.
7. Content Adjustments for Focus Edition
Content adjustments in the Quantitative and Verbal Reasoning sections have been made to align with the Focus Edition's objectives. These include a shorter Quantitative Section with exclusions of Geometry and Data Sufficiency questions and the removal of sentence correction from the Verbal section.
GMAT Focus Edition vs Regular GMAT
If you’re used to the older version of the GMAT, the GMAT Exam (10th Edition), you’ll spot a major change—the total score scale. In the GMAT 10th Edition, scores ranged from 200 to 800. But in the GMAT Focus Edition, scores end in a 5 and range from 205 to 805, making it easy to tell the two versions apart.
The updated scoring system is designed to better match today’s test-takers. Over time, the scores have spread out unevenly, and this new scale helps fix that. It offers a clearer picture of how well you’ve done, making the results fairer for everyone.
Besides the score scale change, here are some other key differences in the GMAT Focus Edition:
- The Total Score now includes all three section scores. Before, it was based on just two sections: Quantitative and Verbal Reasoning. Now, it includes Quantitative, Verbal, and Data Insights.
- The scoring system has been improved.
- The test questions have been updated to focus more on skills like data understanding, critical thinking, and problem-solving.
- A new Question Review & Edit feature has been added, which may change how you approach the test.
A Table Comparison of GMAT Focus Edition vs. Normal GMAT:
| Aspect | GMAT Focus Edition | Regular GMAT |
| Sections Assessed | Typically 3 sections: - Quantitative Reasoning - Verbal Reasoning - Integrated Reasoning (may include Data Insights) | 4 sections: - Analytical Writing Assessment - Integrated Reasoning - Quantitative Reasoning - Verbal Reasoning |
| Analytical Writing Assessment | Not included | Included |
| Review and Edit Answers | Available during the test | Answers are final |
| Content Focus | Focused on specific sections relevant to business school needs | Covers all sections broadly with an emphasis on comprehensive assessment |
| Scoring | Provides scores for each section and a Total score | Provides scores for each section and a Total score |
| Acceptance by Business Schools | Varies by school; check admission requirements | Widely accepted; considered the standard GMAT exam |
Mastering the GMAT Focus Edition Syllabus
Let’s take a closer look at what makes the Focus Edition special for you. We’ll go through its features, all designed to improve your GMAT preparation. Whether it’s working with numbers or sharpening your language skills, each part is aimed at building your confidence. Let’s explore these key elements together and set the stage for your success.
1. Quantitative Reasoning
In Quantitative Reasoning segment, your mathematical and data analysis skills are tested. It encompasses various topics such as algebra, geometry, basic math, and statistics. Expect questions that require solving math problems, working with percentages, understanding probability, and interpreting charts and graphs—all aimed at assessing your ability to apply mathematical concepts in real-world business scenarios.
2. Verbal Reasoning
Verbal Reasoning section evaluates your reading comprehension and language proficiency. You'll encounter questions related to understanding and analyzing written passages, correcting grammatical errors in sentences, and making logical deductions based on provided arguments.
3. Data Insights (Exclusive to GMAT Focus Edition)
This unique component focuses on assessing your data interpretation and analysis skills. Expect questions that require you to interpret data sets, make predictions, and draw conclusions based on the information provided.
Delving into Data Sufficiency Distribution
Data Sufficiency
Graph Interpretation
Multi-Source Reasoning
Table Analysis
Two-part Analysis
Note: The Focus Edition is tailored to emphasize these sections and does not include the Analytical Writing Assessment found in the regular GMAT. This focused approach aims to streamline your exam preparation.
| Section | Content |
| Quantitative Reasoning | - Algebra, Geometry, Arithmetic, Statistics - Problem Solving and Data Sufficiency |
| Verbal Reasoning | - Reading Comprehension - Sentence Correction - Critical Reasoning |
| Data Insights (Unique to GMAT Focus Edition) | - Data Analysis and Interpretation |
5 GMAT prep HACKS!
What is the new GMAT Focus score scale?
The new GMAT Focus Total score includes your performance on all three sections of the exam:
| Section | Score range | Details |
| Total Score | 205 to 805 | In 10-point increments (for example,695 and 705 will be possible scores) |
| Quant | 60 to 90 | In 1-point increments |
| Verbal | 60 to 90 | In 1-point increments |
| Data Insights | 60 to 90 | In 1-point increments |
Scoring for the GMAT Focus Edition
In the Focus Edition, your performance is assessed in three main sections: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Integrated Reasoning. Each section evaluates specific skills.
GMAT Score Table
| Score Type | Description | Range |
|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Reasoning | Measures mathematical skills, data analysis, and problem-solving abilities. | 0 - 60 |
| Verbal Reasoning | Evaluates reading comprehension, language proficiency, and critical thinking skills. | 0 - 60 |
| Integrated Reasoning | Assesses the capacity to work with different types of information and make informed decisions. | 0 - 60 |
Total Score
- The Total score in the Focus Edition summarises your sectional scores. It provides an overall assessment of your performance across the three main sections.
- The Total score range is typically between 200 and 800, with 200 being the lowest possible score and 800 being the highest.
Data Insights Section
- The Focus Edition includes a unique section called Data Insights. While the score from this section does not contribute to your Total score, it is valuable for understanding your data analysis and interpretation skills. It provides insights into your ability to work with data effectively.
Admissions and Comparison
- Business schools often use Your Total score in their admissions process. It helps them evaluate your aptitude and readiness for their programs.
- It's also a way to compare your performance with other GMAT test-takers.
Your scores can be crucial in your business school admissions journey and help you measure your performance against others.
Useful Links
| Free Resources | GMAT free Resources |
| Preparation Books | GMAT preparation Books |
| Study Plan | GMAT study Plan |
| Exam Strategy | GMAT exam Strategy |
Conclusion
Master the GMAT Focus Edition to achieve your goals in graduate management programs. By dedicating yourself to each section and planning strategically, you set yourself up for success beyond just scores. Remember, your journey to excellence starts with focused preparation and determination to exceed expectations. Conquer the GMAT Focus Edition, and you'll pave the way to a bright future in graduate management education.
