Classic GMAT vs. New GMAT Focus Edition: Key Differences
The MBA admissions landscape has evolved significantly with new trends such as test-optional policies, increased emphasis on work experience, and the integration of technology in the application process. Among the most notable changes is the introduction of the GMAT Focus Edition. This revamped GMAT aims to enhance the test-taking experience while focusing on skills more relevant to business education and careers. Here’s a comprehensive comparison of the old GMAT and the new GMAT Focus Edition:
| Aspect | Classic GMAT | GMAT Focus Edition |
|---|---|---|
| Total Duration |
Approximately 3 hours and 7 minutes |
2 hours and 15 minutes |
| Sections |
Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA), Integrated Reasoning, Quantitative, and Verbal |
Quantitative, Verbal, and Data Insights |
|
Quantitative Reasoning |
31 questions to be answered in 62 minutes, covering problem solving, data sufficiency, and geometry |
21 questions to be answered in 45 minutes, focusing solely on problem solving, with no geometry or data sufficiency questions |
| Verbal Reasoning |
36 questions to be answered in 65 minutes, covering reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and sentence correction |
23 questions to be answered in 45 minutes, covering reading comprehension and critical reasoning, with no sentence correction |
| Integrated Reasoning |
12 questions to be answered in 30 minutes, covering multi-source reasoning, table analysis, graphics interpretation, and two-part analysis |
This section is no longer offered |
|
Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) |
1 essay to be written in 30 minutes, focused on analysis of an argument |
This section is no longer offered |
|
Data Insights |
This section was not offered |
20 questions to be answered in 45 minutes, combining elements of integrated reasoning and data sufficiency |
| Total Score Range |
200 to 800 |
205 to 805 |
|
Quantitative Score Range |
0 to 60 |
60 to 90 |
|
Verbal Score Range |
0 to 60 |
60 to 90 |
|
Integrated Reasoning Score Range |
1 to 8 |
Integrated into Data Insights, scored from 60 to 90 |
|
AWA Score Range |
0 to 6 |
Not applicable |
Source: Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC™), January 2024
| Aspect | Classic GMAT | GMAT Focus Edition |
|---|---|---|
| Answer Review and Change |
No |
Yes, up to 3 answers per section |
| Question Bookmarking |
No |
Yes |
| Score Report |
Basic score report with an Enhanced Score Report available for $30
|
Enhanced, detailed report included |
| Section Order |
Fixed orders |
Any order |
| Testing Modes |
Available at test centers or online |
Available at test centers or online |
| Free Score Reports |
Allowed sending scores to 5 schools before the test | Allows sending scores to 5 schools within 48 hours of the test |
| Validity |
Valid for 5 years from your appointment date | Valid for 5 years from your appointment date |
GMAT scores are valid for five years, meaning that if you took the old GMAT before the switch to the GMAT Focus Edition, your scores will remain valid and accepted by business schools during that period. Post-February 1, 2024, business schools will primarily accept GMAT Focus Edition scores for new test-takers. However, they will continue to honor valid old GMAT scores during the transition period and beyond within the five-year validity window.
The introduction of the GMAT Focus Edition marks a significant milestone in the evolving MBA admissions landscape. With its streamlined sections, shorter duration, and enhanced flexibility, the new GMAT is designed to better meet the needs of today's applicants. These changes not only simplify the test-taking process but also maintain the high standards expected by top business schools. As you prepare for your MBA journey, understanding these updates will be crucial for your success.
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