The GMAT Focus Edition replaced the classic GMAT with a shorter, more focused test. Here's everything you need to know about the new format.
The GMAT Focus Edition represents a significant overhaul of the classic GMAT. If you're preparing for business school in 2026, understanding the new format is essential for effective preparation.
For a complete breakdown of the Data Insights section, see our GMAT Data Insights Complete Guide.
For a week-by-week roadmap to 700+, see our GMAT 700+ Study Plan.
What Changed
Three Sections (Down from Four)
- Quantitative Reasoning: 21 questions, 45 minutes
- Verbal Reasoning: 23 questions, 45 minutes
- Data Insights: 20 questions, 45 minutes
The Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) has been removed entirely.
Shorter Test
The GMAT Focus Edition takes 2 hours 15 minutes, down from 3 hours 7 minutes. It's a more focused, efficient assessment.
New Data Insights Section
Data Insights combines elements of the old Integrated Reasoning section with new question types. It tests your ability to analyze data from multiple sources - a critical business skill.
Choose Your Section Order
You can now choose the order in which you take the three sections. This lets you start with your strongest section to build confidence.
Score Scale
The total score range is 205-805, with each section scored 60-90. The scoring is designed to be comparable to the classic GMAT for admissions purposes.
How to Prepare
Focus on Data Insights
This is the newest section and the one most students are least familiar with. Dedicate significant practice time to data interpretation, multi-source reasoning, and graphics interpretation.
Practice Section Order Strategy
Experiment with different section orders during practice to find what works best for you. Many students prefer starting with their strongest section.
Use Updated Materials
Make sure your prep materials are updated for the Focus Edition. Platforms like Target Test Prep and Manhattan Prep have fully updated their curricula.
The Bottom Line
The GMAT Focus Edition is a better, more efficient test that more accurately assesses business-relevant skills. Prepare specifically for this format - don't rely on classic GMAT materials.
FAQ
Q: What changed with the GMAT Focus Edition? A: The GMAT Focus Edition is shorter (2 hours 15 minutes), has three sections instead of four (Quantitative, Verbal, Data Insights), removed the Analytical Writing Assessment, and allows you to choose your section order.
Q: Is the GMAT Focus Edition easier than the old GMAT? A: Not easier, but different. The removal of the essay section saves time, and the new Data Insights section combines elements of the old Integrated Reasoning with data analysis. The scoring scale changed to 205-805.
Q: How do GMAT Focus scores compare to old GMAT scores? A: GMAC provides a concordance table to convert between old and new scores. A 700 on the old GMAT roughly corresponds to a 655 on the GMAT Focus Edition, though exact conversions vary.
Related reading: See how GMAT scores translate to percentiles in our GMAT score percentiles guide. If you're deciding between the GRE and GMAT, read our GRE vs GMAT comparison. Ready to prep? Check our GMAT prep course rankings.