The GMAT Focus is the new version of the GMAT, effective as of the end of January. If you have questions regarding the exam’s format, content, or differences compared to the “old” GMAT, then read the following article to find out all you need to know.
Buckle up, and let’s have a look at 10 facts about the new GMAT Focus!
Structure
The test’s new format is made up of three units designed to assess a wide array of skills that are considered a must for business school applicants.
The three units are Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights.
Content
The Quantitative Reasoning section contains 21 problem-solving questions. In this unit, your ability to solve mathematical problems using arithmetic, algebra, or a combination of the two is assessed.
The Verbal Reasoning section contains 23 reading comprehension and critical reasoning questions. The reading comprehension questions examine your ability to comprehend vocabulary, statements, and the relationships between significant passages and quantitative concepts. On the other hand, the critical reasoning questions assess your ability to create and appraise an argument.
Finally, the Data Insights section has 20 questions that can either require math, data analysis, verbal reasoning, or all three together. It examines your ability to assess different sources and various types of data. Moreover, it tests your ability to analyze a practical mathematical problem and determine whether the data you have is sufficient to solve the problem.
Section duration
The time you have to complete each section is separate, but the overall exam time is 2 hours and 15 minutes, during which you must answer a total of 64 questions.
You therefore have 45 minutes to complete each section.
Section order
Just like in the test’s older version, in the GMAT Focus you can choose the order in which you would like to take the exam’s sections. Furthermore, you are allowed to take one 10-minute break during the entire exam, and you can choose when you would like to take said break between the three sections.
Question revision
One of the GMAT Focus’s new features is the possibility to review questions and revise your answers for up to three questions per section. One important tip is that you need to bookmark the questions you want to review (to save time) and to make sure you have enough time left at the end of each section to go back and revise.
Grading system
In contrast to the old GMAT, where the grading scale went from 200-800, the GMAT Focus is graded on a scale from 205-805. The difference in the grading system is evident in the fact that universities now ask applicants for different scores depending on the test version. Using percentile rankings allows us to more easily compare the two grading scales. To find out more, click the link:
https://www.mba.com/exams/gmat-exam/scores/understanding-your-score
Submitting your results to universities
Following the completion of the exam, and after you’ve received your final score, you can submit the results to the universities of your choice (for up to 5 universities, submission is free of charge).
Exam reevaluation
Unfortunately, you cannot ask for a reevaluation of your results. Instead, you have to retake the exam.
Exam resit
You can resit the GMAT for up to 5 times in a period of 12 consecutive months and 8 times in total.
Exam preparation time frame
Preparation for the GMAT lasts between 8 to 10 weeks and is divided into two main parts.
Preparation for the GMAT lasts between 8 to 10 weeks and is divided into two main parts. The first part of the preparation lasts 8 weeks. During this time, candidates attend two three-hour lessons per week. Through the lessons and multiple practice exercises, candidates develop their critical thinking, as well as their problem-solving and reading comprehension skills.
The second part of the preparation involves a series of simulation tests that helps candidates familiarize themselves with the test format. Thanks to systematic practice and the close monitoring of their performance by their instructors, candidates can identify areas that need improvement.
In order for candidates to achieve a high test score, it is crucial that they maintain a good balance between the various test sections throughout the entire preparation period.
Following the two preparation phases and the necessary practical application of the skills acquired via simulation tests, candidates are now ready to take the GMAT.